Billy Joel’s Beloved Motorcycle Shop, 20th Century Cycles, to Close Its Doors
Billy Joel, the iconic “Piano Man” and revered Long Island native, is set to close the doors of his personal passion project, 20th Century Cycles, located in Oyster Bay, this September. The decision, confirmed by Joel’s representative, Claire Mercuri, comes as the lease for the property expires and is directly influenced by the 76-year-old musician’s recent public revelation of a significant health condition.
For nearly 14 years, since its opening in November 2010, 20th Century Cycles transcended a typical commercial enterprise. It served as a unique public showcase for Joel’s extensive and meticulously curated collection of vintage motorcycles. Raised in nearby Hicksville, Joel envisioned the shop as a vibrant “focus point” for weekend riders, a place where motorcycle aficionados could gather and appreciate the “automotive style from the ’30s to the ’60s”—an aesthetic he felt was increasingly becoming “a lost aesthetic.” In a 2013 YouTube video filmed at the shop, Joel emphasized his desire to present his collection, built over “30-something years” of dedicated collecting, to the public “at no charge,” highlighting the educational and communal aspect he fostered.
Many of Joel’s personal motorcycles, accumulated over decades, were prominently displayed within the shop. These cherished machines are now slated for auction later this year, a decision necessitated, as Mercuri stated, “due to Billy’s medical issue.”
That medical issue was publicly disclosed in May: a diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). This condition, affecting the brain, has manifested for Joel through problems with hearing, vision, and balance, symptoms that were reportedly exacerbated by his demanding concert schedule. Despite the challenges, Joel offered reassurance to his fan base in July, telling PEOPLE, “I know a lot of people are worried about me and my health, but I’m okay.” He further elaborated on the complexity of his condition: “What I have is something very few people know about, including me, no matter how much you try to research it. I’m doing my best to work with it and to recover from it.” This personal health journey, even as he continues significant public engagements such as his historic Madison Square Garden residency and recent performance at the Grammys in February 2024, marks a notable pivot in his personal and professional life.
The closure of 20th Century Cycles signals the end of a distinctive chapter for Billy Joel, shifting his focus from shop owner and motorcycle curator. It underscores the profound personal impact of his health on his life beyond the stage. The upcoming auction of his treasured collection is anticipated to be a significant event, offering enthusiasts a unique opportunity to acquire a piece of the “Piano Man’s” lesser-known, yet deeply cherished, passion.
