From gritty outlaw stories to high-speed chases and inspirational true tales, here are the top 15 motorcycle movies that every enthusiast should add to their watch list. Each film captures a different side of motorcycle culture, whether it's freedom, rebellion, or the thrill of the open road.
A landmark film starring Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper, Easy Rider follows two bikers on a cross-country journey through 1960s America. Known for its counterculture themes, this film epitomizes the free spirit of motorcycling.
Marlon Brando stars as Johnny, the leader of a motorcycle gang that invades a small town. With his iconic line, "What are you rebelling against?" Brando’s character helped shape the image of the biker as a symbol of nonconformity.
This biographical adventure follows a young Ernesto “Che” Guevara as he journeys across South America with his friend on a Norton 500. It’s a beautiful and thought-provoking journey of self-discovery and social awareness.
This documentary, featuring Steve McQueen, captures the passion of motorcycle racing and the dedication of riders. It’s a classic that provides a glimpse into various aspects of motorcycle sports, from desert racing to hill climbing.
Set in a dystopian future, Mad Max showcases motorcycle gangs ruling the roads in a chaotic world. Mel Gibson’s character is forced into a showdown with these gangs, creating an iconic action-packed film that influenced the aesthetics of post-apocalyptic biker culture.
Steve McQueen stars as a POW trying to escape the Nazis, with a memorable motorcycle scene involving a daring jump over barbed wire. This Triumph TR6 jump is one of the most iconic moments in motorcycle movie history.
Arnold Schwarzenegger as the T-800 rides a Harley-Davidson Fat Boy in a high-speed chase to save John Connor. This action sequence became iconic and is still one of the most memorable motorcycle scenes in sci-fi cinema.
Nicolas Cage stars as Johnny Blaze, a stunt rider who becomes a supernatural antihero on a flaming motorcycle. Though fantasy-based, Ghost Rider brings the thrilling stunts and visuals that fans of motorcycles and comic books will enjoy.
Full of flashy, adrenaline-pumping action scenes, Torque embraces the wild side of motorcycle street racing and rivalry. It’s a guilty pleasure film for fans of high-speed chases and exaggerated stunts.
Anthony Hopkins portrays Burt Munro, a New Zealander who breaks speed records on his modified 1920 Indian Scout. The story of Munro’s journey to the Bonneville Salt Flats is an inspiring tale of passion and perseverance.
In this comedy, four middle-aged friends (played by John Travolta, Tim Allen, Martin Lawrence, and William H. Macy) embark on a road trip to escape their suburban lives. Wild Hogs is a light-hearted look at friendship, adventure, and the thrill of the open road.
Ryan Gosling stars as a motorcycle stunt rider who turns to bank robbery to provide for his family. This intense, dramatic film showcases some impressive motorcycle riding sequences, giving a gritty edge to Gosling’s character.
Produced by Quentin Tarantino, Hell Ride is a gritty, neo-western biker movie that pays homage to classic motorcycle films. Starring Larry Bishop, Michael Madsen, and Dennis Hopper, the film dives into the world of biker gangs, revenge, and loyalty.
Starring Robert Redford and Michael J. Pollard, this lesser-known gem tells the story of two motorcycle racers with contrasting personalities. With themes of friendship, rivalry, and ambition, it’s a unique film in the motorcycle genre.
Based on a true story, Charlie Sheen plays an undercover cop who infiltrates a motorcycle gang. Beyond the Law explores loyalty, identity, and the pull of the biker lifestyle, making it a gritty and suspenseful watch.
