The 13 Best Documentaries About Cycling

Aug 1, 2023 | Best Of, Health, Sports

Whether you’re an avid cyclist, or just a fan of documentaries in general, there is something for everyone to enjoy when it comes to the best cycling-related films. From awe-inspiring tales of endurance and bravery on two wheels, to humorous accounts of biking culture around the world – these 13 remarkable documentaries will inform, inspire and entertain. Take a journey with us as we explore some of the most captivating stories about cycling ever told on film!

 

1. Three Peaks & In Between

Follow Jana on an incredible journey as she takes part in the Three Peaks Bike Race. Along her 2000-kilometer adventure, she experiences a wide range of emotions and climbs over 30,000 meters of altitude gain. The end result is that this race shows us that it’s not about reaching the finish line but rather all about the moments during the journey that create lasting memories.

 

2. Cycling’s Greatest Fraud in History

Lance Edward Armstrong was one of the most successful professional road racers in cycling history. He won an incredible seven consecutive Tour de France titles from 1999 to 2005, becoming the 1993 professional world champion along the way. Unfortunately, in 2012 he was banned from sanctioned Olympic sports for life due to a long-term doping scandal; as part of his punishment all results going back to August 1998 were voided. Learn more about his story and legacy by watching this video!

 

3. Cycling Patagonia – An Autumn Adventure

We took an incredible two-month journey through Patagonia that proved to be one of our best experiences yet. Join us as we cycle 12,760 km through South America and explore the breathtaking Patagonian wilderness! We were fortunate enough to experience this beautiful place during low season, allowing us to enjoy the stunning fall colors in peace. Watch our video to see why cycling Patagonia is a decision you won’t regret!

 

4. Two Wheel Freedom

Michael has always been passionate about life on two wheels. From Iowa’s motocross tracks to Sedona’s red rocks, he has spent more time riding his bike than walking. Join us as we take a journey with Michael and explore the true meaning of freedom in the wild. Along the way, discover what it means for him and how you can find your own sense of liberation.

 

5. Best Cycling Documentaries

Experience the thrilling and unforgettable journey of one of the greatest cycling films ever made! “A Sunday in Hell” or En Forårsdag i Helvede as it was known in Denmark, directed by Jørgen Leth, captures the 1976 Paris-Roubaix race. Follow along with this amazing documentary as cyclists battle through cobblestones and treacherous terrain on their way to victory. See who will prevail while you experience a unique look at one of the toughest races in history.

 

6. The Road to the Tour de France

Team DSM is taking viewers on a journey to the Tour de France in this documentary. Follow along as they take you through the highs and lows of their preparation for one of the biggest cycling events in history. Learn how hard work, dedication, and resilience can lead to success while also experiencing some unique behind-the-scenes moments with Team DSM.

 

7. A JOURNEY BEYOND II

Marc Maurer has always been an outdoor adventure enthusiast, but it wasn’t until he set off on a cycling journey from Cologne to Istanbul that his love for exploration by bike began. In 2014, Marc set out on the epic trip and when he arrived in Turkey, cancelled his return flight and decided to pedal all the way back home! Hear from Marc himself about his incredible experience of discovering the world one bike ride at a time.

 

8. Cycling: Still the Greatest

Experience the adrenaline rush of cycling with this amazing documentary. Featuring some of the world’s best cyclists and their coaches, it presents highlights from iconic events like the 1976 Olympics and 1978 Commonwealth Games. Watch as these athletes prepare for competition and race to victory!

 

9. Team Jumbo-Visma

Join us for a thrilling journey that tells the story of our remarkable Tour de France performance. In Plan B, we take you through the highs and lows of an unpredictable first week and how it led to one of our most successful races ever! From heart-stopping moments to incredible comebacks, this documentary is sure to leave you inspired.

 

10. From Cape to Cairo by Bike

This incredible documentary follows the journey of an intrepid cyclist as he embarks on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure—pedaling his way from Cape Town to Cairo. Along the way, he encounters breathtaking landscapes and wildlife, meets friendly locals, and experiences different cultures. Watch this inspiring story unfold in Free Documentary Nature’s “From Cape to Cairo by Bike”!

 

11. Burundi – The Racing Cyclists

Experience the thrill of a cross-country journey in Burundi with Tharcien, a daring bike courier. Follow him on his exhausting trip as he transports bananas from the local markets to a banana beer brewing factory – an essential task for this African nation’s economy. See how bicycles are an integral part of life in one of Africa’s smallest countries and get inspired by Tharcien’s courage!

 

12. The Impossible Route

Experience the incredible beauty and challenge of FAR WEST TEXAS in this cycling documentary. From the breathtaking views to the gruelling climbs, join us as we take you on an adventure across one of America’s last frontiers. Explore a unique landscape that will test your limits and inspire your heart!

 

13. Bicycle Documentary

Discover the world of cycling in this special documentary! From the history and culture of biking to the latest technologies, learn all about two-wheeled transportation. We’ll also explore how bikes are being used to make a difference around the world. Join us for an unforgettable journey that will leave you inspired and ready to hit the road!

 

Read On – Our Latest Top Documentaries Lists

David B