Marlon Brando was badass before the word was even invented. His rebellious mien—black leather jacket, jeans, and a captain’s hat shaped the American biker image. When he starred in “The Wild Ones,” he rode his own bike, a Triumph Thunderbird. His performance epitomized his generation’s brand of cool.
It was Brando who introduced the idea that riding is synonymous with freedom, a concept yet central to H-D’s adverts. Favoring Triumphs, Marlon owned only one Harley-Davidson. It was a 1969 Electra Glide. It sold at auction for $256,000 in 2015.
Angelina Jolie
Angelina Jolie got a red MV Augusta for her 35th birthday from then-hubby Brad Pitt. Even though she knew how to ride, it took her some time to harness the large and powerful machine. To put it lightly, she likes bikes.
Jolie bought one for herself as an early Christmas gift, an MV Agusta Brutale, in 2003. It was the same model she rode in "Gone in 60 Seconds." In "Tomb Raider," she zipped around on a CCM 644. She did some of her own stunts on those bikes with a little training from her stuntman.
Orlando Bloom
Orlando Bloom loves buzzing around town on his motorcycle. His preference is a BMW S1000R. He liked it so much that he had the company customize one for him. He’s also got a Husqvarna 1903, a unique ride built by a hundred-plus-year-old Swedish company that made guns before they manufactured motorbikes.
Bloom’s taste in bikes is interesting, but all anyone can discuss is his engagement with Katy Perry and their new baby, and little Mighty. Bloom’s fluffy brown pooch is just the right size for a backpack and rides with the "Lord of the Rings" actor everywhere he goes.
Richard Hammond
Richard Hammond is a long-time motorcycle enthusiast and an avid collector. His garage holds at least 20 bikes, both vintage and contemporary. Hammond’s been a gearhead since day one.
His first show, "Used Bike Heaven," aired in oblivion on a small satellite channel. His work on "Top Gear" has transformed him into a fully credentialed gearhead. His collection holds several Ducatis, clearly his affinity. His favorite is the 900 SuperSport.
Bear Grylls
Bear Grylls has been hooked on bikes since he was 16 years old. The nature adventure TV host owns his fair share of motorcycles. He likes Triumph so well that he starred in a commercial for the Triumph Tiger.
Grylls is a survival instructor who served in the British special forces as a SAS before hosting "Man vs. Wild." The UK loves him. He was appointed Chief Scout of the UK in 2009, the youngest ever.