If only that could be true, right? They definitely did not swap bikes. One guy is 5’11, one is 6’2”.
Either the timelines are off or they got their bikes a year later.
I cannot add anything unfortunately beyond some random thoughts.
The photo of the race flyer for a race he was in once seems strong but perhaps he rode his previous bike in that race and therefor got the flyer. The photo of him racing could be another race??
If so then your timeline is intact.
If his recollection is correct and he feels the photo supports that recollection than the time line is off a bit.
As to when SLX was first in use by EMC I would think somewhere that information would exist. Didn’t Columbus create SLX before ‘84? Isn’t it possible EMC began using SLX before it is currently believed?
A team could decide to continue their current frames until SLX is used more, ie delay its team use a year?
I don’t have answers but I’m good if my bike is an ‘84 or ‘85.
Thanks for listening to my story.