Originating in 1971, this long-running Japanese tokusatsu franchise features a motorcycle-riding superhero who fights various monsters, often transforming with a special belt. What is the name of this iconic series?

The iconic Japanese tokusatsu series that began in 1971, featuring a motorcycle-riding hero who battles various monsters and transforms with a special belt, is Kamen Rider (Review). This long-running franchise has captivated audiences for decades with its unique blend of action, drama, and special effects. The original television series, which premiered on April 3, 1971, introduced college student Takeshi Hongo, who becomes the titular hero to fight the world-conquering Shocker organization.

Created by the prolific manga artist Shotaro Ishinomori, the Kamen Rider series quickly became a cultural phenomenon in Japan, even sparking what was known as the "Second Kaiju Boom" or "Henshin Boom" on Japanese television. Over its more than five-decade history, the franchise has produced numerous television programs, films, manga, and anime, consistently featuring new heroes, villains, and storylines while retaining its core elements.

A recurring motif throughout the series is the hero's connection to the very forces they fight, often gaining their powers from similar origins to their monstrous adversaries. While early Riders often sported an insect-like aesthetic, later iterations have diversified their designs and themes, exploring complex ideas about justice, power, and what it means to be a hero. The transformation belt, a staple of the franchise, remains a highly recognizable piece of the hero's arsenal, symbolizing their ability to unleash their extraordinary abilities.