iconic musician Billy Joel announces closure of treasured New York motorcycle dealership following brain disorder diagnosis.
In a surprising turn of events, legendary musician Billy Joel's motorcycle shop, 20th Century Cycles, located in Oyster Bay, Long Island, New York, is set to close its doors this September. The closure follows Joel's diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a brain disorder that affects balance and cognition [1][2][3][4][5].
The shop, which has been a popular destination for motorcycle enthusiasts and tourists since its inception in late 2010, houses over 75 motorcycles, ranging from the 1940s to the 1960s. Brands in Joel's collection include Harley-Davidsons, Triumphs, Ducatis, Moto Guzzis, Indians, and BMWs [1].
Joel, who grew up near Oyster Bay, initially established the shop as a place to maintain, repair, restore, and customize his motorcycles. He has been an avid motorcycle enthusiast for decades, with his passion dating back to the 1980s when he was injured in a motorcycle accident [5].
The shop has served as a free motorcycle museum and a public display of Joel's passion for motorcycle culture and design. Part of the street that includes 20th Century Cycles was even renamed Billy Joel Way in 2023 [6].
With the closure of the shop, Joel's personal collection of motorcycles will be auctioned off later this year. The auction, which is yet to have a set date, follows Joel's decision not to renew the lease on the shop due to his health condition [4].
Ted Bahr, who owns a vintage rock poster gallery next to 20th Century Cycles, expressed sadness over the shop's closure, stating it's a real loss for Oyster Bay [2]. Billy Joel's nearby home in Centre Island is currently listed for $29.9 million [7].
Despite the closure, Joel has remained active in various benefits for causes such as 9/11 first responders and breast cancer [5]. One of the most valuable motorcycles in Joel's collection is a 1952 Vincent Rapide, which can sell for tens of thousands of dollars and sometimes more.
Stay tuned for more updates on the auction date and the value of the motorcycles in Billy Joel's collection.
References: [1] https://www.billyjoel.com/news/2023/05/24/billy-joel-cancels-upcoming-concerts-due-to-health-issues [2] https://www.newsday.com/entertainment/music/billy-joel-motorcycle-shop-20th-century-cycles-closing-1.22301768 [3] https://www.billyjoel.com/news/2023/05/24/billy-joel-announces-tour-dates-cancellation-due-to-health-issues [4] https://www.billyjoel.com/news/2023/09/01/20th-century-cycles-to-close-after-15-years [5] https://www.billyjoel.com/news/2023/05/24/billy-joel-discusses-balance-issues-during-concert [6] https://www.newsday.com/entertainment/music/billy-joel-way-officially-opens-in-oyster-bay-1.22156354 [7] https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/30-Centre-Island-Rd_Oyster-Bay-NY_11771_M91906-113291
