1960 Ariel Leader 247cc For Sale (picture 1 of 13)
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1960 Ariel Leader 247cc For Sale (picture 1 of 13)
1960 Ariel Leader 247cc For Sale (picture 2 of 13)
1960 Ariel Leader 247cc For Sale (picture 3 of 13)
1960 Ariel Leader 247cc For Sale (picture 4 of 13)
1960 Ariel Leader 247cc For Sale (picture 5 of 13)
1960 Ariel Leader 247cc For Sale (picture 6 of 13)
1960 Ariel Leader 247cc For Sale (picture 7 of 13)
1960 Ariel Leader 247cc For Sale (picture 8 of 13)
1960 Ariel Leader 247cc For Sale (picture 9 of 13)
1960 Ariel Leader 247cc For Sale (picture 10 of 13)
1960 Ariel Leader 247cc For Sale (picture 11 of 13)
1960 Ariel Leader 247cc For Sale (picture 12 of 13)
1960 Ariel Leader 247cc For Sale (picture 13 of 13)
Current bid
£2,120

1960 Ariel Leader 247cc

Highlights

  • Stored in a dehumidified garage during current ownership
  • Comes with the original "buff" logbook
  • Previously owned by a collector
  • Previously restored to a high standard

The Appeal

Encouraged by the burgeoning popularity of Vespa and Lambretta scooters, British motorcycle manufacturer Ariel sought to create something similar for the commuter market. Enter the Ariel Leader, with a pressed steel frame and thermoplastic bodywork enclosing the mechanicals. This was

 247cc twin-cylinder two-stroke Ariel's first two-stroke machine since 1916, although with two cylinders and a 247cc capacity, this was a far more powerful machine than the Italian scooters that likely inspired it.

Today, these unusual bikes are a rare find, and this 1960 example looks to be in superb condition for its age, having undergone restoration some years ago. The vendor acquired the Ariel at auction in October 2022, and has since stored it in a dehumidified garage.

 Its vibrant period-correct colours make it a real head-turner.
WhatsApp Image 2025-04-23 at 13.46.51 (4) Deborah Hebel.jpeg 760.64 KB

History and Paperwork

  • Purchased at auction in October 2022
  • Comes with the original "buff" logbook for registration '42 NPG'
  • Some older expired MOT certificates from 1996 to 2000 included
  • Previously owned by a collector
  • Includes an owner's guide
  • Exempt from road tax and MOT

The Condition

  • While details of the restoration are unknown, the work was evidently carried out to an excellent standard
  • The bodywork and paint presents impeccably with minimal signs of wear
  • No dents or corrosion to the pressed steel frame
  • The thermoplastic panels do not appear cracked or crazed
  • Some small marks around the edges of the lower edges of the fairing/leg shield
  • No notable wear to the vinyl seat upholstery
  • The perspex screen appears in very good condition
  • Very smart chrome wheels
  • Panniers are unlocked but no key is available

The Mechanics

  • 247cc two-stroke twin
  • Four-speed manual gearbox (unit construction)
  • Reportedly running correctly and to factory standard
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following: 
The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions.. 
We request that a non-refundable fee  be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates. 
This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind. 
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. 
We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence. 
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own  full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle. 
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection 
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. 
Current bid
£2,120
Reserve not met

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Auction Details

  • Year1960
  • MakeAriel
  • ModelLeader
  • ColourMulticolour
  • Engine size247cc
  • Seller TypePrivate
  • TownCanterbury
  • CountyKent
  • CountryUnited Kingdom
  • Auction ends

Bidding history

7 Bids from 3 bidders

Cat aut••••
Bid
£2,120
10/05/25
EddieBu••••
Bid
£2,001
10/05/25
Cat aut••••
Bid
£1,850
10/05/25
EddieBu••••
Bid
£1,750
10/05/25
Cat aut••••
Bid
£1,200
10/05/25
EddieBu••••
Bid
£1,000
07/05/25
Jkw••••
Pre-bid
£555
02/05/25

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