Wayne Rainey

Wayne Rainey was one of the most succesful American road racers during the late 1980s and early 1990s. After a brief visit to the GP stage and the 250cc class in 1984, he started racing full time in the 500cc class in 1988. In 1989 he came third overall. From 1990 to 1992 he accomplished to score 3 consecutive titles in the 500cc class. He lost out to fellow American road racer Kevin Schwantz in 1993, before retiring later that season after an accident which left him paralyzed from the chest down. The late years of the 80's and the first years of the 90's are by many reckoned to be the "Golden era" of motorcycling racing. Riders like Eddie Lawson, Wayne Gardner, Kevin Schwantz, Michael Doohan and Wayne Rainey had skills which made the racing fantastic and exciting for fans to watch. During his entire 500cc career he raced Yamaha YZR motorcycle in the team lead by former triple world champion Kenny Roberts.