LOT 353

Property of a deceased's estate c.1950 Ariel 598cc VB Project Registration no. unregistered Frame no. AB3828 Engine no. 2531

Sold for £1,725 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve

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Lot 353

Property of a deceased's estate, c.1950 Ariel 598cc VB Project

The Spring Stafford Sale - The International Classic MotorCycle Show|21 April 2024, 11:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

Property of a deceased's estate
c.1950 Ariel 598cc VB Project
Registration no. unregistered
Frame no. AB3828
Engine no. 2531

By 1930 Ariel's new single-cylinder range, designed by the great Val Page, had gained a rear-mounted magneto and its distinctive timing cover, and the basic engine design - though frequently revised - would last well into the post-war era. Both overhead-valve and sidevalve versions were made, though there was only one of the latter in Ariel's post-war line-up: the 598cc VB, a long-stroke workhorse. First introduced for 1936 and intended for sidecar use, the VB was regularly updated along with the rest of the Ariel singles, gaining plunger rear suspension, a telescopic front fork and, finally, a swinging-arm frame as the 1950s progressed. Production ceased in January 1959 when parent company BSA decided to axe all of Ariel's four-stroke models.

This incomplete and distressed Ariel VB is presented in 'barn find' condition and offered for restoration. Although displaying the registration 'PLE 239', neither the frame nor engine numbers correspond, hence the machine is offered unregistered and sold strictly as viewed, its mechanical condition being unknown. It should also be noted that both the frame and engine numbers are badly corroded.
Key not required

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.

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This Lot will be auctioned on Sunday 21 April starting at 11am GMT.

Additional information

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