Motorcycle documentaries offer an insightful and thrilling look into the culture, history, and passion of biking. Here are 15 must-watch documentaries that capture the spirit of motorcycling, from racing and adventure to personal journeys and historical insights.
Produced by Bruce Brown, On Any Sunday is a classic that explores various facets of motorcycle sports. Featuring Steve McQueen, it delves into motocross, desert racing, and more, showcasing the dedication and thrill that motorcycling brings.
This intense documentary follows the adrenaline-fueled Isle of Man TT race, one of the most dangerous events in motorcycling. With Guy Martin as the main figure, it captures the passion, risk, and dedication of the racers.
A heartwarming documentary, Why We Ride examines the bond between riders and their bikes, capturing the passion across generations, styles, and disciplines. It’s an inspiring watch for anyone who loves the open road.
Based on the story of Burt Munro, who set speed records on his modified 1920 Indian Scout, this film features Anthony Hopkins and focuses on Munro’s journey to the Bonneville Salt Flats. It’s a testament to dedication and dreams.
Following Christophe Barriere-Varju in his attempt to complete the brutal Dakar Rally, Dream Racer offers a raw, personal look at the physical and mental endurance required to tackle one of the toughest races in the world.
Set in Baltimore, this documentary follows the city’s young riders who engage in dirt bike culture and street riding. It provides a gritty, unfiltered view into the life of urban bikers and their defiance of societal norms.
This thrilling documentary captures the Baja 1000, one of the most challenging off-road races. With stunning cinematography, it gives viewers an inside look at the passion, danger, and adventure involved in the desert race.
This documentary dives into the wild era of 500cc Grand Prix racing in the 1980s and early 1990s. Known for their powerful but unruly two-stroke machines, it profiles racers who tamed these “unrideable” bikes, pushing the limits of technology and skill.
Starring Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman, Long Way Round documents their 19,000-mile journey from London to New York. It’s an epic adventure filled with cultural encounters, challenges, and unforgettable scenery.
Narrated by Brad Pitt, Hitting the Apex focuses on six MotoGP riders, including Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez. It’s an intimate look into the world of high-speed racing and the intense competition among the best in the sport.
This personal documentary follows Daniel Rintz, who sets off on a global journey by motorcycle with little money, relying on local jobs and hospitality. It’s a touching and adventurous exploration of self-discovery and resilience.
Narrating the lives of the Dunlop racing family in Northern Ireland, Road is a poignant story of passion, tragedy, and legacy in the dangerous world of road racing. The film features both the triumphs and sorrows that come with the sport.
Part travel documentary, part film, The Best Bar in America follows a writer on a vintage BMW motorcycle as he travels across the American West. It’s a journey of exploration and the search for the perfect bar, filled with adventure and scenic landscapes.
This intimate documentary follows Mark Gardiner as he competes in the Isle of Man TT, a lifelong dream. It captures the dedication and personal journey of a rider tackling one of the most dangerous races on Earth.
Narrated by Ewan McGregor, Faster dives into the world of MotoGP racing, featuring riders like Valentino Rossi and Max Biaggi. It’s a thrilling exploration of the speed, skill, and rivalry in the highest class of motorcycle racing.
