Trivia

[TGTech]

At the POG meeting the other night, there was some talk about a trivia question regaring the coil on the first Pentons. This got me to thinking about other possible trivia, in this case, also about ignition components.

I've got a doozie, and I'll be really surprised if anyone (except maybe Doug) gets this one.

What color was the spark plug wire on the first Motoplat ignition "coils" that Penton Imports used on the bikes. (Hint: I'm not talking about the production models, but the accessory ignitions)

People with experience with other brands of vintage bikes, may have an advantage here. Good luck.

Dane

[rob w]

Dane,
    After hours of intense research looking through the archives with my magnifying glass, I have come to the conclusion that most all photographs back then were printed in black and white.
 I'm going to have to go with my powers of ESP, and say light blue.
Thanks,
Bob.



What make of motorcycle did Doug Wilford ride at the "Green Horn Enduro" on May 31, 1971?
 


 

[Paul Danik]

Doug rode a Penton, he finished 3rd in the Trail class (up to 100cc) with a score of 938 behind a Hodaka and a Harley Baja.

 

[rob w]

Then this is a mis-print I'm reading, I thought that was odd for Doug to be on a Harley, thanks Paul.

 

[Paul Danik]

When I read your question I figured he must NOT have been on a Penton.  I have the Oct. 71 issue of Motorcyclist and it has the Greenhorn write-up in it along with the results.  I wonder if the motoplat wire was white??

 

[rob w]

John Penton announced to his dealers in the western states (in the form of a letter) that the motorcycle would no longer be sold as "Penton", but would carry the "KTM" name.
The western distribution rights were sold to KTM. The reason for this was, "KTM's desire to not be dependent upon one individual for U.S. sales".

What was the date the transfer became effective?

 

[tomale]

So that is why my bike says KTM on the tank instead of Penton And why I saw a proto of my bike back in I think the spring of 76' so I am guessing that the deal must have become final some time late in 75 or early 76'

Thom Green,I own and ride a 76 250 MC5 MX which I bought new.

[TGTech]

The very first Motoplat ignitions that JP brought back to Penton Imports as test units, had blue potting on the coils and stators, and the spark plug wires were yellow. I have seen other blue potted Motoplat parts that were OEM on Ossas, and also that the same ignition will fit one of the Ossa models, will also fit a Sachs engine.

Dane