VH (Red Hunter)

497cc ohv single || 375Ib || 55mpg || 85mph || 1945-58

This larger Red Hunter is a very sound big banger, usually finished in Ariel’s signature maroon. A reliable and comfy steed, both the rigid models and the later swinging arm machines each have their virtues. Mostly oil-tight, the alloy barrelled HS (scrambles) and HT (trials) competition versions are very highly sought-after and highly priced. A few have ended up in road trim. Ariel’s singles are still under-rated and are more affordable than many others, despite their excellence on the road.

Prices: low £3500 || high £7000