American · Modesto, USA · Born 31 December 1951American motorcycle racer who became the first American to win the premier class 500cc World Championship, claiming three consecutive titles 1978-1980.
Kenneth Leroy Roberts was born on 31 December 1951 in Modesto, California, to Alice and Melton "Buster" Roberts, and developed into one of the most influential motorcycle racers in the sport's history, winning the AMA Grand National Championship twice before moving to Grand Prix racing. Roberts became the first American to win a Grand Prix motorcycle racing world championship in 1978, and went on to win three consecutive 500cc titles, establishing the United States as a major force in a sport previously dominated by European riders. Roberts's proposal to create a rival motorcycle championship in 1979 broke the long-standing hegemony of the sport's governing body, the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme, increasing the political influence of Grand Prix riders and leading to improved safety standards and greater professionalism within the sport. Roberts was named a Grand Prix Legend by the FIM in 2000, and his son, Kenny Roberts Jr., won the 500cc World Championship in 2000, making them the only father-son duo in history to both win the premier motorcycle racing title.
First American to win 500cc World Championship
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?How They Played
Aggressive dirt track style adapted to road racing
Lasting Impact
Pioneered American success in Grand Prix motorcycle racing
Career Honours
- 500cc World Champion 3x (1978 1979 1980)
American Athletes