1954 Ariel 500cc HS rep, V5C doc, good runner

1954 Ariel HS rep, 500cc, bobber, green laner with V5C.

Here is an interesting, fun machine. An Ariel HS look-a-like based on a ‘54 NH (Red Hunter) but converted with earlier top end to 500cc.

The bike is a good starter and sounds good. It rides very well. It is quite high geared and is ideal for chugging around the lanes. It has a pattern Smiths chronometric speedometer fitted and in good working order. There are no electrics on the bike. Gearbox and clutch are very good and brakes are OK. Steering is good and straight and the bike feels nicely balanced.

The bike has not covered many miles since it was rebuilt (by previous owner) I have done about 10 miles just to check it's OK. Therefore the new owner should be prepared to bed the bike in through a recommissioning / shake-out period before returning to the road in earnest.

The bike comes with V5C doc. Registration number is 984 XVD, frame number KS1572, engine number MA302. It is registered as Historic Vehicle therefore MOT exempt and road tax is free.

I have inspected the bore and piston and can confirm bore and stroke as 81.8mm x 95mm = 500cc.

Cosmetically the bike is quite nicely turned out. Unusual in Ariel's special Wedgewood Blue as used for Coronation special edition models in 1952. The colour certainly adds to the bike's unique appeal.

In general it is in really great cosmetic condition and all the expensive stuff has been recently renewed. Rims and spokes practically as new, standard rustless type spokes. Front rim is 20” with unused Dunlop Universal tyre, rear is 18” with new Michelin Competition X1 tyre. (road legal).

note the "chrome" flashes on the tank are actually stuck-on, not real chrome plate!

There is no fin damage on the engine. The centre stand is a bit wobbly but it's easy to get the bike onto it.

New exhaust, new seat. Mudguards are steel, silver painted steel.

So don't miss this fun 500cc British single. Ideal to ride and improve and enjoy around the lanes this Spring / Summer.