The 10 Best Documentaries About Bicycles

Feb 18, 2024 | Best Of

Do you know what the best thing about bicycle documentaries is? It’s that they open up a whole new world of exploration. From mountain biking to road cycling, these films capture stories from all four corners of the globe – and touch on so many different aspects of the sport.  We’ve rounded up our favorite bike-themed docs for you to explore. So if you’re ready to get a little inspiration, buckle up and let us take you on a trip into the amazing world of bicycle documentaries. We guarantee that these films are sure to capture your heart and leave a lasting impression. Let’s have some fun.

 

When it comes to the two-wheeled marvel of transportation, the bicycle stands out as an efficient and versatile source of travel. From coast to coast, country to country, many people opt for bicycles as their main mode of transportation. The world of documentary filmmaking has captured this unique relationship between humans and bikes in a variety of ways over the years. Join us as we take a look at some of the most compelling documentaries that focus on bicycles and our connection to them, from the perspectives of those who ride them. It all started in 2014, when independent filmmaker David Vassar released his documentary, All About the Ride. The film explores the culture of bicycling that has been growing in popularity over the last decade and follows three passionate riders on their cross-country journeys. Through stunning cinematography and personal interviews, All About the Ride captures the unique bond between these cyclists and their bikes as they explore America’s vast landscapes.

 

Bicycles have been around for centuries, and there’s no denying that the two-wheeled mode of transportation has made a significant impact on our lives. But what if we told you that there’s a documentary out there that captures the spirit of bicycles in an entirely different way? It is a feature-length film that celebrates the human connection to bicycles like never before. By highlighting the many ways people use bicycles to explore and connect to their environment, it offers an inspiring glimpse into what it means to travel on two wheels.

 

Jana’s journey started on a sunny day in Vienna. She was about to embark on an extraordinary cycling adventure – the Three Peaks Bike Race. For more than 2000 kilometers and 30,000 meters of altitude gain, she would experience the full range of emotions multiple times. It was going to be more than just a race; it was an opportunity for her to discover more about herself. As she wound her way through the picturesque mountain villages, and battled against the headwinds along the coast, she began to realize that it’s not necessarily always the arrival at the finish line that yields long-lasting memories – but rather, it is often found along the path of discovery.

 

From the classic Penny-Farthers, to the sleek and stylish modern cycles, bicycles have been around for centuries. But why are these two wheeled wonders still around today? Why do people still ride them so much? Could it be that they are simply one of the greatest inventions ever? Well, the answer is yes. Bicycles are one of the greatest inventions ever. Not only do they provide a healthy form of exercise and transportation, but they are also an incredibly environmental friendly mode of transport. They use no fuel or electricity, require very little maintenance, and don’t produce any emissions. This makes them the perfect way to get around in an eco friendly manner.

 

The world of cycling has long been a source of dramatic inspiration, from daring spectacles to touching personal stories. One such story that captures the spirit of cycling was captured in Jørgen Leth’s famed 1976 documentary, Following the legendary Paris-Roubaix race, the film is a vivid portrait of the grueling race and the cycle of hope and despair that accompanies it. This documentary has since gone down in history as one of the greatest cycling films ever made. For those looking to dive into some cycling storytelling, “A Sunday in Hell”  should be at the top of your list. With its sweeping camera work and passionate character stories, this documentary is sure to capture your imagination and provide a thrilling experience as you follow the riders of 1976 Paris-Roubaix on their journey from start to finish.

 

The migration gravel race. A unique 4-day stage race through the heart of Africa, the Masai Mara in Kenya. In 2022 I was lucky enough to become part of this incredible experience and embark on a journey like no other. It was an unforgettable adventure, where one had the opportunity to immerse themselves in African culture while pushing their limits and exploring the depths of the rugged terrain. Every step of the way was an adventure, as I weaved my way through different terrains and landscapes – from expansive savannahs to dense forests, and everything in between. It was a unique challenge with each day bringing its own set of surprises and lessons. It taught me that sometimes in life you just have to take a chance and see where the journey takes you. The race was full of highs and lows, but in the end I realized that it was never about competing against one another. Rather, it was about appreciating nature’s beauty and celebrating what we can do when we come together. It gave me a greater appreciation for life and all its possibilities.

 

Gravel cycling is a sport that’s quickly gaining in popularity for its unique blend of adventure and challenge. Through the film The Good Line, we get an up-close look at how it can be used to find balance in life. Jeremy Kershaw, founder of Heck of the North Productions, recounts his experiences with gravel cycling on the north shore of Lake Superior and how it brought perspective to his life. We explore why the mental health benefits of this type of cycling are so important, especially for men who often struggle to find a way to cope with stress or other issues. The Good Line demonstrates the power that gravel cycling can have on an individual’s emotional wellbeing, giving us hope that it can be used as a tool for healing. This film gives us a fascinating glimpse into the world of gravel cycling and provides an inspiring story for anyone looking to find balance in their life.

 

The journey of the CSC team is a story of hard-won success and triumph. Led by Bjarne Riis, they braved the most difficult terrains and toughest competitions in the cycling world, all for the chance to make history. Even with setbacks and struggles, this group refused to succumb to the pressure. They held onto their ambition and remained dedicated to the cause, eventually emerging as winners of the Tour de France. Evaan is a riveting look into this inspiring story and the people behind it, granting viewers an intimate insight into the world of professional cycling. The film provides a powerful portrait of resilience and ambition, leaving an indelible impression on those who watch it.

 

Peru stands out among countries around the world for its extreme beauty and diversity. From striking landscapes to dizzying altitudes, Peru has something unique to offer in every corner of its borders. During our 89-day cycling tour across Peru from September to December 2022, we encountered many incredible sights, covering 3215 kilometers and an impressive 55,000 meters of elevation gain. The land of Peru provided us with our greatest achievements yet, as well as some of the wildest and most remote trails we have ever encountered. However, it was also a place filled with heartbreaking contrasts. From disrespectful drivers to aggressive dogs to hazardous road conditions, Peru could be both exhilarating and challenging for travelers like us. Though the country was filled with extremes, we also found stories of hope and human connection at every turn. Every new person we met, each village and city we passed through—all these experiences gave us a deeper understanding of Peru’s beauty in all its forms.

Read On – Our Latest Top Documentaries Lists

David B