Norton 650SS vs Ariel FH 650 (1967)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Norton 650SSstacks up against the Ariel FH 650. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecNorton 650SSAriel FH 650
Model year19671954
Price
Engine646 cc646 cc
Horsepower52 hp35 hp
Weight181 kg
Seat height31 mm
Fuel capacity4.0 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission4-speed
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake (drum brake)
Tires3.25-19 / 3.50-19

Norton 650SS vs Ariel FH 650 — which should you buy?

Picking between the Norton 650SS and the Ariel FH 650 usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Norton 650SS brings 52 hp, while the Ariel FH 650 counters with 35 hp at 181 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: