Madison Square Garden recently honored Billy Joel with a special gift to commemorate his final show in his decade-long residency at the venue. The legendary musician received a 1978 Triumph Bonneville motorcycle, marking the year he first graced the MSG stage. This remarkable gesture highlighted Joel’s remarkable achievement of performing a total of 150 shows at the iconic venue. The final show was filled with unforgettable moments, including tributes from Jimmy Fallon, a surprise appearance by Axl Rose, and even former President Bill Clinton in the audience.
As a true motorcycle enthusiast, Billy Joel was thrilled to receive the custom-painted Triumph Bonneville. Adorned with piano keys, his signature, and the MSG logo on the gas tank, the bike was a one-of-a-kind piece. To add a personal touch, a helmet painted with every date Joel performed at MSG was also presented. During the final show, the motorcycle made a special appearance on the big screen while Joel performed his classic hit “You May Be Right,” which includes the memorable lyric about riding a motorcycle in the rain.
Billy Joel’s love for motorcycles is well-known, with a collection of bikes displayed at his motorcycle shop, 20th Century Cycles, in Oyster Bay, New York. While he owns dozens of bikes, he has a particular fondness for European makes, including British brands like Vincent and Royal Enfields. The addition of the Triumph Bonneville to his collection perfectly complements his diverse range of motorcycles. Joel’s passion for biking even inspired a demo recording titled “Motorcycle Song” back in 1982, showcasing his enduring connection to the two-wheeled machines.
Despite his love for motorcycles, Billy Joel has also experienced the dangers of riding. In 1982, he suffered an injury when a driver pulled out in front of him while he was on his bike in Long Island, resulting in a smashed thumb and dislocated wrist. Joel’s resilience and determination to continue performing as a rock ‘n’ roll musician shone through during this challenging time. His recovery from the accident underscored his dedication to his craft, demonstrating that his passion for music and motorcycles knows no bounds.
Billy Joel’s recent gift of a Triumph Bonneville motorcycle from Madison Square Garden is a fitting tribute to his illustrious career and enduring passion for motorcycles. As the Piano Man continues to captivate audiences with his timeless music, his love for biking serves as a reminder of his adventurous spirit and unwavering dedication to his craft.