Ariel Ace – one motorcycle, lots of choice

Ariel is best known for their lightweight, stripped back Atom sports car. But before that, way before that, they were a motorcycle company. In fact the Ariel originally started building bikes over 100 years ago in 1902. However by 1970 they had been merged with BSA, and it wasn’t until 2001 the company was reborn as a low-volume car company under new ownership.

Now Ariel are going back to where it all began with an entirely new machine, the Ariel Ace. However as usual Ariel are doing things a bit different, and better. Instead of offering a regular motorcycle with just a few options regarding paint colors and fairings, the Ariel Ace can be configured in almost limitless ways. From different suspension setups, seat styles, exhausts, steering angles etc. Each bike will be bespoke and built to order. Ariel say the wide variety of configurations mean that the Ace can be anything from a low riding cruiser to a super sport machine. Just about the only thing that can’t be altered is the frame itself.

Up front the Ariel Ace can be ordered with either conventional telescopic forks or a girder front end exquisitely crafted from machined aluminium. Ariel say the girder option provides improved handling, quicker response and more control under braking than the telescopic forks. They’re also probably the more expensive option too. Both setups offer adjustability in terms of rebound, compression and spring rebound.

There are three seating units on offer for the motorcycle. A low-slung single seat with additional and removable passenger seat, a slightly higher mounted dual seat, and an even higher-positioned single sports seat. To compliment the trio of seating options Ariel are also offering three levels of footrests and foot levers. The handlebars too come in a variety of configurations and heights and include clip-ons which can be ordered with the telescopic forks.

The dashboard is a Race Technologies LCD display, the same as that used in the Ariel Atom. The display features programmable shift lights, and a multi-configuration display. All lighting on the Ace comes courtesy of LEDs.

When it comes to the powerplant, Ariel have turned to their old ally Honda. The Ace is fitted with a 1237cc V4 engine from the Honda VFR which produces an impressive 173 horsepower and 96 ft-lbs (131 Nm) of torque. Ariel have designed their own exhaust systems to provide an improved soundtrack as well as offer buyers more choice. The transmission options for the Ace include a 6-speed sequential or a dual-clutch transmission with ‘auto’, ‘sport’ and ‘manual’ modes. Both options feature low maintenance shaft drive.

The three different fuel tanks offered provide both different styles as well as fuel capacities – ranging from 14.1 litres (2.8 gallons) up to 21.3 litres (4.6 gallons).

In addition, Ariel say they are working on more fairing and body panel options, as well as tuning parts and accessories to provide even more customer choice. Production of the Ariel Ace will start in 2015, with orders already being taken. Prices start at $34,000 (£20,000). Ariel say they expect to built around 100 – 150 motorcycles per year.

Ariel Ace Specifications:

Engine: 1237cc Honda V4
Power: 173hp @10,000 rpm
Torque: 96 ft-lbs (131 Nm) @ 8750 rpm
Frame: anodized machined and welded aluminium
Bodywork: composite and carbon fiber
Brakes: twin discs with 6-piston calipers (F) / single disc with 2-piston caliper (R)
Performance: 0-60 mph 3.4 seconds
Top Speed: 165 mph