LOT 578

1949 Ariel 997cc Square Four Registration no. 281 XUX Frame no. GS654 Engine no. DK154

Sold for £10,005 inc. premium

Lot 578

1949 Ariel 997cc Square Four
Registration no. 281 XUX Frame no. GS654 Engine no. DK154

The Spring Stafford Sale - The International Classic MotorCycle Show|28 April 2019, 10:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1949 Ariel 997cc Square Four
Registration no. 281 XUX
Frame no. GS654
Engine no. DK154

Seventy years ago, a four-cylinder motorcycle was true exotica. Launched in difficult economic times while the Depression was at its worst, Ariel's Square Four saw off all the four-cylinder competition, principally in the form of the Matchless Silver Hawk. It continued in production until the late 1950s and was Ariel's flagship model throughout this period. Edward Turner, relatively unknown at the time but destined to become one of the giants of the motorcycle industry, designed the original 500cc ohc Square Four engine. Re-designed in the mid 1930s with pushrod valve operation as well as many other changes, it was available in 600cc & 1000cc capacities, but after the war only the larger engine was offered. Famously smooth, its wide power band was said to propel the bike from 10 to 90 mph in top gear. By 1949, the year of this example, the "Squariel" featured telescopic forks and Ariel's unique Anstey-link rear suspension. The engine is from the 1947 production. The vendor bought this Square Four nine years ago, but shortly afterwards acquired a Brough Superior. He has enjoyed riding the Ariel, but preferred the Brough, and the Square Four hasn't seen a great deal of use in his ownership. He tells us that there is an oil filter in the toolbox, and that the engine runs but the tappets rattle. Last started in August 2018, re-commissioning to a greater or less extent will be required. Prospective bidders should satisfy themselves as to the motorcycle's mechanical condition.

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

This lot is offered with a V5C, old MOTs and a bill of sale.

Additional information

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