Ariel Motorcycles Mb 1932
The 250cc OHV Colt model of 1930 had been a good seller for Ariel but there was some demand for a similar machine with slightly better overall performance.
In 1931 the factory then introduced the 346cc OHV and SV versions of the Colt with 72mm bore and 85mm stroke. Magdyno lighting was an optional extra.
Gearbox is a three speed Burman, dry sump lubrication by twin plunger pump. The primary chain is enclosed in a cast alloy oil bath. Note the enamelled gearbox end cover, an unusual feature of the30s and, as usual, the speedo is fitted into the petrol tank top panel.
This lovely mid-range 350cc model has the inclined cylinder head at 45 degrees. The sloping engine was popular in the 1930s (made so by the famous BSA Sloper) with the craze lasting for about 6 years. By the mid-thirties there were hardly any sloping models left; Panthers being the notable exception.
This machine has undergone a full restoration at some time in its recent life; however we have little exact information about when and what was done. It was purchased in 2008 from the Netherlands.