[QUOTE=Lucky7;70275]Some First Time Champions that did not repeat after winning their first GP Championship. This is in recent history. They were some of the world's best riders. I'd say Nicky is in pretty good company.
2000 Kenny ROBERTS Jr. (USA), Suzuki RGV500 GP 500
1993 Kevin SCHWANTZ (USA), Suzuki RGV500 GP 500
1986 Eddie LAWSON (USA), Yamaha YZR500
1983 Freddie SPENCER (USA), Honda NS500 GP 500
http://www.motorsportsetc.com/champs/motogp.htm
At this level the talent is tremendous and the competition is fierce. Kevin Schwantz won only 1 championship and never repeated. He's still one of the greatest American riders to ever throw a leg on the bike. Max Biaggi who's never won a title in the premier class is doing quite well in WSB.
Nicky Hayden is arguably the best American rider in premier class.[/QUOTE]
NOT this year...... John Hopkins is the best American in the class....