As a humble motorcycle dealership owner and racer, Malcolm Smith became famous for his role in Bruce Brown’s 1971 motorcycle documentary, On Any Sunday.
Malcolm Smith’s role in “On Any Sunday” in 1971 captivated audiences and inspired motorcyclists around the world to ride. (Photo: AMA)
In that iconic film, which won a 1972 Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, Smith’s infectious smile, tenacity on the racecourse, and freewheeling ride on the beach with co-stars Steve McQueen and Mert Lawwill captivated the hearts and aspirations of motorcyclists around the world, notes Rider Magazine.
Smith’s career in the motorcycle industry spanned many decades, and he served as one of the best ambassadors for the sport. In 2012, Motorcyclist named Malcolm Smith the Motorcyclist of the Century. You can learn more about Malcolm Smith at “The Malcolm Story.”
Malcolm Smith (1941-2024) died from complications of Parkinson’s disease, which he battled for more than two decades. He was 83. (Photo by Joe Bonnello)
Malcolm Smith passed away at home in Riverside, California, on November 26, peacefully and surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife Joyce; daughters Louise and Ashley; sons Joel and Alexander; granddaughters Evie, Adeline, Amelie, Miley, and Claire; and grandsons Ethan, Malcolm, and Conrad.
In his final year, he welcomed his newest grandchildren, Malcolm, Conrad, and Claire, and was thrilled to watch his granddaughters learn to ride motorcycles.
During his 83 years, Smith did it all: Rider. Racer. ISDT gold medalist. Shop tech. Service manager. Repair shop owner. Aftermarket distributor. Retail store owner. Actor. Sponsor. Philanthropist. Pro-motorcycling advocate. Husband. Father. Grandfather. Friend. And much more.
But over and above all that, Malcolm Smith was everyman’s motorcyclist, an enthusiastic, fun-loving, driven, and talented example of what motorcycling could do and be for the everyday enthusiast and how the sport could affect our lives in unimaginable ways.
“Malcolm Smith embodied so much of what’s good about motorcycle enthusiasts and the sport of motorcycling,” said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “Not only did he excel in riding, racing, and business, but Malcolm was also a great example of how to get the most out of motorcycling and give back and support our sport, which he did during much of his life – and always with a grin.”
Funeral and memorial services are pending. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Malcolm’s favorite charity, the Malcolm Smith Motorsports Foundation, which supports the children of Baja, Mexico.
More than a decade ago, Malcolm Smith wrote these words for the final chapter of his acclaimed 2015 autobiography:
“It all started for me on March 9, 1941, in a small rural hospital in the village of Ganges, on Salt Spring Island, British Columbia, Canada…
“Where it will end, no one knows. But you can be sure I’m going to enjoy every minute I have left, with a smile on my face, and my family nearby. Can’t ask for more than that.”
You can’t, and he didn’t…and the world’s motorcycling fans are better for it.
Godspeed, Malcolm. Our condolences to his family and friends.
PSB Editor-in-Chief Brendan Baker was lucky enough to meet Malcolm Smith at AIMExpo and to get an autographed copy of his book.
My husband Parkinson’s disease symptoms has greatly subsided since using the PD-5 protocol, almost all his symptoms has subsided 4 months into using the PD-5 protocol. Google bine health center . c om don’t give up hope.
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My husband Parkinson’s disease symptoms has greatly subsided since using the PD-5 protocol, almost all his symptoms has subsided 4 months into using the PD-5 protocol. Google bine health center . c om don’t give up hope.