Two 1970 and 1973 Ariel 3 50cc Mopeds
No Reserve

Registration No: SJV 179H and ORD 139M
Frame No: 005073
MOT: Exempt

• One of history's most fascinating and ingenious (if misguided) motorcycles

• Sold with an assortment of spares

• A wonderful restoration opportunity

Ariel knew they were attempting something pretty off-the-wall when they launched the two-stroke Ariel 3 50cc three-wheeled moped in 1970, hence their amusing marketing material: “Here it is. Whatever it is. It’s not a bike. It’s not a car. But it’s fun.” It was conceived by engineer George Wallis, who sold his design to BSA when they were looking to re-enter the moped market; because its wheels were under 18 inches apart, the Ariel 3 was legally a moped. It was an ingenious design, with a flexible frame that allowed the front wheel to lean into corners while the rear remained upright. It was targeted at shoppers and commuters, and featured some handy luggage space over the rear wheels and outstanding fuel economy of up to 120mpg, though that came with top speed just below 30mph. Perhaps unsurprisingly, it was not a market success, but over time it has become a fascinating curiosity with a cult following.

We are pleased to offer two Ariel 3s as restoration projects. ‘ORD 139M’ has been off the road since 1986 but has a V5C, while ‘SJV 179H’ is not on the DVLA’s computers and will require registration. They are sold with an assortment of spares and at no reserve they represent a fantastic opportunity to acquire some fun winter projects.

For more information, please contact:
Mike Davis
mike.davis@handh.co.uk
07718 584217