The United States of America has some of the best motorcycle racers in the world. From all-terrain to road racing, the USA has produced some of the most talented, successful, and iconic riders over the years.
Riders like Kenny Roberts, Eddie Lawson, and Nicky Hayden have become household names, while others like Ben Spies, Josh Hayes, and Colin Edwards have become some of the most respected racers in the world.
We’ll take a look at some of the top motorcycle racers in the USA and how they made their mark on the sport.
1. Kenny Roberts
Kenneth Leroy Roberts is a renowned American former professional motorcycle racer and racing team owner. His impressive career in the world of racing began in 1978 when he became the first American to win a Grand Prix motorcycle racing world championship.
This was a major accomplishment, as it was the first time an American had achieved such a feat. In addition to this, Roberts was also a two-time winner of the A.M.A. Grand National Championship.
This further cemented his reputation as one of the greatest racers in the world. Throughout his career, Roberts was known for his skill, determination and passion for racing.
He was also known for his team-building skills, which enabled him to create and manage successful racing teams.
Roberts was often praised for the level of commitment he showed to his teams, and his ability to motivate his team members to perform better. Overall, Kenneth Leroy Roberts was an incredibly talented and successful professional motorcycle racer and racing team owner.
His successes in the world of racing, including his 1978 Grand Prix motorcycle racing world championship win, and his two A.M.A. Grand National Championship wins, have earned him a place in the history books.
2. Freddie Spencer
Frederick Burdette Spencer, better known as Fast Freddie, is a highly accomplished American motorcycle racer. He held the world championship title in the early 1980s, cementing his status as one of the greatest motorcycle racers of his era.
Born in 1962, Spencer began his career in the late 1970s and rose to prominence in the early 1980s when he won a number of races, including the AMA Superbike Championship in 1982 and 1983.
During this time, he was given the nickname Fast Freddie due to his impressive riding skills and ability to quickly navigate the track. Spencer was also known for his unique style, which included a signature knee-sliding technique.
This technique allowed him to corner faster than his competitors and become a champion. After his successful racing career, Spencer retired in 1984 and went on to become a motorcycle instructor and mentor for aspiring racers.
Today, he is still remembered and respected for his achievements in the world of motorcycle racing and for his unique riding style.
3. Wayne Rainey
Wayne Wesley Rainey is a name that is well known in the racing world. He was an American Grand Prix motorcycle road racer who competed in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
During this period, he was a force to be reckoned with, winning the 500cc World Championship three times and the Daytona 200 once. Rainey was born in Downey, California in 1960. He began his career in dirt track racing but soon found his niche in road racing.
He was a fierce competitor who was known for his competitive spirit and determination. He was also a master tactician, knowing how to read the track and his opponents in order to gain an edge. Rainey’s first major success came in 1988 when he won the 500cc World Championship.
He was the first American to do so since Kenny Roberts in 1983. He then went on to win the title again in 1989 and 1990. His success didn’t stop there as he also won the Daytona 200 in 1991. Rainey’s success on the track was matched by his popularity among fans.
He was a fan favorite who was known for his charisma and his willingness to interact with fans.
He was also a great ambassador for the sport, helping to raise the profile of motorcycle racing in the United States. Rainey’s career was cut short in 1993 when he suffered a career-ending crash while competing in the Italian Grand Prix.
He was unable to race again, but his legacy lives on in the racing world. He was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 2000 and his name is synonymous with success and determination.
4. Eddie Lawson
Eddie Ray Lawson is a legend in the world of motorcycle racing. He was a professional rider from 1983 to 1992 and competed in the Grand Prix motorcycle racing world championships.
During his time in this sport, he achieved the impressive feat of becoming a four-time FIM 500cc road racing world champion. Lawson was a very successful racer, with a total of 28 wins in the 500cc class, including consecutive championships from 1984 to 1988.
His success was due to his remarkable ability to master any track and his commitment to the sport. Lawson began his career in the United States but transitioned to the Grand Prix racing scene in 1983.
He quickly became a force to be reckoned with and in 1984 he won his first FIM 500cc world championship. He would go on to win three more championships in consecutive years from 1985-1987.
He also had a number of other top-five finishes in the FIM 500cc class. In addition to his success in the FIM 500cc class, Lawson was also highly successful in the 250cc class. He won five grand prix titles in this class, with his first victory coming in 1985.
He retired from professional motorcycle racing in 1992, but his legacy lives on. He is remembered as one of the greatest motorcycle racers of all time and his achievements in the sport are still unmatched.
5. Nicky Hayden
Nicholas Patrick Hayden, often referred to as “The Kentucky Kid”, was an American professional motorcycle racer. Hayden had a passion for motorcycles from a young age and began racing at a young age.
His hard work and determination paid off when he won the MotoGP World Championship in 2006. This accomplishment made him the first American to win the MotoGP World Championship since the series was created in 2002.
Hayden was one of the most successful motorcycle racers in the world, having won numerous championships throughout his career. Hayden was also an inspiration to many, showing that with dedication and hard work, anything is possible.
His legacy will never be forgotten and will be remembered for generations to come.
6. Kevin Schwantz
Kevin Schwantz is an iconic figure in the world of motorcycle racing. He was born in 1965 in Texas, United States of America. He made his professional racing debut in 1984, and in the following years he worked hard to become one of the most successful riders in the sport.
Schwantz was a regular in the top ten of the FIM Road Racing World Championship from 1987 to 1993, and in 1993 he won the world championship title. Schwantz was respected for his tenacity and his incredible speed on the track.
He was known for racing hard and pushing the limits on his motorcycle, often going for daring maneuvers that would often give him the edge over the competition.
He was also known for his passion for the sport, which he displayed with his trademark “Texas Tornado” flag after his victories. Schwantz retired from professional racing in 1995 after suffering a number of serious injuries.
He still remains an important figure in the sport and is still very popular with fans all around the world. He is an inspiration to many aspiring racers, and his legacy continues to live on in the world of motorcycle racing.
7. Randy Mamola
Randy Mamola is a renowned name in the world of motorsports. He is a former professional motorcycle racer and a television sports presenter. His illustrious career in Grand Prix motorcycle racing spanned from 1979 to 1992.
During this time, he achieved great success as a racer, becoming one of the most popular and recognizable figures in the sport. Mamola’s career began in 1979 when he entered the Grand Prix World Championship.
Throughout his racing career, he was known for his daring and aggressive riding style, often pushing the limits of his machine and his own capabilities.
During his time in the sport, Mamola achieved multiple victories, including a total of 10 Grand Prix wins, a European Championship title, and a runner-up finish in the 500cc World Championship in 1983. In addition to his racing exploits, Mamola has also been involved in the media side of the sport.
He has been a regular presenter on Eurosport and Sky Sports, providing expert commentary and analysis on the latest motorcycle races.
He has also been a brand ambassador for several leading motorcycle companies, helping to promote the sport and inspire the next generation of riders.Overall, Randy Mamola is a true motorsports icon.
His career in Grand Prix racing was filled with success and excitement, and his contributions to the sport have been immense. He is an inspiration to aspiring racers and an important figure in the world of motorsports.
8. David Aldana
David Aldana was an American motorcycle racer who gained notoriety for his dynamic racing style and bold riding attire. During the 1970s, he was one of the most prominent racers in the A.M.A.
Grand National Championship, where he made a name for himself with his wild riding style and flamboyant designs on his riding gear.
Aldana was known for taking risks on the track and pushing the limits with his clothing, which often featured bright colors, flashy patterns, and unique designs. He was a crowd favorite and quickly became an icon in the racing world.
His showmanship and daring antics made him a legend, and his style is still remembered today.
9. Gene Romero
Gene Romero was an American professional motorcycle racer who competed in the A.M.A. Grand National Championship from 1966 to 1981. He was sponsored by two different teams during his long career in the sport.
Initially, he was part of the Triumph factory racing team, which was one of the most successful teams in the championship.
He then moved to the Yamaha factory racing team, which he went on to help achieve success in the championship. Romero’s time on both teams was filled with distinction.
He was consistently in the top five in the championship standings, and he won two titles during his stint with Triumph.
His move to Yamaha was equally as successful, as he went on to win another championship title and achieve three podium finishes. Overall, Romero’s career was highly successful and he was considered one of the most talented riders during his time in the A.M.A.
Grand National Championship. His commitment to the sport and his ability to work well with two different teams made him a successful and respected racer.
10. Cayla Rivas
Cayla Kaolelopono is a remarkable figure in the world of motorcycle racing. She hails from Fresno, California and has made a name for herself by achieving incredible feats on two wheels.
In 2018, Kaolelopono set the FIM World Record by reaching a speed of 252.901 km/h at the Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials, held at Bonneville Speedway.
The record was set while riding a modified Royal Enfield 650cc Twin, an impressive feat that shows Kaolelopono’s commitment to pushing the boundaries in the world of motorcycling.
Her accomplishment has put her in the record books and made her an inspiration to other motorcyclists around the world.
Kaolelopono’s drive and passion for racing has cemented her place as a leader in the industry and will continue to serve as an example of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.
11. Joe Petrali
Smokey Joe Petrali was an American motorcycle racer who made his mark in the 1920s and 1930s. He was widely regarded as a Class A racing champion, competing in a variety of different circuits.
Petrali was well-known for his dominance in the board-track and dirt-track racing circuits, where he achieved a number of speed records and hillclimbing successes. He was also known for his daring stunts, such as riding a motorcycle up a steep incline without any safety gear.
Petrali was renowned for his skill as a racer, often pushing his motorcycle beyond its limitations to come out ahead of the rest. His accomplishments earned him a great deal of admiration and respect from fellow racers and fans alike.
Petrali’s legacy has endured, and he is remembered today as one of the greatest motorcycle racers of his era.
12. Don Castro
Don Castro is an American former professional motorcycle racer who is a distinguished member of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.
During his racing career, Castro had the privilege of being a works rider for Triumph and Yamaha, as well as a privateer on Triumph, Montesa, Yamaha, and Kawasaki machines.
The skill and dedication of Castro to his craft earned him recognition in the motorcycling world. The success of Castro’s time on the track was even further immortalized in the 1990 film Learning Curve.
This movie is based on the life of Don Castro and chronicles his time as a professional motorcycle racer.
The film displays the dedication and determination of the rider to succeed in a world of competitive motorcycling. Castro’s passion and dedication to the sport was evident from the beginning of his career.
He was passionate about pushing the limits of his motorcycling skills and was known for taking risks in order to succeed. This eventually led him to become a successful professional racer and made him a respected figure in the motorcycling world.
Castro’s commitment to the sport was also evident in his record-breaking accomplishments. Throughout his career, he set numerous records, both on and off the track.
These records include being the first rider to win the AMA National Enduro Championship, the first to win the AMA National 250cc Motocross Championship, and the first to win the AMA National 500cc Motocross Championship.
Don Castro is a true pioneer of the motorcycling world and his success and contributions to the sport have earned him a place in the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.
His story has been documented in the 1990 film Learning Curve, which serves to inspire and motivate future generations of motorcyclists.
13. Keith Code
Keith Code is an impressive figure in the world of motorcycle racing and instruction. He is a former motorcycle racer who has had a successful career on the track, and has written several books about the sport.
He is also the founder of the California Superbike School, which is one of the most successful and renowned motorcycle instruction programs in the world.
Code’s accomplishments have earned him the title of “arguably the best known and most successful on-track motorcycle instructor in the world.”Code has been a major influence in the sport of motorcycle racing, having written several books on the subject and creating a school that has trained countless riders in the art of motorcycle racing.
He has also been a mentor to many of the top racers in the sport, passing on his knowledge and experience to the next generation of riders.
His books have helped to educate riders on the technical aspects of the sport, as well as the mental and physical preparation needed to be successful. In addition to his books and school, Code has also been a major part of the motorcycle racing community through his involvement in various racing events.
He has been a frequent speaker at the annual Motorcycle Hall of Fame induction ceremonies, where he has shared his insights and experience with the inductees.
He has also been involved in the development of several safety initiatives, such as the California Motorcycle Safety Program and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. Keith Code is a well-respected figure in the world of motorcycle racing, and his achievements have earned him the title of “arguably the best known and most successful on-track motorcycle instructor in the world.” He is a true inspiration to riders of all ages, and he has made an invaluable contribution to the sport of motorcycle racing.
14. Dave Campos
Dave Campos is a renowned top-fuel drag motorcycle racer who has made a name for himself over the years. He is primarily known for his remarkable feat of holding the motorcycle land speed record from 1990 all the way until 2006.
This incredible accomplishment is a testament to his skill and dedication as a top-fuel drag racer. Campos has competed in numerous top-fuel drag races over the years, and his success has earned him a great deal of respect in the drag racing community.
His ability to consistently achieve high speeds and competitive times has been a major factor in his success.
He has also proven himself to be an adept racer when it comes to navigating tight spaces and controlling his bike in difficult conditions. Campos’ record-breaking motorcycle land speed record is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
He has pushed himself to the limit in order to achieve this incredible feat. Not only does it demonstrate his great skill as a drag racer, but it also serves as an inspiration for others looking to break their own records.
He is a true testament to what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.
15. Jay Springsteen
Jay Springsteen is an iconic figure in the world of professional motorcycle dirt track racing. He began his career in 1975 and quickly made a name for himself by winning the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) Rookie of the Year award.
This impressive accomplishment was followed by an even more impressive feat, as he went on to win three consecutive AMA championships, all while riding for the Harley-Davidson factory race team.
Springsteen was known for his daring maneuvers on the track, showcasing a fearless attitude that won him many fans within the racing community. He was also well-respected off the track, with many of his peers citing him as an influential figure in the sport.
His success on the track has earned him a place in the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest motorcycle racers of all time.
16. Chris Carr
Chris Carr is an accomplished motorcycle racer who has achieved great success in many different areas of the sport. He is a seven-time winner of the A.M.A. Grand National Championship, a prestigious title given to the top dirt-track racer each year.
This success has enabled him to also compete as a motorcycle road racer at the national level, where he has demonstrated his skill and ability. Chris Carr has even taken his talent to the next level by becoming a motorcycle land speed world record holder.
Through his dedication and hard work, he has proven himself to be an exceptional athlete and a force to be reckoned with in the world of motorcycle racing.
17. Steve McQueen
Terrence Stephen McQueen was an American actor who was immensely popular during the 1960s and 1970s. He gained fame and recognition for his antihero persona, which was extremely popular during the counterculture of the 1960s.
This made him one of the highest grossing actors of the time, leading to him being given the nickname of “King of Cool”. McQueen was also a motor racing enthusiast and even competed in a few races under the alias of Harvey Mushman.
18. Cameron Beaubier
Cameron Charles Beaubier is an American motorcycle racer who has been incredibly successful in his career. He has won the MotoAmerica championship five times, an impressive achievement that is a testament to his skill and dedication.
In 2021 and 2022, Beaubier made the move to the Moto2 World Championship, where he is riding a Kalex motorcycle. This is a major step in his career, as he continues to compete at the highest levels of motorcycle racing in the world.
Beaubier is an inspiration to other racers and fans alike, as his hard work and determination have paid off in the form of championships and success.
19. John Kocinski
John Kocinski is a notable figure in the world of motorcycle racing. He is a retired American Grand Prix motorcycle road racer, who made history by winning two prestigious championships in the sport. In 1990, he achieved an incredible feat by becoming the 250cc World Champion.
He followed this success up with a further victory in 1997 when he was crowned the Superbike World Champion. Kocinski’s career is one of the most remarkable in the world of motorcycle racing.
He first made a name for himself in the 250cc class, with a series of impressive performances leading him to the 1990 World Championship title. After this, he moved up to the Superbike class, where he was able to prove his prowess even further.
His 1997 Superbike World Championship was particularly impressive, as he fought off tough opposition to take the title. John Kocinski’s achievements in the world of motorcycle racing are remarkable.
He is a shining example of what can be achieved with hard work and determination. His success in both the 250cc and Superbike classes demonstrate his skill and commitment to the sport, and his impressive record will likely stand the test of time.
20. Kenny Roberts Jr.
Kenneth Leroy Roberts Jr. is a highly accomplished former professional Grand Prix motorcycle road racer. He is best known for winning the 2000 FIM Road Racing World Championship, after being the runner-up in 1999. Roberts Jr.
also achieved great success on the track, becoming an 8-time Premier Class race winner. His impressive career is a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport of motorcycle racing. Roberts Jr.
is an inspiration to all aspiring motorcyclists, showing that anything is possible if one puts their mind to it.
21. Colin Edwards
Colin Edwards II is a former professional motorcycle racer from the United States, who is known by the nickname of “Texas Tornado”. He retired halfway through the 2014 season, but he still remains involved in the sport as a factory test rider.
He holds the honour of being a two-time World Superbike champion, and he also competed in the MotoGP class from 2003 to 2014. Colin Edwards II is a highly respected and talented racer, with an impressive track record in the sport.
His career has been marked by success and he has achieved a lot in the sport. He is also well known for his dedication to the sport and his strong work ethic, which has been key to his success.
22. Doug Polen
Doug Polen is a highly successful and notable former professional motorcycle road racer. He achieved great success during his racing career in the late 1980s and early 1990s, earning multiple national and world championship titles.
His crowning achievement was winning the Superbike world championships in 1991 and 1992, a feat which has not been repeated since. Polen was a fierce competitor, with a natural talent for motorcycle road racing.
He was renowned for his ability to read the track, make quick decisions and execute daring maneuvers. He was also a dedicated and hardworking athlete, training extensively for every race and working to improve his performance.
Polen’s success on the racetrack earned him recognition throughout the motorcycle racing world, and he was highly respected by both his peers and fans. He is now remembered as one of the greatest motorcycle road racers of all time.
23. Scott Russell
Raymond Scott Russell, also known as “Mr. Daytona,” is an American former professional racer. He has achieved great success in multiple racing categories, making him one of the most successful racers in history.
Russell is a former champion of the World Superbike and AMA Superbike Championships. He holds the record for most wins of the prestigious Daytona 200 race, having won it five times. Russell also won the Suzuka 8 Hours race in 1993.
His success in the 750 cc AMA Supersport class is especially noteworthy, as he is the all-time leader in wins in that class. His accomplishments in the AMA Supersport class have solidified him as one of the greatest racers of all time.
Overall, Raymond Scott Russell’s success in multiple racing categories has established him as one of the best racers of all time.
He is a former champion of the World Superbike and AMA Superbike Championships, a five-time winner of the Daytona 200, and the all-time leader in 750 cc AMA Supersport wins. His impressive resume of accomplishments has earned him the nickname “Mr. Daytona.”
24. Steve Baker
Steve Baker is an American former professional Grand Prix motorcycle roadracer who achieved a significant milestone in his career. He became the first American to win a road racing world championship when he secured the 1977 Formula 750 title.
This accomplishment was recognized by the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, which inducted him in 1999. Baker’s success in the world of motorcycle racing was made possible by his hard work and dedication.
He was a very determined racer who was committed to pushing himself to the limit and achieving his goals. Despite the many obstacles he had to face, he never gave up and was eventually rewarded with the world championship title.
His achievement also had a lasting impact on the sport of motorcycle racing. By becoming the first American to win a world championship, Baker inspired countless other riders to pursue their dreams and strive for success.
He showed that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. He also paved the way for future American motorcyclists to compete and win on the world stage. Overall, Steve Baker is an inspirational figure in the world of motorcycle racing.
His historic accomplishment of becoming the first American to win a road racing world championship has had a lasting impact on the sport. He is a worthy inductee into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame and an example of what can be achieved with hard work and determination.
25. Cal Rayborn
Calvin Rayborn II was a well-known and highly respected professional motorcycle road racer in the 1960s and early 1970s. He was born and raised in San Diego, California, where he developed a love for riding motorcycles from a very young age.
Rayborn was renowned for his skill and bravery on the track, and his record of wins and podium finishes throughout the 1960s and early 1970s made him a household name in the world of motorcycle road racing.
He was known for his impressive technique and his ability to push the limits of what was thought possible on a motorcycle. He was also a popular figure in the racing community, and his fans often followed him to events to cheer him on.
Rayborn was also notable for being one of the first African-American riders to make a name for himself in the sport. His inspiring story and success were a source of pride for many in the African-American community.
Unfortunately, Rayborn’s career was cut short in 1973 due to an accident that ended his life. He left behind a legacy that still lives on today, and his pioneering spirit continues to be an inspiration to those who strive to achieve greatness.
26. Pat Hennen
Pat Hennen is a renowned American former Grand Prix motorcycle road racer. He has achieved great success in his career and is especially well-known for being the first American to win a 500 cc World Championship race.
His impressive feat occurred in 1976 when he won the 500cc Finnish Grand Prix. Hennen’s career began in the late 1960s when he became involved in motorcycle racing.
During his career, he competed in numerous events in both the United States and Europe, and he had many successes. In 1975, he was the runner-up in the AMA Grand National Championship, a notable accomplishment. The following year, 1976, was an even bigger success for Hennen.
He achieved his greatest success when he became the first American to win a 500 cc World Championship race. His impressive feat of winning the 500cc Finnish Grand Prix was a historic moment for American motorcycling.
His victory opened the door for other American riders to compete in Grand Prix racing and helped to establish the United States as a legitimate contender in the world of motorcycle racing. Hennen’s career ended soon after his historic victory, as he retired from racing in 1977.
Although his career was relatively short, Pat Hennen will always be remembered for his historic accomplishment of being the first American to win a 500 cc World Championship race.
His victory in the 1976 500cc Finnish Grand Prix will always be remembered as a monumental moment in American motorcycling.
27. Fred Merkel
Fred Merkel is a renowned figure in the world of motorcycle road racing. A former professional racer, he is most notable for his two-time reign as Superbike World Champion. Merkel was born and raised in the United States, and he began competing in motorcycling at a young age.
He quickly rose to prominence in the sport, winning multiple national championships in the United States as well as competing in various international events. Merkel achieved his greatest success when he became the Superbike World Champion in 1985 and 1989.
His dominant style of riding saw him win the title with a record-breaking points total in 1989.
This feat earned him a place in the Motorcycle Hall of Fame and cemented his place as one of the greatest motorcycle road racers of all time. Merkel retired from professional racing in 1992, but he continues to be an active figure in the motorcycling world.
He regularly works as an instructor and mentor for young riders, and he also serves as a spokesperson for safety initiatives in the racing community.
Through his impressive accomplishments and dedication to the sport, Fred Merkel has established himself as a true legend in the world of motorcycle road racing.
28. James Stewart Jr.
James Stewart Jr., more commonly known as “Bubba Stewart”, is a retired American professional motocross racer. During his career, he competed in the AMA Motocross and the AMA Supercross Championships, and quickly earned the nickname “The Fastest Man on The Planet”.
This nickname was well-deserved, as Stewart was the first to win the AMA Pro Motocross Championship and the AMA Supercross Championship in the same year in 2009. During his career, he also became the first African-American to win a professional motocross race.
Stewart’s incredible success in the sport was due to his impressive skill and style on the track. He was known for being able to stay low to the ground and make sharp turns, as well as his ability to launch off jumps with ease.
His skill quickly earned him fans from all over the world, and he went on to become one of the most successful and well-known motocross racers in the world. Stewart retired from professional racing in 2014, but his legacy still lives on.
He is remembered for his incredible success and skill, as well as his dedication to the sport and his fans. He inspired many racers to follow in his footsteps, and his nickname “The Fastest Man on the Planet” will remain a testament to his legacy.
29. P. J. Jacobsen
Patrick “PJ” Jacobsen is an American motorcycle racer who competed in the 2018 Superbike World Championship on a Honda CBR1000RR. He began the season with the Triple M team but was eventually replaced for two races by Florian Marino, a French rider.
This change was likely due to unsatisfactory results or a lack of progress, as Jacobsen was unable to secure any podium finishes throughout the season.
Jacobsen is a talented rider, but his lack of results at the world championship level suggests that this might have been a step too far for him.
He is still a promising rider and could very well return to the Superbike World Championship in the future, as his skills and experience make him a desirable candidate for any team.
30. Josh Herrin
Josh Herrin is an accomplished and experienced American motorcycle racer. He is currently competing in the MotoAmerica Superbike Championship, which is the premier road racing championship in the United States.
Herrin is a part of the Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC team and is seen as one of the top contenders in the competition. He has been racing professionally since 2007 and has earned several championship titles in the span of his career.
He is currently a three-time AMA Supersport Champion and has competed in many other prestigious series such as the MotoGP and AMA Superbike. Herrin is an incredibly talented and skilled racer and is always striving to improve and take his performance to the next level.
He is sure to be a competitor to watch in the MotoAmerica Superbike Championship this season.
31. Sean Dylan Kelly
Sean Dylan Kelly is an American motorcycle racer currently competing in the 2022 Moto2 World Championship for the American Racing team.
He has established himself as a formidable competitor in the world of motorcycle racing, having won the AMA Supersport Championship while riding for the M4 Ecstar Suzuki team in 2021.
Prior to that, Kelly earned multiple podium finishes and victories throughout his racing career, including a runner-up finish in the 2017 AMA Superstock 600 Championship. He has also competed in the British Superbike Championship, where he achieved a podium finish in 2020.
Kelly is certainly a rider to watch in the Moto2 World Championship, as his experience and success in other racing series will no doubt serve him well in this new challenge.
32. Joe Roberts
Joe Roberts is an American professional motorcycle racer who competes in the FIM Moto2 World Championship. This is the second tier of Grand Prix motorcycle racing, with the premier tier being the MotoGP.
He is part of the Italtrans Racing Team, who provide him with a Kalex chassis bike. The Kalex bike is a modern, lightweight and powerful machine that gives its riders an advantage on the track.
It has been the chassis of choice for many teams and riders in the Moto2 World Championship due to its successful history. Roberts has been racing professionally since 2018 and has consistently performed well, achieving several podium finishes.
He is a strong competitor in the Moto2 class and will only continue to improve as he gains experience.
33. Jacob Gagne
Jacob Gagne is an accomplished motorcycle racer. He has competed in various competitions throughout the years, including the American Superbike Championship.
Gagne has been with Yamaha since 2020, and for the 2023 season, he will be contracted with them to compete in the American Superbike Championship. Gagne is an experienced rider and is looking forward to the challenges that the 2023 season will bring.
He has been working hard to prepare for the race and is confident that he can make a strong showing. With his skill and experience, he is sure to be a strong contender and will be a force to be reckoned with.
34. Carey Hart
Carey Hart is a renowned American athlete with a unique set of skills and an impressive portfolio of accomplishments. He is an off-road truck racer, as well as a former professional freestyle motocross competitor and former motorcycle racer.
Hart is particularly famous for being the first motorcyclist to perform a back flip on a 250cc motorcycle in a competition. This feat was incredible and earned him a lot of recognition. Not only is Hart an exceptional athlete but he is also an entrepreneur.
He is the founder of Hart & Huntington Tattoo & Clothing Company. This company specializes in creating and selling clothing and accessories related to tattoos.
Hart’s company is well-known and has been featured in several television shows and films. Overall, Carey Hart is an impressive individual who has achieved a great deal in his life. He is an accomplished athlete and a successful entrepreneur with a unique and inspiring story.
He is an example of how hard work and dedication can lead to success.
35. Angelle Sampey
Angelle Sampey is a highly successful American drag racer. She competes in the NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle class and has accomplished an impressive record of accomplishments.
She is the first female rider to ever win an NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle championship and has won a total of three championships in her career.
Sampey began her drag racing career in 1988, and since then she has consistently placed in the top ten in points standings and has become a regular competitor in the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA).
She has won numerous races over the course of her career, including the Pro Stock Motorcycle championship in 2000, 2002, and 2003. She has also been named the National Dragster Magazine’s Pro Stock Motorcycle Driver of the Year three times.
In addition to her impressive record of accomplishments in the NHRA, Sampey has also competed in the AMA Prostar Drag Racing series, winning the championship in 2006 and 2007.
She is one of the most successful female drag racers of all time and continues to be a popular figure in the world of drag racing. Her success has also opened up opportunities for other female drag racers to compete in the sport.
36. Kurt Caselli
Kurt William Caselli was a renowned American professional off-road motorcycle racer. He had a successful career, winning three AMA Hare & Hound National Championships over the years and was even dubbed the 2007 AMA Sportsman of the Year.
Unfortunately, his career was cut short in 2013 when Caselli tragically passed away in a racing accident during the Baja 1000 in Mexico. The Baja 1000 is an off-road race that spans the Baja California peninsula, and it was in this race that Caselli lost his life.
His death was a devastating blow to the off-road motorcycle racing community, as Caselli was a beloved and respected competitor. Caselli’s legacy still lives on to this day, as his name and achievements are remembered and celebrated by the off-road racing community.
He was a remarkable athlete, and his accomplishments will not soon be forgotten.
37. Rollie Free
Roland “Rollie” Free holds an important place in the motorcycling world. He was a legendary motorcycle racer who achieved a remarkable feat in 1948 – breaking the American motorcycle land speed record. The record was set at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah.
Free’s accomplishment is immortalized in an iconic photograph. This image of him lying prone atop a motorcycle while wearing only a bathing suit is now considered the most famous picture in motorcycling.
It bears testament to Free’s remarkable achievement and serves as a reminder of the courage and skill he possessed. The legacy of Roland “Rollie” Free will live on through this photograph, and his record-breaking feat will never be forgotten.
38. Joi Harris
Sequana Joi Harris was an inspiring and groundbreaking African American woman. She was a professional motorcycle road racer and stuntwoman and achieved a great deal in her career.
Harris made history by becoming the first African American woman to be licensed as a motorcycle road racer.
She began her motorcycling journey in 2009 and was racing professionally by 2014. Harris proved her determination and strength of character by achieving her dream of becoming a professional road racer.
She faced many obstacles in her career, and her story serves as an inspiration to others.
Harris showed that anything is possible with enough dedication and hard work. Harris’s story also serves as a reminder of how far the sport of motorcycling has come in terms of inclusivity and diversity.
It is important to recognize the achievements of those who have broken down barriers in sports and other fields, as it serves as a reminder of how far we can go if we work together to create a more equitable and inclusive world.
39. Louise Forsley
Louise Forsley is an accomplished International Women’s motorcycle trials rider. She has ridden in the US NATC National Championships and the FIM World Trials Championships, and has earned two National Champion titles.
In 2012, Louise was invited to compete in the Xgames in Los Angeles, California, where she showed her immense talent and skill and was awarded the silver medal. Her impressive accomplishments in the motorcycle trials world have earned her a great deal of recognition and respect.
Louise’s success as a motorcycle trials rider is a testament to her dedication and hard work. She has shown that with enough motivation and determination, anyone can achieve their goals.
Her accomplishments have been an inspiration to many, and she continues to strive for excellence in the sport.
40. Ashley Fiolek
Ashley Fiolek is an esteemed athlete who has accomplished many remarkable feats in both motocross racing and stunt acting. She began her competitive career in 2008 when she entered the AMA Motocross Championships and competed until 2012.
Fiolek is culturally deaf and communicates through American Sign Language, making her an inspiration to many. Though her disability did not stop her from pursuing her passions, it also put her in the spotlight as a remarkable example of what is possible despite any limitations.
Fiolek’s hard work and dedication to her sport paid off, as she achieved the impressive feat of becoming a four-time AMA Women’s Motocross National Champion. Her career accomplishments have made her a role model for athletes and disabled individuals alike.
Fiolek’s story is one of determination and resilience, inspiring many to continue to pursue their dreams in spite of any challenges they may face.
41. Malcolm Smith
Malcolm Smith is a renowned professional off-road racer. He holds dual citizenship in Canada and the United States, and he has achieved incredible success in the sport of off-roading.
His career began when he was a young man, and he quickly rose to become one of the most respected and successful racers in the sport. Smith is best known for his participation in the Baja 1000, an endurance race that takes place in Baja California, Mexico.
He has competed in the event multiple times, and he is the only racer to win the race four times. He has also competed in other major off-road events, including the Mint 400, the NORRA Mexican 1000, and the Dakar Rally.
Throughout his career, Smith has been an advocate for the off-road racing community. He is a member of the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame, and he is one of the few racers to receive the Truckin’ magazine Lifetime Achievement Award.
His passion for off-roading has inspired many others to pursue the sport, and his legacy will live on for many years to come.
42. Joe Leonard
Joseph Paul Leonard was a highly accomplished racer in two different disciplines. He began his career as a professional motorcycle racer and quickly established himself as a top competitor.
He won numerous races and championships in the sport, gaining a reputation as a fierce competitor. In addition to his success on the track, Leonard also had a passion for racing cars. He eventually transitioned to racecar driving, where he achieved equal success.
He won several races and championships in the sport and was known for his consistency and skill on the track. Leonard’s career spanned decades and his passion for racing never waned.
He was a highly respected figure in both sports and was often invited to give advice and guidance to aspiring racers.
His determination and dedication to the sport helped to shape the landscape of American motor racing and was a testament to his skill and commitment to the sport. Joseph Paul Leonard was an American professional racer who achieved great success in two different disciplines.
His legacy as a fierce competitor, skilled driver, and passionate racer will live on for many years to come.
43. Debbie Evans
Debbie Evans is a remarkable woman who has accomplished a great deal in her lifetime. She is an American former motorcycle observed trials competitor and current stunt actor.
Observed trials is a sport that involves navigating a course on a motorcycle that is made up of obstacles like rocks, logs, and stumps. In the 1970s, Evans was one of the most successful female observed trials riders in the United States and was even sponsored by Yamaha.
This was a huge achievement at the time, as female riders were not as popular as male riders and sponsorship was hard to come by.
She was a pioneer in the sport and her success is an inspiration to many women to this day. Today, Evans is a stunt actor and continues to use her skills in the field of motorcycle riding.
She has been involved in some of the most iconic films in Hollywood and has been an important part of some of the most thrilling sequences.
Her expertise in motorcycle riding has been a key factor in the success of many of her projects and she continues to be a role model for female motorcyclists. In conclusion, Debbie Evans is an incredible woman who has achieved a great deal in her lifetime.
She is a pioneering female motorcyclist and stunt actor, and her accomplishments have been an inspiration to many.
44. Valerie Thompson
Valerie Thompson is an inspirational and accomplished figure in the competitive world of motorcycling. She is an American motorcycle drag and land speed racer, and has achieved remarkable success in her career.
She is a 7-time motorcycle land-speed record holder, and is the first woman to achieve the title of ‘Charter Member of the Mojave Magnum 200 MPH Club’. This is an exclusive club, and only those who have broken the 200 mph barrier on a motorcycle are allowed to join.
This is an incredible accomplishment, and Valerie Thompson has achieved it with her impressive speed and skill. Her success is a testament to her hard work and dedication, and she serves as an inspiration to many other aspiring motorcyclists.
45. Erwin Baker
Erwin George “Cannon Ball” Baker was a renowned American motorcyclist and car racer in the first half of the 20th century.
He had a distinguished career as a vaudeville performer, but his life changed when he won a dirt-track motorcycle race in Crawfordsville, Indiana, in around 1904. From then on, he was dedicated to driving and racing, becoming one of the most successful drivers of his time.
Baker was considered a master of dirt-track racing, often winning races in tight corners and high speeds. He was also known for being an excellent organizer, often organizing long-distance races across the country.
He was the first to organize a transcontinental race from the east coast to the west coast of the United States, setting the standard for many events to come. He was also involved in organizing the first international motorcycle race in the United States, held in the year 1907.
In addition to being an excellent driver, Baker was also a great philanthropist. He was passionate about helping those in need and often donated his winnings to charity.
He was also instrumental in creating the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) in 1924, which was the first motorcyclist organization in the United States.
In recognition of his significant contributions to the world of motorcycling and racing, Erwin George “Cannon Ball” Baker was inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1998. His legacy as a driver, organizer, and philanthropist is remembered and celebrated to this day.
46. Erik Buell
Erik F. Buell is a pioneer in the motorcycle industry who has had a hand in the development of modern race motorcycle technology. He is the founder, former Chairman, and Chief Technical Officer of the Buell Motorcycle Company, which eventually merged with Harley-Davidson Corp.
Buell’s accomplishments in the field of motorcycle manufacturing and racing have been acknowledged by his peers and customers alike. In addition, Buell is the founder of Erik Buell Racing, a company that specializes in the design, development, and manufacturing of race and production motorcycles.
Erik Buell Racing was founded in 2009 and is one of the most successful race motorcycle companies in the industry.
Buell has been instrumental in the development of several innovative racing technologies, including the use of fuel-injection systems, improved chassis geometries, and advanced exhaust systems. Erik F. Buell has made a lasting impression on the motorcycle industry.
His experience and knowledge has helped shape the current landscape of motorcycles, and his legacy will continue to be felt for years to come.
47. Cody Webb
Cody Webb is an incredibly talented and successful motorcycle trials rider and endurocross racer from the United States. He is a three-time national champion, having won the United States NATC Motorcycle Trials Championship in 2010.
His success in the sport has earned him international attention and respect. Aside from his success in the motorcycle trials, Webb is also a skilled endurocross racer.
He has competed in various endurocross events, showcasing his versatility and skill in different areas of the sport. Webb is a true testament to what hard work and dedication can achieve in the world of motorcycling.
Conclusion
The best motorcycle racers in the United States of America are a diverse group of talented and highly experienced individuals.
From the top-level professional riders to the amateur riders just getting started, the level of competition and skill present in the sport of motorcycle racing in the United States is remarkable.
Whether it’s professional or amateur, the racing scene in the United States is a great place to experience the thrill and excitement of motorcycle racing.
