The origins of BMX (an abbreviation of Bicycle Motocross) can be traced to the early 1970s in southern California when children adapted their road bikes for the thrill of dirt track racing. Manufacturers soon took advantage of the craze and began selling specially-made bikes. By the early 1980s, BMX had become hugely popular not just in the US but in Europe and other countries.
International timeline:
- 1977. The American Bicycle Association (ABA) is organised as a national governing body for the growing interest in BMX.
- 1981. The International BMX Federation is formed and holds its first BMX World Championship the following year.
- 1993. BMX is recognised and integrated into the Union Cycliste Internationale.
- 2003. BMX becomes an Olympic full-medal discipline, marking its debut at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
TVTA is pleased to present a gallery of international print images featuring BMX bikes, clothing, accessories, and promotions as advertised throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
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- Raleigh Rampar. 1978. US.
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- Monark. 1983. Brazil.
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- Yamaha BYZ. 1982. France.
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- Huffy Pro Thunder. 1984. US.
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- Raleigh Aero Burner. 1984. France.
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- Motobécane. 1983. France.
The Vintage Toy Advertiser 