Description
National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
Viewing: Tues 24th March from 1pm
Auction: Wed 25th March from 9am
Location: National Motorcycle Museum, Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0EJ
1957 Ariel 350 Red Hunter
Estimate
£2, 500 - £3, 500
Registration No: WAS 808
Frame No: APR8309
MOT: Exempt
Offered from long-term single ownership
Fitted with an original Bender sidecar
Used for many long-distance tours around Britain and Europe
The Red Hunter originated with Ariel’s chief designer Edward Turner, who felt a need to get away from the company’s sober black colour scheme and enliven the range. Putting a 500cc OHV engine designed by predecessor Val Page in a rigid frame, he introduced a flashy scarlet and chrome fuel tanks and the option of a higher compression ratio, and so created the Red Hunter in 1932. Equipped with alloy crankcases and a choice of sports exhausts, Red Hunter variants of 250, 350 and 500cc Ariels became a hit, enduring until 1959. There were frequent updates, including a change to Maroon paint in the 1950s, swing-arm suspension and, for the 500, an alloy head in 1954, and an alloy head for the 350 in 1956.
This alloy-head 1957 350 Red Hunter appears in lovely condition, having been acquired by the late owner in 2007 and used for pulling a rare period Bender sidecar, with which he was able to enjoy many relaxed long-distance tours of Britain and the Continent. It was always well-maintained until, sadly, the owner’s illness forced the Ariel into retirement a few years ago. Believed to wear an older restoration which has now acquired a charming patina, the Red Hunter will need light recommissioning, and is offered with some old M. O. T. s.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.
Catalogues can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people).
