Description
Ariel ca 1932 Model MB. 32 350 cc side valve frame# F 136 engine# BA 452
This machine has the cylinder inclined forward at 45 degrees to the vertical.
The sloping engine was a popular design feature around 1930, with the famous BSA “ sloper” as leading model.
The craze lasted about half a dozen years: by the mid thirties there were hardly any sloping models left; Panthers being a notable exception of course.
The 250 cc OHV Colt model of 1930 had been a good seller, but there was some demand for a similar machine with slightly better overall performance.
So in 1931 the factory introduced 346 cc OHV and S.V. versions of the Colt, with 72 mm bore and 85 mm stroke.
Magdyno lighting was an optional extra. Gearbox is 3 speed Burman, dry sump lubrication by twin plunger pump.
Primary chain is enclosed in a cast-aluminium oil bath. Note the enamelled gearbox end cover, an unusual feature in the thirties.
The speedometer is fitted in a tank top panel.
The machine has been restored with care.