LOT 17 *N
The Connoisseurs Collection, Part II 1959 Ariel 995cc Square Four Mark 2 Registration no. not registered (see text) Frame no. CGM1927 Engine no. XJ635
The Connoisseurs Collection, Part II, 1959 Ariel 995cc Square Four Mark 2
The Connoisseurs Collection, Part II
1959 Ariel 995cc Square Four Mark 2
Registration no. not registered (see text)
Frame no. CGM1927
Engine no. XJ635
1959 Ariel 995cc Square Four Mark 2
Registration no. not registered (see text)
Frame no. CGM1927
Engine no. XJ635
If the Lot is to stay in the UK or is not exported within 90 days of sale, Import VAT at 5% on the hammer price is payable.
Designed by Edward Turner, creator of the legendary Triumph Speed Twin, the first Ariel Square Four was shown at the Olympia Motorcycle Show in 1930. Conceived as an overhead-camshaft 500, the model grew to 601cc before a total redesign saw it emerge in 1937 as the Model 4G, with 995cc overhead-valve engine. Anstey-link plunger rear suspension became an option in 1939 but would not be offered again until 1946 when a telescopic front fork replaced the previous girder type. An exercise in weight shedding saw the cast-iron cylinder head and barrel replaced by alloy components for 1949, the revised model, now capable of 90mph-plus, being known as the Mark 1. Introduced in 1953, the 'four-pipe' Mark 2 with its redesigned cylinder head elevated the Square Four into the league of genuine 100mph motorcycles. Square Four production ceased in 1959, along with that of all other Ariel four-strokes. To date, the innovative Ariel Square Four remains unique in motorcycling history; a true 'gentleman's motorcycle', this refined yet characterful machine retains an enthusiastic and loyal following, and is highly prized by discerning enthusiasts.
Dating from the final year of production and first registered on 20th January 1959, this Square Four is presented in restored condition, currently displaying a total of 152 miles on the odometer. Its frame and engine numbers match those recorded by the HPI and DVLA. The HPI database also records two former keepers prior to the last V5 being issued. Despite displaying the vehicle registration number 'VYY 950', the HPI and DVLA database confirm that there is an export marker against this machine and that the last V5 was issued in June 1993 (it was exported in August 1993). Prospective bidders must therefore satisfy themselves as to the validity of the vehicle registration number prior to bidding. This machine is offered with a key although it does not appear to be required.
Offered without documents and subject to the usual import channels. Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/or restoration to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.
Offered with key
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.
Please see the Auction Information and Guide for Buyers at the top of the main sale page, for bidders' obligations. The Spring Stafford Sale
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This Lot will be auctioned on Saturday 25 April, with the auction starting at 2:30pm BST.







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Lot symbols
| * | Import low rate |
| VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium. | |
| N | NOVA declaration |
| This machine is subject to post-sale customs administration and, for UK Buyers, a NOVA declaration. Whilst the responsibility of submitting the NOVA rests with the Buyer to do so, Bonhams will facilitate the process by engaging an agent (SHIPPIO) to undertake the NOVA and C88 (customs) application if applicable on the Buyer's behalf. A fee to do so will be added to the Buyer's invoice, as follows: for Live Public Sales: £350 + VAT; for Timed, Online-only Sales: £195 + VAT. |





