Let's talk about some dirt bike films you don't want to miss. Just like with favorite dirt bikes, there are different strokes for different folks. From racing documentaries to focusing on the make or break carnage of freestyle motocross - there are many more than what I am listing here. These rank as my all-time favorites from vintage 1970's to current films with today's stars of action sports. After watching them, you can decide which belong on the list of the best dirt bike movies of all time.
On Any Sunday
Leading the way in dirt bike films is On Any Sunday. This movie has it all. From flat tracks to hill climbs. It's one of those movies that regardless of how many years have passed and how many new innovations and tweaks to technology have been made, you'll take something useful away from it. One of the stars of the film is a true legend - Steve McQueen. On Any Sunday is a true classic and has been an inspiration to many racing legends while growing up.
On a side note, if you want to see Steve in action cutting across wide-open fields negotiating a 1961 Triumph TR6 Trophy Bird over some hectic terrain trying to escape capture in the classic movie, The Great Escape from 1963, you can watch the segment on YouTube here:
Dust to Glory
This documentary is another film that should be watched by any motocross enthusiast. This one is directed by Dana Brown and is about the infamous Baja 1000 off-road race that forces man vs. the elements. It was filmed in 2003. Some scenes are geared more towards race trucks and cars rather than dirt bikes, but the stories are well worth watching. You will gain a new level of respect for desert racing!
Terrafirma 1-7
In 1994, Terrafirma made its debut and is still considered one of the most popular dirt bike movies of all time. In the movie you'll see legendary multi-time, AMA championship winner, Jeremy McGrath in action. This series has it all with racing and free styling, and also gives a glimpse into the early years for Ricky Carmichael and Travis Pastrana. Six additional Terrafirma releases followed the original.
Crusty Demons Of Dirt
The appearance of Crusty Demons in the late 90's set the tone for freestyle riding. This is another series-based collection that is currently at 16 releases. The first release was Crusty Demons of Dirt featuring footage of behind the scenes motocross life along with nearly 150 jump sequences over a variety of interesting obstacles. The first film launched Fleshwound Films which has soared to success with sales in DVDs, videos, clothing, gear and assorted merchandise.
Nitro Circus
A thrilling addition to this list of dirt bike films is Travis and the Nitro Circus . Nitro Circus is an "action sport collective" led by Travis Pastrana, featuring his friends and him traveling around the world riding dirt bikes, base jumping, and performing stunts. There are 7 sequels to the original. It has spawned a tour, a second television series based on the tour, and a 3D feature film - Nitro Circus: The Movie 3D. It was released August 8th, 2012.
The Great Outdoors
A yearly video from 2002-2011 would document each Outdoor National MX Series. These videos are loaded with great footage and some really cool behind-the-scenes segments. There's also a lot of cool commentary from our sports heroes giving us some new insight into their worlds. In all there were 10 main videos running through 2011 and many supplemental videos supporting the main series. These are a must see for any fan of motocross.
Motocrossed
This 2001 Disney Channel original is a great one for young - or young at heart - racers. This movie follows the story of a young girl who wants to race even though her dad thinks the sport is not appropriate being that she is "just a girl." Don't sign this one off just yet if you think that it may not be for you since it's a Disney Flick- to date it is the only "moto" related movie Hollywood has come up with that doesn't totally miss the mark.
Thursday Night Motocross 50th Anniversary
Produced by MotoSport, one of these days we will get this film back online so you'all can enjoy.
Check out these dirt bike movies if you want to experience thrilling riding and techniques on the screen from veterans and modern riders. Each movie provides the ride of a lifetime. Let me know what's on your list of favorite dirt bike movies!
