1976 marked the beginning of the era of Suzuki domination with the Japanese firm taking 11 of the first 12 places in the premier class.
Angel Nieto would take his fifth world title in the 50cc division, this time aboard a
Bultaco. In the 125cc class, it was more of the same with
Morbidelli taking another crown with
Pier Paolo Bianchi claiming the championship.
Walter Villa would claim double world championships in the 250cc and 350cc classes for
Harley-Davidson fighting off a strong challenge from defending champion,
Johnny Cecotto in the larger class.
Barry Sheene came to the fore with a dominating championship season in the 500cc division, finishing ahead of his Suzuki teammate
Teuvo Länsivuori. Newcomer
Marco Lucchinelli impressed as well on a Suzuki but injuries curtailed his performance.
Pat Hennen became the first American rider to win a 500cc Grand Prix, when he triumphed at the Finnish Grand Prix. 1976 marked the end of an era as it would be the last time the
Isle of Man TT would appear on the Grand Prix calendar. Once the most prestigious race of the year, the event had been increasingly boycotted by the top riders. The TT finally succumbed to pressure for increased safety in racing events. The season also marked the end of another era with 15 time world champion
Giacomo Agostini winning his last Grand Prix at the season-ending round at the
Nürburgring. As Agostini had chosen the
MV Agusta for this challenging track, this win was also the last for a 500cc four-stroke engine. ==1976 Grand Prix season calendar==