American Road Racers Were on the Rise
In this week’s Throwback we go back 48 years to see Barry Sheene (center) celebrating a triumphant victory at the 1977 West German 500cc Motorcycle Grand Prix at Hockenheim. Flanked on the podium by American riders Steve Baker (left) who was third and runner up Pat Hennen (right). Sheene’s signature charm shines through in this image. The British icon, known for his fearless riding and charismatic personality, dominated the race, showcasing his mastery of the demanding Hockenheim circuit. This win marked another milestone in Sheene’s illustrious career. He would go on to win the World Championship that season with Baker and Hennen finishing second and third respectively. The podium moment captures the camaraderie and fierce competition of 1970s Grand Prix racing, a golden era for the sport, and the quickly rising road racers coming from America.
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