Lot 414: 1962 Ariel 247cc Arrow

Valentine �Val� Page had been Ariel�s designer back in the 1930s and his ultra-modern two-stroke twins, built on car-style production-lines and using steel pressings, were something of a tour de force when introduced in 1958. Greatly disliked by some traditionalists at the Selly Oak and BSA factories and thus neglected in development, they turned out to be very good bikes indeed, though the sportier rider was relieved to see the Arrow range supplement the enclosed Leader. Their characteristic two-stroke twin �thrum� became familiar around the streets, with an Arrow going so far as to be placed in the TT, much to the delight of their generally young riders. This 250 Arrow has been the subject of a careful cosmetic and mechanical rebuild by the vendor. Indeed, some details were still being finished at the time of cataloguing! In sparkling condition, with V5C and some relevant printed material, VJD 654 is a fine example of a newly-rebuilt British two-stroke classic.