Description
ARIEL 1956 Model VH 497cc “Red Hunter” frame # PR3837 engine # MB 736
The basics of the “Red Hunter“ design can be traced back to a Val Page, but the name first came into use in the 1932 programme that had been designed by Edward Turner.
The new sporty OHV models in 250, 350 and 500cc capacities were very good-looking, reliable and sturdy. They became great performers in off-road competition work as well as for fast touring and were further developed and produced till 1960, when Ariel management decided to concentrate on two strokes and phase out four stroke production.
For the 1956 model year two Red Hunter models are produced, a 347cc version and a 497cc model that has bore x stroke dimensions of 81.8 x 95mm.
The crankshaft is mounted on three heavy duty roller bearings and the big end features double row rollers.
The frame is of the duplex cradle type, fully triangulated, which ensures great rigidity.
There is swinging arm rear suspension on board and the rear chain is fully enclosed.
The attractive headlamp hood and fork cover has a built-in illuminated instrument panel and contains speedometer, ammeter and lighting switch.
There are three stands on board, an easy-lift spring-up central, a strong tubular front, and a practical prop stand.
The compression ratio is 6.8:1 and the engine turns out a healthy 26hp@6,000rpm. Top speed is about 135km and the average petrol consumption 1:25.
This VH is a very practical and reliable everyday touring machine.
She is an older restoration with obviously some traces of use but clearly shows the quality to which these Ariels were built.
Currently an Amal Concentric carburettor is fitted but with the machine comes a fully reconditioned Monobloc.
She comes with current registration, luggage rack and rear view mirror and has covered thousands of trouble free miles all over Europe in the many years she was in custody of the former enthusiastic owner.