
LOT 332
1938 Ariel 497cc Red Hunter Project Registration no. not registered Frame no. XG 5539 Engine no. None visible
Sold for £4,370 inc. premium
Lot 332
1938 Ariel 497cc Red Hunter ProjectRegistration no. not registered Frame no. XG 5539 Engine no. None visible
1938 Ariel 497cc Red Hunter Project
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. XG 5539
Engine no. None visible
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. XG 5539
Engine no. None visible
Val Page's arrival at Ariel in 1925 as Chief Designer would trigger a welcome upturn in the firm's fortunes. Page designed new models to replace the existing range, the first of which - a pair of singles displacing 600cc (sidevalve) and 500cc (overhead-valve) - debuted later that year. By 1930 the Ariel single had gained a rear-mounted magneto and its distinctive timing cover, and the engine's basic design - though frequently revised - would stand the company in good stead well into the post-war era. In 1932 the sports versions were christened 'Red Hunter' and under Page's successor Edward Turner developed into fast and stylish machines. In mid-1946 the Hunters became the first models to feature Ariel's new telescopic front fork, and the following year could be ordered with the optional Anstey Link plunger rear suspension. A new duplex loop frame with swinging-arm rear suspension was adopted for 1954 and the 500cc VH gained an alloy 'head at the same time (a feature the 350cc NH would not enjoy until the 1956 range was announced). In 1956 full-width alloy hubs were adopted across the range and the Red Hunters continued in this form until production ceased in 1959.
Offered with an Ariel OC dating letter, this incomplete Red Hunter is offered for restoration and sold strictly as viewed. This Lot includes a quantity of spares.
Offered with an Ariel OC dating letter, this incomplete Red Hunter is offered for restoration and sold strictly as viewed. This Lot includes a quantity of spares.
Footnotes
As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.
Saleroom notices
The frame number is believed to be a non factory stamp.









Additional information
Looking for a similar item?
Our Motorcycles specialists can help you find a similar item at an auction or via a private sale.
Find your local specialistSpecialist section

Auction Viewings
- 28 April 2001, 09:00 - 17:00 BST
- 27 April 2019, 09:00 - 18:00 BST
Bid now on these items
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1971 Kawasaki 500 Mach III
£3,000 - £5,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1926 Triumph 494cc
£4,000 - £6,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1934 Austin Seven 65
£4,000 - £6,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1936 Austin 7 Ruby,
£3,200 - £4,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
Triumph 5T
£3,000 - £4,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
Triumph Tiger 100
£3,000 - £4,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1915 Douglas 350cc 2¾hp
£4,000 - £5,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
Triumph 6T
£3,000 - £4,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
Triumph 6T
£3,000 - £4,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1921 Triumph 550cc Model H
£4,000 - £5,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1916 Radco 211cc
£3,400 - £4,400
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1974 Moto Guzzi 750S
£4,000 - £6,000
United Kingdom
A Michaux & Cie Velocipede, circa 1870,
£4,000 - £6,000













