End of an Era: Billy Joel's 20th Century Cycles Motorcycle Shop in Oyster Bay, New York, to Close After 15 Years
Billy Joel's iconic motorcycle shop in Oyster Bay, New York, is set to close its doors after nearly 15 years of showcasing his personal collection of vintage bikes to the public. The closure comes as a result of Joel's diagnosis with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus, a brain disorder affecting his cognitive and motor functions. The 76-year-old musician announced the closure in May and will be auctioning off his collection later this year.
Located in downtown Oyster Bay, 20th Century Cycles was a passion project for Joel, who aimed to preserve and display classic motorcycles from the 1930s to the 1960s. The shop, which offered free admission to visitors, became a popular destination for motorcycle enthusiasts and tourists alike. Joel's collection included over 75 bikes, ranging from Harley-Davidsons to Ducatis, with one of the most valuable pieces being a 1952 Vincent Rapide.
The closure of 20th Century Cycles marks the end of an era for the community, as the shop brought foot traffic and business to downtown Oyster Bay. Joel's commitment to preserving the aesthetic of vintage motorcycles and his dedication to his hometown resonated with locals and visitors alike. Despite the closure, the shop has been selling off its remaining inventory of new, used, and vintage motorcycle parts on recent weekends.
Billy Joel's love for motorcycles dates back to the 1980s when he was involved in a motorcycle accident on Long Island. Despite the risks, Joel continued to ride motorcycles and participated in various charity events over the years. The auction date for his collection has yet to be announced, but fans and collectors are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to own a piece of music history.