Penton’s Legacy: A Titan of Motorcycling Passes at 100
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) announces the passing of John Penton, a seminal figure in motorcycling, who died peacefully at the age of 100, just after celebrating his centenary.
Born on August 19, 1925, Penton’s journey in motorcycling began in his youth when he and his brothers restored an early 1914 Harley-Davidson. His path shifted during World War II, where he served in both the Merchant Marine and the Navy. Post-war, he entered competitive racing, debuting at the Jack Pine 500-Mile Enduro in 1948. It was here he recognized the need for lightweight motorcycles, having witnessed the competitive edge of a BSA over larger machines.
Subsequently, Penton finished second in the Jack Pine the following year on a B-33 BSA, which sparked his pursuit for improved enduro motorcycles. He established a dealership, concurrently achieving the Ohio State Enduro Championship and earning the AMA’s Most Popular Rider Award in 1960.
In 1966, after winning the Jack Pine on a Husqvarna, Penton advocated for lighter off-road machines, initially facing resistance from Husqvarna. However, KTM responded positively to his vision, leading to a partnership wherein Penton financed the production of six 100cc prototypes in early 1968. This venture proved successful, with over 400 units sold in the first year alone and culminating in the sale of more than 25,000 Penton motorcycles in the U.S. over the following decade.
Additionally, his collaboration with Alpinestars resulted in the development of the iconic Hi-Point off-road boots. Penton’s contributions to the industry earned him a well-deserved induction into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1998.
Penton’s impact on the motorsports landscape is indelible, having shaped the evolution of off-road racing and riding. His entrepreneurial spirit and innovations remain a testament to his remarkable legacy.
