Built around Ariel's allround motorcycle platform, the 1959 Ariel LH 200 Colt relies on a 197 cc (12 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 10 HP (7.3 kW) at 5,600 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 4-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 50.8 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 LH 200 Colt measures 123 kg (271 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.08 HP/kg (12.3 kg per horsepower). The 11-liter (2.9 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 3.5 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 314 km (195 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 100 km/h (62 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's Ariel archive, this model family spans 6 indexed model years from 1954 to 1959, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
50.8 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.08 HP/kg (12.3 kg/HP)
Theoretical Range
~314 km (195 mi)
Engine
Displacement197.0 ccm (12.02 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Engine DetailsSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Power10.0 HP (7.3 kW)) @ 5600 RPM
Compression7.5:1
Bore x Stroke60.0 x 70.0 mm (2.4 x 2.8 inches)
Valves/Cylinder2
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Amal Monobloc carburetter with air cleaner.
Fuel ControlOverhead Valves (OHV)
LubricationDouble gear pump
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox4-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
ClutchTwo-plate clutch
Performance
Top Speed100.0 km/h (62.1 mph)
Fuel Consumption3.50 litres/100 km (28.6 km/l or 67.21 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases81.2 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
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.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
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.
