Ezy Ryders: History & Tradition, Heart & Soul

Every Ride Has a Story

Photographs That Speak, Stories That Roar

Over five years, photographer Cate Dingley interviewed and photographed the Black motorcycling community of New York City, capturing not just images, but the essence of a culture. Her work, published in the book Ezy Ryders, is a tribute to the riders who live by a code of loyalty, independence, and passion. The exhibition features intimate portraits and first-person narratives that highlight the diversity and depth of this community—from lifelong bikers to those just discovering the thrill of the ride.

  • Frames of Freedom

    Each image captures the spirit of a community that rides with heart.

  • The Art of the Ride

    Striking photography meets untold stories in this powerful visual journey.

  • More Than a Machine

    A bold look at the faces and forces behind Black motorcycle culture.

Dingley’s lens and the words of the riders reveal more than just motorcycles; they present a brotherhood and sisterhood rooted in history, pride, and resilience. As Jimmie Briggs writes in the book’s foreword, “History and tradition remain the heart and soul of the Black MCs.” This exhibit invites you to witness that heart and soul firsthand.

Two Featured Riders from the Exhibit

  • Church Lady

    Meet Church Lady: rider, minister, unstoppable force. She's one of the bold voices featured in our Ezy Ryders exhibit. From the pulpit to the pavement, her story rides deep and you won't forget it.

  • Shifty

    Meet Shifty: a NYC rider who shared the story behind her nickname. She also reflects on what it means to see her journey and the legacy of other riders, honored at the H-D Museum and in Ezy Ryders.

"EZY RYDERS: HISTORY & TRADITION, HEART & SOUL is joy. These photographs and the riders’ stories carry a rare kind of power. To experience these stories is to feel real resilience, pride, and legacy. This is not just something you see; it’s something you carry with you."

- Ann Sinfield , Curator, EZY RYDERS: HISTORY & TRADITION, HEART & SOUL Exhibit

Every Frame Tells a Story

This exhibition goes beyond chrome and leather to showcase the people and stories of a powerful subculture — see it in person at the H-D Museum.

"Ezy Ryders” at the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee is a powerful photography exhibit by Cate Dingley that celebrates the Black motorcycling community of New York City. Over five years, Dingley captured striking black-and-white portraits and first-person stories that reveal the passion, loyalty, and independence at the heart of Black motorcycle culture. Based on her acclaimed book "Ezy Ryders", the exhibit showcases the diversity of this community—from lifelong bikers to new riders discovering the thrill of the open road. More than motorcycles, the collection highlights a brotherhood and sisterhood built on history, pride, and resilience, offering an intimate glimpse into the people and traditions that continue to shape motorcycle culture today.