7. Pierre Karsmakers
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKCcPLNYKQU "Pierre showed Americans what motocross was all about. The quote from Motorcycle Hall of Fame executive, Ken Ford, on his induction, sums up Karsmakers impact on American motocross. Karsmakers was part of the early wave of European motocross riders to tackle America, bringing his expertise in both riding and training. He first travelled to the States in 1971, with the aim of forcing the Japanese factories to recognise European riders other than the Belgians. By 1972 he was winning races. However, 1973 saw the start of real success for Karsmakers in America. The Dutch rider won the 500cc motocross national championship series and the AMA Florida Winter Series, winning four of six events. He won seven of 11 AMA National motos and claimed 17 victories in 36 races overall. Karsmakers was also the winner of the first ever 250cc Supercross Championship, a feat that will cement his name in motocross history. His list of achievements does not fully express the success that Karsmakers had in the mid 70s, as various rule changes regarding American citizenship meant that he would not be credited for some of his title wins, despite his dominance. In his long and hugely influential career, Karsmakers showed that he could win in both World Championship and AMA competition, as well as being a vital part of the development of American motocross and various motorcycle manufacturers. He was inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2014.