The Bikeriders

Kathy Bauer marries Benny Cross, a passionate member of the Vandals Motorcycle Club. This event signifies the union of two individuals amidst the vibrant yet tumultuous world of motorcycle culture.

Photographer Danny Lyon immerses himself in the lives of the Vandals, capturing their intense emotions and experiences through his lens. His presence offers a unique perspective on the club's dynamics, especially during critical moments.

Johnny Davis, the enigmatic leader of the Vandals, asserts his authority, drawing parallels to his own experiences. Tensions arise as his autocratic style clashes with a fellow member's ambitions to expand the club's influence.

In 1969, Benny is brutally attacked in a bar, narrowly escaping a horrific incident when a shovel swings close to him. The bar's assailants face Johnny's wrath as he orders the Vandals to retaliate and destroy the establishment.

Following Benny's assault, Johnny executes a brutal vengeance against those involved, further entrenching the cycle of violence within the club. His reaction highlights the lengths he is willing to go to protect his gang members.

A young delinquent, known as The Kid, attempts to join the Vandals but is met with Johnny's mistrust. His eagerness to prove himself leads him to a fateful knife attack on Johnny, resulting in his brutal rejection.

In 1973, Danny returns to document Kathy's reflections on the Vandals' decline. She shares the emotional toll of losing loyal members and how the increasing violence has changed the club's environment.

Kathy recounts the tragic announcement of Cockroach wanting to leave the gang for motorcycle policing. His decision leads to violent consequences, highlighting the dangers of deserting the club amid rising tensions.

Benny and Johnny embark on a daring mission to save Cockroach from the gang's brutality. The attempt results in a non-fatal gunshot to Cockroach's leg, illustrating the extreme risks they undertake for one another.

The Kid solidifies his position within the Milwaukee chapter of the Vandals while challenging Johnny for leadership. Their brutal knife fight culminates in Johnny's tragic demise, setting off a power struggle within the gang.

Following Johnny's death, Kathy reveals to Danny how the Vandals' identity has shifted from a motorcycle club to a criminal organization. Drug trafficking and violence have taken center stage, signaling a dark evolution.

Devastated by Johnny's tragic fate, Benny returns home in despair. The emotional weight of the loss causes him to reassess his life choices and future within the chaos of gang life.

Benny and Kathy seek a new beginning in Florida, where Benny trades his biker life for the routine of a mechanic. This change offers them happiness, yet the distant sound of motorcycles often ignites Benny's nostalgia.

Despite their new life in Florida, Benny's past as a Vandal continues to linger. He occasionally gazes longingly at the world beyond their suburban existence, reflecting on the thrill and chaos he once knew.