2. Torsten Hallman
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhRWa80XFTU One of the initial pioneers of motocross in America, Torsten Hallman is a true motocross hero. His incredible career achievements alone cement Hallman as one of motocross all-time greats. Hallman realised he wanted to peruse racing as a career early on, after winning his first ever formal event. In his book, Mr. Moto-cross, he said: The results really lit a fire for motorcycle racing, and it became the one thing on earth to live for. By 1957 Hallman was receiving full factory support from the dominant Husqvarna brand. He went on to win an incredible four 250cc World Championships in the early 60s, beating legendary riders such as Joel Robert. He managed this while balancing a full time racing career with his University education. His massive influence in America began in 1966 as part of Edison Dyes effort to intoroduce the sport to America, and promote the Husqvarna brand. He dominated events throughout the states. Hallman credits his victory at the Hopetown GP as his rise to fame in America. His success helped the Husqvarna brand grow, and he was invited back the following year, along with other World Championship and Husqvarna riders. This, he says, was the birth of the Trans AMA series. As well as his success establishing motocross in America, he also helped develop Yamahas pioneering mono-shock machine towards the end of his career, after an injury resulted in his departure from the Husqvarna brand. Hallman is also the father of apparel brand, THOR (Torsten Hallman Original Racing), which has become an iconic brand in itself. He was inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2000.