Industry icon John Penton passes away weeks after celebrating 100th birthday
The American Motorcyclist Association has announced the passing of John Penton, one of the most influential figures in powersports history and the founder of Penton Motorcycles. Penton died peacefully on Sept. 8, just weeks after celebrating his 100th birthday.
Penton’s 100th birthday in August was widely celebrated across the industry, with KTM and the AMA recognizing the milestone for the man whose vision helped shape modern off-road riding. Now, the community reflects on his extraordinary life and legacy.
After serving his country during World War II, Penton returned home to racing and quickly recognized the potential of lightweight motorcycles in endurance competition. That insight led to the creation of Penton Motorcycles, produced in partnership with KTM starting in 1968. More than 25,000 units were sold in the U.S. over the next decade, laying the foundation for KTM’s growth into one of today’s global off-road leaders.
Beyond motorcycles, Penton also influenced the off-road gear market. His collaboration with Alpinestars resulted in the development of the iconic Hi-Point boots, which became a staple for generations of riders.
Inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1998, Penton’s impact spanned racing, product development, and retail. He began his career as a dealer alongside his brothers, proving that a passion for better-performing motorcycles could drive both business success and industry innovation.
Dealers who carry KTM today still benefit from the groundwork laid by Penton’s early partnership with the Austrian manufacturer. His vision for smaller, lighter, and more capable motorcycles transformed off-road riding — and continues to shape the market.
John Penton: A legacy in motorcycling
- Aug. 19, 1925 – Born in Amherst, Ohio
- 1948 – Races the Jack Pine Enduro on a Harley-Davidson Knucklehead
- 1949 – Finishes 2nd at the Jack Pine on a BSA, beginning his pursuit of lighter off-road bikes
- 1966 – Wins the Jack Pine aboard a Husqvarna; later becomes a U.S. Husky distributor
- 1968 – Partners with KTM to produce Penton motorcycles; 400 sold in the first year
- 1970s – More than 25,000 Pentons sold in the U.S., shaping the off-road market
- 1970s – Teams with Alpinestars to create Hi-Point boots
- 1998 – Inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame
- Aug. 19, 2025 – Celebrates 100th birthday
- Sept. 8, 2025 – Passes away at age 100
