Lifestyle

Our 12 Best Motorcycle Photos of 2014

We asked Cycle World’s staff photographer to choose his 12 favorite shots from 2014. Here they are, with captions provided by our long-time ace behind the lens.

By Jeff Allen

January 9, 2015

Photo #1

Sometimes, you just get lucky. While shooting cruisers near Death Valley, I pulled to the side of the road to talk with our riders about some other possible locations. But when the other riders rolled up, voila, I could see that the light in that spot was perfect. This is the shot.Jeff Allen

Photo #2

Is it any wonder why I like working with this goofball? Here's Cycle World contributor Ryan Dudek, simultaneously demonstrating his skill and enthusiasm for motorcycles.Jeff Allen

Photo #3

Normally, I travel to our photo shoots by motorcycle. I feel that it gives me a rider's perspective. Looking in my side mirror while scouting locations inspired this shot.Jeff Allen

Photo #4

Lens flare and backlight can be tricky. But when it works, it really works.Jeff Allen

Photo #5

A dry and dusty motocross track may not always be the most fun, but it certainly makes for great photography.Jeff Allen

Photo #6

Planning the photo shoot of a top-secret new motorcycle is always great fun. A perfect example: shooting Kawasaki's H2, before many people knew the supercharged bike even existed. This message will self-destruct in 5 seconds?Jeff Allen

Photo #7

It helps when your rider is a former pro motocrosser. See that jump? Can you hit it?? Clearly, it wasn't a problem.Jeff Allen

Photo #8

Here's a little detail about this custom Yamaha, which was built by Mule Motorcycles and appeared on our January cover. The paint on the bike was literally still drying as I photographed the bike in the Cycle World studio! Evidently, Richard Pollock had to work double shifts to get the bike finished in time.Jeff Allen

Photo #9

I work with some very talented riders. Still, I thought it might too much to ask Ryan Dudek to wheelie around a turn that was covered by a thin layer of dirt. Apparently not.Jeff Allen

Photo #10

A low angle helped me catch the action at a track day.Jeff Allen

Photo #11

Bikes, boards and Baja. Riding on the beach, surfing, wheelies, and fish tacos. What's missing? Nothing, I'd say.Jeff Allen

Photo #12

AMA Pro Flat Track Grand National Champion Jared Mees, hanging it out at the Pomona finale.Jeff Allen