Billy Joel, 77, is currently prohibited from driving and remains uncertain about his ability to resume touring following a diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the singer stated that his health is good, but he cannot perform or operate a vehicle until further medical tests are completed. Joel explained that his neurologist warned him that each live performance causes injury comparable to a concussion, which is why he is currently restricted from both driving and performing.
Joel revealed his NPH diagnosis in May 2025, describing the condition as one that affects balance, memory, vision, and hearing. He underwent brain surgery to implant a shunt, a procedure he initially resisted before agreeing after learning it could improve his cognitive function and stability. "We drill a hole through your skull, and we stick a shunt inside your brain," Joel recalled his medical team explaining. He reported that the surgery improved his memory and balance, allowing him to function better.
The neurologist attributed the damage to his brain nerves to the loudness of his rock and roll performances. Joel noted that while he wants to return to performing, he must undergo a series of tests to determine if he can safely do so. "It used to be called water on the brain," he explained. "It affects your balance, it affects your memory, it affects your vision, your hearing. But I'm OK."
His health challenges also prompted a decision to reduce his personal motorcycle collection. Joel told The Hollywood Reporter that he owned over 100 motorcycles but realized he could no longer ride as frequently in his 70s. "I don't want to die like a bug on a windshield," he said. "So I thought I'd put a lot of them on auction." He added that his hydrocephalus makes driving "a little bit iffy," further motivating the sale.
More than 70 lots from the collection are scheduled for auction at Gooding Christie's on Nov. 20-21. The bikes will be displayed at the Javits Center in New York. The collection includes brands such as Ducati, BMW, Moto Guzzi, Harley-Davidson, Yamaha, Triumph, Honda, and Kawasaki.
A highlight of the sale is a 1978 Triumph T140 Bonneville gifted to Joel by Madison Square Garden to commemorate 150 sold-out shows. David Gooding, founder of Gooding Christie's, told Fox News Digital that the bike is painted with a keyboard on the tank and is expected to fetch between $10,000 and $15,000. Gooding noted that Joel holds the record for the most sold-out shows at Madison Square Garden.