A personal remembrance by Joe Tolle, ATV On Demand
Yesterday, I learned that my friend Joe Wofford had unexpectedly passed away in a car accident. I first met Joe in 2004, when I was getting my start in the industry covering races for ATVScene.com. We met at the ATV Motocross National at Daniel Boone, where KYMCO held its first KYMCO Cup. That event introduced us to the machines and the people behind a brand that was serious about finding its place in the ATV industry.
Soon afterward, Joe and I worked together on an ATVScene.com contest inviting forum members to submit resumes for a spot on KYMCO’s team at the 2004 12 Hours of ATV America. We were both excited to see the team not only compete but finish. It was a tough test of the machines, and we shared a sense of pride in what they had accomplished.
Over the years, I tested several KYMCO models, worked with Joe on numerous occasions, and spent time with him at events. He was a gentleman and a kind soul. I never saw him angry. What I remember is his positive attitude, his good humor, and how much he enjoyed talking about ATVs.
After Joe had been away from KYMCO for several years, I was surprised to receive an email from him at his KYMCO address asking me to get in touch. When we spoke, he told me he had returned as Senior Vice President. He was excited about the opportunity to help shape the company’s future and spoke highly of the people in Taiwan who had brought him back, as well as the coworkers he would be working alongside. He saw this as his last big hurrah and a chance to make a difference. We were both excited about what that could mean for an ATV segment that needs more machines and more attention from manufacturers.
While arranging our latest test unit, we had some great conversations about KYMCO’s current models, possible improvements, and where the lineup could go. I appreciated how openly Joe discussed those possibilities and how much he valued the perspective of a longtime enthusiast. He told me he enjoyed our conversations because he knew I genuinely loved this stuff. That shared passion was a big part of our friendship and the respect we had for each other.
A wet summer had put our testing behind schedule. Just the day before Joe’s passing, I was filming static shots of the Mongoose 270 and thinking about how much I was looking forward to finishing the test and giving him a call. I wanted to catch up and hear what was next for him and KYMCO. It is difficult to think that we will never have that conversation.
My heart goes out to Joe’s family, his coworkers, and everyone who will miss him. It was truly a pleasure to know Joe Wofford, and I will miss him.
Official statement from KYMCO USA
[SPARTANBURG, SC – OCTOBER 2026] – It is with heavy hearts that we must announce the unexpected passing of our beloved Joe Wofford on Wednesday October 28, 2026. Many knew him as “KYMCO Joe”. His family, our KYMCO team, and all those who knew him are devastated right now. Our condolences and sadness are with everyone.
This business was a huge part of Joe’s life; his passion, commitment and genuine care were well known by everyone he interacted with, even if only for a few minutes. He put everything into it over 30+ years and was prepared to put in even more. The timing comes as we are merely days away from a trip out to the SEMA Show, which Joe championed and planned extensively together with us all. He was so excited to share the joy, energy, laughter, and stories of KYMCO together with new and old faces there.
As hard as it is right now, we know Joe wouldn’t want us to slow down. He would want us all to “keep our foot on the gas!” So that’s what we’re going to do – get out there, continue his plans, and keep sharing what he worked so hard for while remembering to have a little fun along the way.
For Joe.
About KYMCO USA
KYMCO USA is the official North American distributor for KYMCO, a global leader in scooters, motorcycles, ATVs, and side-by-sides. Established in 1963, KYMCO is known for its commitment to quality, reliability, and value across its full line of powersports vehicles, empowering riders to choose their own path with confidence. Headquartered in Spartanburg, South Carolina, KYMCO USA supports a growing network of dealers nationwide with industry-leading support, high-margin products, and a legacy of performance on both pavement and trail. For more information, visit www.KYMCOUSA.com.
