Description
This motorcycle is Lot 241 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Spring Stafford Sale (The International Classic MotorCycle Show) on April 25th & 26th, please see the Bonhams Motorcycles Website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 1 - 94 are to be sold from 14:30 on Saturday 25th April 2026.
Lots 201 - 353 are to be sold from 11:30am on Sunday 26th April 2026.
Public Viewing:
Available 25th & 26th April 2026 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Staffordshire County Showground (The International Classic MotorCycle Show).
The David Plant Collection
** 1928 Ariel 499cc Model C Super-Sports**
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. V1124
Engine no. V2714
** Gearbox no. QH1886**
In 1926, Ariel's Chief Designer Val Page laid down the basis of the company's four-stroke singles range. The following year he moved the magneto behind the engine and thus established the form in which the Ariel single would survive for the next 30 years. Ariel's range at this time encompassed a dazzling variety of models: vertical engines, sloping engines, side valves, overhead valves - two or four per cylinder - all were represented alongside Edward Turner's revolutionary Square Four.
The overhead-valve Model C offered here is an older restoration. There is a handwritten note on file stating that frame 'V1124' was delivered to Lewis of Merthyr Tydfil on 23rd October 1926 and that engine 'V2711' (though the last digit to the engine appears to be a '4') was likewise delivered to Lewis on 18th January 1927 together with gearbox 'QH1886'. The machine originally had an AMAC carburettor. The engine is recorded as a C-type ('C' denoting Super-Sports specification). Also on file is a Swedish MHRF technical identification and brief history stating that the motorcycle was purchased in 1982 and was then in very poor condition, having been repainted in the 1950s, though the engine, frame, saddle and forks were said to remain in original condition. A purchase invoice from Dutch Lion Motorbikes dated March 2016 is present together with a Swedish vehicle identity document.
Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/ or restoration to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.
Key not required
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.
