1979 Can-Am MX 370

Can-Am first came to my attention in the early ‘70s in Snowmobiles. The Ski-Doo line was the king of the snow, in terms of both speed and handling.

In 1972 Can-Am (the motorcycle arm of the company) introduced it’s first dirt bikes. By 1973 Can-Am swept the podium at the Scottish 6 Day Trials and their reputation was made. Can-Am quickly became a big time player in motocross and enduro events.

Soon after the introduction of the Can-Am motorcycles Bombardier switched it’s focus from recreational products to transportation in general, including trains and airplanes (which included acquiring de Havilland and Lear Jet). By 1983 Bombardier was out of the motorcycle business in a licensing agreement with the English firm Armstrong-CCM. 1987 would be the last year for Can-Am motorcycles.

In the 15 year production run Can-Am got a reputation as fast and dependable. Using Rotax engines (also a subsidary of Bombardier) with a rotary disc fuel induction system they simply made more power than the competition, particularly in the early years.

The 1979 Can-Am MX 370 used a 366 CC Rotax air cooled two stroke single cylinder motor that made 42 HP. Marzocchi front forks and Girling Gas rear shocks gave the bike superior suspension with enormous travel. When coupled with a 5 speed transmission and a total weight of 225 LBS it made a formidable motocross package.

This particular 1979 Can-Am MX 370 (VIN# 8984000377) is in New River, Arizona and is listed as a ‘well sorted race bike’. The ‘Fox’ brand rear suspension is not stock but represents an upgrade from the Girlings. The bike is said to run ‘excellent’. If you want a unique vintage racer, this might be the answer. The MX-370 is at the starting bid of $2,000