Auction

1959 Ariel Leader

Reserve price Not met!

This 1959 Ariel Leader is a fantastic example of the unique and stylish classic. Having been displayed in a local museum it’s presented in excellent condition overall and covered a modest 27,940 miles from new.

Auction expired without reaching reserve price

Description

In the summer of 1958, the Ariel Leader made it’s first appearance on British roads. The quirky 250cc two-stroke twin was a result of Ariel’s brave and innovative foray into the popular and growing lightweight-motorcycle market. Designed by Val Page and Bernard Knight and bringing together the best features of the scooter and motorcycle, the Leader went on to achieve ‘Bike of the Year’ award from Motorcycles News in 1959 – no mean feat when you consider the Triumph Bonneville was launched in the same year.

This beautiful two-tone 1959 Ariel Leader is believed to be the only one of its type in Jersey. It’s powered by a 250cc two-stroke twin with a 180-degree crank which is neatly enclosed under the protective pressed-steel panels designed to keep the rider ‘oil-free’. It’s covered a modest 27,940 miles from new.

Benefiting from being displayed in Jersey’s Pallot Steam and Motor General Museum, this Leader is presented in excellent condition overall. The striking Ivory & Flamboyant Red two-tone paint scheme perfectly suits the quirky nature of this bike, the only blemish to note being a small scratch on the right-hand side pannier. The chrome rear bumper and other chrome elements are all presented very well, along with the black leather seat.

The front fairing on this Leader has been converted to the later type 2 equivalent, providing a more sporty and rounded appearance. The original fairing and Perspex windscreen have been retained and stored and will be included in the sale, along with various other spares.

The simplistic instrument panel compromises of a large diameter speedometer in the centre, with battery amperage on one side and a clock on the other side of the speedometer.

The 16” wire wheels which provide a surefooted ride are presented very well and look great wrapped with whitewall tyres which also retain a decent amount of tread. The sale will also include an additional set of new wire wheels to help restore the appearance to showroom levels.

This Ariel Leader is an excellent example of the rare and quirky post-war British bike, with its unique and stylish appearance. Having been displayed in a local museum it’s presented in fantastic condition and a classic ready to be ridden and enjoyed.

This auction description is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. During the listing process Hammer Price requests a range of details about the vehicle from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must be comfortable and satisfied as to the accuracy of the description before bidding. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

Total Bids Placed:

Auction has expired

Auction expired without reaching reserve price

Highest bidder was: r****e

Bidder Name Bidding Time Bid Auto
r****e 18 June 2023 11:20 £200.00
a******8 17 June 2023 21:07 £100.00
Auction started 11 June 2023 19:00

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