AJS Model 20 500 vs Ariel KH 500 (1959)
Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the AJS Model 20 500stacks up against the Ariel KH 500. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.
Spec comparison
| Spec | AJS Model 20 500 | Ariel KH 500 |
|---|---|---|
| Model year | 1959 | 1948 |
| Price | — | — |
| Engine | 498 cc | 498 cc |
| Horsepower | 20 hp | 28 hp |
| Weight | 178 kg | 177 kg |
| Fuel capacity | 3.6 L | 4.5 L |
| Fuel type | petrol | petrol |
| Transmission | — | 4-speed |
| Front brakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) | Expanding brake (drum brake) |
| Rear brakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) | Expanding brake (drum brake) |
| Tires | 3.25-19 / 3.25-19 | 3.00-20 / 3.50-19 |
AJS Model 20 500 vs Ariel KH 500 — which should you buy?
Picking between the AJS Model 20 500 and the Ariel KH 500 usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the AJS Model 20 500 brings 20 hp in a 178 kg package, while the Ariel KH 500 counters with 28 hp at 177 kg.
Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike:

