King Kenny — the first American to win the 500cc World Championship, who revolutionised motorcycle racing by introducing the dirt-track sliding style to Grand Prix racing.
Kenny Roberts was the first American to win the 500cc Motorcycle World Championship, winning three consecutive titles from 1978 to 1980. He revolutionised Grand Prix motorcycle racing by introducing the sliding, dirt-track technique from American speedway racing — a style that transformed how the sport's elite rode their machines. His aggressive, sideways style shocked European riders.
He introduced the dirt-track sliding technique to Grand Prix racing — a style that was previously unheard of in Europe and which transformed motorcycle racing permanently.
Did You Know?Career Honours
- 500cc World Champion 3x (1978 1979 1980)