Ryan Dungey is happy with his second overall at the Hangtown opener. Image: Simon Cudby.

Red Bull KTM’s Ryan Dungey is content with his performance at Hangtown’s round one of the American Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship series, finishing second overall on his outdoor debut with the team.

Dungey suffered a bad start in moto one, forcing him to charge through the pack from 12th place, eventually moving himself into third before the flag flew.

The former-champion proved he is fit and able to go the distance after recovering from his shoulder injury during the supercross season.

The Minnesota native once again put in an impressive ride in moto two, showing he has the speed to run with Yoshimura Suzuki’s James Stewart, until lapped riders hindered his chances at a late race charge for the win.

Dungey finished up the day with a 3-2 result, giving KTM their first outdoor podium on the all-new Factory Edition 450 SX-F.

“I really enjoyed racing here today,” Dungey remarked. “I had some good luck and some bad luck but I’m glad to be on the podium and finish safely.

“I feel like my fitness was there today and I just need to get up front and out of traffic earlier to get my KTM up front. I am looking forward to the next round at Freestone Raceway.”

The AMA motocross series heads to Freestone Raceway in Texas for round two, where Dungey has been strong previously in the intense heat and rough conditions.