Billy Joel, American musician, to dispose of his motorcycles due to health issues.
Billy Joel Announces Auction of Motorcycle Collection and Closure of 20th Century Cycles Shop
Pop music legend Billy Joel has announced that he will be auctioning off his extensive motorcycle collection and closing his motorcycle shop, 20th Century Cycles, located in Oyster Bay, Long Island. This decision comes as a result of Joel's diagnosis with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), a brain condition that affects balance, memory, and cognitive function.
NPH is a rare neurological disorder that arises when cerebrospinal fluid cannot properly flow throughout the brain and spinal cord. The condition, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine, can cause symptoms such as walking difficulties, memory loss, and urinary problems, impairing the abilities essential for both riding motorcycles and performing on stage.
Joel's motorcycle collection, housed at his shop since 2010, includes over 75 motorcycles from various brands and eras. Some of the bikes date back to the 1940s, reflecting Joel's preference for the older style of motorcycles. The lease on the 20th Century Cycles shop will not be renewed once it expires in late September.
Joel's love for motorcycles has been a significant part of his public persona, with motorcycles featuring in his music videos and lyrics. In the music video for one of his hits, "Uptown Girl," Joel is depicted whisking away an "Uptown Girl" on the back of a motorcycle. He even sings about riding a motorcycle in the rain in the song "You May Be Right."
However, Joel's condition has been exacerbated by concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance. As a result, he has canceled tour dates from May 2023 to July 2026. The auction of his motorcycle collection marks the end of an era for Joel, who has long been passionate about motorcycles as well as music.
Billy Joel's bike collection will be auctioned off later this year, with details to be announced soon. The auction is expected to attract motorcycle enthusiasts from around the world, eager to own a piece of Joel's legendary collection.
[1] 20th Century Cycles Shop Website: https://www.20thcenturycycles.com/ [2] Johns Hopkins Medicine: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/normal-pressure-hydrocephalus [3] Billy Joel's Official Website: https://www.billyjoel.com/ [4] New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/04/22/arts/music/billy-joel-normal-pressure-hydrocephalus.html [5] CNN: https://www.cnn.com/2022/04/22/entertainment/billy-joel-normal-pressure-hydrocephalus/index.html
- Billy Joel, due to his diagnosis with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) and the associated symptoms of walking difficulties, memory loss, and cognitive impairment, has decided to auction off his motorcycle collection and close his shop, 20th Century Cycles, which focuses on health-and-wellness through fitness-and-exercise activities such as motorcycle riding.
- In light of his medical-conditions, the United States' science and medical communities are closely following Billy Joel's progress, hoping his story raises awareness for conditions like NPH and encourages others to prioritize health-and-wellness through regular check-ups and proper treatment.
