Iconic musician Billy Joel decides to shut down his Long Island motorcycle shop and auction off his collection, following a recent diagnosis of a brain disorder.
Billy Joel, the acclaimed musician and Long Island native, has made a significant change in his career. After a diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) in May 2025, Joel has decided to auction off his personal collection of motorcycles and close his motorcycle shop, 20th Century Cycles, located in Oyster Bay, New York.
The shop, a popular destination for motorcycle enthusiasts and tourists alike, was opened by Joel in late 2010. His intention was to maintain and repair his motorcycles, as well as to promote an aesthetic from the 1930s to the 1960s. The collection housed over 75 bikes, dating back to the 1940s, and included various brands such as Harley-Davidsons, Triumphs, Ducatis, Moto Guzzis, Indians, and BMWs.
Joel's motorcycle shop was also a significant contributor to the local economy, as part of the street that includes 20th Century Cycles was renamed Billy Joel Way in 2023. Joel's intention was also to bring foot traffic and business to downtown Oyster Bay.
Joel's enthusiasm for motorcycles dates back decades, as he was injured in a motorcycle accident in 1982. Despite his injury, he has continued to ride motorcycles for various causes, including those for 9/11 first responders and breast cancer.
However, Joel's health has taken precedence over his motorcycle shop. He is currently undergoing treatment and physical therapy for his NPH diagnosis, which affects vision, hearing, and balance. The condition forced him to cancel all scheduled concerts through 2026. Joel has reported ongoing symptoms like poor balance but remains optimistic and committed to his recovery, following his doctor's advice to avoid performing during this time.
The auction of Joel's bike collection has not been scheduled yet, but one of his most valuable bikes is a 1952 Vincent Rapide, which can sell for tens of thousands of dollars or more. Joel's wife, Alexis Joel, shared an update on the singer's health.
Joel's nearby home in Centre Island is listed for $29.9 million, and he has been living in South Florida, while keeping a home in Sag Harbor on Long Island. Despite the closure of his motorcycle shop, Joel's love for motorcycles remains undiminished, and he continues to be an icon in the music and motorcycle worlds.
