“A pioneering force in off-road motorcycling” is how John Penton has been described after the legend has away passed peacefully on September 7, 2025.

Celebrating his 100th birthday less than one month ago, John Penton was part of the DNA of US off-road sport with a list of riding and industry accolades like no other.

Penton’s legend is born from the many gritty stories about him competing in the ISDT (became ISDE) in the years before global travel was anything like as easy as it is today, and long before modern motorcycles came along an made our riding lives easier.

Penton was in fact instrumental in helping develop and introduce the more modern off-road motorcycles to America when he partnered with KTM to launch the Penton motorcycle brand. Penton bikes these days being much sought after classics.

John also worked with Alpinestars to develop off-road motorcycle boots, sold under his Hi-Point brand, and which became well-known in the US along with Hi-Point clothing, parts, accessories and more.

The annual John Penton GNCC race (October 10-12), one of the longest-running events on the calendar, will ensure the AMA Hall of Famer’s legacy lives long.

Enduro21 sends best wishes across the pond to all the family and friends of a legend of motorcycling.

Photo Credit: AMA + GNCC Racing