NYC Distinguished Gentleman's Ride Memories : THREE
Lady Liberty joins the NYC Distinguished Gentleman's Ride this year shining her inspirational light on the 'city that never sleeps'. — Tempus Deficit
With the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride coming up quickly (Sunday, May 17), and the global fundraising event celebrating its 15th *Crystal* Anniversary this year, NYC Motorcyclist has decided to share some memories of years past from NYC organizers, volunteers and sponsors. And we are putting out a call to our New York dapper folk to share a tale and a photo of your special DGR moment here in the 'City that Never Sleeps'.
You can use our submission form at the bottom of this page or send us an email at rahoul@nycmotorcyclist.com. Remember to include a high quality image.
Who knows, we may give away a prize for the best, most meaningful memory submitted.
Conceived in Sydney, Australia in 2012, the DGR broadened its scope a year later tripling its global participation, and the event hasn't looked back; in the 13 years New York City has participated, the city has hosted 8251 riders and raised more than $1.7 million US. That first year NYC had 37 riders who contributed $3200. The city’s top fundraising year was 2023 ($238,711) and the largest registered group was in 2017, with a whopping 1017 riders. Proudly the Big Apple has topped the global leaderboard three times over the years, without relying on celebrity hosts or corporate benefactors. The city is and always has been generous beyond its means.
The DGR is an event that brings friends and moto family together to raise funds for and public awareness of prostate cancer research and men’s mental health resources. It’s an excuse to shine up those vintage rides, dress to the nines, and put smiles on those watching your group go by on ride day. And it’s a chance to raise the public profile of motorcyclists in general as a socially conscious, caring community.
We have many special things planned for 2026, starting with a quintessential NYC poster created by Douglas Thompson (@tempusdeficit), entreating Lady Liberty to join the cause and help us to achieve the city's most successful year to date.
We hope you’ll join us this year, and create more memories.
Don’t forget to sign up for the NYC ride at gentlemansride.com.
#shareyourmemory #dgrmemories #newyorkcity #2026 #15thAnniversary
DGR NYC: THE MEN IN BLUE
The NYPD Highway Patrol motor unit swings into the Grand Central Terminal viadact to set up for the DGR start. — Rahoul Ghose
It’s hard to fully state the level of appreciation we have for the NYPD Highway Patrol, its incredible support for the NYC DGR, and its invaluable help in route planning, day-of logistics and crowd management.
Seeing our local men in blue, often in vintage dress uniforms at the start, and buzzing by the 1000-plus group in the left lane on motorcycles as part of the motor unit, always caps an incredible day.
As the son-in-law of a former decorated motor officer, the sight fills me with pride.
On May 17, please take time to thank these officers. Without them the local ride would be a very different experience from the world-class event Hosts Mike Higgins and Allister Kilingensmith plan every year.
#NYPDHighwayPatrol #NYPD #dgrmemories #newyorkcity #2026 #15thAnniversary
THE DISTINGUISHED GENTLEMAN
Vincent Nicolai's DGR experince over the years in photos. — Rahoul Ghose
Twenty -seven years in New York, 12 years supporting the local DGR, with an individual fundraising tally the envy of most: $250K.
But alas, the only constant in life is change; 2026 will see the departure of Vincent Nicolai and his family back to his birth country – France – in search of a new life and new adventures.
“(Almost three decades) … That’s longer than I lived in France … NYC will forever be my home,” Nicolai said, adding he will depart two weeks after this year’s DGR, with his wife and son following when the school year wraps up.
So, with this being Vincent’s final NYC ride, at least for the foreseeable future, we decided to look back on some memories.
The motorcycle enthusiast has seen many a ‘Trumpet’ in his two-wheel arsenal … Bonnevilles, Bobbers, Speedmasters, Tigers, a few of which came his way as a global top DGR fundraiser. He was a founding member of the New York Classic Riders, which has expanded globally since 2017, and been a powerhouse in DGR fundraising.
Gallery: A Tale of Two Triumphs
His history has included an annual pre-DGR bike-wash fundraiser for local participants to spruce up their rides, an event which has seen his son Enzo literally grow up in front of our eyes. A final BBQ Bike Wash is scheduled at Vincent’s Queens home Saturday, May 16 – weather permitting – where he will also be auctioning off some moto gear with funds going toward his DGR campaign.
“There will be tons of stuff to grab for donations as I'll be emptying the garage.”
Vincent Nicolai's BBQ Bike Wash returns for a final year, Saturday, May 16 in Queens. — Rahoul Ghose
Vincent’s indelible, fighting spirit was never more present than in February 2019, when Nicolai almost lost his life in a near-fatal accident; a propane tank exploded in his garage while he was working on his motorcycle. The accident consumed Nicolai’s motorcycling legacy, including his two Triumphs, his tools, and all his collectables, and left the community leader with serious burns over more than 40 per cent of his body.
As the news hit social media, the New York City motorcycle community rallied behind Vincent to raise more than $77,000, a communal act of solidarity with an element of karma; Vincent, himself had at the time raised over $70,000 for the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, funding prostate cancer research and promoting awareness of men’s mental health issues, depression and suicide prevention.
Vincent’s persistent annual efforts to raise money for the cause has had far-reaching impacts over the years. In addition to providing financial support to men in need, he also has inspired others to fundraise for DGR and has built a strong network of friends and family who came through in his own time of need.
When producers JP Kathoefer and Kirsten Midura heard about Vincent’s accident and the rallying efforts of those around him, their film team knew this story had to be told … how, in the wake of the accident, Vincent’s family and motorcycle friends came together in an astounding way.
THE DISTINGUISHED GENTLEMAN documentary’s US premiere, Oct. 9, 2019, was hosted at the Kickstarter headquarters in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.
Feature: Unravelling The Distinguished Gentleman
Gallery: The Distinguished Gentleman NYC Premiere
Nicolai’s physical recovery was difficult, but multiple surgeries, and the support of a loving family and friends has seen him continue to raise funds and pursue new motorcycle adventures, including a cross-country solo ride this past year.
One of Vincent’s proudest moments was when his son Enzo joined him on the ride during DGR 2025, a huge step up from his previous bike washing status.
We wish Vincent and his family all the best in their new life and are proud to call him a friend and a ‘true gentleman’.
#vincentnicolai #fundraisingczar #triumph #dgrmemories #newyorkcity #2026 #15thAnniversary
DGR NYC: There is a light and it never goes out
Hal Fass and his daughter Maddy during past DGRs in New York City ... bringing the style. — Carole Erger-Fass
IN MEMORY OF HAL FASS
The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride was one of Hal’s favorite days of the year. He planned his outfit meticulously—always in close consultation with his daughter Maddy, his fearless pillion rider and trusted fashion advisor.
The ride captured everything Hal loved about motorcycling: the camaraderie, the style, and the sheer joy of life. For Hal, the day was always sunny—both literally and figuratively.
Hal first participated in 2016 and went on to become a Top 100 fundraiser in both 2023 and 2024. Each year, he rode alongside his friend Josh Prince, who carried on the tradition solo in 2025 when Hal’s declining health prevented him from joining.
We lost Hal to multiple myeloma this past November. This year, Josh rides in his memory, honoring Hal’s spirit and ensuring that the vital work of raising awareness and funds for men’s health continues. Ride on Hal.
Hal Fass Tribute: click here
Hal Fass Editorial on Cancer: click here
U2: Song for Hal: click here
#HalFass #dgrmemories #newyorkcity #2026 #15thAnniversary
DGR NYC: Making Friends, Taking Stunning Photos
Peter Domorak dappered up for DGR with a trusty Royal Enfield steed. — Peter Domorak
If you haven't seen Peter Domorak at an NYC moto event, you haven't been around. If you're lucky enough to have been photographed by him, you're blessed. A truly skilled and unique shooter and a Royal Enfield Ambassador, Peter's adventures -- and there are many -- are duly recorded on his website at: adventuresonhemingway.com. Photography: peterdomorak.com
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I won’t lie — I have no idea how I first heard about the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride. My first ride was in 2016. It kicked off from one of the city’s finest bike spots — Union Garage — a true melting pot of the local biker community. Being invited but having no idea what I’d signed up for, I googled the mysterious ‘DGR’. Found pictures of hordes of bikes, smiling people, and moustaches everywhere — real, painted, or questionably fake — along with tweed, suits, ties, and vests. Everyone looked like they were heading to a vintage job interview, doing it properly dapper… on a motorcycle. I wanted in.
It was unforgettable. Around 1,000–1,500 motorcycles showed up. Hearing that many bikes fire up, then rolling through the city together… it hits all your senses at once. It’s chaos, but the good kind. The city basically pauses for a few hours — cars stuck, people waiting, everyone watching this wave of two-wheeled gentlemen and ladies pass by. Locals were confused or curious, some annoyed because their jog got interrupted. Tourists fully into it — cameras everywhere. While you are passing all that with a huge grin on your face.
Beyond the spectacle, you’re part of something that actually matters: raising awareness for prostate cancer and men’s mental health, and helping fund it while doing it.
After that, I kept going whenever I could. Police escorts made it smoother and safer over time, a bit more controlled, but it never lost its charm. For me as a photographer, it’s a goldmine — the bikes, the people, the styling, all of it. My suggestion is simple: if you ride and haven’t tried it yet, go. Go with a friend or alone — you’ll probably end up with more biker friends by the end of the day anyway. And that’s the point.
#PeterDomorak #Hemingway #RoyalEnfield #MotoPhotography #dgrmemories #newyorkcity #2026 #15thAnniversary
Some memorable DGR captures over the years from Peter Domorak, from NYC and Tokyo. — Peter Domorak
DGR NYC: AT THE CHEF'S TABLE
Joe Vigorito and his son get snapped at the DGR NYC portrait setup in the Meatpacking District in 2023. — Rafa Ayoub
Local restauranteur Joe Vigorito is one of those sponsors you so appreciate ... not only supportive of the event, but wholly embracing it and its causes as a participant with his family. A tip of the hat to a true gentleman.
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I rode in my first DGR in 2021 with my friend Stan. It was still during the time of social distancing. So there were no group rides — just passport-style stops — but my interest had been piqued.
Gathering at Grand Central for the kickoff rally has always been a highlight for me. Seeing hundreds of impeccably dressed riders on beautiful classic bikes converge at such an iconic NYC location is awe-inspiring. Grabbing a coffee, catching up with everyone and listening to the kickoff speeches in that crisp morning air always sets the tone for an incredible day.
Over the years, we’ve become a local sponsor at my restaurants b’artusi and Via Porta. My wife and son always come to the ride as well. At b’artusi, we give away an award for the best dressed couple during the finale event and my son has been handing it out with me over the past few years. It’s become a moment that we both really look forward to.
It’s been amazing to see my son’s enthusiasm for all things DGR. He loves to get dressed up and he obviously loves being around all the bikes. But more than that, it’s been especially meaningful to have him be part of such an amazing community and to see, at such a young age, what can happen when like-minded people come together to support a great cause. It’s grown into something much bigger than that first ride.
#JoeVigorito #bartusi #dgrmemories #newyorkcity #2026 #15thAnniversary
DGR NYC: SIDECAR PHOTO PRO
Patricia Alonso over the years, before and during her tenure as a transport chief for the DGR Photo Squad. — Rahoul Ghose
The best memory I have of DGR is from 2023 when I was asked to be part of the photography team. On the DGR Instagram page there was a posting that year, asking for sidecar riders to get involved with helping out. I applied and Rahoul contacted me to formally invite me to be one of the members of the photography team.
It was so much fun having one of the photographers ride with me in the sidecar snapping pictures along the way. I continue to do this every year as it helps me feel even more connected to something that is so special and meaningful to me.
NOTE: in addition to providing transport for our shooters during the ride, Patricia is also fundraising. You can donate through her DGR page here: gfolk.me/patriciaalonso
And if you have a sidecar and would like to be part of the photo team this year, drop us an email at rahoul@nycmotorcyclist.com
#patriciaalonso #ural #shareyourmemory #dgrmemories #newyorkcity #2026 #15thAnniversary
RE-LIVE NYC DGR 2023
Distinguished Gentleman's Ride NYC 2023 Video — Matt Koffel, Nikolai Berger & Zoltan Suhay
The 2023 NYC Distinguished Gentleman's Ride united more than 1000 gentlefolk and 800-plus classic bikes May 21 in aid of prostate cancer research and men's mental health resources, with the 'Big Apple' raising a city record $236,442K through rider donations and local contributions to top the world.
This year's inspired video -- courtesy of filmmakers Matt Koffel and Nikolai Berger -- covers the panoramic start at Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan, the ride up the Westside Highway, back down the FDR and and across the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges before the dapper group lands in the Meatpacking District for après festivities including live music by Julia Haltigan.
Both the riders and the cityscape are key features in the piece which combines Sony a7 sIII camera footage shot on gimbals from Ural sidecars with Mavik Air 2s drone scenes shot above the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges and down the FDR. Two cameras ... two drones, one operated by Zoltan Suhay (the other by Berger), and two Urals provided by Dapper Tours NYC owner Will Davis and Patrick Brennan.
Many thanks to all who participated this year: the enthusiastic riders, the generous sponsors, our dedicated volunteers, the NYPD Highway Patrol, and the spirited, untiring organizers for a hugely successful event.
NYC ride hosts Mike Higgins, Allister Klingensmith, Chris Logsdon, Hatim Banaja and Rahoul Ghose are honored to be a part of this great experience. Relive the day and don't forget to bookmark next year's DGR date: Sunday, May 19, 2024.
Stay dapper folks ... and keep the rubber side down.
Video credits:
Matt Koffel: co-director, cinematographer and editor (@mattkoffel_)
Nikolai Berger: co-director, cinematographer (_nikolaiberger)
Zoltan Suhay: cinematographer (z_motophoto)
Additional footage: Adam Espaillat (armand1700) & Dante Mojares (crwth.nyc)
Check out the eight DGR NYC 2023 Photo Galleries. And if you have a New York City motorcycle-related video you'd like us to showcase on the site, contact us at rahoul@nycmotorcyclist.com or via IM @nyc_motorcyclist.
#gentlemansride #distinguishedgentlemansride #movember #dapper #vintage #classicmotorcycles #prostatecancer #mensmentalhealth #globalfundraiser #dgr2023 #dgrnyc2023 #dgrnyc #prostatecancerresearch #menshealth #dapper #passport #newyorkcity #triumph #ilovenyc❤️
@gentlemansride @markhawwa @higginsnyc @allisterk @thruxton999 @nypd_highway_patrol @gothamdepotmoto
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