1954: Keith Bontrager, later dubbed "The Professor" because of his analytical approach to bicycle design and construction, is born.

1965: A twelve-year old Keith Bontrager begins his two-wheeled adventure by building a lawnmower-powered mini bike from scratch.

1969: Keith Bontrager starts racing motocross, financing his new throttle-twisting passion by working odd jobs and repairing motorcycles.

1970s: Keith continues building, racing, and tuning motorcycles, landing a spot as head tuner for two World Championship 250cc GP MX and Formula 750cc road racing efforts.