Ariel Golden Arrow 1962 - Specifications & Review
Article Complete Info
| Articleid | 580460 |
|---|---|
| Category | Sport |
| Make | Ariel |
| Model | Golden Arrow |
| Year | 1962 |
Chassis, Suspension, Brakes & Wheels
| Frametype | Backbone, steel |
|---|---|
| Frontbrakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) |
| Frontbrakesdiameter | 152 mm (6.0 inches) |
| Frontsuspension | Trailing link, oil-damped |
| Fronttyre | 3.25-16 |
| Rearbrakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) |
| Rearbrakesdiameter | 152 mm (6.0 inches) |
| Rearsuspension | Swingarm |
| Reartyre | 3.25-16 |
| Seat | Dual seat |
| Wheels | Wire spoked |
Engine & Transmission
| Borexstroke | 54.0 x 54.0 mm (2.1 x 2.1 inches) |
|---|---|
| Coolingsystem | Air |
| Displacement | 249.00 ccm (15.19 cubic inches) |
| Enginedetails | Twin, two-stroke |
| Fuelconsumption | 2.94 litres/100 km (34.0 km/l or 80.01 mpg) |
| Fuelsystem | Carburettor. Amal monobloc 375 |
| Gearbox | 4-speed |
| Greenhousegases | 68.2 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) |
| Power | 16.00 HP (11.7 kW)) @ 6400 RPM |
| Topspeed | 132.0 km/h (82.0 mph) |
| Transmissiontypefinaldrive | Chain |
Other Specifications
| Coloroptions | White/gold |
|---|---|
| Comments | Designed by Val Page. |
Physical Measures & Capacities
| Dryweight | 150.0 kg (330.7 pounds) |
|---|---|
| Fuelcapacity | 9.00 litres (2.38 gallons) |
| Powerweightratio | 0.1067 HP/kg |
| Seatheight | 762 mm (30.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
About Ariel Golden Arrow 1962
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 and Cons of the 1962 Ariel Golden Arrow
Pros:
- 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.
Cons:
- 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.
In summary, the 1962 Ariel Golden Arrow is a captivating blend of performance and style that appeals to vintage motorcycle enthusiasts. Its engineering reflects a time when craftsmanship was paramount, making it a cherished piece of motorcycling history.