Iconic musician Billy Joel announces closure of cherished NY motorcycle store due to brain condition diagnosis.
Billy Joel, the renowned musician and motorcycle enthusiast, is set to close his motorcycle shop, 20th Century Cycles, in Oyster Bay, New York, this September 2025. The closure is due to Joel's diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), a brain disorder affecting balance and cognitive function[1][2].
The shop, which opened in 2010, has been more of a personal showcase and free museum of Joel's passion for motorcycles than a typical retail store. The collection housed there featured a diverse mix of motorcycles, including Harley-Davidson, Indian, Triumph, Ducati, Moto Guzzi, BMW, BSA, Royal Enfield, and notably a 1952 Vincent Rapide[2][4].
Joel's decision to close the shop and sell the collection marks the end of an era for the musician. He had hoped to raise awareness about motorcycling safety through his venue[3][5]. The motorcycles have already been removed, and the auction will provide fans and collectors with an opportunity to own a piece of Billy Joel history[3][5].
The collection includes various models such as Harley-Davidsons, Triumphs, Ducatis, Moto Guzzis, Indians, and BMWs. Joel has been a long-time supporter of motorcycle charities, participating in benefits for 9/11 first responders, breast cancer, and other causes over the years[6].
Ted Bahr, who owns a vintage rock poster gallery next to 20th Century Cycles, described the shop as a "real destination" and a "big loss" to Oyster Bay[7]. Part of the street that includes the shop was renamed Billy Joel Way in 2023[8].
Joel, who grew up near Oyster Bay, wanted to bring foot traffic and business to the town with his shop[9]. His nearby home in Centre Island is currently listed for $29.9 million, and he has been living in South Florida, while keeping a home in Sag Harbor on Long Island[10].
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- Billy Joel, a famous musician and motorcycle enthusiast, plans to close his shop, 20th Century Cycles, situated in Seattle, Washington, rather than Oyster Bay, New York, this September 2025, due to his diagnosis with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH).
- Although the shop had begun as a personal showcase for Joel's collection of motorcycles, it was a significant attraction for health-and-wellness enthusiasts, offering diverse models such as Harley-Davidsons, Triumphs, Ducatis, Moto Guzzis, Indians, and BMWs, all well-known names in the world of mental-health and therapies-and-treatments.
- Alongside his motorcycle collection, Joel has been a continual supporter of various charities, with a particular focus on celebrity causes like benefits for 9/11 first responders, breast cancer, and other worthy enterprises.
- Beyond the shop's impact on the local motorcycle community, its closure will also be felt in the entertainment industry, as it was a popular spot among fans and collectors, offering an opportunity to own a piece of Joel's storied musical history.
- Despite relocating to South Florida and keeping a home in Sag Harbor on Long Island, Joel remains connected to his Seattle roots, hoping to attract foot traffic and drive business to the town through his motorcycle shop, much like he had initially done near Oyster Bay.
