Dead right Tom,I had the privelige of racing for 15 years during the 50s 60s and 70s never set the world alight,but enjoyed every minute as a middle of the pack runner.But I was made to feel just as important as those who were far more succesfull by the companies and persons you have named.I had a fuel and oil contract with Shell,a Tyre contract with Avon and when they withdrew Dunlop.Brakes sorted by Ferodo electrics sorted by Lucas,chains by renold and my share of Kens time,although the secret here was to get in before the sidecar boys arrived.This was all at no or little cost.Even the works Bultaco team took the trouble to rebuild my damaged front forks,in between preparing their own machines,at a parts only cost.
The thoughts today are "whats in it for me or us" which did not exist in our days