1956 Ariel HT Trials

Lot details
Registration No: 605 BPB
Frame No: CRT646
Engine No: MJ162
cc: 500

Ariel had introduced a pair of new competition singles, the HS scrambler and the HT trials model for the 1954 season. Both featured engines with Redhunter type bottom ends fitted with an alloy cylinder and head and four speed Burman gearboxes. The HS model employed a pivoted fork frame derived from that being used on the roadsters, but the HT continued with a rigid frame. The works trials riders found themselves at a disadvantage compared to their rivals from AMC and Royal Enfield who were mounted on machines equipped with swinging arm frames and started employing the sprung frame used by the HS. When the team arrived in Scotland for the start of the 1955 Scottish Six Day Trials in May they were mounted on machines that were effectively the prototypes for what is arguably the finest large capacity four stroke trials bike, the HT5. The machines retained the well proven all alloy engine of the HT but a completely new lightweight swinging arm frame of all welded construction was employed. The frame was open at the bottom with the engine, transmission and their associated "engine plates" effectively forming a structural component of the chassis. The swinging arm was built in the style of those fitted to the road going machines with an oval section made from two welded pressings per side and was complimented by a set of Ariel telescopic forks at the front. A light alloy fuel tank and an alloy, full width front hub were fitted. Replicas became available to the public in September 1955 and were joined in 1956 by the 350 HT3. As a result of the development work carried out by Sammy Miller with GOV 132 the big Ariel fought a valiant rearguard remaining competitive well into the sixties in the face of an ever growing number of lightweight machines and today is one of the most popular "heavyweight" singles with competitors in pre 65 trials, once again fighting against lightweight Cubs and James two strokes.
The HT offered has been restored to a very high standard.

PLEASE NOTE: The registration number of this vehicle is 605 BPB.