Motorcycles have captured the hearts of many famous faces over the years, influencing the world of biking in profound ways. From Hollywood icons to motorcycle enthusiasts, these 10 celebrities have left their mark on motorcycling culture.
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, wasn’t just known for his music and movies—he also had a deep love for motorcycles. Elvis was frequently spotted riding Harley-Davidsons, often surrounded by fans. He famously owned a 1956 Harley-Davidson KH, which became one of his most iconic rides. His passion for motorcycles, combined with his fame, helped popularize biking during the height of his career, bringing motorcycles into mainstream pop culture.
Marlon Brando’s portrayal of Johnny Strabler in The Wild One (1953) became an enduring symbol of rebellion and motorcycling. Brando’s character, astride a Triumph Thunderbird 6T, helped define the image of the tough, independent biker. Off-screen, Brando was a genuine motorcycle enthusiast, owning several bikes throughout his life. His role in The Wild One not only changed how Hollywood portrayed bikers but also shaped public perceptions of motorcycle culture, making him one of the most significant figures in motorcycling history.
Ewan McGregor’s contribution to motorcycling culture comes from his passion for long-distance motorcycle travel. His documentaries Long Way Round (2004) and Long Way Down (2007) with his friend Charley Boorman showcased epic journeys across the globe on BMW GS motorcycles. These shows brought adventure motorcycling into the mainstream, inspiring countless riders to take on similar long-distance journeys. McGregor’s genuine love for motorcycling also led him to amass an impressive motorcycle collection, adding to his influence within the biking community.
Peter Fonda’s role in Easy Rider (1969) left an indelible mark on motorcycle culture. The movie, which Fonda co-wrote and starred in, depicted the counterculture movement of the 1960s and the freedom associated with riding motorcycles. Fonda’s character, Wyatt, rode a customized Harley-Davidson chopper—known as the "Captain America" bike—which became a cultural icon. Easy Rider not only influenced the way motorcycles were portrayed in films but also popularized chopper culture, making Fonda a lasting symbol of freedom and rebellion.
Keanu Reeves is more than just a Hollywood action star—he’s also a passionate motorcyclist and co-founder of Arch Motorcycle Company, a high-performance custom motorcycle brand. Arch’s flagship model, the KRGT-1, blends performance, design, and customization, offering riders a premium experience. Reeves’ hands-on involvement in Arch, from design to development, showcases his dedication to the craft of motorcycling. His love for motorcycles and his contributions through Arch have earned him respect within the motorcycling community, where he continues to inspire riders around the world.
Steve McQueen, often called "The King of Cool," was one of the most iconic motorcycle enthusiasts of his time. McQueen was an accomplished rider and a passionate collector of motorcycles, particularly Triumphs. His love for biking was famously showcased in The Great Escape (1963), where he performed his own stunts, including a legendary motorcycle jump over a barbed-wire fence. Off-screen, McQueen competed in motorcycle races, and his legacy as a motorcycling icon endures, making him a symbol of adventure and coolness on two wheels.
James Dean’s love for speed wasn’t limited to cars—he was also passionate about motorcycles. Dean often rode a Triumph TR5 Trophy, which became part of his rebellious image. His association with motorcycles helped cement the idea of the bike as a symbol of freedom and nonconformity. Though his life was tragically cut short, Dean’s influence on motorcycle culture remains strong, with his iconic image and love for motorcycling inspiring generations of riders who see biking as a way to embrace the spirit of adventure and independence.
The gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson gave readers an insider’s look into the world of outlaw bikers with his book Hell’s Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs. Thompson spent a year riding with the Hell’s Angels, documenting the wild, often violent culture of the infamous motorcycle gang. His writing helped bring the outlaw biker lifestyle into mainstream consciousness, offering a raw, unfiltered view of this subculture. Thompson’s work remains one of the most influential literary contributions to the world of motorcycling.
Though more famous for his acting and car racing, Paul Newman’s love for motorcycles was undeniable. Newman, a dedicated motorcyclist, enjoyed the freedom of riding and often combined his passion for bikes with his love for racing. His involvement in motorsports helped elevate motorcycles as machines of speed and performance. Newman’s quiet yet profound impact on motorcycling culture endures through his legacy as a motorsport enthusiast who embraced both two and four wheels.
Clint Eastwood, known for his rugged on-screen persona, is also an avid motorcycle rider. Eastwood’s affinity for motorcycles, especially his Harley-Davidson, adds to his tough-guy image. Though he’s not as publicly vocal about his love for bikes, his passion for riding in real life complements his reputation as a symbol of independence and strength. Eastwood’s enduring Hollywood presence and love for motorcycling make him an influential figure among riders who admire his no-nonsense attitude.
