Thrilling Rides: Cycling Thrillers You Can’t Miss

Description: While not a modern thriller, this Italian neorealist film captures the desperation of a man whose livelihood depends on his bicycle. The tension of his search for the stolen bike and the moral dilemmas he faces add a thrilling element.

Fact: The film is often listed among the greatest films of all time and was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry.

Description: This coming-of-age film follows a group of friends in Bloomington, Indiana, who dream of becoming professional cyclists. While not a traditional thriller, the film's climactic race scene and the psychological tension between the characters make it a must-watch for this list.

Fact: The film was inspired by the Little 500 bicycle race at Indiana University. It won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

Description: Kevin Bacon stars as a stockbroker turned bike messenger, navigating the dangerous streets of San Francisco. The film blends action with the personal struggles of the protagonist, creating a suspenseful atmosphere.

Fact: The film features a memorable scene where Bacon rides his bike through a subway tunnel.

Description: This animated film tells the story of a grandmother and her dog who embark on a mission to rescue her grandson, a cyclist, from the mafia. The film's quirky style and the suspense of the rescue mission make it a unique addition.

Fact: The film was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Animated Feature.

Description: In this post-apocalyptic tale, a father and son travel on foot and by bike, facing constant danger. The film's intense survival theme and the psychological tension make it a gripping watch.

Fact: The film was adapted from Cormac McCarthy's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.

Description: A bike messenger in New York City gets caught in a high-stakes chase when he picks up an envelope with sensitive information. The film's real-time action sequences and the constant threat make it a thrilling ride.

Fact: The film features real-life bike messengers and was shot on location in New York City.

Description: A documentary that explores the rise and fall of Lance Armstrong, focusing on his doping scandal. The psychological tension of his deception and the investigation into his lies make it a compelling watch.

Fact: The film was directed by Alex Gibney, known for his investigative documentaries.

Description: This film delves into the life of Lance Armstrong, focusing on his rise to fame, his battle with cancer, and the subsequent doping scandal. The psychological thriller aspect comes from the deception and the pressure to maintain his image.

Fact: The film was released shortly after Armstrong's public admission of doping.

Description: Based on the true story of Graeme Obree, this film showcases his struggle against personal demons and the cycling establishment to break the world hour record. The tension of his personal battles and the race against time make it a thrilling watch.

Fact: Graeme Obree built his own bike, "Old Faithful," from scrap parts, which is featured in the film.

Description: A psychological thriller about a man who becomes obsessed with finding his stolen bicycle, leading him down a dark path. The film's focus on obsession and the lengths one will go to reclaim what's theirs adds a thrilling element.

Fact: The film was shot entirely in black and white to emphasize the starkness of the protagonist's journey.