Help needed to identify my grandfather's Ariel

[chris.ward]

Hi,

I've found this photo of my grandfather and great-grandfather sitting on an Ariel. The photo was taken around 1952.

Can anyone identify the model for me?

Regards,
Chris

[adrie.degraaff]

I think, looking at the front drum, it´s a 1949 VG.

[chris.ward]

Many thanks Adrie.

The VG was a 500cc ohv single wasn't it?

Was there any consistency by Ariel in fitting the deep C-section mudguards to specific models. Did the factory perhaps fit those type of mudguards only to the Deluxe models.....I think the VG was a Deluxe.

Regards,
Chris

[adrie.degraaff]

Did the factory perhaps fit those type of mudguards only to the Deluxe models

Yes, yes, and Red Hunter had sports mudguards, but the factory would fit anything as long as you payed.

[Vincent.vanGinneke]

I like the picture!
Look how the father is holding on to his Son and has his cap turned backwards in the best of pre-war Brooklands tradition!
They must have had a good laugh when this pic was taken.
Thanks Chris for showing it.

[rablynes]

Hi
I think it's a 1948/1949 VG judging by the valanced front mudguard and what looks to be a blackand chrome tank.

[Leejm]

I think it's a 1946/1947 vg. It looks like it has the longer ears. And has painted fork seal holders. I believe from 1948 on they were chrome!

[alan.moore]

Regarding the registered number JYN 302 it was issued in London between June 1948 and November 1949.

[david.anderson]

Lee
We have previously established that singles generally did not have chrome fork seal holders until 1951, (the year the chrome came off the petrol tank?). The front brake plate was chromed from 1950.
From period photos and advertising brochures it appears that the twins had chrome fork seal holders in 1950 and the 4s in 1949
David