2010 Shannons Melbourne Autumn Classic Auction
Lot
7
c1948 Ariel VH500 (OHV) Motorcycle
Sold: $5,000
Sold
Specifications
| Engine | Single-cylinder, 500cc OHV |
|---|---|
| Gearbox | 4-speed manual |
| Colour | Maroon |
| Trim | Black |
Description
This lot is no
longer available
The original Ariel company was established in 1870 to make bicycles, with the name coming from the first penny-farthing bicycle, which was so light they called it the Ariel 'spirit of the air'. In 1902, Ariel produced its first motorcycle, which had a Kerry engine with an innovative magneto ignition and a float carburettor. During World War II, the Ariel factory was turned over to military production and in 1944 the company was sold to BSA and the 500cc KH and VH models were produced. Telescopic forks were introduced in 1946, a design used throughout the BSA range until the late 1960s.
