For decades, Billy Joel has been celebrated not only as one of America’s most iconic singer-songwriters but also as a passionate motorcycle enthusiast. His love of two-wheel machines was immortalized in 20th Century Cycles, a motorcycle shop and exhibition space he founded in Oyster Bay, Long Island. Now, after nearly 15 years as a fixture in the community, Joel is preparing to close the shop and part with much of his prized motorcycle collection as he faces a serious health challenge.
A Shop Built from Passion
Billy Joel opened 20th Century Cycles in November 2010 as more than just a storefront. The shop was a reflection of his lifelong fascination with motorcycles, particularly the craftsmanship and design of mid-20th-century models. Located in the heart of Oyster Bay, the shop became a free exhibition space, showcasing dozens of Joel’s rare and vintage bikes, many of which he had personally restored or modified.
The shop quickly became a local landmark. Motorcycle lovers, tourists, and Joel’s own fans flocked to the space to admire machines like a 1952 Vincent Rapide, Triumphs from the 1960s, Harley-Davidsons, and customized café racers. Each bike was a story, a piece of living art.
By 2023, the shop had become so ingrained in Oyster Bay’s cultural fabric that the town officially renamed the block “Billy Joel Way”, paying tribute to the singer’s contributions both musically and locally.
Closing Doors in September 2025
Unfortunately, the future of 20th Century Cycles has now reached its end. Joel has announced that he will not renew the lease, and the shop will officially close in late September 2025. The motorcycles have already been removed from the premises, though parts and memorabilia are still being sold on weekends as a farewell offering to fans and collectors.
The decision comes not only due to logistical reasons but also personal ones. Joel has been grappling with mounting health issues that have forced him to step back from both his public performances and his beloved hobby.
The Health Battle Behind the Decision
Earlier this year, Billy Joel revealed that he has been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a rare brain disorder caused by a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid. The condition affects balance, vision, hearing, and mobility.
For Joel, who spent his life on stage and on motorcycles, the diagnosis has been life-altering. He has already canceled future performances, focusing instead on treatment and personal well-being. Closing 20th Century Cycles and preparing to part with his bike collection is seen as part of this transition into a quieter, health-focused life.
Auctioning an Iconic Collection
One of the most significant parts of Joel’s announcement is his plan to auction off more than 75 motorcycles from his collection later in 2025. While the exact date and venue of the auction have not yet been set, anticipation is already high among motorcycle collectors and fans alike.
The collection includes rare and historically significant bikes, many from the 1940s through 1960s, a golden era of motorcycle design. Each machine represents not just a passion project but a piece of Joel’s personal journey.
Although the sale will mark the end of an era, it also ensures that these bikes will find new homes with enthusiasts who will continue to ride, preserve, and celebrate them.
A Cultural Loss for Oyster Bay
Beyond its importance to Billy Joel himself, 20th Century Cycles has been a cultural landmark for Oyster Bay. It drew visitors from around the world and offered locals a unique gathering place where music and motorcycle culture intersected.
The closing is bittersweet for the community, which had embraced the shop as part of its identity. While Joel’s name will live on through “Billy Joel Way,” the absence of his motorcycle haven will be felt deeply.
As Billy Joel steps back from the stage and from the open road, his fans and community are left with a legacy that extends far beyond music. His motorcycles and his shop symbolized artistry, freedom, and individuality—themes that have always run through his songs.
Though the auction of his collection and the closing of 20th Century Cycles signal the end of a chapter, they also remind the world of Joel’s enduring influence, both as a musician and as a cultural icon.
For now, admirers await details of the upcoming auction, while wishing him strength in his battle with NPH. Whether on stage or in the garage, Billy Joel has always lived with passion—and that spirit will continue to inspire long after the shop doors close.
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