Riding a motorcycle is as American as apple pie, so it should come as no surprise that there are dozens of movies made or set in this country that feature bikers as their main characters. From documentaries to action films and surprisingly touching dramas, there's something for everybody. One of the best things about motorcycle movies is that they inspire new people to start riding.

Before going out and buying pre-owned motorcycles, future riders can sit back and enjoy five of the most iconic motorcycle movies of the last century. There are plenty of others to choose from, as well, but these five stand out in the popular imagination and changed the way that people look at motorcycle riding.

1. Easy Rider (1969)

Easy Rider is an intense adventure movie featuring two motorcycle-riding bad boys. The movie follows the main characters, hippies Wyatt and Billy, across the country from Los Angeles to New Orleans. Their plan is to go to Mardi Gras, which gives them just over a week to traverse most of the country. Unsurprisingly, though, the journey turns out to be as important as the destination.

This independent movie is a must-watch for motorcycle enthusiasts, and not just for its shining star, the film's 1951 Panhead Chopper, affectionately known as the "Captain America" bike by the movie's fans. The motorcycles used in the movie were crafted carefully by hand and did more than create a striking impression on screen. They popularized choppers across the world.

The film is intense, raw, and full of the kind of passion only an independent filmmaker can bring. Just don't get too discouraged by the ending. While plenty of motorcycle adventurers head out on the open road to search for freedom like Wyatt and Billy, nearly all of them make it home to tell the tale.

2. The Wild One (1953)

If Easy Rider is a classic The Wild One is an antique. The film absolutely deserves a place on this list, though, if for no other reason than its lasting appeal among bike clubs. When it first came out, this movie was one of the most influential of its time and even jumpstarted the iconic Marlon Brando's career. Now, its popularity is limited primarily to serious motorcycle enthusiasts, but in those crowds, it remains as famous as ever and is thus worth a watch.

The Wild One showcases a group of motorcycle riders involved in the so-called "Hollister Riot" of 1947, an event many cite with giving rise to outlaw biker groups and changing the public perception of motorcycle culture for decades to come. What was an unruly but generally harmless event got sensationalized by the press, leaving people across the country scared of what they assumed were roving gangs of outlaws riding motorcycles on the way to harass their towns. In Hollister, the community remained calm and continues to host biker meets every year.

3. Road to Paloma (2014)

Although many of the most iconic motorcycle movies were produced in the 20th century, directors like Jason Momoa have resurrected the concept of the biker movie to great effect. Momoa's Road to Paloma follows lone biker Robert Wolf as he sets out on the run from the law after taking revenge on the man who murdered his mother and spread her ashes.

Already a cult classic, Road to Paloma features a highly customized 1956 Harley Panhead. With a 1948 springer front end, Model A rear fender, Buick tail light, and even vintage cop light on the front, it's 100% unique. The bike belongs to Momoa and is named Mabel after the director's grandmother, and it's just one of many motorcycles in his collection.

4. Being Evel (2015)

Evel Knievel wasn't just one of the best-known bikers of all time. The stuntman was also responsible for popularizing the term "daredevil." In 2015, his legacy was brought to the forefront by Being Evel, a documentary that tracks the rise and fall of the man and legend Robert "Evel" Knievel.

Even those who don't actively seek out movies about motorcycle culture or pay much attention to action stunts have almost certainly at least heard a reference to Knievel during their lives. The man truly was a legend, known not just for giving his all but also for risking his life every day. Being Evel is a must-see documentary not just for those interested in stunt riding but also anyone whose imagination has been captured by the man's legendary presence on screen and in popular culture.

5. One Week (2008)

Most people think of motorcycle movies as being action-packed, and there are plenty of flicks that meet those expectations. One Week is a little different. This movie follows its main character Be Tyler from Toronto to Tofino as he escapes the modern grind and searches for freedom in a different way. It chronicles his mental struggles and offers a dash of bone-chilling drama along with personal revelation.

Ben's motorcycle, a 1973 Norton 850 Commando, can't match a Harley chopper when it comes to its classic appeal. It is, however, the perfect ride for the story's quiet, slow-to-act protagonist on his journey to self-discovery and acceptance. One Week may not be every motorcycle enthusiast's cup of tea, but it has drawn plenty of newcomers into the fold, and it's worth a watch specifically because of the fact that it is so different from other motorcycle movies.

Get Inspired

Every rider comes into the fold of motorcycle owners and lovers from a different starting place, but many are inspired by beloved movies to head to the showroom and buy their first bikes. Of course, most people can't just jump straight in the deep end and learn to ride on a custom chopper or a stunt bike, but that's just fine.

Getting inspired to take the plunge into modern motorcycle culture is a great start. From there, the road ahead is wide open and can take you in just about any direction. There are as many different bikes and riding styles as there are fantastic vintage and modern motorcycle movies.