
Ariel Golden Arrow
Key specifications
Overview
### 1962 Ariel Golden Arrow: A Vintage Sport Icon Introducing the 1962 Ariel Golden Arrow, a striking example of British motorcycling heritage that perfectly embodies the spirit of sport and style. Designed by the legendary Val Page, the Golden Arrow was engineered to compete in the burgeoning sport category of its time, making it a favorite among riders who sought performance without sacrificing elegance. With its distinctive white and gold color scheme, this motorcycle not only captured attention on the road but also set a benchmark for sport bikes in the early 60s, merging aesthetics with advanced engineering. At the heart of the Golden Arrow is a 249cc twin-cylinder, two-stroke engine that produces a respectable 16 horsepower at 6,400 RPM. This compact powerhouse, coupled with a 4-speed gearbox and chain final drive, allows the bike to reach a top speed of 132 km/h (82 mph), making it exhilarating for riders who crave speed. The air-cooled design ensures reliable performance, while the Amal monobloc carburettor optimizes fuel delivery for impressive efficiency, achieving a remarkable fuel consumption rate of just 2.94 liters per 100 km (80.01 mpg). Riders will appreciate the nimble handling characteristics afforded by the lightweight 150 kg (330.7 lbs) frame, providing an agile and responsive experience on both city streets and winding country roads. The Golden Arrow boasts a robust backbone steel frame complemented by a trailing link front suspension and swingarm rear suspension, ensuring a comfortable ride even over rough terrain. Stopping power is delivered through reliable drum brakes, with both front and rear expanding brakes measuring 152 mm (6 inches) in diameter. These features, combined with a seat height of 762 mm (30 inches), make the Golden Arrow accessible to a wide range of riders, enhancing both comfort and control. Whether you are cruising or tackling challenging corners, the Golden Arrow's engineering is a testament to the era's innovative spirit. ###
Pros
Cons
- Striking Design: The distinctive white and gold color scheme, along with classic styling, makes the Golden Arrow a head-turner.
- Excellent Fuel Efficiency: With an impressive fuel consumption of 80.01 mpg, it's a cost-effective option for both daily rides and longer journeys.
- Lightweight & Agile: Weighing in at just 150 kg, the bike offers outstanding maneuverability, making it ideal for both new and experienced riders.
- Limited Power Output: At 16 HP, some riders may find the power underwhelming compared to modern sport bikes.
- Drum Brakes: While effective for their time, drum brakes may not provide the stopping power or responsiveness expected by contemporary riders.
- Two-Stroke Engine: The two-stroke engine may require more frequent maintenance and oil mixing, which could deter some enthusiasts seeking lower upkeep.
Technical details
Source specification data
- Make
- Ariel
- Model
- Golden Arrow
- Category
- Sport
- Comments
- Designed by Val Page.
- Color Options
- White/gold
- Power
- 16.00 HP (11.7 kW)) @ 6400 RPM
- Gearbox
- 4-speed
- Top Speed
- 132.0 km/h (82.0 mph)
- Fuel System
- Carburettor. Amal monobloc 375
- Bore X Stroke
- 54.0 x 54.0 mm (2.1 x 2.1 inches)
- Displacement
- 249.00 ccm (15.19 cubic inches)
- Cooling System
- Air
- Engine Details
- Twin, two-stroke
- Fuel Consumption
- 2.94 litres/100 km (34.0 km/l or 80.01 mpg)
- Greenhouse Gases
- O2
- g/km. (
- O2
- -
- Carbon
- dioxide emission)
- Transmission Type Final Drive
- Chain
- Dry Weight
- 150.0 kg (330.7 pounds)
- Seat Height
- 762 mm (30.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
- Fuel Capacity
- 9.00 litres (2.38 gallons)
- Power Weight Ratio
- 0.1067 HP/kg
- Seat
- Dual seat
- Wheels
- Wire spoked
- Rear Tyre
- 3.25-16
- Frame Type
- Backbone, steel
- Front Tyre
- 3.25-16
- Rear Brakes
- Expanding brake (drum brake)
- Front Brakes
- Expanding brake (drum brake)
- Rear Suspension
- Swingarm
- Front Suspension
- Trailing link, oil-damped
- Rear Brakes Diameter
- 152 mm (6.0 inches)
- Front Brakes Diameter
- 152 mm (6.0 inches)