Vintage Motorcycles | Ariel Motorcycles

Ariel Motorcycle History

Ariel of Bournbrook, Birmingham began in 1847 as a manufacturer of pneumatic-tired wheels for horse drawn carriages. In 1885 Ariel moved into bicycle production under the leadership of James Starley ("Father of the Bicycle Industry") and William Hillman.

Ariel manufactured one of the first all metal bicycles with equally sized wire-spoked wheels and chain-drive called the 'Rover Safety Bicycle,' which was a radical departure from the 'penny-farthing' bicycles of the time.

At the turn of the century Ariel moved into motorcycle and automobile manufacturing, building their De Dion powered tricycle in 1898, and a motor driven bicycle in 1901. The first Ariel motor-cycle was powered by a 211cc Minerva motor. Ariel relocating to Coventry in 1911.

Ariel Red Hunter

***Under Construction***

1936 500cc Ariel Red Hunter

Ariel 'Square Four'

***Under Construction***

1950 Ariel Square Four 1000cc

Ariel MK 2 Square Four 1000cc Engine

1957 Ariel MK 2 Square Four 1000

Ariel Links

Ariel Spares

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