Despite motocross's European roots, modern dirt bikes have significantly evolved since the 1960s, with the four great Japanese brands Honda, Suzuki, Kawasaki, and Yamaha dominating the industry.

An curved arrow pointing right. There are dozens of Eco Cycle garages throughout Japan. They're underground, cylindrical places that automatically park your bike. One unit stores 204 bikes ...

Melchoir, one of three representatives from the Japan Racing Association, looks to be the horse to beat. The colt by Nadal has started five times—three over the turf and twice on dirt.