From old-school sitcoms, and wacky comic book fare, to modern-day gritty dramas, the small screen is ripe with iconic TV motorcycles. With temperatures dropping, motorcycle riders are returning to the indoors. It’s the perfect time to reflect on some of the coolest bikes featured on the boob tube.

5. CHiPs, Kawasaki KZPs

Of course, no list of TV motorcycles would be complete without mentioning CHiPs, the classic 70s (and 80s) hit about the California Highway Patrol. Starring Erik Estrada as Officer Frank “Ponch” Poncherello and Larry Wilcox as Officer Jonathan Baker, this series became a beloved choice among motorcycle enthusiasts of all ages. With its regular inclusion of thrilling motorway pileups and high-speed chases, it quickly captured the hearts of viewers.

The Kawasaki KZP is a custom version of the Kawasaki KZ900 or KZ1000, depending on the year it was introduced. These modifications primarily serve practical purposes for law enforcement. According to Bikebound, the alterations include windshields, saddlebags, pursuit lights, folding floorboards, radio communications equipment, electronic sirens, and high-performance tires.

4. Sons of Anarchy, Jax’s Dyna-Glide Super Glide Sport

Many awesome bikes appeared across seven seasons of Sons of Anarchy. Fans of the motorcycle club drama loved the variety of bikes the central characters rode, including Harley-Davidson Dynas. However, it was the central character, Jax Teller (Charlie Hunnam), that had the ride that stood out to viewers. Of course, Jax’s Dyna-Glide Super Glide Sport is the personification of Jax’s character. The model is perfect for modifications, making it reflect the independent spirit of the rider.

3. Full House, Uncle Jesse’s 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail

Sometimes less is more. Since Full House was an 80s and 90s sitcom, it was tough to feature Uncle Jesse’s (John Stamos) often talked about motorcycle. It was central to establishing the character as a former bad boy turned role model. However, when his 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail did make an appearance, it left an impression. In the season three episode, “Dr. Dare Rides Again”, we see the bike in all of its glory.

Jesse, upon being called a square by an old friend, decides to relive his days as a stunt driver (when he was nicknamed Dr. Dare). He challenges himself to ride his motorcycle on the edge of a building but ultimately backs out after a conversation with his then-girlfriend. Of course, Stamos is an avid rider in real life. He even starred in a motorcycle film called Born to Ride in 1991.

2. Batman, The Batcycle… the wackiest of TV motorcycles

No list of TV motorcycles would be complete without mentioning the 60s Batman series Batcycle. The campy and hilarious show starring Adam West and Burt Ward as the dynamic duo had their tongues firmly in cheek when rolling out the ridiculous bike. Despite the cheese factor, the Batcycle still looks ultra cool. The front of the bike, with its black color and white scalloped edges, is complemented by a matching front fender and rear cowl.

The first version of the Batcyle was a 1965 Harley Davidson with a sidecar. However, that bike only makes a single appearance before being replaced with the more familiar Yamaha Catalina 250. The Batcycle’s most infamous feature was the detachable sidecar (essentially a mini go-cart) for Robin.

1. The most Iconic of TV Motorcycles… Fonzie’s Triumph TR5 Trophy 500

Happy Days introduced the world to perhaps the most beloved biker character of all time, Arthur Herbert Fonzarelli AKA Fonzie (Henry Winkler). It only makes sense that such a famous geared would be at the top of the list with his coolest bike. Fonzie rose to fame on the strength of his clever one-liners, his iconic hairstyle, his sleek black leather jacket, and his cherished 1949 Triumph Trophy 500 motorcycle.

Bud Ekins, a renowned motorcycle racer, Hollywood stuntman, and close confidant of Steve McQueen, custom-built Fonzie’s original motorcycle. The bike captured the authentic essence of a 1950s custom design. The last remaining of Fonzie’s 1949 Triumph Trophy 500 sold at auction in 2021 for a whopping $231,562.