The 1991 500cc World Championship series was dominated by a highly charged three-way battle for the title. The dramatic season of elbow-to-elbow racing and a nip and tuck championship fight is re-lived in Bike Grand Prix 1991, the latest volume of classic season reviews to be released for the first time on DVD by Duke Video. Established stars Wayne Rainey and Kevin Schwantz renewed their on-track rivalry – joined by new challenger Mick Doohan. The tone for the 15-race season was set at Japan’s opening round as Schwantz, Doohan and Rainey dominated. After an unfamiliar third place in round one, reigning champion Rainey quickly resumed normal service, delivering two masterful victories in the following races.
However, Doohan was soon using the stunning straightline speed of the Rothmans Honda to outpace his rivals and burst the title race wide open.
Tyre troubles became a major factor in deciding the outcome of the championship that, unusually, was settled by the best 13 scores rather than results from all rounds. Australian Doohan received an unexpected boost in Italy when Rainey was forced to pit for new rubber, but he was soon on the receiving end. The staggering power of the Honda had allowed Doohan to take the fight to Rainey, but as the season reached the halfway point he was left struggling for grip at round after round.
The tyre woes of the leading pair saw a resurgent Schwantz force his way back into what had looked like a two-way title fight. A late season charge put him back in the frame, but it was too little, too late to mount a real challenge to the dominant duo.
In the penultimate round Doohan had to win and hope his title rival didn’t score points, while Rainey only needed a third place to secure his second successive championship title. Doohan tried everything he could, but nothing could stop the serene Rainey claiming the final podium position, and the title.
Reigning 250cc World Champion John Kocinski endured mixed fortunes alongside Rainey at the Marlboro Yamaha team. After a promising start, the American struggled to get to grips with the demands of the 500cc machinery. However, it came good in the end as he secured his first pole position and first win in the final two races of the season.
It was year to forget for four times champion Eddie Lawson following his shock move to Italian strugglers Cagiva. Unable to challenge for another world title, his undoubted brilliance allowed him to overcome the machine’s shortcomings and, in moments of inspired riding, claim podium places.
This 100-minute review puts you at the centre of the action in a heart-stopping season of stunning racing, with on-board footage and interviews with the leading riders gives you the whole story.
Bike Grand Prix 1991 is released on 16th April, priced at £16.99 on DVD (100mins) is available now, priced at £16.99 on DVD (94mins), you can buy direct from Duke Video: Tel 01624 640000, or on-line through Londonbikers.com on our members discount page.
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