11 Best Cycling Movies to Inspire Your Ride (Updated 2026)
Several of these cycling movies are available to rent or stream on Prime Video.
If you don’t already have Prime, you can check it out here: 👉 Start a Prime Video trial
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🎬 1. Breaking Away (1979) - Rent it on Prime
Still one of the most beloved cycling films ever made. This coming-of-age drama follows a group of working-class teens in Indiana training for the “Little 500” race. Emotional, funny, and full of heart.
🎬 2. The Flying Scotsman (2006) - DVD
Based on the true story of Graeme Obree, who built his own bike and broke the world hour record—while battling depression and inner demons.
🎬 3. A Sunday in Hell (1976) VHS Only on Amazon
Often called the greatest cycling documentary ever made. It covers the brutal 1976 Paris-Roubaix race and offers a gritty, real look at professional road racing.
🎬 4. The Racer (2020) — New Addition can be found on Prime - Sign up here if you don't have Prime.
Set during the 1998 Tour de France, this gripping drama follows a domestique nearing the end of his career as doping scandals erupt around him. A raw, modern take on life inside the peloton.
🎬 5. Premium Rush (2012) - Rent it on Prime
A high-octane thriller about a NYC bike messenger who gets caught in a dangerous delivery job. Not a racing movie, but full of edge-of-your-seat urban riding.
🎬 6. The Armstrong Lie (2013) - Rent it on Prime
Alex Gibney’s deep dive into Lance Armstrong’s rise, fall, and legacy. A sharp, thought-provoking documentary about truth, ambition, and betrayal.
🎬 7. American Flyers (1985) - Rent it on Prime
Two estranged brothers reconnect and train for a punishing race through the Rockies. Melodramatic at times, but pure 80s cycling nostalgia.
🎬 8. Bicycle Thieves (1948) - Watch it free on Prime
A poignant Italian classic. When a working man's bicycle is stolen, his desperate search reveals a raw, emotional story of survival and hope.
🎬 9. Rad (1986) - Rent it on Prime
This cult BMX classic is cheesy and packed with 80s flair—but BMX lovers will appreciate its iconic racing scenes and underdog energy.
🎬 10. Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist (2014) - DVD
A heartbreaking look at one of cycling’s most gifted—and tragic—figures. Pantani’s triumphs and struggles are powerfully captured here.
🎬 11. Le Ride (2016) - Rent it on Prime
Phil Keoghan (host of The Amazing Race) recreates the 1928 Tour de France on a vintage bike. A tribute to early cycling pioneers that blends travel, suffering, and inspiration.
🎬 Reader Submissions
Martin, a reader told me that Bellville Rende -vous is a great movie that you should check out. This is what I have found about it. It is the 1960s in France, and a young boy called Champion lives with his grandmother, Madame Souza, dreaming of winning the Tour de France. But before he competes he is kidnapped by the Mafia and taken to Belleville where his cycling skills are utilised. Madame Souza plans to rescue Champion with the help of 1930s jazz trio, The Triplets of Belleville and her trusty dog, Bruno.
🎬 Cycling Gear to Get You in the Movie Mood
- 📽️ Indoor Bike Trainer (Great for movie nights + riding!)
- 🍿 Bluetooth Headphones for Indoor Rides
- 🚴 Bike-Themed Decor for Movie Room Vibes
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Final Word:
Whether you're chasing KOMs or just love a good story on two wheels, these movies will make you laugh, cry, and maybe even pump up your tires for a ride.
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