Motorbikes have always had a special place in cinema. Since the 1960s motorcycles have been silent protagonists on the big screen. They have become extensions of the characters who ride them, symbolising freedom, rebellion and style. In this way, many of these mounts have become part of the collective imagination. From NG BRAKES, we have made a selection of the five most legendary motorbikes in the history of cinema.
Harley-Davidson Captain America – ‘Easy Rider’ (1969)
This road movie directed and starring Dennis Hopper chronicles the journey two friends take on their motorbikes across America. The film showcased the iconic Harley-Davidson Hydra Glide, customised with its distinctive fuel tank decorated with the American flag. The mount became a symbol of the freedom and counterculture of the 1960s.
Triumph TR6 Trophy – ‘The Great Escape’ (1963)
The legendary Triumph TR6 Trophy was ridden by Steve McQueen in the film ‘The Great Escape’, directed by John Sturges. It was based on the events at the Stalag Luft III prisoner of war camp. The mythical scene in which McQueen jumps over a wire fence on the back of this magnificent mount became one of the most iconic images of cinematography.
Harley-Davidson Fat Boy – ‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’ (1991)
The second chapter of the ‘Terminator’ saga, directed and produced by James Cameron, went down in the history of cinema and popular culture. One of the most memorable scenes in action cinema is the chase through Los Angeles. In it, Arnold Schwarzenegger, in his role as T-800, appears on the iconic Harley-Davidson Fat Boy. The choice of this mount helped to further popularise Harley-Davidson’s line of motorbikes.
Kawasaki GPZ900R – ‘Top Gun’ (1986)
This action-drama-romance film, directed by Tony Scott and starring Tom Cruise and Kelly McGillis, follows the life of a young naval aviator aboard a US Navy aircraft carrier. In it, Tom Cruise, as Maverick, appears in several scenes on a Kawasaki GPZ900R. It is a bike that became an icon of the 1980s. Moreover, the Japanese manufacturer’s bike was one of the first to break the 240 km/h barrier. So its appearance in ‘Top Gun’ boosted its popularity in the market.
Yamaha R1 – ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ (2015)
The fourth film in the ‘Mad Max’ franchise, directed by George Miller, is set on a future, post-apocalyptic Earth where petrol and water are scarce and precious commodities. Speed and action set the tone for a film in which chases are the central theme. Among all the bikes featured in the film, one of the most legendary is the iconic Yamaha R1. This one has been modified, with a futuristic-nomadic aesthetic, to match the post-apocalyptic look of the saga.
