Highlights
- Subject to a comprehensive restoration in 2016
- Very little use following the restoration
- Dating certificate confirms authenticity
The Appeal
In the pantheon of Britain’s great motorcycle makers of times gone by, Ariel stands out not as one of the sporty and glamorous marques, but as a maker of strong, powerful, sturdy and good-looking bikes for the grown-up sort of rider. Under Jack Sangster, one of the kingpins of the British motorcycle industry, Ariel was sold to BSA in 1951 and the 650cc Huntmaster was duly introduced to compete with the other big twins which were all the rage. The engine was developed from the BSA A10 twin but, in all other respects, the Huntmaster was every inch an Ariel, and perhaps the best thing about it was its 100mph top speed.
In the ’50s, the ton was the magic number and many young enthusiasts were reckless in their efforts to attain it, but the Huntmaster was no boy-racer machine. Its strength lay in its torque, which made it an ideal mount against which to attach a sidecar. Built to be comfortable and capable over long distances, the Huntmaster was well liked by the discriminating sort of rider who appreciated quality construction.
That quality could scarcely be more apparent than in the beautiful 1954 example offered for sale here. It was acquired by the previous owner for restoration in 2015 and he did an outstanding job of bringing it back to life. Since then it has seen little use, having been on static display in the vendor’s private motorcycle collection since 2018. In need of just light recommissioning, this is a fantastic opportunity to acquire a beautiful bike which has rarely been shown or rallied.
The History and Paperwork
- Originally despatched on 26th April 1954 to E. E. Atkinson Motors Ltd. of East Ham
- Comprehensively restored in 2016 by the previous owner
- Sold to the present owner in 2018 and placed on static display in his motorcycle collection
- Offered for sale with the present V5, one historic V5, a dating certificate supplied from the Ariel Works despatch record books, numerous invoices from the restoration and facsimiles of the 1948-1958 Workshop Manual for Ariel Twins and the Owner’s Guide Addendum for 1955
The Condition
- Excellent paint and chrome following 2016 restoration
- Seat recovered during restoration
- Numerous new parts bike used to make the bike look like new
Having been fully restored in 2016 and barely used on the road since, this Ariel is in truly excellent condition. It would be fair to say that apart from some very light cosmetic wear where it is to be expected, such as around the base of the centre stand, the restoration has scarcely aged at all and, after an hour or so spent with a rag and a tin of polish, it ought to come out looking like a fresh restoration.
The maroon paintwork is excellent, as is the chrome. An invoice shows that it was fully resprayed by F.D. Motorcycles, and the condition of the chrome would suggest that it was all either replaced or replated. The seat was recovered by C. E. Moore Coachtrimmers and, to finish it all off, it is apparent that parts which could be renewed, such as the handlebar grips and knee pads, have indeed been renewed.
As it is, the bike is highly presentable and would be very well-received at any classic motorcycle rally; it may even be in with a chance of taking home an award or two.
The Mechanics
- Only 209 miles covered since restoration
- All mechanical parts present in excellent condition
- A wonderful, straightforward recommissioning project
As this bike has not been on the road since 2018, we are unable to comment much on its mechanical condition, except to say that, outwardly at least, it looks excellent, and that ought to reflect on the quality of the work completed during the restoration. The invoices suggest that the mechanical systems were stripped and rebuilt, so we expect it to run very well with a bit of fresh fuel in the tank.
As with anything that has been off the road for a few years, we do recommend undertaking some elementary checks and whatever recommissioning work may be necessary. We were pleased to note that the brakes seemed to be working well as we wheeled the bike around.
The Summary
Being a fairly expensive bike when new, and hence sold in relatively small numbers, surviving Ariel Huntmasters are quite a rarity today. Without the sporting reputation of Bonnevilles and Gold Stars, they are also greatly underrated because they are torquey, long-legged and comfortable bikes, with just the sort of qualities you’d want if you intend to ride for meaningful distances.
This is an excellent example, having been restored to a very high standard just a few years ago and placed on static display since. An ideal bike to recommission for anyone who enjoys a bit of straightforward tinkering, with just a weekend’s work this could be back on the road and attracting admirers at rallies.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
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