Dirt Bike History 101

[kittycactus]

Hello everyone. I’m on a mission and I’m hoping you can help me out. My mission is to learn about the history of dirt bikes on the market from the 60’s through the 80’s. Why? Just curiosity mostly, and my ever growing love for all things dirty and muddy on two wheels. I’ve ridden for about 8 years solid now, some street, but mostly off road (trail and woods riding and some dual sporting). My first dirt bike was a 1981 RM125 and presently I have a 2002 KX100 and a 2007 TE250. I’m considering trying the Family Enduro series this spring and I’m fascinated by the trials bikes and would love to try one at some point. In short, I started in the dirt and that’s where my interests lie. So there’s my very brief history and now I’m curious about your roots. So here’s what I would like to know if you’re willing:

What dirt bikes did you own during the 60’s through the 80’s?
What can you tell me about the history of those bikes ( i.e. how many years was it produced [from when to when], what characteristics or quirks were unique to it, what was it’s demise, what model superseded or replaced it, what famous riders of the day also rode it, etc.).
What kind of riding were you into on these bikes and did you compete with it and if so, what (hare scrambles, motocross, enduros, trials, flat trackers, etc.)?

Lastly, would love to see pictures of those bikes you owned or representative examples. I’m sure I’m leaving out things, but I hope you get the idea. Thanks!