LOT 457

1957 Ariel 499cc HS5 Registration no. not UK registered Frame no. PRS345 Engine no. NH357

Estimate: £7,000 - £10,000

Lot 457

1957 Ariel 499cc HS5

The Autumn Stafford Sale – The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show|14 October 2023, 10:30 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1957 Ariel 499cc HS5
Registration no. not UK registered
Frame no. PRS345
Engine no. NH357

Ariel was one of the last manufacturers to introduce a frame with rear suspension, the prototype of what would become the HS5 first appearing in 1952. By the time the production HS5 arrived for 1954, many competitors, including some Ariel works riders, had switched to rival makes. The new HS5 enjoyed some high-profile successes but by then it was too late. There was an abortive Earles-fork Mk2 version and then the Mk3 (the original being redesignated Mk1) a 'street scrambler' in a softer state of tune, making it road useable. The newcomer was aimed squarely at the US leisure market, but unlike the Trophy and Gold Star on/off-roaders produced by Triumph and BSA respectively, was not listed for the UK, although it is believed that a few were sold new in this country. A magdyno, lighting set and lower exhaust system with silencer were the major changes to the basic scrambler specification. After little more than two years in production, the HS5 Mk3 went the same way as Ariel's other four-strokes, being dropped in 1959.

This example of one of Ariel's rarest post-war models was formerly resident in the USA and comes with an old US bill of sale and California Certificate of Title. Restored at date unknown, the machine was run recently and is described by our vendor as in very good condition throughout. (The swinging-arm bushes need replacing – pair included.) Offered with a NOVA declaration.

Footnotes

All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

Saleroom notices

No notice.

Additional information

This auction is now finished. If you are interested in consigning in future auctions, please contact the specialist department. If you have queries about lots purchased in this auction, please contact customer services.
Buyers' Obligations
ALL BIDDERS MUST AGREE THAT THEY HAVE READ AND UNDERSTOOD BONHAMS' CONDITIONS OF SALE AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THEM, AND AGREE TO PAY THE BUYER'S PREMIUM AND ANY OTHER CHARGES MENTIONED IN THE NOTICE TO BIDDERS. THIS AFFECTS THE BIDDERS LEGAL RIGHTS.
If you have any questions about the Conditions of Sale, please contact your nearest client services team.
From 28 June 2025, the import into the EU of non-EU property of a certain age (and in some categories above a certain value) is subject to additional requirements. Under the relevant EU Regulation, it is the Buyer's sole responsibility to assess whether any Lot meets the criteria for import into the EU. The refusal of any required Import License or Importer Statement, or any delay in obtaining such License or Statement shall not give rise to the rescission or cancelation of any Sale, nor allow any delay in making full payment for the Lot.
Buyers' Premium and Charges
Like the vast majority of auctioneers Bonhams charge a Buyer's Premium on the Hammer Price of each Lot purchased and this is subject to VAT. Some lots may also be subject to VAT on the Hammer Price and these lots will be clearly marked with a symbol (†, Ω, *) printed beside the lot number.
For Automobilia the Buyer's Premium is 28% on the first £40,000 of the hammer price; 27% of the hammer price of amounts in excess of £40,001 up to and including £800,000; 21% of the hammer price of amounts in excess of £800,001 up to and including £4,500,000 and 14.5% of the hammer price of any amounts in excess of £4,500,001.
For Motor Cars and Vehicle Registration Numbers the Buyer's Premium will be 15% on the first £500,000 of the hammer price of each Lot, and 12% on the balance thereafter.
A 3rd party bidding platform fee of 4% + VAT of the Hammer Price for Buyers using the following bidding platforms will be added to the invoices of successful Buyers for auctions starting on or after 6th July 2024 – Invaluable; Live Auctioneers; The Saleroom; Lot-tissimo.
VAT at the standard rate is payable on the Buyers Premium by all Buyers, unless otherwise stated.
Payment Notices
For payment information please refer to the sale catalog.
Shipping Notices
For information and estimates on domestic and international shipping as well as export licences please contact Bonhams Shipping Department.
- Motorcycles