1945 Ariel W/NG
Genuine Ex-WD model

Registration No: XXS 131
Frame No: XG56969
MOT: Exempt

• Authentically presented Ex-WD 350cc W/NG
• Fitted with the correct military contract extras
• Recently recommissioned, supplied with a V5C

Like many British motorcycle companies, Ariel began producing bicycles in the late 1800s, eventually progressing on to motorcycles in 1902. After a typically rocky few years for manufacturers in the early part of the century, Jack Sangster bought Ariel from the receivers at a bargain price and the company was renamed Ariel Motors (J.S.) Ltd, promptly resuming production in a new factory in Selly Oak, Birmingham. The NG350 was built mainly for the British military, designed by the firm's chief engineer Val Page around an engine he had developed six years earlier and based on a Scottish Six-Day Trials winning model, going into production in 1940. The Ariel was not initially selected by the War Department, but they were in great demand after the evacuation of Dunkirk when much of the British Army's hardware had been left behind. By 1944, aluminium was in short supply, so the primary drive and timing cases were produced in pressed steel, with other shortages dictating that the handlebar grips were made of canvas rather than rubber.

This ex-WD Ariel 350 was supplied on 31st of January 1945 under War Department Contract number S88049. Authentically presented, the bike had been laid up and dry stored for over 30 years until the present owner recommissioned it last year and obtained the present registration number from DVLA. It is offered with all the hard to find original WW2 equipment including the pressed steel engine covers, rare canvas grips, control levers, field stand, headlamp mask, rear convoy light and kickstarter arrester clip. The saddle bags, as well as the front and rear seats are original with new tyres fitted during the recommissioning. Showing a nice patina, the vendor reports that it starts easily and runs well with good charging and oil circulation. An ideal bike for use on vintage runs and WW2 re-enactment events, it will be supplied with a current V5C.

For more information, please contact:
Ian Cunningham
ian.cunningham@handh.co.uk
07415 871189