20th Century Cycles
Explore Billy Joel's personal collection of vintage and custom motorcycles in a unique working shop setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More likely to be open
20th Century Cycles
Best Time
More likely to be open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Billy Joel's personal collection of vintage and custom motorcycles in a unique working shop setting.
"It is both of these and more. It is free to stop in and look around."
🎯 Always check hours first
Hours can change without notice; verify on their website or social media before you go!
🏍️ Admire, don't touch
These are Billy Joel's prized possessions and working bikes, so please admire from a distance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Billy Joel's Vintage Motorcycle Collection
Main showroom
Admire Billy Joel's personal collection of meticulously restored and customized vintage motorcycles.
Custom Bike Creations
Workshop area
See how classic bikes are transformed into unique, aesthetically classic machines.
Oyster Bay Charm
Oyster Bay, Long Island
Experience the unique vibe of Oyster Bay, a town with its own character and charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Hours
It's More Than a Museum
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Always check hours first
Hours can change without notice; verify on their website or social media before you go!
🏍️ Admire, don't touch
These are Billy Joel's prized possessions and working bikes, so please admire from a distance.
👕 Souvenirs available
Grab a t-shirt or pin to remember your visit to this unique spot.
♿ Wheelchair accessible
The shop is generally accessible for those with mobility needs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Always check hours first
Hours can change without notice; verify on their website or social media before you go!
🏍️ Admire, don't touch
These are Billy Joel's prized possessions and working bikes, so please admire from a distance.
👕 Souvenirs available
Grab a t-shirt or pin to remember your visit to this unique spot.
♿ Wheelchair accessible
The shop is generally accessible for those with mobility needs.
🚗 Plan your drive
Oyster Bay is on Long Island; factor in potential NYC traffic if coming from the city.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise 20th Century Cycles as a fascinating blend of a private garage and a public viewing space, showcasing Billy Joel's impressive collection of vintage and custom motorcycles. The free entry and the opportunity to see unique bike creations are major draws. However, inconsistent operating hours and occasional unexpected closures can lead to significant disappointment for those who travel specifically to visit.
"Is it a Motorcycle Museum? Is it Billy Joel's private garage that is also open to the public on the weekends? It is both of these and more. It is free to stop in and look around, there are souvenirs available for purchase (t-shirts and pins). A beautiful collection of bikes from various manufacturers and historical periods. If you enjoy motorcycles, definitely worth a stop."
kevin abrams
"Beautiful collection of bikes and well worth a walk around if you're in the area. I hadn't read up much on the place before taking a stroll through and was made to feel very welcome. There's no entrance fee and not much in the way of souvenirs (a few baseball caps and t-shirts). I saw one guy cleaning a bike and thought "he looks like a dead ringer for Billy Joel". Turns out it's Billy Joel's private collection and he lets people walk around and admire them. He also uses all of them so, although visitors can't touch them, they're definitely not museum show-ponies. This is an awesome spot for anyone with even a passing interest in bikes."
Howard
"Billy Joel’s vintage motor bikes that he collected and customized through the years, recreating them into an aesthetic classic. Great for anyone who wants to see what motorcycles used to look like. There is no telephone number to call but you can fill in a form on the website and they will contact you. This is working fixing and building motor bike shop to And they will fulfill any need you have The bikes are all very beautiful , and spaced and positioned for viewing nicely though I would not recommend small children unless under very closely watched adult supervision I believe it is wheelchair accessible. There is a booth in the back where business can be discussed and decided on. I do not know if the floor model motor bike collection is for sale but they represent as an example of what your modernization 20th cycle could look like. 20th Century Cycles is yet another wonderful and positive example of a place that downtown Oyster Bay is being known for."
Robert Fitzpatrick
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
20th Century Cycles is located in Oyster Bay, Long Island. If driving, use GPS for the exact address. Public transport options might involve LIRR to Oyster Bay station, followed by a short taxi or walk. Be mindful of potential traffic, especially when coming from NYC.
Street parking is typically available in Oyster Bay, but it can be competitive, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to search for a spot.
Yes, you can visit from NYC. The drive can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours depending on traffic. Taking the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Oyster Bay station is another option, followed by a short ride to the shop.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit 20th Century Cycles. It's free to stop in and admire the collection. +1
The shop primarily operates on weekends, but hours can vary. It's highly recommended to check their official website or social media pages for the most current operating hours before your visit, as they are not always open as expected.
No advance booking is required as there is no admission fee. However, checking their operating hours is crucial.
While visitors can admire the bikes, it's best to avoid touching them. They are part of a personal collection and a working shop, not a typical museum display.
🎫 🏍️ Onsite Experience
You'll see Billy Joel's impressive personal collection of vintage and custom motorcycles, meticulously restored and often used by him. It's a unique blend of a private garage and a public viewing space.
Children are welcome but should be closely supervised due to the nature of the collection and the fact that it's a working shop.
Yes, the venue is generally considered wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors with mobility needs to view the collection.
Yes, there are souvenirs available for purchase, such as t-shirts and pins, allowing you to take a piece of the experience home.
It's both! It's Billy Joel's private collection of motorcycles that he also uses and customizes in a working shop.
🎫 🛠️ Services & Customization
Yes, 20th Century Cycles is a working motorcycle shop that fixes, builds, and customizes bikes. They can fulfill various needs for motorcycle enthusiasts.
The shop specializes in custom builds and modernizing classic cycles. You can discuss your needs there, and they will work with you to fulfill them.
There isn't a direct phone number listed. You can typically fill out a form on their website, and they will contact you to discuss your requirements.
While the displayed bikes are examples of what can be achieved, it's not explicitly stated if the floor models are for sale. They represent the shop's customization capabilities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏍️ Motorcycle Enthusiasts
🎵 Billy Joel Fans
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Billy Joel's Collection
Visitors often remark on the unique atmosphere, a blend of a private garage and a public exhibition. The bikes are thoughtfully displayed, allowing for appreciation of their design and craftsmanship. The presence of Alex, known for his extensive motorcycle knowledge, adds another layer of expertise and insight for visitors. This personal touch makes the experience more engaging than a typical museum visit.
For fans of Billy Joel, motorcycles, or classic design, 20th Century Cycles offers a unique opportunity to connect with a different facet of the iconic musician's life. It's a testament to his dedication to his craft, both on and off the stage. The shop also serves as a hub for customization, demonstrating a commitment to preserving and enhancing the beauty of classic motorcycles.
Beyond the Bikes: Oyster Bay's Charm
While the primary draw is the motorcycle collection, the surrounding area offers opportunities for a leisurely stroll. You can enjoy the local atmosphere, perhaps grab a bite to eat, or simply take in the coastal New England vibe. It's a chance to combine your interest in automotive history with a relaxing day trip. The 'keep Oyster Bay weird' sentiment suggests a community that embraces individuality and unique attractions like 20th Century Cycles.
For those planning a visit, consider dedicating some time to explore Oyster Bay itself. It complements the visit to the shop and provides a more rounded experience of the Long Island North Shore. The town's charm, combined with the unique motorcycle collection, makes for a memorable outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit