1951 Ariel W/NG 350
The 1951 Ariel W/NG 350, a robust and utilitarian machine developed during World War II and produced through 1945. While 1951 falls outside its primary production years, it's possible that some units remained in service or were in circulation during the early 1950s.
Ariel W/NG 350 Overview
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Engine: 346cc OHV (Overhead Valve) single-cylinder, air-cooled, producing approximately 17 bhp at 5,800 rpm.
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Transmission: Four-speed gearbox with chain final drive
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Suspension: Girder front forks and solid rear
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Brakes: Drum brakes front and rear
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Weight: Approximately 169 kg (373 lbs)
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Fuel Capacity: 2.625 imperial gallons (approximately 12 liters)
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Top Speed: Around 65 mph (105 km/h).
Military Service
The W/NG was designed specifically for military use, with features like dual triangular toolboxes, pannier frames, rear carrying racks, and headlamp masks. Due to wartime shortages, rubber components were replaced with canvas grips and steel footrests. The British Army, Royal Air Force, Admiralty, Ministry of Agriculture, and Women's Land Army all utilized the W/NG 350 during the war.
Post-War Use
After World War II, many W/NG motorcycles were converted back to civilian specifications and sold. Some units remained in service with various military organizations into the early 1950s. Given its durability and utility, it's plausible that a 1951 Ariel single-cylinder military motorcycle could be a W/NG model that was still in use or circulation during that time.
Overview:
Not much is known of the history of this one, pulled out of a long time collectors estate.
Mileage:
N/A
Sheet Metal:
Original in great condition
Mechanical:
Pulled out of a long time collection, it will currently need some work to get in running condition, Motor turns over freely, Great Compression, Good Spark, Who knows maybe just needs a battery and some gas?
Wheel & Tires:
Tires are showing signs of dryness and weather cracking
Title:
Clean, clear, California title
Engine #: RBF2772
Frame #: WA2684
Belly #:
Transmission: 3 Speed
Sidecar #:
Notable Features:
Ariel Motorcycles was a British maker of bicycles and then motorcycles in Bournbrook, Birmingham. It was an innovator in British motorcycling, part of the Ariel marque. The company was sold to BSA in 1951 but the brand survived until 1967. Influential Ariel designers included Val Page and Edward Turner. The last motorcycle-type vehicle to carry the Ariel name was a short-lived three-wheel tilting moped in 1970. Ariel made bicycles before making motorcycles, and also made cars. Car production began in 1902, moved to Coventry in 1911 and ceased in 1925. The 'Ariel' name was reused in 1999 for the formation of Ariel Motor Company, a sports car producer.
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