Description
This motorcycle is Lot 296 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).
** c. 1940 Ariel 346cc W/ NG Military Motorcycle**
Registration no. Unregistered
Frame no. XG49636
Engine no. 124161 (see text)
By 1930 the engine of Ariel's Val Page-designed single-cylinder range had gained a rear-mounted magneto and its distinctive timing cover, and this basic design - frequently revised - would last well into the post-war era. For the 1936 season the Standard models were dropped and two new overhead-valve De Luxe models introduced: the 250cc LG and 350cc NG, complementing the sporting Red Hunters. When WW2 broke out, existing stocks of Ariel motorcycles (and those of other makes) were requisitioned for allocation to the British Armed Forces, pending the development of a military version of the 350 single, designated 'W/ NG', which first appeared in 1940. The W/ NG made a significant contribution to the war effort, with some 40, 000 delivered between 1940 and the end of hostilities. While early examples differed relatively little from their civilian counterparts , the W/ NG was progressively developed to suit military purposes throughout its time in production.
This interesting wartime motorcycle was purchased by our private vendor from an auction in 2014, then described as: Supplied as part of War Office Contract number 'C. 5492786', this motorcycle appears to be in unrestored condition, to military specification.
Its engineer owner had intended to register the motorcycle for road use and had it MoT tested in 2016, at which point the odometer recorded 0 miles. The odometer still shows the same reading today. As the owner possesses several other W/ NG models, this particular example was ultimately placed on the back burner.
It should be noted that the engine number does not conform to standard Ariel stampings, nor does the engine number include the expected prefix. However, 1940s W/ NG engine numbers differed between the Armed Services, which may explain this. Nevertheless, prospective purchasers must satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.
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. Offered unregistered, with the 2014 purchase receipt and 2016 MoT certificate.
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.
