Queen’s ‘Bicycle Race’ Covers: Honoring World Bicycle Day

Dylanna Fisher
Jun 2, 2024
4 min read

Let’s Celebrate World Bicycle Day With Covers Of The Timeless Queen Classic “Bicycle Race”

person riding bicycle near fence — Photo by Sebastian Arie Voortman on

World Bicycle Day draws attention to the benefits of using the bicycle — a simple, affordable, clean and environmentally fit sustainable means of transportation. The bicycle contributes to cleaner air and less congestion and makes education, health care and other social services more accessible to the most vulnerable populations. A sustainable transport system that promotes economic growth, reduces inequalities while bolstering the fight against climate change is critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

World Bicycle Day. United Nations

On June 3, as the world celebrates World Bicycle Day, it’s a great opportunity to revisit Queen’s iconic track “Bicycle Race.” This song, written by Freddie Mercury for the band’s 1978 album Jazz, is famous for its unconventional musicality and controversial music video.

Initially released as a double A-side single with “Fat Bottomed Girls,” the song quickly gained popularity, reaching number 11 on the UK Singles Chart and number 24 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US.

The Original Reception Of Freddie Mercury’s “Bicycle Race” Was A Controversial Hit.

“Bicycle Race” is a song that’s hard to forget. Inspired by Mercury’s experience watching a 1978 Tour de France stage, the track features an array of unusual elements: intricate chord progressions and meter changes, multitracked vocals, and guitar harmonies that define Queen’s signature sound. Not to mention, there’s a bicycle bell solo that adds a quirky touch to the song.

However, what truly sets “Bicycle Race” apart is its promotional video. Featuring 65 nude women cycling around Wimbledon Greyhound Stadium, the video was as provocative as it was eye-catching. The stunt was designed to promote the Jazz album, and it certainly grabbed attention. While the use of special effects and colourful distortions attempted to moderate the explicit content, the video was still banned or heavily edited in many countries. The controversy only fueled the song’s notoriety, sparking discussions that sometimes overshadowed the music itself.

Despite the mixed reactions, or perhaps because of them, “Bicycle Race” cemented its place in rock history. It was featured in Queen’s 1981 Greatest Hits compilation and has since appeared in various media, underscoring its enduring appeal.

Current Reception Of The Classic Queen Anthem Is Certainly A Song That Rides On And On.

Decades after its release, “Bicycle Race” continues to captivate audiences. Its playful lyrics and catchy melody have inspired a myriad of covers and renditions across diverse genres, from lullaby versions to 8-bit adaptations. This ongoing reinterpretation highlights the song’s versatility and its ability to resonate with new generations of listeners.

One of the most intriguing aspects of “Bicycle Race” is its broad appeal. Musicians from different backgrounds and styles have paid homage to the song, showcasing its enduring charm. For instance, a grunge-infused cover adds a darker, more intense flavour to the track, while an 8-bit version transforms it into a nostalgic video game soundtrack. Each cover brings something unique to the table, proving that “Bicycle Race” is more than just a relic of the past—it’s a living, evolving piece of music.

woman sitting on couch — Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on

World Bicycle Day: Celebrating With “Bicycle Race” Covers And Remixes

On World Bicycle Day, enthusiasts and musicians celebrate the cultural impact of cycling through various creative expressions. “Bicycle Race” often takes center stage in these celebrations, with bike-themed cover songs and parodies flooding social media and streaming platforms. This global recognition not only honours Queen’s legacy but also underscores the song’s relevance in contemporary culture.

Below, we’ve got a curated playlist to celebrate World Bicycle Day and the timeless love of this queen classic.

“Bicycle Race” Covered By Andrea Vadrucci (Vadrum)

“Bicycle Race” Cover By Blümchen

“Bicycle Race” Cover By Victory Vizhanska

“Bicycle Race” Cover By Mamas Gun

“Bicycle Race” Orchestral Cover By The Techtonics

“Bicycle Race” Guitar Cover By Between The Buried And Me

“Bicycle Race” Drum Cover By David Cannales

“Bicycle Race” Remix By Mad Cat

“Bicycle Race” Guitar Cover By Laura Currie

“Bicycle Race” Metal Cover By Ito Itosai

“Bicycle Race” Orchestral Cover By Rajaton

“Bicycle Race” 8 Bit Cover By 8 Bit Universe

“Bicycle Race” Lullaby Version Cover By The Cat And Owl

“Bicycle Race” Live In Tokyo Cover By Queen And Adam Lambert

Feel free to explore these covers for a diverse experience of Queen’s timeless classic!

Conclusion: A Timeless Tribute To Bike Cycling

“Bicycle Race” by Queen remains a testament to the band’s innovative spirit and Freddie Mercury’s genius. Its initial reception was marked by controversy and curiosity, but its lasting impact is seen in the multitude of covers and tributes that emerge year after year. As we celebrate World Bicycle Day, “Bicycle Race” reminds us of the joy and freedom that cycling—and music—can bring.

So whether you’re a long-time fan of Queen or discovering “Bicycle Race” for the first time, take a moment to appreciate this song’s creativity and boldness. It’s not just a celebration of bicycles; it’s a celebration of artistic expression and the timeless nature of good music.