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← Ariel
Allround · 1941

4G Square Four 1000

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MotoLibrary Score
48 /100 Balanced
Power
35 HP
Top Speed
140 km/h
Engine
997 ccm

1941 Ariel 4G Square Four 1000 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

At the heart of the 1941 Ariel 4G Square Four 1000 allround motorcycle, Ariel relies on a 997 cc (60.8 cu in) air-cooled square four cylinder powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 35 HP (25.5 kW) at 5,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 4-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 35.1 HP per liter, the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.

On the scales, the 4G Square Four 1000 measures 211 kg (465 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.17 HP/kg (6.03 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 1,422 mm (56 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 23-liter (6.1 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 140 km/h (87 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's Ariel archive, this model family spans 14 indexed model years from 1936 to 1949, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.

Specific Output
35.1 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.17 HP/kg (6.03 kg/HP)
Engine
Displacement 997.0 ccm (60.84 cubic inches)
Engine Type Square four cylinder
Engine Details Double twin cylinder arranged as a square
Power 35.0 HP (25.5 kW)) @ 5500 RPM
Compression 6.0:1
Bore x Stroke 65.0 x 78.0 mm (2.6 x 3.1 inches)
Valves/Cylinder 2
Fuel System Carburettor. SU MC2 carburettor
Fuel Control Overhead Valves (OHV)
Cooling Air
Transmission
Gearbox 4-speed
Final Drive Chain (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed 140.0 km/h (87.0 mph)
Chassis
Frame Type Tubular single loop
Front Suspension Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension Plunger-link spring
Wheelbase 1422 mm (56.0 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 3.25-19
Rear Tyre 4.00-18
Front Brakes Expanding brake (drum brake)
Front Brake Ø 203 mm (8.0 inches)
Rear Brakes Expanding brake (drum brake)
Rear Brake Ø 178 mm (7.0 inches)
Wheels Wire spoked
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl. 211.0 kg (465.2 pounds)
Overall Length 2083 mm (82.0 inches)
Fuel Capacity 23.00 litres (6.08 US gallons)
Other
Starter Kick
Notes

Also called ´Squariel´. Designed by Edward Turner.

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Before You Compare This Bike

Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.

Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

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Beginner
A2 license compatible, manageable power.
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Best For
All-Round & Adventure
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