With the inaugural American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) nearing, the Marketplace Events Motorcycle Group has made one of its biggest announcements to date with the naming of American motorcycle racing legend Kenny Roberts as their “American International Motorcycle Champion.” In this role, Roberts will serve as the proverbial face of AIMExpo, joining in the celebration of the inaugural show with the entire powersports marketplace – industry, trade, media and consumers.
 
A dirt-track rider from Modesto, Calif., Roberts became an icon in the world of racing during the 1970s. After capturing multiple U.S. Grand National Championships, which featured dirt-track and road racing disciplines, Roberts made the move overseas to compete in road racing full time. He became the first rookie rider and the first American rider to win the FIM 500cc World Grand Prix Championship, now known as MotoGP, and cemented his status as one of the all-time greats by capturing three consecutive world championships from 1978 to 1980. His record of winning the championship as a rookie still stands.
 
“I’ve admired KR’s longstanding world champion stature, his instant recognition to many generations of motorcyclists and his continued commitment to the sport today,” said Larry Little, vice president and general manager of AIMExpo.
 
As “AIMExpo Champion,” Roberts will play a key role in the festivities of the inaugural event. He will “Champion” the show via pre-event publicity and promotion, play a role in the grand opening of the expo and share his championship experiences during the consumer days of the show. In an effort to recognize his significance to AIMExpo and to pay tribute to his American dirt-track roots, show producer Marketplace Events Motorcycle Group has commissioned a Star Bolt by Yamaha in Robert’s now famous yellow “track-graphic” livery, which will be given away at AIMExpo.