The American Motors Corporation (AMC) was known for making incredible cars that were solid competitors to the Big Three American automakers (Chrysler, Ford, and GM). Despite their success in making cars, AMC struggled to run a profitable business and eventually went out of business. However, the legacy of AMC lives on through the many cool rides they produced, which are still appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts today.
AMC was known for making lower-priced vehicles that were just as good, if not better, than the offerings of the Big Three. They also took risks and created some of the wildest rides during the classic muscle car era. Their cars were unique and creative, and they will always be remembered as an all-American company that produced some really cool cars.
Here are 10 of the coolest vehicles ever built by AMC:
10 1976 Pacer X
The 1976 Pacer X was known for its unique “jellybean” body style. It was a compact car that offered plenty of room for passengers. While it wasn’t meant to be a performance model, AMC created the “X” package for the Pacer, which included cooler wheels, paint schemes, and a high output engine option. This transformed the dorky-looking Pacer into a relatively badass street machine.
9 1979 Spirit AMX
The 1979 Spirit AMX was a diverse platform that included hatchbacks, sedans, and the cool liftback known as a “Kammback.” It offered a semi-kickass, muscle-ish car experience. While the engine had a lot of horses knocked out of it due to environmental regulations, the Spirit AMX was still a quick ride.
8 1965 Rambler Marlin
The 1965 Rambler Marlin was a fastback luxury vehicle that offered a unique blend of style and performance. It was considered one of the fastest cars on American streets at the time.
7 1974 AMC Gremlin 401-XR
The 1974 Gremlin 401-XR was a unique version of the popular Gremlin compact car. The 401-XR had its engine swapped out for a more powerful 401ci V-8 engine, making it a track monster.
6 1957 Rambler Rebel
The 1957 Rambler Rebel is recognized as the first factory-built intermediate-size performance car. It was considered one of the fastest cars on American streets at the time.
5 1968 Javelin SST
The 1968 Javelin SST was AMC’s entry into the pony car market. It offered a stylish design and a powerful engine, making it a popular option for performance enthusiasts.
4 1971 Hornet SC/360
The 1971 Hornet SC/360 was a compact muscle car that offered impressive power and performance. It featured a powerful 360ci V-8 engine and a sleek design, making it a standout option in its class.
3 1971 Matador Machine Go
The 1971 Matador Machine Go was a cool version of the Matador that featured a wicked fast performance and a stylish design. It was a limited build, with only around 50 produced, making it a highly desirable collector’s car.
2 1969 AMX California 500 Special
The 1969 AMX California 500 Special was a limited edition performance car that was painted in a patriotic red, white, and blue color scheme. It offered impressive power and performance, and only around 32 were ever made, making it a rare collector’s item.
1 1970 Rebel Machine
15 Things That Set the Can-Am Spyder Apart from Traditional Motorcycles
Back in 1972, Can-Am was established as a subsidiary of the Bombardier Corporation. They initially focused on manufacturing off-road motorcycles until 1987 when they shifted their attention to snowmobiles, ATVs, and other products. However, in 2007, Can-Am entered the on-road market with a unique three-wheeled motorcycle known as the Can-Am Spyder. Here are 15 things that make the Can-Am Spyder different from traditional motorcycles:
1. Can-Am Motorcycles Come with Three Wheels
The most distinct feature of the Can-Am Spyder is its three-wheel configuration. Unlike traditional motorcycles that have two wheels, the Spyder has two front wheels and one rear drive wheel. This design ensures added stability and confidence, especially for new riders.
2. There Is the Can-Am Spyder
The Can-Am Spyder is a lineup of high-level three-wheeled street motorcycles offered by the company. These models feature larger engines and are capable of reaching top speeds of over 100 MPH. The Spyder lineup includes different trim levels, with the Can-Am Spyder F3 being the entry-level model and the Can-Am Spyder RT Sky-to-Sea being the top-of-the-line option.
3. There’s Also the Can-Am Ryker
The Can-Am Ryker is another three-wheeled motorcycle offered by Can-Am. It is marketed as a more entry-level model, but still offers plenty of fun and excitement. The Ryker comes in different engine sizes and models, including the Ryker Sport and the Ryker Rally.
4. Can-Am Bikes Make Up to 115 Horsepower
Can-Am motorcycles are equipped with powerful engines that can produce up to 115 horsepower. The F3 and RT models feature an inline three-cylinder 1330cc engine, while the Ryker models have inline twin 600cc and inline triple 900cc engines. These engines provide smooth and constant acceleration, making for an exhilarating riding experience.
5. The Can-Am Ryker Features a Unique Setup
The Can-Am Ryker is designed with a distinctive front-end setup. It features a large radiator positioned between the front wheels, ensuring efficient cooling without the need for additional plastics or designs. The Ryker also offers customizable side panels in various colors.
6. The Can-Am Lineup Comes with a CVT
All Can-Am motorcycles are equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This automatic transmission transfers power from the engine to the driveshaft smoothly and efficiently. Shifting gears is as simple as moving a lever, making for a hassle-free riding experience.
7. The Can-Am Ryker Rally Is Technically a Dual Sport
The Can-Am Ryker Rally is a variant of the Ryker designed for both off-road and on-road riding. It comes with stronger rims, on-off-road tires, mud flaps, and additional features like a push bar, skid plate, and pre-filtered intake. The Ryker Rally also offers different ride modes and improved suspension for better handling on dirt roads.
8. Countersteering Is Not a Thing with the Can-Am Motorcycle
Unlike traditional motorcycles, countersteering is not necessary when riding a Can-Am motorcycle. Countersteering is the act of pushing the handlebars in the opposite direction to initiate a turn. However, the Can-Am’s three-wheel design eliminates the need for this technique, as the two front wheels handle the steering.
9. The Can-Am Roadster Does Not Accelerate Like a Motorcycle
The Can-Am Roadster, such as the Spyder F3 model, has a different acceleration profile compared to traditional motorcycles. Its three-wheel configuration and added weight result in slower acceleration times. While traditional motorcycles can achieve quick bursts of speed, the Can-Am Roadster takes a bit longer to reach high speeds.
10. Limited In-Gear Acceleration
In-gear acceleration, such as passing another vehicle at high speed, is not as quick on a Can-Am motorcycle compared to traditional motorcycles. The added weight and design of the Roadster affect its ability to accelerate rapidly while at higher speeds. Riders need to plan their maneuvers accordingly when riding a Can-Am Roadster.
11. The Can-Am Motorcycle Is a Bike with a 400 Pound Towing Capacity
The Can-Am Roadster has a towing capacity of 400 pounds. It is designed to handle the weight of specially designed trailers that can be attached to the motorcycle. This feature makes the Can-Am Roadster a suitable option for long-distance touring or carrying additional gear.
12. The Can-Am Spyder Can Touch Speeds of Up to 125 MPH
Despite its unique design, the Can-Am Spyder is capable of reaching high speeds. The Spyder F3 model, for example, can touch speeds of up to 125 miles per hour. This allows riders to enjoy the thrill of speed on the open road.
13. If You’re a Solo Rider, the Can-Am F3 Is for You
The Can-Am Spyder F3 is specifically designed for solo riders. It offers a sporty and dynamic riding experience. The F3 comes in different variations, allowing riders to choose their preferred color, audio package, and additional features like a rear seat and hard cases.
14. The Can-Am Spyder RT Takes Things to the Next Level
The Can-Am Spyder RT is the luxury model in the lineup. It offers enhanced features like rear side cases, a front trunk for storage, hand and seat warmers for both the rider and passenger, and a six-speaker audio system. The RT models provide a high-end riding experience with added comfort and convenience.
15. The Can-Am Spyder Is Classified as a Motorcycle
Despite its unique design, the Can-Am Spyder is classified as a motorcycle. Operators of the Spyder are required to have a motorcycle license in most states. The Spyder operates more like a motorcycle than a car, with features like a twist throttle, left-mounted rear brake pedal, and a distinct riding experience.
2024 Honda CRF Models Return, Along With CB300R Naked Street Bike
Honda Racing Corporation factory team riders Chase Sexton, Hunter Lawrence, and Jett Lawrence swept the AMA Supercross championships, and now American Honda has officially announced the return of its 2024 CRF lineup. The Performance and Trail arms of the CRF family are coming back, along with the 2024 CB300R street bike.
The 2024 CRF Performance family consists of nine models, while the CRF Trail family includes four bikes. The CB300R stands alone as a street bike. Let’s start with the 2024 CRF450 lineup, which includes specific motocross bikes for different purposes.
The 2024 Honda CRF450 lineup is powered by a 449.8cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke single-cylinder engine. It features a Unicam overhead cam design with four valves. The intake valves are titanium and measure 38mm, while the exhaust valves are made of steel and measure 31mm.
The 2024 Honda CRF450R, the bike that dominated the 2023 AMA Supercross series, comes with a 44mm throttle body and Showa suspension. The 2024 Honda CRF450RWE (Works Edition) offers numerous upgrades, including a Yoshimura exhaust, D.I.D. DirtStar LT-X wheels, Twin Air air filter, Hinson clutch basket and cover, Renthal Kevlar grips, and more.
For those who prefer greater value, more off-road capability, or a street-legal version, Honda offers the 2024 CRF450R-S, CRF450RX, CRF450X, and CRF450RL, respectively.
On the trail side, riders can choose from the 2024 CRF250R, CRF250RX, CRF250F, CRF125F, CRF110F, and CRF50F. The CRF110F and CRF50F also come in white and bright color options.
The 2024 CB300R is the only street bike in the lineup, with other returning street models expected to be announced soon.
Here is a chart with pricing and availability information for the listed models:
| Model | Color(s) | MSRP | Availability |
| 2024 Honda CRF450R | Red | $9,699 | July 2023 |
| 2024 Honda CRF450RWE | Red | $12,499 | September 2023 |
| 2024 Honda CRF450R-S | Red | $8,899 | August 2023 |
| 2024 Honda CRF450RX | Red | $9,999 | July 2023 |
| 2024 Honda CRF450X | Red | $9,899 | September 2023 |
| 2024 Honda CRF450RL | Red | $10,099 | October 2023 |
| 2024 Honda CRF250R | Red | $8,299 | July 2023 |
| 2024 Honda CRF250RX | Red | $8,699 | July 2023 |
| 2024 Honda CRF150R | Red | $5,399, or $5,599 for the Big Wheel version | August 2023 |
| 2024 Honda CRF250F | Red | $4,999 | September 2023 |
| 2024 Honda CRF125F | Red | $3,499 or $3,899 for the Big Wheel version | July 2023 |
| 2024 Honda CRF110F | Red, White | $2,699 | July 2023 |
| 2024 Honda CRF50F | Red, White | $1,799 | July 2023 |
| 2024 Honda CB300R | Matte Black Metallic, Pearl Dusk Yellow | $5,149 | July 2023 |
Pricing and availability may vary in different regions. For the most accurate information, contact your local authorized Honda dealer.