Harley-Davidson Model J vs Ariel 4G Square Four Mark I (1953)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Harley-Davidson Model Jstacks up against the Ariel 4G Square Four Mark I. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHarley-Davidson Model JAriel 4G Square Four Mark I
Model year19291953
Price
Engine989 cc995 cc
Horsepower35 hp
Weight181 kg197 kg
Fuel capacity4.2 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission4-speed
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake (drum brake)
Tires3-26 / 3-26 3.25-19 / 4.00-18

Harley-Davidson Model J vs Ariel 4G Square Four Mark I — which should you buy?

Picking between the Harley-Davidson Model J and the Ariel 4G Square Four Mark I usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Harley-Davidson Model J brings its published horsepower in a 181 kg package, while the Ariel 4G Square Four Mark I counters with 35 hp at 197 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: