Billy Joel to Close Beloved motorcycle Shop, Auction collection Amid Health Battle
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Oyster Bay, NY – Singer-songwriter Billy Joel will close the doors of 20th Century Cycles, his renowned motorcycle shop on Long Island, in late September. The closure comes as Joel navigates a recently diagnosed neurological condition, Normal Pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), and will be followed by an auction of his extensive motorcycle collection.
Opened in late 2010, 20th Century Cycles served as both a workshop for Joel’s personal fleet and a public showcase of his passion for vintage motorcycles. The shop, located at 101 Audrey Ave, Oyster Bay, New York, offered free admission to visitors on weekends, drawing enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Joel envisioned the space as more than just a garage. “It’s basically promoting an aesthetic here,” he explained in a 2013 YouTube video filmed at the shop. “I like older style. I like the automotive style from the ’30s to the ’60s.I wanted to collect a whole bunch of those kinds of bikes, put ’em in one place and let people see what that era of bike looked like.”
The collection boasted over 75 motorcycles, spanning decades of design and engineering, including models from harley-Davidson, Triumph, Ducati, Moto Guzzi, Indian, and BMW. A particularly valuable piece was a 1952 Vincent Rapide, wich can fetch tens of thousands of dollars at auction.
Health Challenges Prompt Closure
In May, Joel announced the cancellation of upcoming concerts after receiving a diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus. NPH, as defined by the Cleveland Clinic, is a buildup of fluid in the brain that can impact cognitive functions, balance, and movement . He shared that he was experiencing balance issues but otherwise felt well during an interview on Bill Maher’s Club Random podcast.
The decision to close 20th Century Cycles and auction the collection was made considering these health concerns, according to a statement from his spokesperson, Claire Mercuri.
A Local Landmark and Community Hub
20th Century Cycles quickly became a fixture in Oyster Bay, attracting visitors and contributing to the local economy. In 2023, a section of the street including the shop was officially renamed billy Joel Way, recognizing his contributions to the community.
“I’ve been living in this community for a long time,” Joel said in the 2013 video. “I actually grew up not far from here. And I’d like to get a little interest going into the town and the village.”
Local business owner Ted Bahr, of the nearby Bahr Gallery, expressed the community’s sadness at the news. “I think everybody in Oyster Bay would agree that it’s a big loss,” Bahr said. “Billy’s place is visited on weekends by dozens and dozens of people… It’s a real destination.”
The motorcycles have already been removed from the shop, but remaining parts and merchandise were available for purchase on recent weekends.
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Shop Name | 20th Century Cycles |
| Location | 101 Audrey Ave, Oyster Bay, NY 11771 |
| Opening Date | Late 2010 |
| Closure Date | Late September 2024 |
| Collection Size | Over 75 motorcycles |
Did You Know?
Billy Joel was injured in a motorcycle accident in 1982, suffering injuries to his left thumb and right wrist after being struck by a car on Long Island.
Pro Tip:
For those interested in learning more about Normal pressure Hydrocephalus, the Hydrocephalus Association offers comprehensive resources and support: https://www.hydroassoc.org/
What are your favorite memories of Billy Joel or 20th Century Cycles? Do you think the auction of his collection will attract collectors from around the world?
The Enduring Appeal of Vintage Motorcycles
The interest in vintage motorcycles, like those in Joel’s collection, reflects a broader cultural fascination with classic design, craftsmanship, and a bygone era. Restoration and customization of older bikes have become increasingly popular hobbies, fostering a dedicated community of enthusiasts. The aesthetic appeal of these machines, often prioritizing form and function, continues to inspire contemporary motorcycle design.
Frequently Asked Questions About 20th Century Cycles
- What is happening to Billy Joel’s motorcycle collection? The collection will be auctioned off later this year.
- Why is 20th Century Cycles closing? The shop is closing due to Billy Joel’s recent diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus.
- Where was 20th Century Cycles located? The shop was located at 101 Audrey Ave, Oyster Bay, New York.
- Was 20th Century cycles open to the public? Yes, the shop was open to the public on weekends and admission was free.
- What types of motorcycles were in the collection? The collection included Harley-Davidsons, Triumphs, Ducatis, Moto Guzzis, Indians, and BMWs.
This news marks the end of an era for motorcycle enthusiasts and fans of Billy Joel. While the shop’s physical presence will be missed, the legacy of 20th Century Cycles and Joel’s passion for these iconic machines will undoubtedly endure.