Ariel to build motorbikes

Somerset-based purveyors of fiendishly quick scaffolding, Ariel, will start making bikes again from next year.

The company - which started manufacturing bikes in 1898 - will make a return to the two-wheeled world in 2012 with plans to build 200 in its first year. And rather like it like its cars, they promise to be rather fast.

Ariel boss, Simon Saunders, told TopGear.com: 'They'll be quick, but won't necessarily feel it. There are lots of 202mph bikes out there, but most people can't put the power down. We want all of the performance to be achievable, not academic - we're not chasing big numbers.

'Like the Atom, no two bikes will be the same - we want to offer more than a superbike or track bike. If a customer tells us they want something set up for touring, we'll make it.'

Which artfully explains why there are two different styles of bike in the sketches. Though there will be some standardized parts, including a Honda engine, which is yet to be named.

Prices start from £20,000 and order books will open later in the year.

Can you think of an appropriate name for Ariel's new bike, TopGear.commers?

Now watch Jeremy's face getting mashed up by an Atom.