When looking for the right photography that embodied the spirit of The Ride Ahead, our choice was clear: Michael Lichter.
Undoubtedly, the preeminent motorcycle photographer of our time. His art captures what so many of us bikers know ... it's all about the ride and that special feeling you get when you're on the road. It's a privilege to include his work in much of the lifestyle photography featured throughout our website. Also, some of his art and books are available right here at The Ride Ahead store, where many items are personally signed by Michael.
Michael started a career in photography in the 1970s. Being an avid motorcycle enthusiast as well -- he was riding a 71 Shovelhead at the time -- his art, eye and camera turned to motorcycles. In 1979, Easy Riders Magazine began to publish some of his photographs. He photographed a number of smaller events for Easy Riders before they sent him to the Sturgis Rally on assignment. . .he's returned every year since. Michael opened his studio in 1982 in Boulder, CO and also began a career as a successful commercial photographer, developing a Fortune 500 client list.
Motorcycle and commercial assignments have taken Michael across America and abroad to Canada, Europe, Japan, Mexico, as well as Nepal and China.
Over the past several years, Michael has contributed work to many books on motorcycling, including images that were requested by Willy G. Davidson for his 100th Anniversary book on HD. In 2005, Michael was inducted into the Sturgis Hall of Fame.
Michael also now exhibits his work in shows from California to New York to yep... you guessed it, Sturgis, South Dakota, where you can view his work at Thunder Road during Rally Week. Something we highly recommend.
Thanks, Michael. Your amazing work makes our work at The Ride Ahead even more enjoyable.
