Lot 113
1931 Ariel 499cc Model SF31 'Sloper'
Registration no. RSL 679 Frame no. S1417 Engine no. 1484
23 April 2017, 11:30 BST
Stafford, Staffordshire County ShowgroundSold for £24,150 inc. premium
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1931 Ariel 499cc Model SF31 'Sloper'
Registration no. RSL 679
Frame no. S1417
Engine no. 1484
Registration no. RSL 679
Frame no. S1417
Engine no. 1484
Ariel's range for 1931 encompassed a dazzling variety of models: vertical engines, sloping engines, sidevalves, overhead valves - two or four per cylinder - all were represented along with Edward Turner's revolutionary Square Four. Following the then fashionable trend, the SF31 was one of three half-litre 'Sloper' models that joined the range in the spring of 1931. Like that of its fellows, the newcomer's overhead-valve engine was inclined at 30 degrees from the horizontal, conveying the benefits of better cooling, greater accessibility, and a lowered centre of gravity for improved handling. A twin-pipe exhaust system, exiting from a transverse silencer box ahead of the engine, was a particularly striking feature. Sadly, the model lasted for just one season, the economic recession and Ariel's own sorry financial plight seeing the range slimmed down at the Slopers' expense.
This ultra-rare SF31 was one of a pair despatched to Ariel's main dealer, South of Ireland Motorcycles in Cork, on 11th February 1932. An old Irish logbook showing the original registration comes with it. The machine is presented in beautifully restored condition, boasting stainless steel wheel rims and spokes, stainless steel exhaust system, re-chromed fuel tank, etc. Accompanying paperwork consists of a VMCC dating certificate, V5C registration document, and the aforementioned logbook. A later two-brush dynamo is the only notified deviation from factory specification.
This ultra-rare SF31 was one of a pair despatched to Ariel's main dealer, South of Ireland Motorcycles in Cork, on 11th February 1932. An old Irish logbook showing the original registration comes with it. The machine is presented in beautifully restored condition, boasting stainless steel wheel rims and spokes, stainless steel exhaust system, re-chromed fuel tank, etc. Accompanying paperwork consists of a VMCC dating certificate, V5C registration document, and the aforementioned logbook. A later two-brush dynamo is the only notified deviation from factory specification.
Footnotes
As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.