Highlights
- Contrôle Technique valid until 2028
- Previously owned by John Young, an American enduro rider and official BSA works rider
- Two registered keepers with documented ownership history
- Reported to be all original
- Recent maintenance, including new belt, bearings, oil seals, and chain
The Appeal
The Can-Am Sonic 500 is a product of the short-lived but fascinating Can-Am motorcycle programme of the early 1980s. Powered by a Rotax-derived 494cc engine and bred from serious motocross DNA, these machines were built for committed off-road competition and have become increasingly collectable. Finding one in Europe is unusual; they were almost entirely isolated to Canada for the single year of Can-Am production.
This 1982 example carries notable provenance, having previously belonged to John Young, an American enduro rider who served as an official BSA works rider. Purchased from the USA in April 2024, it has since been registered as a collection vehicle in France with matching serial numbers confirmed. The vendor reports the motorcycle is all original and ready to go.
History and Paperwork
- Registered in 1982
- Two registered keepers from new
- Previously owned by John Young, an American enduro rider and official BSA works rider
- Imported from the USA; purchased in April 2024
- Registered as a collection vehicle in France in the seller's name in March 2025
- Matching serial numbers confirmed
- Contrôle Technique valid until 2028
- Accompanied by US Certificate of Title, Contrôle Technique certificate, A couple of invoices and more
The Condition
- Vendor reports the motorcycle to be all original
- Paintwork presents well for their age
- Seat is reported to be in good condition
- Side casings require repair
- Mudguards have become powdery with age, a side-effect of the dyed plastics
The Mechanics
- 494cc Rotax 4-stroke engine, offering circa 37-45 hp
- Five-speed manual transmission
- Mechanical components look in good order
- Starting requires some effort, but the vendor reports no concerns with riding or handling
- Recent maintenance, including new belt, bearings, oil seals, and chain
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
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