Bill Nilsson passed away
Last Sunday, August 25, Bill Nilsson passed away. Maybe the name doesn't mean much to the younger motocross crowd, but Bill can still be called a legend when it comes to our beloved sport. he was the very first 1957cc world champion in 500 and did so again in 1960! As a contemporary, Bill often visited René Baeten in Herentals, together with that other Swedish legend Sten Lundin, when they were on their way to the GPs in the 50s and 60s. At that time this was still done with a car and trailer! He was also often seen working on Belgian soil in competitions such as those of the Bosbergen in Herentals, the Keiheuvel in Balen and the Bruulbergen in Oostmalle!
In the motorcycle field, Bill could safely be called a self-made man. In addition to being a top GP rider, he was also a gifted mechanic and “simply” built most of the engines with which he participated in the Grand Prix himself! After Bill was put out on the street by BSA, he bought an AJS 1956cc road racing motorcycle in the winter of 350 and converted it himself into a 490cc crosser, resulting in a world title!
In addition to winning two world titles, Bill was also part of the winning Swedish team in the Motocross des Nations three times in 1955, '58 and '61. Bill Nilsson died in his sleep at the age of 80.
Text: Werner Castelyns
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