Description
National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
Viewing: Tues 21st July from 1pm
Auction: Wed 22th July from 10am
Location: National Motorcycle Museum, Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0EJ
Registration No: HVH 308Frame No: KS 2990MOT: Exempt
Ariel's rare BSA A10-engined 650 twin
The last of the Ariel four-stroke models
Reconditioned mag, supplied with V5C
Like many British motorcycle companies, Ariel began producing bicycles in the late 1800s, eventually progressing on to motorcycles in 1902. After a typically rocky few years for manufacturers in the early part of the century, in 1932 Jack Sangster bought Ariel from the receivers at a bargain price. The company was renamed Ariel Motors (J. S.) Ltd, and promptly resumed production in a new factory in Selly Oak, Birmingham and one of their first bikes produced was the OHC Ariel Square Four designed by Edward Turner and the updated Ariel Red Hunter single in various engine sizes. The new models proved to be such a success it enabled Ariel to purchase Triumph motorcycles, eventually becoming part of the BSA group in 1951. Introduced for the 1954 season, the new 650cc twin-cylinder Ariel FH650 Huntmaster utilised the highly regarded BSA A10 Golden Flash engine in the newly developed Ariel pivoted fork frame and has the distinction of being the brand's last new four-stroke model before the arrival of the two-stroke Leader range in the early 1960s. The engine shared its internals and cast iron cylinder head with the A10, but had a more compact valve cover that made it easier to adjust the valve clearances and an Ariel badged timing cover.
This BSA A10 engined Huntmaster has been restored in the past, keeping a good degree of originality. The wheels were refurbished with new rims and spokes, shod with period correct tyres, and the paintwork re-finished with a red fuel tank and side panels. It was recommissioned in 2024, including a reconditioned magneto and dynamo overhaul. Not used much since due to ill health, it will need the normal checks before being ridden. It comes supplied with an Ariel Owners Club dating letter together with a current V5C.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Entry by catalogue and can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people)
