Skip to main content

LOT 202

Property of a deceased's estate c.1971 Ariel 3 Moped Registration no. XPM 161J Frame no. 004910 Engine no. 407569

Sold for £287.50 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 202

Property of a deceased's estate,c.1971 Ariel 3 Moped
Registration no. XPM 161J Frame no. 004910 Engine no. 407569

Property of a deceased's estate
c.1971 Ariel 3 Moped
Registration no. XPM 161J
Frame no. 004910
Engine no. 407569

'Here it is. Whatever it is.' That was how the BSA Group's advertisers heralded the arrival of the ill-conceived Ariel 3 in 1970. A tricycle aimed squarely at commuters, the Ariel 3 was powered by a 50cc Dutch Anker engine and featured a clever banking front end controlled by torsion bars, while its closely-spaced rear wheels, which remained upright, allowed the Ariel trike to be classed as a moped. Sadly, the machine turned out to be a disastrous flop, the £2 million wasted on the project playing a big part in precipitating the Group's subsequent collapse. Supplied by Gloucester Cycle Co (Sussex) and last MoT'd to 1983, this example appears un-restored and is in a condition commensurate with its age. The machine is offered with an old-style V5 document and an expired MoT (1983).

Saleroom notices

The frame and engine numbers are obstructed by the bodywork and are unchecked.

Own a similar item?

Submit your item online for a free auction estimate.

How to sell

Looking for a similar item?

Our Cars specialists can help you find a similar item at an auction or via a private sale.

Find your local specialist

Specialist section

Auction Viewings

  • 6 December 2016, 16:00 - 19:30 GMT

Additional information