Mk1s are identifiable with an 8960 frame number and were issued a GX registration.

The Mk1s started off with detachable fibreglass pannier boxes, which clipped onto the low profile rear bars. Usually fitted with the 'smarter' looking ball shaped indicators. Another visual difference is the centre stand locking attachment. The Mk1 frames also feature a steel breather tube running the length of the top tube, under the petrol tank. Whereas Mk2 changed the design and instead use a plastic tube.

Approx 810 units were produced (RLCA records). Assembled at BSA.

Mk2s are identifiable with an 8801 or 8802 frame number and were issued a HG registration.

Normally fitted with the 'metal hoop baskets' and soft pannier bags. As it was realised that the fibreglass boxes were fragile and would easily get smashed up. The 'metal hoop baskets' however, can have a tendancy of snatching ankles. But removing the luggage rack altogether seems to have been common for bikes used in off-road competitions. The Mk2's were usually fitted with the large 'uglier' big indicators.

Approx 1333 units were produced (RLCA records).

Physical and photographic evidence exists which shows some were based on RAF stations. Mk1 issued an AX registration.

A photo exists showing a captured Can-Am on the Falklands with an RN registration - Royal Navy.

Articals say around 2500 - 3000 units were produced. However, the RLC Archive, who hold only Army vehicle records, give us a figure of 2100 issued to the Army. RAF & RN numbers, we estimate to be approx 100 for each service. Documents say that not all of the bikes were issued out and that some were stockpiled in depots.

The bikes saw service in the UK, Northern Ireland, West Germany (BAOR), The Falklands and Botswana & Oman when in use with the SAS (all the locations that we're aware of at the time of writing).

Its reported that 50 were lost on the Atlantic Conveyor during the Falklands War.

The bikes served across a range of units, predominently with the Royal Corps of Transport, sheparding convoys of Fodens & Bedfords. Usually ridden by the Section Commander, who would be responsible of looking after a Section of eight trucks. However, if the whole troop were to mobilise (four Sections). Then the Troop Commander (Rank of Lieutenant) and the Troop Staff Sergeant. Would also be on bikes - six Can-Am.

The bikes were also used by the Royal Artillery, the Royal Engineers, the Royal Army Medical Corps, the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and the Royal Signals within the army. Plus a small number to the SAS, RAF and the Navy.

The military were also offered exemption from the 1983 125 leaner limit. Enabling them to carry on motorcycle training with the 250s. New riders would usually undergo 60 hours (10 days) of training. QTOs (Qualified Testing Instructors) would then arrange Part 1 & 2 of the motorcycle test. As the bikes would generally only go where the lorries went, dedicated off-road training wasn't part of the course. However, some off-road riding expierence was factored in.

Units would usually carry out their own basic services and routine maintenance. But anything heavier, and they would go into the Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineer workshops.

The bikes served on average around 5 years. Most with a recorded milage of about 2000 miles.

The longest serving bike in my collection is a 1980 Mk2, which served until 1993 with the Royal Engineers. But most were 'disposed' and auctioned off from around 1987 onwards. Replaced by the MT500 Armstrong (CCM) 4-stroke from 1985 onwards.