Eight influential dirt bike movies you need to watch

Regardless of age, we’re all influenced by certain films, books, songs and television shows at some stage in our lives. And while motorcycle movies are few and far between in the age of social media, there are many classics that are just as influential today as they were when released.

Off-road motorcycling has always lent itself well to the medium of film, thanks to death-defying stunts, exotic locations and highly-skilled athletes. Many a kid has been inspired to ride dirt bikes from watching their favourite motorcycle movies over and over again. Here are eight influential dirt bike movies you need to watch.

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The influence of this film (and the whole series for that matter) is arguably underrated. Backed by a raging soundtrack, this rag-tag crew of dirt bike punks essentially kick-started the sport of freestyle motocross. From Seth Enslow’s high-risk dune jumps, to Jeremy McGrath’s controversial appearance at the peak of his racing powers, the Crusty Demons started a movement that still lingers today.

While Terrafirma took a slightly more conservative approach to the sex, drugs and rock n roll of the Crusty films, it still depicted an energetic and free-spirited approach to dirt bike riding and blended it with an incredible soundtrack. Highlights include the appearance of a young James Stewart, Ricky Carmichael and Travis Pastrana, as well as a surprisingly emotional part by Doug Henry backed by an Alice in Chains track. Terrafirma 2 was equally epic, with Ken Roczen recently recreating McGrath's iconic freeride scene.

Like Crusty Demons and Terrafirma, you could argue that any instalment from the Moto series is influential. But we’ve picked Moto 5 because of an extremely Aussie appearance by former motocross star Josh Cachia. The Moto series introduced a level of cinematography not yet seen in dirt bike films. Moto 5 also features the likes of Ryan Villopoto, Tyler Bereman and Adam Cianciarulo, as well as another cracking soundtrack.

An instant classic, this epic depiction of the Finke Desert Race not only follows professionals, but also the punters who each have their own unique story. The high-quality film is directed by Dylan River, who is the son of well-known Aussie filmmaker, Warwick Thornton. Additionally, one of the producers, Isaac Elliot, stars in film as he looks to complete the race as a paraplegic rider.

No list of motorcycle films is complete without this Oscar-nominated masterpiece by Bruce Brown (of The Endless Summer fame). While it does also feature road racing, it places a strong focus on dirt track and desert racing, with Mert Lawill and Malcolm Smith playing big roles. The star of the show, however, is Hollywood icon Steve McQueen, who shows that he is far more than a one-trick-pony. To say this film was influential is an understatement.

This series has been running for over two decades, documenting professional motocross in America and, in later editions, around the world. When the first TGO film dropped, it was the first of its kind in the dirt bike world, blending racing action with behind the scenes drama. The first edition starred Ricky Carmichael as he dominated the 2002 AMA Pro Motocross championship.

Who would have thought a film made for Disney Channel would be one of Hollywood’s best depictions of motocross? Where many Hollywood motorcycle films miss the mark, this one made a very decent go of it, offering plenty of fun for the whole family. Motocrossed tells the story of a young girl who wants to race motocross against her overprotective father's wishes.

This documentary follows Australian freestyle rider Cam Sinclair as he fights his way back to the top following a devastating accident. Twice shows the dark side of motorcycling, depicting Sinclair’s horrific crash, his recovery, and the effects on his family and friends. As well providing an insight into the crazy world of freestyle motocross, Twice also shows the power of human will and determination.