Fair warning, these films may cause you to purchase a Harley.

The feeling of riding a motorcycle can't be replicated by anything else. The wind in your hair, the rasp of the motor, and the freedom of the open road are all waiting for you the second your hand takes the throttle. Movies that showcase motorcycles as a central figure feature plots with themes that run the gamut of lawlessness to counterculture to personal growth. We sat down and ranked what we thought were the five best motorcycle movies to please anyone who lives life on two wheels.

The Wild One (1953)

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Hailed as the original outlaw biker film, The Wild One depicts motorcycle gangs swarming into a small town of straight-laced squares, and madness ensues. I was 15 when I first saw Marlon Brando in that classic leather jacket looking effortlessly cool and you might say that's when my "bad boy" phase began. Eighteen years later, I'm still waiting for it to end.  

Mad Max (1979)

This Australian classic not only introduced us to Mel Gibson, but it also gave more depth to the dystopian society genre. When police officer Max Rockatansky has had enough of the lawless motorcycle gang taking over his community, he doles out justice that doesn't even remotely come close to due process.

The World's Fastest Indian (2005)

This biopic stars Anthony Hopkins as Indian Scout motorcycle racer Burt Munro, who aims to set the land speed record at the Bonneville Salt Flats. Burt's story shows that you're never too old to enjoy what you love—or to set a record for doing so. 

The Motorcycle Diaries (2005)

Taken from the memoirs of a pre-guerrilla Che Guevara, this coming-of-age story will inspire you to hop on a motorcycle and ride it until the wheels come off. For anyone who's ever wanted to grab hold of life, throw caution to the wind, and go on a cross-country road trip, this may trigger a serious case of wanderlust.

Easy Rider (1969)

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As the essential biker drama, of course, this movie made the cut! This freewheeling film served a commentary on the United States during a period of immense social upheaval and turned a motorcycle from a vehicle to a symbol of freedom.

Know of any other great motorcycle movies? Let us know in the comments!