A celebration of the story of 500cc winners. From 2002 this Blue Riband class will be open to a new category of motorcycle, 990cc four-strokes, which will change the character of Grand Prix racing overnight. Featuring anecdote and action, this volume chronicles the true 500cc top riders, from the early days before the World Championship was founded in 1949, right through to the 2001 title winner. Topics covered include: World Championship history and background; giants from the past, including Stanley Woods and Jimmy Guthrie; Mick Doohan talks about the experience of racing a 500; and Giacomo Agostini, Geoff Duke, John Surtees, Mike Hailwood, Eddie Lawson, Kenny Roberts, Wayne Rainey and others.