Until a few months ago I dual-booted between Windows 7 and XP. Then I replaced XP with Windows 8. I didn't have to do anything special, it maintained the dual-boot configuration automatically.
CNET likes this classic Start Menu replacement for Windows 8, but I haven't tried it yet: http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-33642_7-57534343-292/how-to-restore-the-classic-start-menu-with-pokki-for-windows-8/ Gary VanderMolen
