Ariel Motorcycles

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Ariel VH Red Hunter 500cc 1955

Model VH 500 c.c. RED HUNTER SINGLE

Engine: Vertical O.H.V. 81.8 x 95 mm.- 497cc. (3.22 x 3.74 - 30.4 cubic inches). Cast iron cylinder and aluminium alloy cylinder head with valve seat inserts. Vachrome top piston rings. Crankshaft mounted on two heavy duty roller bearings and one ball bearing. Double row roller big end. Gear drive camshaft Push rod operated over-head valves. Lubrication: double plunger pump. Chain driven magdyno. Manual ignition control. Amal 'Monobloc' carburettor with air cleaner.

Frame: Duplex cradle type, fully triangulated, ensuring great rigidity. Swinging arm rear suspension. Hydraulic damping. Rubber bushed pivots. Lugs for sidecar attachment either side. Thief-proof steering lock. Stands: easy-lift spring-up central and strong tubular front, also prop stand.

Front Forks: Telescopic with hydraulic damping. Attractive headlamp hood and fork cover with built-in illuminated instrument panel, containing speedometer, ammeter and lighting switch.

Hubs: Full width light alloy fitted with heavy duty ball bearings front and rear. Powerful central brakes with non-fade linings. Car type fulcrum adjustment. New quickly detachable rear wheel.

Transmission: Four-speed gearbox, foot control. Three-plate dry clutch. Engine shaft shock absorber. Polished aluminium oil bath primary chain case. Rear chain fully protected and lubricated.

Handlebars and Controls: Adjustable, chromium plated, 7/8 in. diameter.

Petrol Tank: Rubber mounted, enamelled and lined with chromium plated motifs. Quick action filler cap.

Mudguards: Wide D section. Back end of rear guard detachable for easy wheel removal.

Equipment: Ariel design dual seat and pillion footrests. Trip speedometer 120 m.p.h. (180 km.p.h.). 7 ½ in. headlamp. 56 watt dynamo. 12 amp. Battery. Stop and tail lamp. Reflector. Electric horn. Tool box and tools. Tyre inflator

Finish: Superbly finished in best quality Deep Claret enamel.