Billy Joel Closes Motorcycle Shop and Sells Collection Amid Health Concerns
Billy Joel has made the difficult decision to shut down his motorcycle shop in Long Island, New York, and he has put his personal collection of bikes up for auction due to health issues. The 76-year-old musician recently shared on social media that he has been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a condition affecting his vision, hearing, and balance.
As a result of his diagnosis, Joel has canceled all tour dates until 2025 and July 2026. Earlier this week, his representative, Claire Mercuri, mentioned that the 20th Century Cycle shop in Oyster Bay would close at the end of September, with the auction of his motorcycle collection planned for later this year.
NPH is characterized by the build-up of cerebrospinal fluid in the skull, often impacting those over 65. Treatment usually involves surgical intervention to insert a shunt to drain the excess fluid. In his May statement about his diagnosis, Joel said this condition “was highlighted by recent concert performances,” which led to these issues with his senses. He stated he has been following his doctor’s recommendations for physical therapy and advised rest during his recovery.
Growing up in Hicksville, Joel found his passion for motorcycles in the latter half of 2010, restoring and customizing bikes. He opened the 20th Century Cycle to showcase the classic motorcycle era and hoped to draw visitors to downtown Oyster Bay, a quaint waterfront area about 25 miles from Manhattan. In 2023, part of the street where the shop is located was renamed Billy Joel Way.
Joel, who grew up nearby and still has a home listed for $29.9 million on Center Island, now mostly resides in South Florida while keeping another property in Sag Harbor, Long Island. His shop attracted motorcycle enthusiasts and tourists alike, housing over 75 bikes from as far back as the 1940s, including brands like Harley Davidson and BMW. He mentioned that one of his prized possessions is a 1952 Vincent Rapido, which could fetch a hefty sum at auction.
His love for motorcycles has spanned decades, but he faced a serious accident in 1982 when a car struck him while he was riding. This led to significant injuries and a hospital stay. Over the years, he’s also participated in various benefits focused on causes such as 9/11 first responders and breast cancer awareness.
As of now, there’s no specific date for when his motorcycle collection will go up for auction.
