Steve Baker (born September 5, 1952) is an American former professional Grand Prix motorcycle roadracer. He is notable for being the first American to win a road racing world championship when he won the 1977 Formula 750 title. Motorcycle racing career Born in Bellingham, Washington, Baker began his career racing on the dirt track ovals of the Pacific Northwest. He then switched to road racing and began competing in Canada, becoming a three-time Canadian champion. In 1976, Baker won the prestigious Imola 200 pre-season race. His good results earned him a factory sponsored ride with the Yamaha factory team for the 1977 season. He began the year by winning the prestigious Daytona 200 before traveling to Europe to compete in the world championships. Baker won the 1977 Formula 750 title and finished second to Barry Sheene in the 500cc world championship. He was released by the Yamaha team after the season and competed in the 1978 championship on a privately supported Suzuki. At the end of that season, Baker suffered a devastating accident at the Mosport circuit in Canada that left him with a broken arm and shattered his left leg. Afterwards, he decided to retire from competitive racing. After his racing career, Baker purchased a motorcycle dealership in his hometown of Bellingham. He was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1999. Motorcycle Grand Prix results (key) (Races in bold indicate pole position) References External links Steve Baker at the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Steve Baker interview, American Motorcyclist Magazine, December 1977 Steve Baker in January 1977 American Motorcyclist Magazine article on European road racing 1952 births Living people American motorcycle racers 500cc World Championship riders AMA Grand National Championship riders Sportspeople from Bellingham, Washington