Beskrivning
This motorcycle is Lot 65 of Bonhams Motorcycles Online – The Spring Sale; open for bidding 13-23rd February 2026. This Lot is available for public view and eventual collection from Bonhams Motorcycle Department, Milton Keynes.
Please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Bidding on all Lots commences Friday 13 February, 12:00 noon.
Bidding closes Monday 23 February, 12:00 noon, starting with Lot 65
Each subsequent Lot will then close one minute apart unless bidding remains active.
Public Viewing (BY APPOINTMENT ONLY):
All Lots:
Wednesday 18 February, 9am - 5pm
Please email using the button below with your availability to schedule an appointment.
Lot 65
1954 Ariel 346cc Red Hunter
Registration no. To be advised
Frame no. DU1112
Engine no. LB573
By 1930, Ariel's Val Page-designed singles had gained a rear-mounted magneto and their distinctive timing cover, and the basic engine design, though frequently revised, would last well into the post-war era. The sports versions were christened 'Red Hunter' and under Page's successor Edward Turner developed into fast and stylish machines. In 1946 the Hunters became the first models to feature Ariel's new telescopic front fork, and the following year could be ordered with the optional 'Anstey Link' plunger rear suspension. A new duplex loop frame with swinging-arm rear suspension was adopted for 1954 and the 500cc VH gained an alloy 'head at the same time (a feature the 350cc NH would not enjoy until the 1956 range was announced). In 1956 full-width alloy hubs were adopted across the range, and the Red Hunters continued in this form until production of Ariel four-strokes ceased in 1959.
First registered on 9th October 1954, this 350 Red Hunter was acquired by the previous owner, a prominent Kent collector, in September 1990 and used on VMCC and Kent runs as his main motorcycle. Purchased by the private vendor in 2011, it has been kept as part of a private collection since acquisition. Last serviced by Pete's Bikes in 2022, the Ariel was then ridden by motorcycling journalist Richard Rosenthal, who said it ran beautifully and was very quiet. The machine has not been used since; recommissioning and the customary safety checks will be required before it returns to the road. Accompanying paperwork consists of Draganfly Motorcycles Spares Lists; sundry bills; expired MoT certificates; and an old V5 registration document. Please note that the vendor is retaining the current vehicle registration number. The new vehicle registration number is to be confirmed and the machine will be offered with a V5C.
£2, 000 - 2, 500
All lots are sold ‘as is/ where is’ and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
