While I'd rather be on a bike than watch somebody else riding, there are moments when it's okay to kick up your feet, grab your favourite drink or snack and watch someone else crank and sweat! If you can fairly claim to be a seasoned cyclist who knows the thrill of a steep climb, or a casual rider who enjoys weekend spin, and if you can appreciate a good story, then cycling documentaries and movies offer the most compelling mix of adventure, drama, and inspiration. From the grit of the Tour de France to personal tales of perseverance, here’s my roundup of the best cycling films and who I think might enjoy each one: Table of Contents 1. "A Sunday in Hell" (1977) 2. "Breaking Away" (1979) 3. "Icarus" (2017) 4. "The Armstrong Lie" (2013) 5. "The Triplets of Belleville" (2003) 6. "Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist" (2014) 7. "All for One" (2017) 8. "The Flying Scotsman" (2006) 9. "Road to Roubaix" (2008) 10. "Rising from Ashes" (2012) Less Movies More Action 1. "A Sunday in Hell" (1977) For: The Hardcore Cyclist and History Buff Why Watch: Considered one of the greatest cycling documentaries ever made, "A Sunday in Hell" dives deep into the 1976 Paris-Roubaix race, known as “The Hell of the North.” This vintage Danish documentary film directed by Jørgen Leth captures the brutal, muddy, and treacherous cobblestone roads that have made the race legendary. If you’re the kind of cyclist who loves the history and tradition of the sport, this documentary will leave you in awe of the riders’ endurance and the sheer chaos of one of the most grueling one-day races in cycling. Where to Watch: Youtube 2. "Breaking Away" (1979) For: The Dreamer and Small-Town Hero Why Watch: "Breaking Away" is a heartwarming coming-of-age movie about four teenagers in a small Indiana town who are trying to figure out their lives after high school. At the heart of the story is Dave, a cycling-obsessed teen who idolizes Italian racers and dreams of escaping his mundane life. This film is perfect for anyone who’s ever felt the tension between ambition and reality, and it’s a feel-good story with just the right amount of bike racing for any non-cyclists! Where to Watch: Youtube | Prime | Apple 3. "Icarus" (2017) For: The Conspiracy Theorist and Sports Enthusiast Why Watch: Winner of the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, "Icarus" begins as a first person investigation into doping in cycling but quickly spirals into an explosive exposé on Russian sports doping at large. If you’re intrigued by the darker side of sports and love a good scandal, this gripping documentary by Bryan Fogel will have you hooked. It’s not just about cycling; it’s about how far athletes and nations will go to win. Where to Watch: Netflix 4. "The Armstrong Lie" (2013) For: The Fallen Hero Sympathizer Why Watch: Lance Armstrong’s rise and fall is one of the most infamous stories in sports history. "The Armstrong Lie" chronicles his return to cycling and subsequent unraveling as he finally admits to years of doping. This film is a must-watch for those fascinated by the complexities of fame, deceit, and redemption. It’s not just a cycling story; it’s a human story about the price of ambition and the cost of living a lie. Where to Watch: Netflix | Apple 5. "The Triplets of Belleville" (2003) For: The Animation Lover and Quirky Adventurer Why Watch: If you’re looking for something completely different, "The Triplets of Belleville" is an animated feature that offers a surreal, almost dream-like take on the cycling world. Written and directed by Sylvain Chomet, a French comic writer, animator and film director, the film follows a grandmother’s quest to rescue her grandson, a Tour de France cyclist, who has been kidnapped by the French mafia. With minimal dialogue and a unique visual style, this movie is perfect for those who appreciate offbeat, artistic storytelling. It’s a cycling adventure unlike any other. Where to Watch: I watched it on DVD years ago... If you know where - let me know! Here's a trailer on Youtube 6. "Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist" (2014) For: The Tragic Hero Admirer Why Watch: Marco Pantani, known as "Il Pirata," was one of the most charismatic and controversial cyclists of the 1990s. This documentary explores his incredible recovery from an accident that many said he would never recover from, to his victories in the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de France, as well as his tragic downfall and untimely death. If you’re drawn to stories of brilliance marred by personal demons, this film offers a poignant look at the pressures of fame and the fragility of life at the top. Where to Watch: Youtube | Prime 7. "All for One" (2017) For: The Underdog Supporter and Team Player Why Watch: "All for One" follows the Australian GreenEDGE cycling team, the first Australian team to compete in the World Tour. This documentary is a celebration of teamwork, perseverance, and the spirit of underdogs fighting against the odds. If you’re the kind of person who loves cheering for the little guy and believes in the power of camaraderie, this inspiring story will resonate deeply. Where to Watch: Youtube | Prime | Apple 8. "The Flying Scotsman" (2006) For: The Maverick and Innovator Why Watch: Based on the remarkable true story of Graeme Obree, a Scottish cyclist who broke the world hour record on a bike he built himself, "The Flying Scotsman" is a tale of innovation, determination, and defiance against convention. This film is perfect for those who love stories about individuals who challenge the status quo and succeed against the odds. It’s an uplifting and motivational story about the power of ingenuity and self-belief. Was not a huge fan of the movie, but the story is gripping! Where to Watch: Apple 9. "Road to Roubaix" (2008) For: The Aesthetic Appreciator and Passionate Fan Why Watch: If you’re someone who loves the beauty of cycling as much as the sport itself, "Road to Roubaix" is a visually stunning documentary that captures the essence of the legendary Paris-Roubaix race. With its focus on the culture, history, and atmosphere of this iconic race, the film is a love letter to cycling. It’s ideal for fans who appreciate the artistry of the sport and the rich tapestry of stories that surround it. For me, it's got amazing cinematography, but can be a little long winded at times. Where to Watch: Youtube 10. "Rising from Ashes" (2012) For: The Humanitarian and Inspirational Story Seeker Why Watch: "Rising from Ashes" is an inspiring documentary inspired by an earlier short film "Wheels of Mercy", that tells the remarkable story of the Rwandan national cycling team, formed in the aftermath of the Rwandan genocide. Led by American cycling legend Jock Boyer, the team’s journey is one of resilience, hope, and redemption. This film is perfect for anyone who loves stories of overcoming adversity and believes in the power of sports to bring about positive change. It’s a moving and uplifting film that shows how cycling can be a vehicle for healing and unity in the face of unimaginable challenges. Where to Watch: Apple Less Movies More Action Now that I've offered at least a week's worth of viewing entertainment, please hit pause, grab your bike and get outside! You don't need me to tell you cycling is so much more than just a sport; it’s a journey filled with triumphs, tragedies, and transformative experiences. These films and documentaries have inspired me in the depths of cold and wet winters, kept me stoked on arduous granfondo races and the occasional long stretch of Camino cycling. So, grab your helmet (or your popcorn), and create your own two-wheeled tales! Happy Riding! If you think I have missed your favourite cycling movie or doc, please let me know! Don't Miss The Top 10 Cycling Books Every Enthusiast Should Read Explore the World on a Self-Guided Bike Tour
