Ryan Dungey raced to a debut podium at Anaheim 1 for Red Bull KTM. Image: Hoppenworld.com.

Red Bull KTM is already reaping the rewards of signing Ryan Dungey after he raced to the manufacturer’s first ever premier class podium in AMA Supercross on debut at Anaheim 1.

Dungey, the 2010 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Champion, finished third behind race winner Ryan Villopoto and Australia’s Chad Reed, which was an exceptional debut.

The podium finish for Dungey also marked the first podium for the new KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition.

“My bike ran flawlessly tonight,” he said. “I would have definitely liked to pass Chad and take second tonight, but I am happy to earn KTM its first podium.

“I can’t thank the team enough for all they have done for me in the development of this new bike.”

Red Bull KTM team manager Roger DeCoster was satisfied with the team’s official AMA Supercross debut together.

“The entire team is excited for the podium finish but we also know that second place was within our reach tonight,” he said. “We were happy with Ryan’s performance, but we know we have some areas that need work and we will begin to correct them immediately.

“We hope to continue this success into next week and improve our position on the podium.”

Dungey is KTM’s lone factory 450 rider for the 2012 season, switching from Suzuki at the conclusion of last year.