Jeff Smith, AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer, Passes Away
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) announces the passing of Jeff Smith, a distinguished AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer, renowned for his exceptional versatility in multiple racing disciplines, particularly motocross and trials. Smith’s impact extended beyond racing; he held pivotal leadership roles at Can-Am and served as the executive director of the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA).
Born in 1934 in Colne, England, Smith’s motorcycling journey commenced at age nine with a two-stroke Triumph. He emerged in competitive trials by 1952 as a works rider for Norton. Smith secured the ACU British Trials Championships in 1953 and 1954, clinching the latter aboard a BSA.
His motocross career began in earnest with a victory at the 1954 Dutch Motocross Grand Prix, which led to further accolades, including the Experts Grand National and the 1955 British Grand Prix. However, his most notable achievements came in 1964 and 1965 when he secured back-to-back 500cc World Motocross Championships with BSA. Smith was a key contributor to the British team’s six Motocross des Nations victories.
Outside motocross, Smith represented England in 11 International Six Days Trials, winning eight gold medals. Post-retirement, he played a vital role in developing Can-Am’s motocross motorcycles and later led AHRMA until 1999. He also contributed to the AMA Board of Directors from 2001 to 2008.
Inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2000, Smith leaves behind a rich legacy in motorsports. The AMA expresses its condolences to his friends and family during this difficult time.
