[1][2] Husqvarna introduced a new motorcycle with a larger 400cc engine to claim their first 500cc World Championship since Rolf Tibblin won the 1963 title.

BSA factory team rider John Banks once again proved to be one of the top competitors however, mechanical problems late in the season relegated him to second place in the championship for the second consecutive season.

Two-time 250cc European Champion Dave Bickers marks the final World Championship appearance of his career with a victory in the second moto of the 1969 250cc British Grand Prix.

In the 250cc World Championship, Joël Robert won six Grand Prix races to successfully defend his championship in a season long battle with his ČZ factory teammate, Sylvain Geboers.

[3] Four-time World Champion Torsten Hallman was slowed by a back injury and dropped to sixth place in the final standings.