If you’ve been following the AMA Motocross Championship for the last few years, you probably know that the #1 plate hasn’t been used very often. Under the AMA’s semi-permanent numbering policy, in place since 2000, champions have the choice to either wear #1 or stick with their personal digits. (Ricky Carmichael, a constant champion from 1997 to 2006, decided to ride almost exclusively with his signature #4.) Last year, Ryan Villopoto returned to defend his two consecutive titles in the Lites class displaying his hard-earned #1, which the fans truly appreciated. Now he’s moving up to the 450 class, where he can’t wear #1 until he earns it in this division.
With that in mind, here’s a gallery of some of the past AMA Motocross champions who have proudly displayed the #1 plate.
