1957 Triumph Other

MH309

Clear

Very rare long-stroke HS, expertly restored by a marque expert! 1957 Ariel HS Engine Number: MH309 Mention Ariel and the mind immediately goes to images of the iconic 1000cc Square Four, but Ariel's history is anchored by the single-cylinder Red Hunter, introduced in 1932. A quarter-century later, Ariel's greatest fame in competition came from an updated single, the HT trials mount ridden by feet-up ace Sammy Miller, while the company's HS scrambles machine was a pretty formidable weapon in its own arena. Introduced in 1954, the HS model was powered by a handsome, all-alloy 500cc thumper running a 9.1:1 compression ratio, lumpy cams and heavy-duty valve springs, all good for a traction-grabbing 33-34 hp. "Built to Go!" said the magazine ads, and many a surprised BSA Catalina Scrambler pilot could attest to that. Dispatching bumps was a new duplex frame with swinging-arm rear suspension, a definite step up from Ariel's previous plunger-frame setup. A curvaceous right-side exhaust, chrome-paneled gas tank and chrome-plated fenders added style and flair. Soon after WWII, an American Air Force pilot began flying back and forth from his base in California to bases in southern England. While on one of these trips, he discovered the Ariel Square Four and was smitten. Returning with the bike aboard, he forged a relationship with the Ariel brand that spawned, first a business of bringing bikes and parts back from England, to the formation of the Ariel Owners Club, to making use of his engineering background for a restoration business for his own bikes and for clients and friends. Retiring in 1990, the hobby continued on and to date, he has rebuilt 107 Square Four engines alone! And still has a bike on the bench. To say he is an expert of the marque is just scratching the surface. The seller purchased the bike offered from the inimitable Bud Ekins as a complete bike in need of a lot of help. Unfortunately, it was a cash transaction and we have no paperwork to go with the sale at that time, though the seller will put it in writing. Of 1957 vintage, this HS Scrambler has matching engine and frame numbers. Several years ago, the bike was treated to a ground up restoration. The rare long strokeengine was fully rebuilt from the crank up and, with a rebuilt gearbox, it was mounted in a restored frame. Restoration attention was given to all cycle parts and wiring. The bodywork was restored and the tank repainted. A new wiring harness was installed. Meticulously maintained, the bike is offered in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition throughout. The engine is strong and has plenty of responsive power. Brakes and suspension are excellent, and all electrical works as it should. This is a great opportunity to acquire a fantastic riding HS built by a true aficionado, accomplished engineer and one of the world’s leading marque experts. It is ready to ride anywhere and enjoyed.