In the April edition of Auto Motor Klassiek writes editor Harry Linker about the Ariel Sloper SB by Rein Heerkens. It is a British motorcycle that made a brief but powerful splash in the early 30s. Far from a cleaning product or something that breaks down quickly, the Sloper represents an interesting piece of motorcycle history that we are happy to take a closer look at.
A trendsetter in uncertain times
The Ariel Sloper SB, with its characteristic forward-tilted cylinders, was a response to the trend of the moment. The design provided a lower center of gravity, which improved road holding and accessibility for maintenance. This innovative model was born at a time when the world was suffering from the Great Depression, which unfortunately meant that production lasted only two years. Despite its short lifespan, the Sloper left an indelible impression on motorcycle enthusiasts.
The collector and his treasures
One of those enthusiasts is Rein Heerkens, whose chance meeting with Ariel turned him into an avid collector. From his own workshop he restored several Ariels, including a Sloper that he bought at an auction. His collection, supplemented with a Sloper that was buried for forty years and an example from near the Swiss border, testifies to his passion for this special brand.
A club full of enthusiasts
Rein is not alone in his admiration. The Dutch Ariel Club, of which he has been secretary for years, has 230 members who share their love for Ariel. This is in contrast to the German club, which has only forty members. The club is a hotbed of activity and a source for parts and technical knowledge.
An adventurous ride
Rein's adventurousness with his Ariels knows no bounds. He undertook a memorable ride from John O' Groats to Lands End, a journey that was marked by rain, technical setbacks, but above all by perseverance and the joy of motorcycling. His stories about the journey on the Ariel Sloper SB, including an unexpected passenger and a visit to a crowded collector, are a testament to his dedication to riding classic motorcycles.
The end and a new beginning for Ariel
Although Ariel eventually died as a motorcycle brand, the name has experienced a rebirth. Since 1999, Ariel has returned, attempting to re-conquer the motorcycle world and achieving success with the production of the Atom, a minimalist sports car with a Honda engine.
The Ariel Sloper SB may have been short-lived, but the spirit of innovation and passion for motorcycling lives on. Both in the stories of collectors like Rein and in the activities of the Ariel Club, the legacy of this unique brand is cherished and continued.
Still a while ago, my first motorcycle was an Ariel 350 1 cylinder maybe an NH 🤔 I was seventeen and got a practice driver's license and started driving and tinkering every Saturday
on the Ariel, later I got rid of it when I was 19 years old, the engine vibrated so terribly that I got several high points between my legs when I did a long ride, Now I know what Ariel means, Everything Ragged I n Once Lost , Bsa get off in the event of a storm. All Christ quickly
Triumph triumph Driving is of course more fun Honda high expenses after direct purchase
Who knows more 🤔🤔😉
BMW ; Just Keep Working
Zűndapp: Don't you see that everything fits exactly
Suzuki: Get yourself into your coffin
Peugeot: Try Happiness and Experience Trammelant
I was almost going to get my motorcycle license at 68. What a great bike.
And nice story.
As long as you are healthy, stay active. Better a motorcycle than an electric bicycle. Never to old to learn. Some things may take a little longer, but that won't spoil the fun
Actually, BSA hardly invested in this small brand after the acquisition of Ariel (and Sunbeam).
Ultimately, BSA could no longer cope with the Japanese blockbusters, and we lost a number of wonderful brands in one fell swoop.
Be careful with it; Ariel's were always subordinate to the 'Big 3', completely unjustifiably.