Ariel Square Four
From Object Wiki
| Ariel 'Square Four' motorcycle | |
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| Manufacturer | Ariel |
| Production years | 1959 |
| Production location | Birmingham |
Although many four-cylinder motorcycles have been produced, the Square Four was the first to earn and keep a substantial market. The original model appeared in 1929, conceived by Edward Turner, who was later to design the important Triumph 'Speed Twin' engine.
The square-four engine consists in effect of two twin-cylinder units geared together. This gives a very compact assembly, though to some extent at the expense of cooling. The two crankshafts are arranged 90 degrees out of phase giving virtually perfect mechanical balance and evenly spaced power impulses.
With its one-litre engine and 100 mph performance, the 'Squariel' was undoubtedly a 'superbike' of its day and was particularly popular with sidecar enthusiasts.
[edit] Memories
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Do you remember this bike? Add your memories. |
Having had the grand opportunity in my youth to wrench this incredible piece of equipment it wonders me to this day that there appears to be no effort to replicate it, at least conceptually. I suppose that's asking for a bit much. For those who've not had the "square-four" audible experience, well........there's nothing quite like it!
— J Burke
[edit] Images
 Ariel Square Four |
[edit] In the Science Museum's Records
Inv: 1962-94 Source: Alan Fraser
This bike is part of our Biker Tribes feature, a planned special exhibition launching at the Science Museum during 2010. Your contributions to this page may be used in the exhibition. Explore all the motorbikes.