Ariel Questions

[Parsons]

I've had this Ariel for several years. Just now getting around to it. Based on the color and dimensions I'm assuming it's a Model No 3 Light Roadster. The serial number is R9177. Can anyone decode the serial number? The catalog describes the color as Maroon and Black. Is this really the original paint? I know the decals on the seat tube are added, and I assume the "Ariel" decal on the down tube is added since the letters are all individually cut decals. I'll take any tips to safely remove decals without damaging the paint.

The bike came with some Louis Raster & Sons wood rims. They have a red stain. Would the original bike have had red rims?

 

[piercer_99]

from the look of the front fork, I highly doubt the frame is original paint.

The only catalog images I have for Ariel is 1893, at that time they said they made all of their parts, except for the tires, maybe they started using different wheels later.

 

[Blue Streak]

Paint does not look original.

Information from 1895 Ariel Catalog:

 

[piercer_99]

between 1893 and 1895, the managed to shave 7 pounds of weight off of them. The 93 brochure shows them at 32 pounds.

 

[Parsons]

Agree. The condition of the paint doesn't match the condition of the nickel plating. The handle bars are in pretty rough shape.
So the catalog says maroon and black enamel. Does anyone know how this frame is supposed to look?
I assume the wood rims are aftermarket. They look too new compared to everything else on the bike (except the frame finish). Were most wood rims of this era natural wood color? I'm not a fan of the red rims!

 

[piercer_99]

The stickers, look like RTA vinyl, if so, a heat gun or hair dryer will help remove them quickly.

 

[Blue Streak]

I believe in 1895 most wood rims were natural finished. Here is a reference from January 24, 1895 issue of The Iron Age talking about color on new 1895 models. It says Ariels were distinguished by their frames finished in maroon enamel. It reference only Stearns and Syracuse as having colored rims for 1895:

 

[Blue Streak]

Links to other Ariels previously posted on CABE:

Antique 1890's Ariel Frame And Fork Original Paint | Sell - Trade: Bicycle Parts, Accessories, Ephemera

Please PM direct with all replies..you pay the shipping thank you. 1890's? Antique Ariel Ladies frame, fork, headset, crank races and badge. On the bottom of the hanger there is a number 1 in the upper left and then below that in series 10734 This is all I have for the bike. There is a period...

thecabe.com

1800's Ariel Goshen Indiana bikes and Acme Elkhart indiana bike | Sell - Trade: Bicycle Parts, Accessories, Ephemera

1800's Ariel Goshen Indiana bikes and Acme Elkhart indiana bike Sold Looking to sell all three as a set 1 boys Ariel 1 girls Ariel made in Goshen Indian and 1 Elkhart Indiana made Acme girls bike asking $SOLD picked up in Indiana. Bikes look to have been restored years ago and some parts don't...

thecabe.com

Ariel Cycle co. | General Discussion About Old Bicycles

Ariel Cycle co. NOW FOR SALE 2500.00 I just bought a few early bikes this one is a Ariel stamped on the seat tube is 1860. I found a information on the 1895. any help? Thanks Mike

thecabe.com

Help with crank | Antique Bicycles Pre-1933

I have a late 1800s Goshen Indiana Ariel block chain wood wheel safety bike I am in the process of restoring to original condition. The only part missing is the crank. Looks like it was a three piece that broke at some point. I've got the broken leg and pedals, and nothing else. The bottom frame...

thecabe.com

Rare Ariel bicycle | Antique Bicycles Pre-1933

Picked this up today. It's an Ariel bicycle made in Goshen Indiana between 1893 and 1898 according to the Wheelmen site. It has some very unique features such as the chain and fork. check out the link http://www.mortij.demon.co.uk/ariel/goshen/goshen.htm

thecabe.com

 

[New Mexico Brant]

@Dweber

 

[Archie Sturmer]

Looks like the bicycle could use an Ariel themed horn.