Penton: The John Penton Story

Roots musician Lyle Lovett narrates this detail-oriented profile of off-road motorcycle pioneer John Penton. Lovett raced dirt bikes as a kid, and even met Penton on a long-ago visit to Houston (he also contributes a few songs to the soundtrack). Interviewees include 88-year-old Penton, his family and friends, members of the biking community, and biographer Ed Youngblood. Penton grew up on a farm in Cleveland, developing his love of cycling by way of his father, who owned a Harley Davidson. After serving in World War II, Penton and his brothers started racing, which led to a business selling cycles. After marrying and raising three sons, Penton received the devastating news that his wife had a rapidly-accelerating form of multiple sclerosis. Upon her passing, Penton raced across the U.S. and Canada (on one trip, he cycled from New York to Los Angeles in 52 hours, a record that would stand for 10 years). Some time afterward, Penton met his second wife on the racing circuit, a widow who brought three children to the mix. Penton also added Europe to his racing itinerary, where he met Steve McQueen (who was then shooting The Great Escape). All the while, Penton was customizing his own bikes, which led to deals with European companies to design and manufacture the “Penton” and other products. For off-road motorcycle racing enthusiasts, director Todd Huffman's gear-head documentary offers many pleasures, and even general viewers may enjoy Penton's storied past. Recommended. Aud: P. (K. Fennessy)