Suzuki signed the experienced Harry Everts to a two-year contract with improved terms for the 125cc class. They did not yet believe the young Geboers was capable of winning the title. Everts, who actually preferred to compete in the 250cc or 500cc class, had to fight hard this season. In the end, however, experience prevailed against the strong competition.

In just his second season, young Eric Geboers had already earned himself a strong reputation. Of course, the advice of his teammate Harry Everts and his brother Sylvain in the Suzuki team had helped him along the way. Now he was ready for the next big step.

Last year's runner-up Michele Rinaldi, now riding the big Gilera, raised high expectations, especially in Italy. Like Nani, Perfini, and Rahier before him, Michele Rinaldi decided against the Bicilindra.

Just as Everts forms a team at Suzuki with the young Geboers as an experienced rider, Gilera also has a powerful team at the start with the veteran Gaston Rahier and the extremely talented Michele Rinaldi. Gaston is getting better and better with the Gilera, but has to fight hard to keep up with the young wild ones. After all, he has been internationally successful for 16 years!