Figured I'd check mine before starting the first time after hearing so many people mention how tight or loose theirs were from the factory. Mine had zero lash on either one.... Glad I checked.
Seems like good advice before starting. Just like checking all the bolts/nuts/screws for tightness and getting rid of the oil that comes in them. Otherwise not a terrible investment for the low cost of ownership. If I ever get one it'll probably have to be a Tao Tao TBR7 or the slightly more expensive CSC TT250 because Pennsylvania has a stupid DMV and doesn't recognize certain models as road legal...despite being virtually the same bike.
@@painlesstom yea I can understand that. It wouldn't be my only bike...I recently got rid of a Triumph Bonneville T120 for a Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT. It's a great all-rounder, but nothing like a light 250cc dual sport for an afternoon off-road. I take the V-Strom on fire roads, but it's a little too big/heavy to do any serious off-roading, for me at least. I've been looking at the Kawasaki KLX230 for a second, mostly off-road bike, but the price is terrible compared to one of these Chinese bikes...and used (good condition) Japanese dual sports don't exist...they're either cheap and destroyed or nice and nearly as expensive as new. Safe riding out there!
old man here. early 80's in high school got me a chevy pickup and dad showed me how to adjust the valves. never had the thought since but now i'm wondering about my daughter's bike. thanks for the video and the reminder to take care of these things.
Don't forget to make sure your on the compression stroke when you find top dead center or you'll be way loose. Check with your thumb over the spark plug hole for compression. The CG250/167fmm is made by a few outfits, check your makers gap recommendation. Use a Honda CG125 shop manual for this engine.
This man is the Bob Russ of motorbikes haha Love your videos moto, your video of gear shifting is what taught me how to shift , now I’m flying around corners leaning 20-25mpg , downshifting while leaning and jus overall feeling great on my bike. Love your videos
when you are setting up to check valve lash, you align the F mark and not the T mark? just want to make sure I am doing it right. by the way, MotoCheez thanks for pointing out the gap on the intake, one of mine had the same problem. I really appreciate all the help you give.
T is top and thats what you want, F is fire for ignition timing. (although that would still be accurate) be sure you are on the compression stroke, there has been a lot of confusion so I made a video showing how to find it. th-cam.com/video/FC0xWo4GSX0/w-d-xo.html
I do it a little different - I don't use TDC, I rotate the crank until one valve is completely open (down), which means the other valve is completely closed and able to be adjusted..
I really should do this on mine... Even with only 10 miles on it, she doesn't like to idle when cold, choke at any position until it warms up- even with mixture screw adjusted. I'm betting my valves are tight as hell.
straight forward. cool. I have the same motor in another build at the moment. starter disconected. I am no lightwieght. but its evil to kick over. or kicks back pretty nasty. never known anything like it.
i have this problem where the rocker arms are tight where no play is observed when there should be on tdc.. i've seen your other video and gonna try the kick starter method.. just waiting for my feeler gauge to come by post...
I did .003 Intake and .005 Exhaust. Cured my idle problem when cold and hot. Also turned 2 full turns on A/F mixture screw after screw it in. WOT runs great with no pinging and cold start is spot on at idle. Also changed the shitty Torch spark plug with a NGK. Torch had a problem with electrode melting off. Guy that owned a shop said 70% of the factory spark plugs would do this so now right out the crate get a NGK.
just got a hawk 250. some questions I have are should I break it in stock or do mods first? are the valves adjusted properly out of the box or should I adjust them before break in? how many miles should I check my clearances?
Thank you for videos man. Very helpful. I checked my valves on DLX Hawk and they were no clearance virtually. Exhaust manifold was getting cherry red after less than 60 seconds of idle. I adjusted the valves according to specifications in the video. Now it takes about a minute and they turn cherry red. Question: is it normal when stopped at a light that the exhaust begins to glow red in less than one minute? Seems dangerous. Also, after adjusting the valves I added an E3.36 spark plug. Seems to idle about 2K RPMs when cold then fluctuates between 1750 to 2000 RPMs. It’s done this ever since I’ve owned it and the bike currently has 7 miles on it.
Hey moto, appreciate all the vids, will be putting a hawk 250 together soon, quick question on this do you recommend breaking in the bike before doing the valve adjustment, or is it better to do it right out of the box? Thanks
Yes. Sorry. Those were the specs off original Honda engine. The Hawks say .002 in and ex. I made notations on the video through TH-cam but some apps don't show it I guess.
I'm not sure if you will reply to this but I ordered my bike pre built hawk 250 I couldnt get it to start when it first arived and it finally did and would turn off randonly and was super hard to get it to start I had to kick start it and so everyone said its the valve so I followed your guide and it started up in one kick but it ticks super loud and doesnt sound good like I have heard a few bikes with a little tick but its louder then the engine its on 002 for both exhaust and intake and I'm affraid to do anymore and I may just have to take ot to a mechanic because I havent been able to ride thw bike in 3 days
Hi. Sounds like you set the valves on the wrong stroke. Has to be on the compression stroke or the valves will be too loose. I did a video how to find compression stroke. th-cam.com/video/FC0xWo4GSX0/w-d-xo.html
Bolts are seized in the head on mine previous owners never had them off.... the cover on the flywheel is also seized in. Cheap hardware breaks right off. Only down fall
Hi my hawk is just a little over 1,000 miles . I was planning on doing the adjustment myself. But was wondering if I could wait until winter ? And continue ride her thru the season would it be ok ? Is it necessary do at 1,000 or could you hold it off a bit?
Would you be able to do an updated video demonstrating how to know whether you are on the exhaust vs compression stroke and a better view of the timing/TDC marks? Not a criticism, just a little hard to see on this video. Thanks
@@MotoCheez definitely understand...maybe at some point if you come across another one or get bored in FL. I don't have one yet, but have been considering adding a cheap dual sport in the future. I was looking last year and messaged you a bunch and never went through with it...ended up buying something else. Back to looking for a cheap off-road bike that's street legal to get me to the trails...missed out on an older Yamaha XT225 recently that went for about what these Chinese bikes sell for new...wasn't in awful shape...but still...new and Chinese or old and Japanese 🤔
Oh, I made sure of that lol now... on the other hand... I refuse to answer whether or not I did it to hundredths or thousandths the first time XD runs like a dream, after the second adjustment; it stays running at cold idle, now! Check out my latest video; you have an open invitation to our track, of course.
I want to ride one of these from Tennessee to Deadhorse, AK. What are your thoughts, do you think this bike can make it there and back with a 200lb rider and gear?
I just adjusted my valves and it seemed that the valves go up a tiny bit (maybe a couple of millimeters) after the TDC mark. Does this mean the mark is wrong or is that normal?
You were not on the compression stroke, I did add how to find that video in the description. Because if they were too tight you were definitely on the wrong strokes every other stroke is a compression stroke top dead center
Hey motocheez just did this to my bike. It was on compression stroke and top dead set it to .002 and it still taps slightly. It's not exceptionally loud but loud enough that I can hear it over the rest of the bike. Just wondering if that's normal or if I should adjust it again. Not my first bike but unfamiliar with Chinese bikes
Yeah sounds similar it runs great definitely has more power. Like I said before though not loud but enough that I can hear it when riding. I feel like I have heard that slight tick in all of your videos though.
@@MotoCheez thanks man just wanted to check. And love that even years later you still reply on this video. Keep up the good work man. Still my favorite youtuber so far.
Question i adjusted mine and they were really tight. I did .04 and .08 it ask for .07 but my set doesn't have it it goes from .06-.08.(would .08 work?) After i was done i turned it on i hear the valves clicking which i never herd it before. (I have 180miles on the tt250) i turned if off and i will check again tomorrow to make sure i did it right. 2 questions 1. Would .08 wotj for exhaust even though csc says .07? 2. Are the clicking valves normal? I didnt want to run it and mess up the engine
@@MotoCheez I just seen your video that explains how to find compression stroke. Sorry I'm a noob at this. I will give it a try tomorrow once im back from work. You just got a new subscriber Thank you
hey man just a quick question...your front rim what is the dimensions on it...the reason why I ask is because i need one for my Quan maxfine 150 Enduro motorcycles and it looks like you might have the same one that I have in mine if you could let me know that would be awesome because I've been looking for one as mine is bent thanks again
Had a moto mechanic check out my hawk it can only be push started he said it was the valve settings like the video you have here i can shift through every gear but can only go about 40mph if i gas it too much itll bog down so from your opinion i should do this adjusting and it will be the fix for my hawk?
+Hunter Rathman I would check the compression, it's possible that if you adjusted the valves on the exhaust stroke, I'm not sure but it should be around 150lbs compression. I should do a measurement for a video.
Hunter Rathman I updated this video with annotations and put in the description, .002" is the proper clearance. intake and exhaust. I may redo this video because the annotations don't show on all browsers.
I replaced my carb already , 110main and 20pilot vm26. But I'm having the same issue still. Will only run at full or half choke. Adjusted mixture and idle screw with no luck. Would the valves be part of that issue?
So I adjusted the valves. 004 x 005 . Now it taps the valve cover on exhaust side. Got 30 pilot 115 main. The 125 main made it bog down with throttle. Adjusted air and idle screw. Tried jet needle in every groove . Still wont run with choke off. But it's getting close. I think I'm gonna have to go higher than a 30 pilot
@@MotoCheez we tried that on my buddy’s brozz today. Before adjusting he had good power and top speed after adjusting to .003 he lost power and the valves are significantly louder. He even tried going lower to .04MM it helped a little but not a lot makes me a little nervous to do the valves on my hawk I’m at 670 miles valves are quite and I can get up to 73 mph max so far on slight down hill
@@MotoCheez how do I know if I’m on compression stroke? We pulled spark plug out and spun the crank until the piston was at the top and we had the T lined with the groove in the cap threads didn’t have any play in the valves when I first spun it to the T the piston was down and the intake valve had a lot of play it in so I figured that’s not right lol
@@MotoCheez I just watched you other video I forgot about putting my thumb over the spark plug hole. I’ve only done valves once on my riding mowing and it’s been a couple years lol thank you
I've gotten almost a dozen of these and I'd say, no. They're all been right on from factory. I would suggest checking after a thousand or so miles to be safe.
I checked mine after breakin, which was about 300 miles. then about 1000 miles after that because it is so easy to do. I say after break in because I have had some chinese scooters with real tight valves where it would not start and idle after about a month.... Be sure to read the added notes and added video about TDC and valve clearances, I went off Honda manual for this video and the clearances are tighter for these bikes even though it is an exact replica of a CG engine
Funny the Chinese built a push rod engine. Its cheaper to build a push rod engine, but I wonder if this is an old Honda design that the patent has run out on, so the Chinese are able to copy it without any legal fears? How many miles do you have it now? I would like to take one these on a 500 mile tour just for the heck of it. I watched your oil change video, and I can't believe it has an 800 mile oil change interval.
MotorheadRedo it's a copy of the Honda 70's CG150 engine. The intervals are longer but it has a slinger type oil filter and there's only 1 quart capacity.
I love the fact that its uses push rods and doesn't have a filtered oil system accept for that screen near the drain plug. Is it still running good and how many miles do you have on it? Thanks...
Cool! I was looking through Cycle Trader the other day and noticed all the old, but new, 250cc Japanese dual sport bikes dealerships are still trying to sell. I think I saw a new 2012 Kawasaki KLX250S still on the showroom floor. I wonder if all these Chinese bikes have anything to do with that. Funny because the Japanese were known for undercutting the competition to sell their bikes, and now its happening to them. Saw several Chinese Grom clones on youtube for less than $1500. Anyway, thanks for the info.
MotorheadRedo I've wondered that myself, I saw those little grom wannabes, I wish they'd come out with a decent 250cc sportbike. I think they'd do well. You sound like you're very knowledgeable in this area. Drop by and comment any time!
MotoCheez I haven't taken the valve cover off yet so I was curious what the Bolt is for. It's right by the motor mount. if you have a email I can send you a picture. I have a 2016 so I don't know if they added anything with the newer models.
for the record, even .005 was too small on mine. The shop that imported mine to the U.S. (Ricky Powersports) in Texas, told me exhaust was supposed to be .009 and intake was supposed to be .007 but I put them both at .007 because having the exhaust at .009 was way too clattery and had a slight low end stumble. I've only had them both at .007 for one short trip around the block at this point, but it seems to be much better now.
aLukeWarmFart Gaming mine were a bit loud when I put them at .009. Those were the original honda CG specs. The closer tollerances I got right from the hawk manual. I think they're too tight also, so suited to the larger .003 for both.
0.00285 was too tight on mine(both and on "T" on the compression stroke while cold).. That's with the properly gapped iridium plug, and the mix screw and mount lock washers and 110 main jet done on the pz30(I use throttle and idle screw to get past the slow/pilot jet issue) It still requires some turning over to start regardless of choke state. Once it's got to a smooth idle it'll crank in a second and idle at 1500 all day even in the winter..
I adjusted my valves to .0025" and they are ticking really bad. I checked the valves again after riding and made sure I was on compression stroke and every was still the same. Do you have any idea of what else to do? I talked to my small engine mechanic and he says not to ride it if it is ticking really loud. He can't look at it until next week and I want to ride it. :/
017ruckus if it's ticking bad, you must be on wrong stroke adjusting, try it again, one stroke you'll have no gap, the other you should have the gap...
MotoCheez yep, the next stroke there is no gap. I'm going to look at it again tomorrow and see if I can see anything else wrong. worst thing is probably that I'm going to have to have my mechanic fix it, but that's really not so bad. just sucks because I don't even have a mile on it yet.
MotoCheez I adjusted to .0025" which is 5 tenthousanths less than .003". It's 2.5 thousandths. I am just wondering if I should adjust to what RPS suggests like the .005 on intake and .006 on exhaust and see what happeneds?
I'm not 100% sure, but I heard they are the same head, so should be. I asked if they wanted me to review the TT250, said flat out NO! Lol, so guess I'll wait to see a used one sometime.
T is top, F is fire for timing. Don't forget it's .002 to .003" in and ex. I went off Honda's CG specs, they were wrong. Added the proper clearance after.
So a quick question. Just did my gf hawk valve lash but the manual says .005. should it be .002 or .005? I did do it to .005 and it is loud as hell. They were ultra ULTRA tight from the factory.
I'm 90% sure I'm on the compression stroke, when I loosened the lock nuts the adjusters were almost just finger tite. what thickness of the gages should I use setting them ?
MotoCheez how many strokes do you have to go through? is the exhaust stroke before the compression stroke ? And do you have to start in a certain gear?
www.cscmotorcycles.com/CSC-TT-250-p/ztt250.htm i wonder if these would have the same issues of adjustment or not. looks like they are spec'd slightly different.
![[E21] RPS Hawk 250 O-ring Chain install on the Dual Sport Enduro.](/img/n.gif)
Wow! That simplicity is what's going to keep these things on the road. Great video, you're going to help a lot of people out.
Thanks for the great videos. Just wanted to let everyone know that I was able to tag my new hawk in Arkansas with no trouble at all.
Awesome! Sorry late reply, comments get buried sometimes.
Great Dusty, I'm in Arkansas also. Just outside Little Rock
Figured I'd check mine before starting the first time after hearing so many people mention how tight or loose theirs were from the factory. Mine had zero lash on either one.... Glad I checked.
Seems like good advice before starting. Just like checking all the bolts/nuts/screws for tightness and getting rid of the oil that comes in them. Otherwise not a terrible investment for the low cost of ownership. If I ever get one it'll probably have to be a Tao Tao TBR7 or the slightly more expensive CSC TT250 because Pennsylvania has a stupid DMV and doesn't recognize certain models as road legal...despite being virtually the same bike.
@@scotteger6271 I sold mine after a few months. Got a Suzuki Intruder for $1500, way more fun and comfortable.
@@painlesstom yea I can understand that. It wouldn't be my only bike...I recently got rid of a Triumph Bonneville T120 for a Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT. It's a great all-rounder, but nothing like a light 250cc dual sport for an afternoon off-road. I take the V-Strom on fire roads, but it's a little too big/heavy to do any serious off-roading, for me at least. I've been looking at the Kawasaki KLX230 for a second, mostly off-road bike, but the price is terrible compared to one of these Chinese bikes...and used (good condition) Japanese dual sports don't exist...they're either cheap and destroyed or nice and nearly as expensive as new. Safe riding out there!
@@scotteger6271 which models are road legal in pa?
Your the best man, I just purchased a hawk 250 because of your awesome videos
Well TY 😀😀😀
Np man, Do you know how many miles the motor usually last ?
There are plenty out there with over 10,000 miles. I've only heard of one blowing up but who knows why.. it's literally a copy of a Honda CG motor
These bikes are awesome! So much fun to ride
@@MotoCheez Glad to know . I plan on owning mine for years to come..
old man here. early 80's in high school got me a chevy pickup and dad showed me how to adjust the valves. never had the thought since but now i'm wondering about my daughter's bike. thanks for the video and the reminder to take care of these things.
Ty😁
Don't forget to make sure your on the compression stroke when you find top dead center or you'll be way loose. Check with your thumb over the spark plug hole for compression. The CG250/167fmm is made by a few outfits, check your makers gap recommendation. Use a Honda CG125 shop manual for this engine.
Yes TDC on compression stroke. I took the specs gap off CG125 which this motor is designed from. And I made the exhaust 1 thousands larger.
I have the CG125 manual for download on MotoCheez.com hawk section at bottom of page.
This man is the Bob Russ of motorbikes haha
Love your videos moto, your video of gear shifting is what taught me how to shift , now I’m flying around corners leaning 20-25mpg , downshifting while leaning and jus overall feeling great on my bike.
Love your videos
Awesome!👍👍👍
when you are setting up to check valve lash, you align the F mark and not the T mark? just want to make sure I am doing it right. by the way, MotoCheez thanks for pointing out the gap on the intake, one of mine had the same problem. I really appreciate all the help you give.
T is top and thats what you want, F is fire for ignition timing. (although that would still be accurate) be sure you are on the compression stroke, there has been a lot of confusion so I made a video showing how to find it. th-cam.com/video/FC0xWo4GSX0/w-d-xo.html
As always, thank you for your help.
I got a tbr7. Im hoping i can get it titled and tagged.. if not maybe i will try the vermont route... or justride dirty... it wont be a dailyrider
It's good most states, not CA
Another great video. Keep up the good work. Makes it easy to do the same on my hawk.
I do it a little different - I don't use TDC, I rotate the crank until one valve is completely open (down), which means the other valve is completely closed and able to be adjusted..
That's a good way to do it. I usually go off the cam when both lobes are facing down too
Thanks Moto cheez your video's were very helpful .....I bought two Hawks and both were giving me trouble but are now running good ...thanks again
Awesome!!
great video thx, can you please confirm what the clearance measurements are for me ?
.002" on both
I really should do this on mine... Even with only 10 miles on it, she doesn't like to idle when cold, choke at any position until it warms up- even with mixture screw adjusted.
I'm betting my valves are tight as hell.
they usually ship tight and lean.
Thanks so much for the video. Where did put the socket to turn the engine over with. I assumed you were using the kick start.
You can do either. They make a cover on same side to line up the TDC on compression stroke
straight forward. cool. I have the same motor in another build at the moment. starter disconected. I am no lightwieght. but its evil to kick over. or kicks back pretty nasty. never known anything like it.
i have this problem where the rocker arms are tight where no play is observed when there should be on tdc.. i've seen your other video and gonna try the kick starter method.. just waiting for my feeler gauge to come by post...
+dies irae if it's tight, try one more revolution on TDC.
right i will.. but i already wiggled on the rocker arms every inch and couldnt find a spot where it had free play, even outside the "T" mark...
or maybe i wasnt wiggling it hard enough :p i will try again sometime this week
I did .003 Intake and .005 Exhaust. Cured my idle problem when cold and hot. Also turned 2 full turns on A/F mixture screw after screw it in. WOT runs great with no pinging and cold start is spot on at idle. Also changed the shitty Torch spark plug with a NGK. Torch had a problem with electrode melting off. Guy that owned a shop said 70% of the factory spark plugs would do this so now right out the crate get a NGK.
Nice .003" both is good. In supposed to be .002... Small.
just got a hawk 250. some questions I have are should I break it in stock or do mods first? are the valves adjusted properly out of the box or should I adjust them before break in? how many miles should I check my clearances?
+Bryan Hann you can modify it before break-in. The valve adjustment I'd do about 600 miles. Enjoy!
thanks man youre awesome
Bryan Hann TY TY, make sure you're on TDC when checking the valve clearance, I made a video because there is a lot if confusion how to find it.
yea I should be good I just did my valves on my dr200
thanks again tho
Hey the star torx screw on the carb, whats it do? My new hawk dosent like to idol but runs good once its warm?
It's the idle screw
Thank you for videos man. Very helpful.
I checked my valves on DLX Hawk and they were no clearance virtually.
Exhaust manifold was getting cherry red after less than 60 seconds of idle. I adjusted the valves according to specifications in the video. Now it takes about a minute and they turn cherry red. Question: is it normal when stopped at a light that the exhaust begins to glow red in less than one minute? Seems dangerous.
Also, after adjusting the valves I added an E3.36 spark plug. Seems to idle about 2K RPMs when cold then fluctuates between 1750 to 2000 RPMs. It’s done this ever since I’ve owned it and the bike currently has 7 miles on it.
Awesome. Biggest problem.people have with the adjustment is finding the compression stroke.
Question:
Is it normal for exhaust to turn cherry red, glowing, at 1 minute idle.
Adjusted valves and little changed regarding heat. Seems lean also.
Lean usually too
@@jaysea1051 No I would check your adjustment again. Also change jet fatten it up a bit these things run way to lean.
Hey moto, appreciate all the vids, will be putting a hawk 250 together soon, quick question on this do you recommend breaking in the bike before doing the valve adjustment, or is it better to do it right out of the box? Thanks
From what I've seen the valves are close enough out of the box. I'd check after break in just to be safe. Or at least at 1000 miles.
Thanks
So I follow your instructions to adjust valves and there spot on, but I still hear my valves doing a clicking noise is that normal?
Yes. It's normal. You did the .002"? I made a notation after I made the video. And it was on TDC correct?
I did .004 and .005 so they both need to be at .002?
Yes. Sorry. Those were the specs off original Honda engine. The Hawks say .002 in and ex. I made notations on the video through TH-cam but some apps don't show it I guess.
Yeah I see them now on my Chrome browser but on my Iphone safari they do not show :(
I hope TH-cam gets that sorted out. I'd hate to have to uploads it again. I don't have the video.
I'm not sure if you will reply to this but I ordered my bike pre built hawk 250 I couldnt get it to start when it first arived and it finally did and would turn off randonly and was super hard to get it to start I had to kick start it and so everyone said its the valve so I followed your guide and it started up in one kick but it ticks super loud and doesnt sound good like I have heard a few bikes with a little tick but its louder then the engine its on 002 for both exhaust and intake and I'm affraid to do anymore and I may just have to take ot to a mechanic because I havent been able to ride thw bike in 3 days
Hi. Sounds like you set the valves on the wrong stroke. Has to be on the compression stroke or the valves will be too loose. I did a video how to find compression stroke. th-cam.com/video/FC0xWo4GSX0/w-d-xo.html
@@MotoCheez oh yeah i didnt even know I had to do all that well ill get up in the morning and try to get it to work
@@MotoCheez thx by the way I watch all of your videos
Mason Merck thank you 👍👍
Bolts are seized in the head on mine previous owners never had them off.... the cover on the flywheel is also seized in. Cheap hardware breaks right off. Only down fall
+Steve Townsender agreed
Same clearance specs for the new 223s?
Yes .002" I take .003" exhaust
"It ain't easy being Cheezy"
?????Can you please do a video on how to adjust the free play in throttle?????
Skip to the 10 minute Mark. Adjustments you need to do shown th-cam.com/video/vNvnd8HxhM0/w-d-xo.html
I was told that the hawk 250 motors were honda motors like from 78 or late 70s, that China got the Patton or rights to build them ?
Raymond Simpson I don't know if they have the rights, patents probably expired, but it is a copy of the CG250 motor
Hi my hawk is just a little over 1,000 miles . I was planning on doing the adjustment myself. But was wondering if I could wait until winter ? And continue ride her thru the season would it be ok ? Is it necessary do at 1,000 or could you hold it off a bit?
If it's not ticking or running poorly you can hold off.
@@MotoCheez sweet. She running like a charm 😂
🔥🔥🔥🔥
Was the slight tapping sound the exhaust? Mine makes that sound. Wonder if it's too loose.
Could be.
Yes.
Hi could u please help having bogging issue bought the makuni still same problem can u tell me how to tune the makuni thank u
I have several carb tune videos, it's the same on stock carb jetting etc.
Would you be able to do an updated video demonstrating how to know whether you are on the exhaust vs compression stroke and a better view of the timing/TDC marks? Not a criticism, just a little hard to see on this video. Thanks
I thought about doing an updated video. Only Bike with this engine is in Florida now
@@MotoCheez definitely understand...maybe at some point if you come across another one or get bored in FL. I don't have one yet, but have been considering adding a cheap dual sport in the future. I was looking last year and messaged you a bunch and never went through with it...ended up buying something else. Back to looking for a cheap off-road bike that's street legal to get me to the trails...missed out on an older Yamaha XT225 recently that went for about what these Chinese bikes sell for new...wasn't in awful shape...but still...new and Chinese or old and Japanese 🤔
Done, thanks! Zero clearance, when I started lol
+MoThanYouKnow whoa. Make sure you're on the compression stroke, of course
Oh, I made sure of that lol now... on the other hand... I refuse to answer whether or not I did it to hundredths or thousandths the first time XD runs like a dream, after the second adjustment; it stays running at cold idle, now! Check out my latest video; you have an open invitation to our track, of course.
@@Morboeatspeople wanna help me do mine?!?!?
I want to ride one of these from Tennessee to Deadhorse, AK. What are your thoughts, do you think this bike can make it there and back with a 200lb rider and gear?
Absolutely, as long as you're not on the highway. If you do the mods you can maintain 55mph safely
Can the velves be the reason why my 250 is jerking wile im driving its defnetely not my carberator
Jerking how?
@motocheez will this video work for valve adjustments on the Tao TBR7 as well??
Yes, don't forget the gap is .002 to .003". Not what was in this video that I took from Honda manual
MotoCheez awesome! Thanks!
hi great videos .do you know if hawk can be lowered with a link like Honda 250crf?/
Ty. I've looked into it, have not found a way, but someone mentioned a seat off Bashan storm but idk
Thank you so much! This was my biggest fear.
I just adjusted my valves and it seemed that the valves go up a tiny bit (maybe a couple of millimeters) after the TDC mark. Does this mean the mark is wrong or is that normal?
You're on the wrong stroke, one more revolution.
Thanks, man. I also wanted to mention that you are one of the reasons I decided to get a hawk. Thanks for all the video work!
+Cory Mcghee awesome. TY 😎
Do you loosen the bolts on the valves before turning the engine?
No
I adjust my valves, .4 and .5mm no bike is really ticky. Runs good but loud. Also when I looked at the valves they were really tight before.
And my tdc is just a line
You were not on the compression stroke, I did add how to find that video in the description. Because if they were too tight you were definitely on the wrong strokes every other stroke is a compression stroke top dead center
Did you ever have to do a valve adjustment on your dlx, just wanted to know if the process is the the same?
Exact same as hawk. I go by ear and will check at 2000 on mine
Thank you
@@MotoCheez what clearance do you recommend for the DLX?
Same as all the CG engine. .003" intake and exhaust.
Hey motocheez just did this to my bike. It was on compression stroke and top dead set it to .002 and it still taps slightly. It's not exceptionally loud but loud enough that I can hear it over the rest of the bike. Just wondering if that's normal or if I should adjust it again. Not my first bike but unfamiliar with Chinese bikes
They will still tap a little, does it sound like my videos?
Yeah sounds similar it runs great definitely has more power. Like I said before though not loud but enough that I can hear it when riding. I feel like I have heard that slight tick in all of your videos though.
Good! Probably got it right.
@@MotoCheez thanks man just wanted to check. And love that even years later you still reply on this video. Keep up the good work man. Still my favorite youtuber so far.
😁👍👍 thanks!!
Did you remove the EGR from the bike or did it not come with one?
This didn't come with one
Question i adjusted mine and they were really tight.
I did .04 and .08 it ask for .07 but my set doesn't have it it goes from .06-.08.(would .08 work?) After i was done i turned it on i hear the valves clicking which i never herd it before. (I have 180miles on the tt250) i turned if off and i will check again tomorrow to make sure i did it right. 2 questions
1. Would .08 wotj for exhaust even though csc says .07?
2. Are the clicking valves normal? I didnt want to run it and mess up the engine
You weren't on the compression stroke. And it's .02" to .03" or did you mean mm?
@@MotoCheez
Yea mm.
I believe you are right i hat it on the t but i believe i have to put it on the notch to the right of the T?
Either will work, but has to be compression stroke. Which is every other revolution. And valves are looser on compression stroke.
@@MotoCheez
I just seen your video that explains how to find compression stroke. Sorry I'm a noob at this.
I will give it a try tomorrow once im back from work.
You just got a new subscriber
Thank you
@@MotoCheez
Also im guessing il be okay at .08?
hey man just a quick question...your front rim what is the dimensions on it...the reason why I ask is because i need one for my Quan maxfine 150 Enduro motorcycles and it looks like you might have the same one that I have in mine if you could let me know that would be awesome because I've been looking for one as mine is bent thanks again
21"
RPS sells them pretty cheap I hear
+MotoCheez is that rps.com ?
+Noe Delacruz www.rickypowersports.com/
+MotoCheez oh man thanks a bunch
Had a moto mechanic check out my hawk it can only be push started he said it was the valve settings like the video you have here i can shift through every gear but can only go about 40mph if i gas it too much itll bog down so from your opinion i should do this adjusting and it will be the fix for my hawk?
+Hunter Rathman I would check the compression, it's possible that if you adjusted the valves on the exhaust stroke, I'm not sure but it should be around 150lbs compression. I should do a measurement for a video.
+Hunter Rathman here is the supplemental video to find compression stroke. th-cam.com/video/FC0xWo4GSX0/w-d-xo.html
MotoCheez they need to be at .002? right
He posted .005 exhaust and .004 intake
Hunter Rathman I updated this video with annotations and put in the description, .002" is the proper clearance. intake and exhaust. I may redo this video because the annotations don't show on all browsers.
Is this the same engine that is on the Apollo db36 supermoto????
No the DB36 has overhead cam.
Valve lash is checked with COLD engine
Should be checked hot so you know what it is when its hot. You can adjust cold if you know what then difference is.
Charlie Brown warm should be good, if it’s “hot” these get to around 230 degrees farenheit, that will burn the snot out of you. 🤣
I replaced my carb already , 110main and 20pilot vm26. But I'm having the same issue still. Will only run at full or half choke. Adjusted mixture and idle screw with no luck. Would the valves be part of that issue?
Valves shouldn't cause that. What groove did you put the jet needle? Try raising the needle, (clip lowered)
I left it in the grove it came in. I'll try that. Was gonna go up on pilot and main
I'm at 5000ft in Colorado if that makes a diff
That too! I believe people use a 30
So I adjusted the valves. 004 x 005 . Now it taps the valve cover on exhaust side. Got 30 pilot 115 main. The 125 main made it bog down with throttle. Adjusted air and idle screw. Tried jet needle in every groove . Still wont run with choke off. But it's getting close. I think I'm gonna have to go higher than a 30 pilot
Would you say these specs are good for the brozz 250 recon as well?
Yes, read description for proper updated specs. I set intake and exhaust at .003"
@@MotoCheez we tried that on my buddy’s brozz today. Before adjusting he had good power and top speed after adjusting to .003 he lost power and the valves are significantly louder. He even tried going lower to .04MM it helped a little but not a lot makes me a little nervous to do the valves on my hawk I’m at 670 miles valves are quite and I can get up to 73 mph max so far on slight down hill
I don't think you had it on the compression stroke. HAS to be on compression stroke
@@MotoCheez how do I know if I’m on compression stroke? We pulled spark plug out and spun the crank until the piston was at the top and we had the T lined with the groove in the cap threads didn’t have any play in the valves when I first spun it to the T the piston was down and the intake valve had a lot of play it in so I figured that’s not right lol
@@MotoCheez I just watched you other video I forgot about putting my thumb over the spark plug hole. I’ve only done valves once on my riding mowing and it’s been a couple years lol thank you
I see some people are saying this should be done before it is started for the first time. Any thoughts on this?
I've gotten almost a dozen of these and I'd say, no. They're all been right on from factory. I would suggest checking after a thousand or so miles to be safe.
@@MotoCheez just picked up a tbr7, thanks for the discount
@@rprovasoli AWESOME!! enjoy
When should we adjust these? Does it say in the manual an interval in miles?
I checked mine after breakin, which was about 300 miles. then about 1000 miles after that because it is so easy to do. I say after break in because I have had some chinese scooters with real tight valves where it would not start and idle after about a month.... Be sure to read the added notes and added video about TDC and valve clearances, I went off Honda manual for this video and the clearances are tighter for these bikes even though it is an exact replica of a CG engine
Thanks
what is, feeler gauge
amzn.to/2qFq70y Here is a link
Funny the Chinese built a push rod engine. Its cheaper to build a push rod engine, but I wonder if this is an old Honda design that the patent has run out on, so the Chinese are able to copy it without any legal fears? How many miles do you have it now? I would like to take one these on a 500 mile tour just for the heck of it. I watched your oil change video, and I can't believe it has an 800 mile oil change interval.
MotorheadRedo it's a copy of the Honda 70's CG150 engine. The intervals are longer but it has a slinger type oil filter and there's only 1 quart capacity.
I love the fact that its uses push rods and doesn't have a filtered oil system accept for that screen near the drain plug. Is it still running good and how many miles do you have on it? Thanks...
MotorheadRedo I have about 1500 miles on it now. I gave mine to my kid and bought a CRF250L, but I still ride the hawk at times.
Cool! I was looking through Cycle Trader the other day and noticed all the old, but new, 250cc Japanese dual sport bikes dealerships are still trying to sell. I think I saw a new 2012 Kawasaki KLX250S still on the showroom floor. I wonder if all these Chinese bikes have anything to do with that. Funny because the Japanese were known for undercutting the competition to sell their bikes, and now its happening to them. Saw several Chinese Grom clones on youtube for less than $1500. Anyway, thanks for the info.
MotorheadRedo I've wondered that myself, I saw those little grom wannabes, I wish they'd come out with a decent 250cc sportbike. I think they'd do well. You sound like you're very knowledgeable in this area. Drop by and comment any time!
any idea what the Bolt is for on the back side of the valve cover?
Tyler Ryan back side? oil line?
MotoCheez I haven't taken the valve cover off yet so I was curious what the Bolt is for. It's right by the motor mount. if you have a email I can send you a picture. I have a 2016 so I don't know if they added anything with the newer models.
Tyler Ryan cheezomlet@gmail.com
I have an oil leak om the left side imside where the nut is to turn to tdc. Is this a main seal leak?
Probably the crank seal. Not sure if that's replaceable by just taking flywheel and stator off. They usually are
@@MotoCheez ty. I will start tearing out the parts today. 😥
@@MotoCheez also i love your vids. You are the reason i ended up with a HAWK. I refrence you in my vids lol.
@@MotoCheez do you know what size or where i can get the seal?
TY, I'll give you a follow!
for the record, even .005 was too small on mine. The shop that imported mine to the U.S. (Ricky Powersports) in Texas, told me exhaust was supposed to be .009 and intake was supposed to be .007 but I put them both at .007 because having the exhaust at .009 was way too clattery and had a slight low end stumble. I've only had them both at .007 for one short trip around the block at this point, but it seems to be much better now.
aLukeWarmFart Gaming mine were a bit loud when I put them at .009. Those were the original honda CG specs. The closer tollerances I got right from the hawk manual. I think they're too tight also, so suited to the larger .003 for both.
0.00285 was too tight on mine(both and on "T" on the compression stroke while cold).. That's with the properly gapped iridium plug, and the mix screw and mount lock washers and 110 main jet done on the pz30(I use throttle and idle screw to get past the slow/pilot jet issue)
It still requires some turning over to start regardless of choke state. Once it's got to a smooth idle it'll crank in a second and idle at 1500 all day even in the winter..
Is the exhaust clearance .005 in or .002?
.002. When I did the video I used old Honda spec
2 thousandths is a lot tighter clearance than specs suggest. It should help the power of the engine, tho.
The specs I took right out of the manual
How can I find TDC of the compression stroke vs the exhaust stroke
I did a video 9f it linked in this video. If the valves rock at TDC it's off 1 revolution.
@@MotoCheez I found TDC my issue is now the tapping sound when I rev it
@@liveandletlive2894 you did the updated gap? .002 to .003"
@@MotoCheez I'm gonna try that thanks I did .003 .004
@@liveandletlive2894 closer to .002 on both
I adjusted my valves to .0025" and they are ticking really bad. I checked the valves again after riding and made sure I was on compression stroke and every was still the same. Do you have any idea of what else to do? I talked to my small engine mechanic and he says not to ride it if it is ticking really loud. He can't look at it until next week and I want to ride it. :/
017ruckus if it's ticking bad, you must be on wrong stroke adjusting, try it again, one stroke you'll have no gap, the other you should have the gap...
MotoCheez yep, the next stroke there is no gap. I'm going to look at it again tomorrow and see if I can see anything else wrong. worst thing is probably that I'm going to have to have my mechanic fix it, but that's really not so bad. just sucks because I don't even have a mile on it yet.
017ruckus They do tick a little bit, so you might have it right already then
Sounds a little loud. Did you use .0025 or .025"? That's why I say .003" intake and exhaust, because most gauges do not go down to millionths..
MotoCheez I adjusted to .0025" which is 5 tenthousanths less than .003". It's 2.5 thousandths. I am just wondering if I should adjust to what RPS suggests like the .005 on intake and .006 on exhaust and see what happeneds?
is the valve adjustment the same on the tt250?
I'm not 100% sure, but I heard they are the same head, so should be. I asked if they wanted me to review the TT250, said flat out NO! Lol, so guess I'll wait to see a used one sometime.
.002" for both still the way to go in 2022 ?
Yes
@@MotoCheez Thanks
Where can you buy the gasket?
Pablo Berber it's an O-ring style, it's reusable if you don't rip it. But if you need one txpowersports.com has most the parts for the Hawks.
My hawk has no Compressor what do you think is wrong
+White Chocolate did you ever check valve adjustment?
Thanks for these videos man, super helpful. also thanks for 25 bucks off at TXPS! You're the man!
So is TDC marked F or T?
T is top, F is fire for timing. Don't forget it's .002 to .003" in and ex. I went off Honda's CG specs, they were wrong. Added the proper clearance after.
@@MotoCheez Thanks man
How often does this need to be done?
I'd check every 5000 miles, mine has held adjustment Iver 5000 so far
Thank you
I adjusted my valve just like you did and they tap so loud it makes me nervous
You didn't get it on top dead center. You were one revolution away... I made a video how to find it. And it's .003"
@@MotoCheez both sides need to be .003 I need to use the feeler guage at .003
Yes, .003 is perfect for intake and exhaust..
@@MotoCheez thank you!
👍👍 let me know how u make out
So a quick question. Just did my gf hawk valve lash but the manual says .005. should it be .002 or .005? I did do it to .005 and it is loud as hell. They were ultra ULTRA tight from the factory.
.003 for both. Make sure you're on the compression stroke too!
MotoCheez will do, thanks bro!
I'd have to upload another video to correct it totally. That's why I added notations and other popups. I suppose I could re do the video someday..
First random Motocheez video Ive watched that actually shows your face... lol. What glasses are you using?
I'm like Mr Wilson 😁. I use the zetronix video glasses.
Does it has an F mark on it?
+Pablo Berber yes, F is fire for timing, T is top dead center. Either is fine so long as you're on the compression stroke
Thanks.
+Pablo Berber 👍👍👍
What are they set at factory?
1.5 in and 2 ex I believe. It's in the manual
The video is wrong, I corrected with popups and in the description. I went off an old Honda GC manual and it was off
I seen a diff. Guy set a brozz 250 at .005 and up too .008 on exhaust he said. Im thinking .003 on both? What do you think?
Yes .003 both
What is a valve adjustment for?
+Cesar Saenz to make sure they're not too tight
really my brother thanks
I'm 90% sure I'm on the compression stroke, when I loosened the lock nuts the adjusters were almost just finger tite. what thickness of the gages should I use setting them ?
.002" intake and exhaust
I should warm mine up for about 5 minutes or so. Because I have zero clearance cold
Make sure it's on compression stroke. It's every 2nd revolution.
@@MotoCheez Going to redo it now that i rode it for a bit.
I'm down to this point on mine, cover off, Crack of f mark, lock nuts loose.
Be sure you're on the compression stroke. On The exhaust stroke the valves will be very tight.
Thanks, that lets me know how to tell which stroke I am own, because I had know idea before. Cheers!
jared young YW, it's hard to explain
MotoCheez how many strokes do you have to go through? is the exhaust stroke before the compression stroke ? And do you have to start in a certain gear?
+Taylor Freezy every other time the piston comes up us compression, you'll feel it push your finger when it's coming up on the compression stroke
What does this do exactly?
Makes sure valves are not too tight, (won't idle, burn a valve) or too loose (ruin valve stem or rocker, drop a valve)
Is F or T top dead center?
017ruckus T
017ruckus on compression stroke. I made another video showing how to find that.
Thank You. Your vid says timing marks and TDC (F) mark are on the flywheel, does it suppose to say TDC (T) mark?
017ruckus you can do on either mark, T is actually top and F is the ignition timing (fire) they're close enough where it doesn't matter TBH
Thank God for moto cheese because I have the same bike as you
👍😀😀😀😎😎
You sure that's a push rod motor?
100% positive. Single lobe cam pushrod
@@MotoCheez 👍
Ok😊
high five
If you ever changing the break fluid Ill appreciate if you do a video on it :) so I can copy you lol
Will do, but it will be a while. Brake fluid last quite a while before it needs changing.
Aw ok I just read on chinariders that the stock brake fluid was bad so I was thinking on changing it.
Ohh. I didn't see that. I'll have to look into it then, thanks for bringing to my attention
www.cscmotorcycles.com/CSC-TT-250-p/ztt250.htm i wonder if these would have the same issues of adjustment or not. looks like they are spec'd slightly different.
I wondered the same. Seems to have same motor but better forks and some other add ons. Cost white a bit more too.
Am I the only person who can't break the lock nut free from the valve? I even tried with pliers I'm afraid IL break it
Casual Trips the 10mm nut that locks the setting? Shouldn't be that tight.
MotoCheez yes it won't break free
MotoCheez my other came right off no problem
+Casual Trips the intake or exhaust valve adjusted?
MotoCheez never mind that bitch is really on there
Also.valve cover won't come out
No?
Got it thx
I like your video
Thanks! 🧀
I guess I'm not as mechanically inclined as I thought cause idk what you just did lol. I'll have to have my buddy do it for me
Honest Customer this one is a bit more difficult.
My 250 won’t go over 40 mph and idk why
You sure the choke is off? Sometimes that's the problem.
Peso TV I forgot to ask if this was after you adjusted valves?
Yeah the choke is off and I might need to adjust them again. I’m a beginner when I comes to working on it so I could’ve done something wrong
Ahh. Then yes, you adjusted them on the exhaust stroke, not the compression.
I was wondering why my motor was tapping after following the video... than I read the rest of the title lol. .002 fml
Or you're not on the compression stroke.
@@MotoCheez I was, :) but thanks for the info
👍👍👍🔥
Okk
Valve adjustment is 4 and 6 thousands
2 to 3 thousands... I went off Honda manual first time. Specs in hawk manual
I see you at 7:47
😁👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Would be helpful if I could see lol
I know my earlier videos didn't have great lighting and the camera wasn't that great either that's why...
a reg dude aint doing this shit..wtf.
.002 is VERY thight for such chinese engeneering.
That's exactly what I thought, but it's in the manual, and If you go over .004 it will tap pretty loud.