Description
This motorcycle is Lot 539 of Bonhams Motorcycles Online – The Winter Sale; open for bidding 5-15th December 2025.
Please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Bidding on all Lots commences Friday 5 December, 12:00 noon.
Bidding closes Monday 15 December, 12:00 noon, starting with Lot 501.
Each subsequent Lot will then close one minute apart unless bidding remains active.
Public Viewing:
Lots 501, 519 & 525 only:
Friday 12 December, 9am - 5pm
All Remaining Lots:
Wednesday 10 December, 9am - 5pm
Thursday 11 December, 9am - 5pm
Please email using the button below with your availability to schedule an appointment.
Lot 539
1957 Ariel NH350 Red Hunter
Registration no. PAS 599
Frame no. PR1973
Engine no. MA762
By 1930, Ariel's Val Page-designed singles had gained a rear-mounted magneto and their distinctive timing cover, and this basic engine design would stand the company in good stead well into the post-war era. The sports versions were designated 'Red Hunter', and under Page's successor Edward Turner were developed into fast and stylish machines. In 1946 the Red 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, the 500cc VH gaining an alloy 'head at the same time (a feature the 350cc NH would not enjoy until the 1956 range was announced). Stylish sports roadsters, the much-loved Red Hunters were discontinued when production of all Ariel four-stroke models ceased in 1959.
Currently displaying a total of 25, 584 miles on the odometer, this 350 Red Hunter was purchased by the private vendor in October 2022 from a Mr P Gregory of Forest Row, Sussex (as evidenced by the old V5C on file). Mr Gregory had acquired the Ariel in May 2006 from a Mr D Faben of Keighley, who had owned it since 8th August 1957. The machine appears substantially complete and highly original, even retaining the often discarded full enclosure of the rear chain. According to our vendor, he had the Ariel running in October 2023 but it sounded rough, hence it is offered ripe for restoration and sold strictly as seen – a worthy winter project indeed!
It should be noted that the accompanying HPI report records a change to the registration number in 2003, the old VRN being 'MJG 183' (the current VRN 'PAS 599' is non-transferable). Additional documents include a current V5C; a DVLA Vehicle Enquiry Report; and an Ariel Owners Guide. A spare clutch cover is included in the sale.
£1, 600 - 2, 200
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.
