KTM’s early success in the US was due to John Penton, which is why Penton’s name could be found on US-sold KTMs through 1977. Here’s one of the last bikes with John’s name on the tank, and it’s just gone through a restoration.
The 34 horsepower, 250cc motor was paired with a 6-speed transmission, Marzocchi shocks, Magura controls, Metzeler tires, and Sun rims. For more on the MC5, check out this period review from Dirt Bike magazine where they had great things to say about it: “I’d give an RM and a leg for that honey.” They also summed it up with “Penton/KTM motorcycles are bought in the same way as marriages are formed: from faith, commitment, and a little insanity.”
This example is said to be immaculate as it has zero hours on a restoration that included a rebuilt motor. The seller doesn’t have much else to say, so you’ll need to investigate more by finding this MC5 for sale here on Craigslist in Scottsdale, Arizona for $5,500.