1870 Ariel Ordinary

This ordinary bicycle was missing a few parts but it is historically significant so deserved careful restoration. This is a fairly distinctive machine because of the front wheel using the tensioning arm. The tensioning arm and front wheel is Ariel design, but looking at the frame, forks and construction it is very early. This is likely one of the first penny farthing bicycles made by James Starley. When he first started implementing his wheel design he basically used existing velocipedes and converted them into steel wheel penny farthings. He advertised this as The Converted “Ariel” Bicycle, customers could provide their old French velocipedes for an upgrade. The upgrade consisted of steel spoked wheels and special bearings. Custom paint in any colours at no extra charge also included.
After a bit of archaeology removing layers of paint the remains of this spectacular paint was found documented and carefully repainted bridging the gaps of parts that didn’t survive. It was respoked, new rear wheel fabricated, new handles turned, new pedals, new rear trailing roller brake, step and saddle.