That's true, the Hawk is actually a very good and reliable motorcycle. Mine is 4 years old now and still runs like new, no problems with it. Oh yeah and it does off-road trails really well too.
Change the oil often, get a high quality Japanese o-ring chain, 45t rear sprocket, and open up the exhaust or put on aftermarket exhaust. These zongshen bikes are actually pretty reliable and cheap to work on! I've had lots of fun on mine!
Very wise suggestions. All of with I'm doing to my Appollo 250. But since I'm only riding it on dirt I will be going with a 48 T Sprocket. I don't need to go 70 on dirt.
Dad's got one as an island bike and it's over 10k and been mechanically reliable (bunch of speedo cables until he gave up on those) . It was one of the original CSC TT250's when they were $1800. It's not going on 6-7 years old. Pretty cheap transportation for that price. Welds are all holding up with no visible cracks.
I bought the hawk in 2016 and after i did the most popular mods from motocheez my bike has been a good and fun bike for the 1400$ i paid for it now after 5000 miles later it still rides like new
@the bear 65 I don't think it's street legal in Canada. The CSC TT250 should be street legal in Canada. It cost a little more it's carbureted but the engine is counterbalanced.
the hawk 250 is the farthest thing from "the worst motorcycle in the world". it has to be the best deal on 2 wheels. its sort of like the hipoint of the motorcycle world. its reliable, and it does what it was intended to do.
I grew up riding Hodakas in the 70s and 80s. I think this Hawk beats the crap out of a Combat Wombat, and if I remember correctly, the Wombat 125 retailed for about $700 in 1978. That's $2,800 in 2021 dollars. The Hawk looks like a good value for 2k. I think I'll grab one.
My brother bought a cheap moped/scooter about 12 years ago. The manual had some very confusing translations in there as well including "do not anger the moon".
Probably better to get a used Honda. You can always resale a used Honda. Good luck trying to get someone to buy your used Chinese bike.... Granted if it lasts that long without breaking.
Yes, but let’s keep this in perspective. The Honda CRF 250L has a displacement of 249.6. The Yamaha XT250 is actually 249. In my opinion a 20cc+ round up is pretty bold in this class of bike.
My Honda Shadow 600 was actually a 549. Should have been called a 550 but like you said it is a common tactic to round up. Sometimes way up. These guys doing motorcycle reviews is a joke a bad one too.
I’ve made around $6,000 buying these for 1400 and selling them for the 2000 or 2500 dollar range. I add some upgrades and make sure everything runs good before I sell.
I bought one used 1 year old 1 week ago w 500 miles . I love it. Wanted too get back into riding mostly off road after 26 years of not riding . I wasn’t sure if I was going to like riding again . So didn’t want a huge outlay. And everything used enduro dual sport 250 cc was starting $3500 . Can’t go wrong at this price point
Since you are a nube let me explain. The motorcycle manufacturers have ALLWAYS played fast and loose with actual displacement versus claimed displacement. Often they are not very close like yours 229 vrs. 250. THE WORST example that I know of was my 2006 Kymico 200cc schooter which had an actual displacement of 156cc. The only manufacturer that I know that doesn't do this is Harley Davdson.
What Is Funny is All Japanese Bikes Are MADE in China Now Too. Hell Suzuki built a Huge Factory in China in 2007. Plus All Bikes Not Built in China All Use Parts From China since All these Companies are global companies. Hell Honda Had Lifan From China Making Some Honda Parts for them Ever since the 80's and they are considered one of the Best. U better Put down your Phone too Cause that was made in China too since All Apples and Even Samsung are since Samsung's cost too much too put together in Korea. Just Wait China is The Leader Now Just like Japan was in the 80's and 90's yet I remember Everyone Saying Cheap Japanese junk About their stuff in the late 70s and early 80s and Now its All the Most loved and collected stuff. China is Already Becoming Too expensive to Build stuff there and Companies Like Apple Are Setting up huge buildings sites in India. Lol You Think China Is Bad Wait until everything is Made in India or Some Shithole in Africa since All these companies are looking for places that they can set up shop Have people Work for ten cents a day and Countries that Have Little or No Regulations so they Can save Money on whatever Waste their factory makes since they can just dump it outside or in a river in places like India or parts of Africa.
Funny thing about these? They use a ton of cloned or perhaps factory second Honda parts. I was looking at one as a weekend toy, and research provided some info, cheap, very, but there's plenty of Chinese Honda clones (predator 212 being well known) and most work decent
It's very common, including with japanese bikes, to scale up the size (e.g. 239cc sold as a 250). In fact, Polaris will actually understate the displacement (e.g. 450HO is actually 500cc). So, the number is just where the OEM wants to position the machine.
Funny thing is, this might actually be one of the best disaster/bug out bike options. It's cheap and disposable, efi, electric start and kickstart, simple maintenance and repairs - and its own hidden tool kit lol, has headlight cutout stock and a very big fuel tank for a small dual sport. Hmmmm....
I love my Hawk! & I have 2 of them. Both 2020 X-pro's (carburetor)-if you enjoy working on or modifying your own machines in a fun way (not a broken down kinda way) and don't have plans to race off table tops at 70mph while doing back flips this is a fantastic bike! I am an enthusiast and also have Japanese bikes-the Hawk is not a Japanese bike, nor does it claim to be. It is a fun commuter/trail rider that is very reliable.
I had the base model, not a bad bike at all I also have done tons of reviews on the hawk. One guy has over 6,000 miles on one since he bought it. The engine is super reliable.
I bought my Hawk last year and absolutely love it! My buddy who only rided Honda's took it out as soon as we finished putting it together and was absolutely amazed! Kicking himself he just spent 6k on a used Honda Dirt bike when he said this was much more fun to ride! I'm a big guy and it fits me perfectly and has plenty of power! I got my liscense last summer and my Hawk has been a perfect starter bike for me!
From a Mechanic's perspective. The Hawk 250 is a $1,500-$2,200 (depending on model) lookup Hawk 250 Enduro 10,000 review 15,00 mile review. People who actually know how to maintain, prep the bike and keep it in good shape. I had a 2008 Tao Tao Titan 150, Made it 8,400 ish miles. 2 grand for a known to be reliable Enduro. Sure made in China, so is my Holzfforma G660 that redlines at 15.6 K it's modified 106cc engine produces 8.4 HP. That beats my Husqvarna 372 XP, 592 XP, and my Stihl 027 super. And if your worried about a part failing/breaking on you. Just order Aftermarket Performance Parts. I haven't owned a Hawk myself, only ridden on one a couple of times.
I actually gotta say your wrong when you said there is no used market... there is and they normally sell for more than they are new. At least from what I've seen online and how they sell. Mostly because the "kinks" have been worked out and the bike being assembled.
If price is the biggest consideration, then yah, for a brand new Dual Sport as your 1st bike, here you go. I would suggest the TW200 for your 1st NEW Dual Sport if the price does not scare you away. As an experienced rider however, I prefer the KLX250. :)
My brother got one last year, and it's a great little dualsport. I spent a little more and got the Lifan KPX 250. Both are dependable, and we have a blast on the Hatfield and Mccoy trails with no problems.
Just bought my 4th “Cheap Chinese Moto en Paraguay” the Kenton Dakar 200. We have found them to be quite reliable over the long term - the Kenton GL 150 I bought in 2016 now has more than 20,000 miles on it as a daily driver since 2018. For the commuting that Paraguayans do they’re great. I’ve taken the GL 150 on longer trips wide open for hours. No problems except for when I broke the rear rack on a dirt road and had to find a welder one town back. Kenton claims 9001 certification at the factory and the quality control is pretty good but I have found some obvious design and assembly flaws. Even when you crash the bike does really well. You might not do well but the bike slides no problem.
While I must admit I haven’t bought or rode a dirt-bike in a decade... when I did Honda’s were the very best, most reliable, absolutely bulletproof dirt bike ever. They were easy to start, performed remarkably, and held together through the roughest treatment imaginable.
got mine to learn. It's definitely a great beginner bike, and it's a lot of fun. I have 700 miles on mine, the only issue I've had is the flash relay went out, I bought one at autozone for $8, it's located under the seat if anyone needs this info. change the oil regularly, oil the chain, and you're good to go. edit.. and make sure to keep the correct tension on the chain. it's super easy to adjust, there's lots of videos on how to do this.
Almost no motorcycle on the market from any manufacturer will have the exact displacement of the model name. Try defeating that ignition shield with a magnet, just put one over that hex socket and try flipping it open. A lot of the "features" covered are standard on any bike, and not exactly selling points. That rear swing arm is standard on most bikes.
Most bike manufactures round up regarding engine cc for marketing purposes. On one of my Italian bikes, the actual displacement is 1064cc but the graphics scheme shows it as an 1100. They could have called it a 1050 which would have been more honest but I'm sure someone decided 1100 would sell more bikes. Doubt any bike manufacturer out there uses actual displacement for marketing and graphics. Otherwise most would sound weird and random. Ducati sometimes rounds closer to the actual engine displacement but even then they'll round to numbers that graphically look better.
I can’t tell you how ridiculous it is that I would struggle to pay less for a ~midrange road *bicycle* nowadays. And, it’s not as if those aren’t almost always entirely made in China also 🤦♂️
Haha yeah I have a road bike thats 1600$ myself... I was a bike mechanic and have worked on a 10,000 bike. Theres a lot of doctors in my area that own 5k+ bikes and barely ever use them...
I have the higher class version of this bike. The CSC TT250. I use and abuse this bike on the trails. I have dropped it down hills, on rocks, and revved it out hard going up hill. The only complaint I have is the weight. All steel makes it a bit heavy. That is the only thing I don't like, otherwise this type of bike is great. Had mine since 2019.
The first time I saw a Chinese DS was in Paris. It had all the modern design elements like: rising rate linkage, USD forks and plastic fenders. It didn't have any manufactures stickers on brakes or suspension and the finish wasn't what one would expect on an established marque. That engine size might be clue to origins - TT225. I saw a MASH bike with Honda bottom and Rotax top end design.
I live in California where Amazon will not ship the HAWK, so I've just been watching YT videos. I'm intrigued with just how popular these are around the world. I saw there are entire HAWK riding clubs in the Philippines, and so on. It almost looks like HAWK is the new Harley Davidson ; the bike everybody loves to work on because it's quirky and that is appealing to some. I think the Headlight Off is pretty cool if you're in the woods and want to ride low profile for whatever reason.
The importer is Ricky Power Sports and finally they actually got the model an epa certification, its listed on the epa website, Chongqing Haosen Motorcycle Co., Ltd. is the manufacturer and Chongqing Liyang Jiayu Motorcycle Co., Ltd. makes the engine.
The headline is a bit bogus. If you take a country like India, motorcycles are everywhere, 20 million a year sales Hero was tied to Honda for a long time. Hero sponsors a golf tourney in the US, planned to offer products but never did. The US is an anomoly because Japanese companies maintain high margins with little low end competition. A motorcycle is maybe $1000 US in India. Watch a video from, say, Taiwan and cycles are everywhere. Big question is whether Gen Z will embrace motorcycles, maybe the faster ebikes, in a big way since they face real economic challenges. I've built 4 ebikes and the quality of Chinese motors (they are almost all Chinese) is always improving. This channel is casual, low key, quite informative.
How do you get spare parts? Turn signals often get crashed off on these bikes. Can you get replacements? Chain, brake pads, filters and other engine parts?
Yeah, that's something i'd worry about if you aren't a do it yourselfer or know a mechanic that can hack something to work. Lights and stuff are simple enough to hack a replacement on, but if the fuel system has issues or the engine needs a physical part, you need a new brake caliper, etc... you will be sorta forced to just replace the bike if the guys in your town can't get parts. I know that sounds far fetched but it's really something to add to your considerations. At least if i run out an get a 1990 honda / suzuki for $500 the local parts store can get me everything i need for a full safety and maintenance restoration for under $1500.
Same motor of the HONDA CG 125CC ... Many part on the web..Amazon etc Also share many part from Suzuki 250... With a good maintenance u can have this bike for years...
When I was in India nobody rode with their headlight on during the day (I think it was like that in Nepal as well). In India constantly had people reminding me my headlight was on! POssibly they don't ride with headlights on in China as well.
Not bad for the money, but stay away from using that hokey key. The plastic cogs on the key head will definitely get worn down. If it won't open the little doorway to the keyhole, then you are not going anywhere til you bring the spare key.
Would it be possible for someone to look at the Manufacturer Certificate of Origin and see if a horsepower rating is listed?. Most MCOs I have seen for street bikes do. Reason I ask is I am a bit curious because of how Amazon lists the horsepower as: "Max Horsepower: 11.5/7000 Kw/r/m" These Honda CG engine clones do make very modest power, but 11.5 seems way low. I suspect it actually is 11.5 kilowatts which is a tick over 15 bhp. Thanks for the good work and I look forward to more videos on this.
Really.... $2,000 would have purchased an AWESOME used Honda. And the Honda will still be running years after you give up looking for this things parts.
@@saltyfloridaman7163 - The only thing I’m sure about is that I’m not sure about much. I like Honda motorcycles, they are excellent machines. Beyond that… Dunno. 👍🏼😎
I like these bikes. Inexpensive, cool looks, and they run right out of the box! Assembling the thing is a great way to familiarize yourself with the machine. Fun stuff, I'm 60yrs., ridden everything raining or sunny; (MI.?) and I'm buying one! Thanks for sharing, J
The number used in a model's designation is generally the displacement 'class' that the motorcycle fits into, it is rarely an indication of the motor's true displacement and has been that way since the dawn of motorcycling so no, 'DLX 250' is NOT false advertising.
Millions of these are sold all over the world. They are very popular in Latin America and the Caribbean especially. Do a little research even if just on TH-cam and you will find thousands of happy owners who appreciate its low cost and understand that it will require additional maintenance and attention beyond what a full cost Honda or Yamaha would. There are Japanese origins in the copyright not respected origins in most all major parts of the bike. Its a Chinese Tao Tao.
Seems all bikes are labeled 125, 250 350, 450, 600, 650 as an approx. size category so a buyer can tell if it is close to fitting the rider. All my bikes and 4 wheelers are marked with the engine size lower than the actual model or label I should say. Just seems a little less confusing, after all a few CC's don't really make a lot of difference for an average rider.
This to people who have never rode a motorcycle on the street. I would suggest these to both learn to ride on the street and to find out if you even want to ride on the street on a motorcycle. You are naked out there on the street and nothing between you and the 4 thousand pound car next to you. I have see so many motorcycles sitting in people garage never being rode. And to tie up 5 grand into a motorcycle and then never ride it is a crime. But 2000 dollars isn't near as bad. So for a beginners bike I would recommend it.
Funny how you got a lemon while others got good bikes with little issues. A duo sport is not a good first bike. There is no 250cc that is exactly 250cc. The Suzuki GSX250R comes close at 248cc. Just as 300cc are never truly 300cc. They range from 268cc- 270cc- 286cc-293cc. In order for them to be classified as a 250 or 300cc they need to meet certain standards.
Glad you are learning to ride Tommy. Just remember what they say about the guys with big hands the long keys. Bike cannot be registered in socialist state of califoria. Newsome is still waiting on his kickback from the $500 million he paid to the electric car company that has sent nothing to california so no chinese bikes registered.
You’d be surprised how often people steal Chinese/ clone bikes. I used to own a Chinese style grom and it was stolen...I saw it as free recycling. On Facebook I’ve seen this exact bike listed as stolen so be careful.
It is a 'copy' and good luck making it work seen this time & time again (oh the same parts) until you actually have to work on it. Why buy a cheap imitation - buy the original and be done.
You know whats funny? That bike is way more reliable than a Land Rover
Anyone who weighs more than 160 lbs will blow the shocks out riding it down a dirt road...
Buuuurrrnnnnn
Uk spec Diesel freelander won't let you down
Gas station sushi is more reliable than a Land Rover.
Too funny.
These are nowhere near the worst motorcycle in the world lol
I own one
Theyre awesome
That's true, the Hawk is actually a very good and reliable motorcycle. Mine is 4 years old now and still runs like new, no problems with it. Oh yeah and it does off-road trails really well too.
Change the oil often, get a high quality Japanese o-ring chain, 45t rear sprocket, and open up the exhaust or put on aftermarket exhaust. These zongshen bikes are actually pretty reliable and cheap to work on! I've had lots of fun on mine!
Very wise suggestions. All of with I'm doing to my Appollo 250. But since I'm only riding it on dirt I will be going with a 48 T Sprocket. I don't need to go 70 on dirt.
And happy to see someone who knows motorcycles.
Dad's got one as an island bike and it's over 10k and been mechanically reliable (bunch of speedo cables until he gave up on those) . It was one of the original CSC TT250's when they were $1800. It's not going on 6-7 years old. Pretty cheap transportation for that price. Welds are all holding up with no visible cracks.
I bought the hawk in 2016 and after i did the most popular mods from motocheez my bike has been a good and fun bike for the 1400$ i paid for it now after 5000 miles later it still rides like new
The dlx is fuel injected now
Ok where did you get it from? I’m in Canada. I’ve searched and can’t find anything
@the bear 65 I don't think it's street legal in Canada. The CSC TT250 should be street legal in Canada. It cost a little more it's carbureted but the engine is counterbalanced.
I've got two of the 2016's, same story, running just fine tho I've done some REALLY HARD off road miles on em both:)
Motocheez rocks
the hawk 250 is the farthest thing from "the worst motorcycle in the world". it has to be the best deal on 2 wheels. its sort of like the hipoint of the motorcycle world. its reliable, and it does what it was intended to do.
I love my hipoint. 😊
@@harrygrimley4352🤣👍🤣
I grew up riding Hodakas in the 70s and 80s. I think this Hawk beats the crap out of a Combat Wombat, and if I remember correctly, the Wombat 125 retailed for about $700 in 1978. That's $2,800 in 2021 dollars. The Hawk looks like a good value for 2k. I think I'll grab one.
My brother bought a cheap moped/scooter about 12 years ago. The manual had some very confusing translations in there as well including "do not anger the moon".
That’s solid advice
“Thou shall not anger the moon or the moon will bring down wrath upon thee”.
That goes without saying!
Only ride when moon is full, never drive with hand use hands...gotta love chinglish.
I can’t be the only one seriously thinking about getting this right?
My wife recently noticed it on my Amazon wishlist....She said you aint getting a bike!!!
Nah I’m about to get one soon never had a bike and like the idea of putting it together and upgrading stuff on it
Probably better to get a used Honda. You can always resale a used Honda. Good luck trying to get someone to buy your used Chinese bike.... Granted if it lasts that long without breaking.
I already got one! It’s pretty sweet, this review is garbage
@@postalpancho the zongshen company is one of the largest engine manufacturers on earth
FYI all manufacturers round their displacement up... common marketing tactic
Yes, but let’s keep this in perspective. The Honda CRF 250L has a displacement of 249.6. The Yamaha XT250 is actually 249. In my opinion a 20cc+ round up is pretty bold in this class of bike.
My KTM 1290 is actually rounded DOWN. Engine is a 1,301cc V-twin.
@@TFLoffroad The Honda CMX500, CB500X, et al are actually 471cc
And a honda rebel 250 has a 234cc engine.. this engine is an old Honda engine clone
My Honda Shadow 600 was actually a 549. Should have been called a 550 but like you said it is a common tactic to round up. Sometimes way up. These guys doing motorcycle reviews is a joke a bad one too.
I’ve made around $6,000 buying these for 1400 and selling them for the 2000 or 2500 dollar range. I add some upgrades and make sure everything runs good before I sell.
Smart hustle, it’s what you should do before they go up.
That "Funky Ignition key system" is common in Honda, Yamaha, etc.
I bought one used 1 year old 1 week ago w 500 miles . I love it. Wanted too get back into riding mostly off road after 26 years of not riding . I wasn’t sure if I was going to like riding again . So didn’t want a huge outlay. And everything used enduro dual sport 250 cc was starting $3500 . Can’t go wrong at this price point
Vespa and Piaggio scooters made in Italy have used the same ignition key/lock arrangement for at least 16 years.
Since you are a nube let me explain. The motorcycle manufacturers have ALLWAYS played fast and loose with actual displacement versus claimed displacement. Often they are not very close like yours 229 vrs. 250. THE WORST example that I know of was my 2006 Kymico 200cc schooter which had an actual displacement of 156cc. The only manufacturer that I know that doesn't do this is Harley Davdson.
My Honda shadow 600 was a 549.
They always seem to round up to the nearest 50
Best theft deterrent is the
"Made In China" label... "Your helmet will have more value second hand than the bike" lol!
What Is Funny is All Japanese Bikes Are MADE in China Now Too. Hell Suzuki built a Huge Factory in China in 2007. Plus All Bikes Not Built in China All Use Parts From China since All these Companies are global companies. Hell Honda Had Lifan From China Making Some Honda Parts for them Ever since the 80's and they are considered one of the Best. U better Put down your Phone too Cause that was made in China too since All Apples and Even Samsung are since Samsung's cost too much too put together in Korea. Just Wait China is The Leader Now Just like Japan was in the 80's and 90's yet I remember Everyone Saying Cheap Japanese junk About their stuff in the late 70s and early 80s and Now its All the Most loved and collected stuff. China is Already Becoming Too expensive to Build stuff there and Companies Like Apple Are Setting up huge buildings sites in India. Lol You Think China Is Bad Wait until everything is Made in India or Some Shithole in Africa since All these companies are looking for places that they can set up shop Have people Work for ten cents a day and Countries that Have Little or No Regulations so they Can save Money on whatever Waste their factory makes since they can just dump it outside or in a river in places like India or parts of Africa.
Funny thing about these? They use a ton of cloned or perhaps factory second Honda parts. I was looking at one as a weekend toy, and research provided some info, cheap, very, but there's plenty of Chinese Honda clones (predator 212 being well known) and most work decent
It's very common, including with japanese bikes, to scale up the size (e.g. 239cc sold as a 250). In fact, Polaris will actually understate the displacement (e.g. 450HO is actually 500cc). So, the number is just where the OEM wants to position the machine.
Which makes me believe he doesn't know much about bikes or hasn't been riding long at all lol
Stated he just passed MSF course
@@teslaedison6236he did state he is looking for his first bike
People with money always will say things in good value are cheap.Bro, 2000 dollars for a bike is really good.
Funny thing is, this might actually be one of the best disaster/bug out bike options. It's cheap and disposable, efi, electric start and kickstart, simple maintenance and repairs - and its own hidden tool kit lol, has headlight cutout stock and a very big fuel tank for a small dual sport. Hmmmm....
I love my Hawk! & I have 2 of them. Both 2020 X-pro's (carburetor)-if you enjoy working on or modifying your own machines in a fun way (not a broken down kinda way) and don't have plans to race off table tops at 70mph while doing back flips this is a fantastic bike! I am an enthusiast and also have Japanese bikes-the Hawk is not a Japanese bike, nor does it claim to be. It is a fun commuter/trail rider that is very reliable.
What’s the top speed without modifications
That ignition is exactly like the ignition on my 2018 Honda PCX :)
I had the base model, not a bad bike at all I also have done tons of reviews on the hawk. One guy has over 6,000 miles on one since he bought it. The engine is super reliable.
I bought my Hawk last year and absolutely love it! My buddy who only rided Honda's took it out as soon as we finished putting it together and was absolutely amazed! Kicking himself he just spent 6k on a used Honda Dirt bike when he said this was much more fun to ride! I'm a big guy and it fits me perfectly and has plenty of power! I got my liscense last summer and my Hawk has been a perfect starter bike for me!
Sounds as reliable as any KTM I ever owned. Just not as fast but the price on these are crazy cheap!!
From a Mechanic's perspective.
The Hawk 250 is a $1,500-$2,200 (depending on model) lookup Hawk 250 Enduro 10,000 review 15,00 mile review. People who actually know how to maintain, prep the bike and keep it in good shape. I had a 2008 Tao Tao Titan 150, Made it 8,400 ish miles. 2 grand for a known to be reliable Enduro. Sure made in China, so is my Holzfforma G660 that redlines at 15.6 K it's modified 106cc engine produces 8.4 HP.
That beats my Husqvarna 372 XP, 592 XP, and my Stihl 027 super. And if your worried about a part failing/breaking on you. Just order Aftermarket Performance Parts. I haven't owned a Hawk myself, only ridden on one a couple of times.
I know this is 3 years old, but make a video discussing what mods/things to do open up the hawk dlx to get the best out of it.
I actually gotta say your wrong when you said there is no used market... there is and they normally sell for more than they are new. At least from what I've seen online and how they sell. Mostly because the "kinks" have been worked out and the bike being assembled.
From my observation, that double locked ignition is quite common in Asia.
Cultural.
Love the sarcasm “the bar pad here which of course protects you in the case of an off road accident” 😂😅
Really enjoy the content across all of these TFL channels. Have you Checked the tyre pressures? Rear looks flat.
If price is the biggest consideration, then yah, for a brand new Dual Sport as your 1st bike, here you go. I would suggest the TW200 for your 1st NEW Dual Sport if the price does not scare you away. As an experienced rider however, I prefer the KLX250. :)
Tommy, now you need a vest rocking the TFL logo, a couple of temporary tats and crank up the foul mouth. Then I want a poster!
Oh please... LEATHER JACKET! 😁
My brother got one last year, and it's a great little dualsport. I spent a little more and got the Lifan KPX 250. Both are dependable, and we have a blast on the Hatfield and Mccoy trails with no problems.
Any suspension mods or upgrades for these bikes?
Just bought my 4th “Cheap Chinese Moto en Paraguay” the Kenton Dakar 200. We have found them to be quite reliable over the long term - the Kenton GL 150 I bought in 2016 now has more than 20,000 miles on it as a daily driver since 2018.
For the commuting that Paraguayans do they’re great. I’ve taken the GL 150 on longer trips wide open for hours. No problems except for when I broke the rear rack on a dirt road and had to find a welder one town back.
Kenton claims 9001 certification at the factory and the quality control is pretty good but I have found some obvious design and assembly flaws.
Even when you crash the bike does really well. You might not do well but the bike slides no problem.
While I must admit I haven’t bought or rode a dirt-bike in a decade... when I did Honda’s were the very best, most reliable, absolutely bulletproof dirt bike ever. They were easy to start, performed remarkably, and held together through the roughest treatment imaginable.
That's why they cloned the Honda
got mine to learn. It's definitely a great beginner bike, and it's a lot of fun. I have 700 miles on mine, the only issue I've had is the flash relay went out, I bought one at autozone for $8, it's located under the seat if anyone needs this info. change the oil regularly, oil the chain, and you're good to go.
edit.. and make sure to keep the correct tension on the chain. it's super easy to adjust, there's lots of videos on how to do this.
Tommy lights off is for running from the police
Hehehe
Offroad daytime use?
Almost no motorcycle on the market from any manufacturer will have the exact displacement of the model name. Try defeating that ignition shield with a magnet, just put one over that hex socket and try flipping it open.
A lot of the "features" covered are standard on any bike, and not exactly selling points. That rear swing arm is standard on most bikes.
Some manufacturers say the numerals are just part of the name. Like a Ford f150 truck..
Very common for engines with less that 250 ccs to be called 250s. The Japanese manufactures do it all the time.
When you go to the bar show the lady's your key!
Displacement is commonly rounded up.. my rebel250 was actually 233 or 234cc. Likewise, my vt500ft is 491cc.
Title is absurdly misleading.
Most bike manufactures round up regarding engine cc for marketing purposes. On one of my Italian bikes, the actual displacement is 1064cc but the graphics scheme shows it as an 1100. They could have called it a 1050 which would have been more honest but I'm sure someone decided 1100 would sell more bikes.
Doubt any bike manufacturer out there uses actual displacement for marketing and graphics. Otherwise most would sound weird and random.
Ducati sometimes rounds closer to the actual engine displacement but even then they'll round to numbers that graphically look better.
I can’t tell you how ridiculous it is that I would struggle to pay less for a ~midrange road *bicycle* nowadays. And, it’s not as if those aren’t almost always entirely made in China also 🤦♂️
Haha yeah I have a road bike thats 1600$ myself... I was a bike mechanic and have worked on a 10,000 bike. Theres a lot of doctors in my area that own 5k+ bikes and barely ever use them...
I have the higher class version of this bike. The CSC TT250. I use and abuse this bike on the trails. I have dropped it down hills, on rocks, and revved it out hard going up hill. The only complaint I have is the weight. All steel makes it a bit heavy. That is the only thing I don't like, otherwise this type of bike is great. Had mine since 2019.
The 80$ 2 year protection plan with unlimited parts and labor make it worth it
The first time I saw a Chinese DS was in Paris. It had all the modern design elements like: rising rate linkage, USD forks and plastic fenders. It didn't have any manufactures stickers on brakes or suspension and the finish wasn't what one would expect on an established marque.
That engine size might be clue to origins - TT225. I saw a MASH bike with Honda bottom and Rotax top end design.
That tank looks more like 3.7L which is about 1 Gal. What's the weight capacity?
It holds around three gallons dry weight says 353 I think
You could probably get three of these for the price of one japanese counterpart after all the stealership fees
I live in California where Amazon will not ship the HAWK, so I've just been watching YT videos. I'm intrigued with just how popular these are around the world. I saw there are entire HAWK riding clubs in the Philippines, and so on. It almost looks like HAWK is the new Harley Davidson ; the bike everybody loves to work on because it's quirky and that is appealing to some. I think the Headlight Off is pretty cool if you're in the woods and want to ride low profile for whatever reason.
The exhaust heat shield on my vstrom is plastic and lasted 83,000 miles before I removed it when installing luggage racks.
Great video man. Love the commentary
"Strongest"🤣. Great Entertaining review Tommy!
Also have same ignition on mine. If anyone wants to steal it they just cut the wires and jump it.
Where did you 👀 😳 park
What’s the top speed for this bike without modifications
The importer is Ricky Power Sports and finally they actually got the model an epa certification, its listed on the epa website, Chongqing Haosen Motorcycle Co., Ltd. is the manufacturer and Chongqing Liyang Jiayu Motorcycle Co., Ltd. makes the engine.
The headline is a bit bogus. If you take a country like India, motorcycles are everywhere, 20 million a year sales Hero was tied to Honda for a long time. Hero sponsors a golf tourney in the US, planned to offer products but never did. The US is an anomoly because Japanese companies maintain high margins with little low end competition. A motorcycle is maybe $1000 US in India. Watch a video from, say, Taiwan and cycles are everywhere. Big question is whether Gen Z will embrace motorcycles, maybe the faster ebikes, in a big way since they face real economic challenges. I've built 4 ebikes and the quality of Chinese motors (they are almost all Chinese) is always improving. This channel is casual, low key, quite informative.
How do you get spare parts? Turn signals often get crashed off on these bikes. Can you get replacements? Chain, brake pads, filters and other engine parts?
Yeah, that's something i'd worry about if you aren't a do it yourselfer or know a mechanic that can hack something to work. Lights and stuff are simple enough to hack a replacement on, but if the fuel system has issues or the engine needs a physical part, you need a new brake caliper, etc... you will be sorta forced to just replace the bike if the guys in your town can't get parts. I know that sounds far fetched but it's really something to add to your considerations. At least if i run out an get a 1990 honda / suzuki for $500 the local parts store can get me everything i need for a full safety and maintenance restoration for under $1500.
Same motor of the HONDA CG 125CC ...
Many part on the web..Amazon etc
Also share many part from Suzuki 250...
With a good maintenance u can have this bike for years...
I'm seriously looking at getting one to learn how to ride a motorcycle. BUT Im 5'-3" and that 36" seat is concerning. Thanks for the review! Good job!
you can adjust the suspension, it's definitely a great beginner bike.
When I was in India nobody rode with their headlight on during the day (I think it was like that in Nepal as well). In India constantly had people reminding me my headlight was on! POssibly they don't ride with headlights on in China as well.
Most manufacturers stretch the engine size, when it comes to branding. The crf250 is not 250cc etc.
Not bad for the money, but stay away from using that hokey key. The plastic cogs on the key head will definitely get worn down. If it won't open the little doorway to the keyhole, then you are not going anywhere til you bring the spare key.
Would it be possible for someone to look at the Manufacturer Certificate of Origin and see if a horsepower rating is listed?. Most MCOs I have seen for street bikes do.
Reason I ask is I am a bit curious because of how Amazon lists the horsepower as: "Max Horsepower: 11.5/7000 Kw/r/m" These Honda CG engine clones do make very modest power, but 11.5 seems way low. I suspect it actually is 11.5 kilowatts which is a tick over 15 bhp.
Thanks for the good work and I look forward to more videos on this.
I would bet you are right
These are basically the same as the Tao Tao tbr7. And that has 13.5 HP.
It worth every single penny, Tom
Really.... $2,000 would have purchased an AWESOME used Honda. And the Honda will still be running years after you give up looking for this things parts.
@@Erin-Thor I agree, unless you get a bad bike and spend a lotof money fixing it
@@saltyfloridaman7163 - The only thing I’m sure about is that I’m not sure about much. I like Honda motorcycles, they are excellent machines. Beyond that… Dunno. 👍🏼😎
@@saltyfloridaman7163 - You say that like Chinese quality control is a good thing. 🤣
Wonder how it does against the Xpect 200?
These bikes are great! I have the CSC TT250 and the upgrades they make with this platform is worth the extra money.
I see Walmart sell some too you guys should try one of those out to see if they are any good.
I like these bikes. Inexpensive, cool looks, and they run right out of the box! Assembling the thing is a great way to familiarize yourself with the machine. Fun stuff, I'm 60yrs., ridden everything raining or sunny; (MI.?) and I'm buying one! Thanks for sharing, J
I believe the headlight turns off for off road use if I'm correct. On the streets you're headlight should be on even during the day time hours
The number used in a model's designation is generally the displacement 'class' that the motorcycle fits into, it is rarely an indication of the motor's true displacement and has been that way since the dawn of motorcycling so no, 'DLX 250' is NOT false advertising.
I have that bike in bolivia to go to my job, 3 years and its working fine, just the regular maintenance
"Now I'm new to this, just got my endorsement and am looking into getting my first bike" Proceeds to call worst bike in the world. What a joke
I have 2023 I put 750 miles on it so far and not one problem. Bike is fun to ride and has plenty of power for trail riding. So far I love my DXL.
Where did you purchase it/ do you have the link?
Can you rip the decals off?
Maybe but if it doesn't come off you might just wanna sand it off
Nice...woke up just in time!!...Good morning 🌅 Tommy!!😃
hate the bar type fuel "gauges"
Millions of these are sold all over the world. They are very popular in Latin America and the Caribbean especially. Do a little research even if just on TH-cam and you will find thousands of happy owners who appreciate its low cost and understand that it will require additional maintenance and attention beyond what a full cost Honda or Yamaha would. There are Japanese origins in the copyright not respected origins in most all major parts of the bike. Its a Chinese Tao Tao.
I’m guessing difficult or impossible to get parts for.
11:22 translation, do not shift without clutching and letting off the throttle. Not a bad looking bike
If you want one even cheaper the tbr7 is basically the same bike with a carb instead of EFI. And its only $1,500
How many miles is expected from these thing?
Seems all bikes are labeled 125, 250 350, 450, 600, 650 as an approx. size category so a buyer can tell if it is close to fitting the rider. All my bikes and 4 wheelers are marked with the engine size lower than the actual model or label I should say. Just seems a little less confusing, after all a few CC's don't really make a lot of difference for an average rider.
everybody complains about the resale value. I'm not buying it to sell it. For $2000 who give a shit about the resale value?
you need to unscrew the mirrors and place them on the right side. they come backwards from manufacturer. I own 2 black 2021 models
Can you tell s where I can get a crf300 for 5200?
I wanna buy one and I can’t find it anywhere.
Why can’t I find these anywhere ? Why
This to people who have never rode a motorcycle on the street. I would suggest these to both learn to ride on the street and to find out if you even want to ride on the street on a motorcycle. You are naked out there on the street and nothing between you and the 4 thousand pound car next to you. I have see so many motorcycles sitting in people garage never being rode. And to tie up 5 grand into a motorcycle and then never ride it is a crime. But 2000 dollars isn't near as bad. So for a beginners bike I would recommend it.
Funny how you got a lemon while others got good bikes with little issues. A duo sport is not a good first bike. There is no 250cc that is exactly 250cc. The Suzuki GSX250R comes close at 248cc. Just as 300cc are never truly 300cc. They range from 268cc- 270cc- 286cc-293cc. In order for them to be classified as a 250 or 300cc they need to meet certain standards.
Glad you are learning to ride Tommy. Just remember what they say about the guys with big hands the long keys. Bike cannot be registered in socialist state of califoria. Newsome is still waiting on his kickback from the $500 million he paid to the electric car company that has sent nothing to california so no chinese bikes registered.
This bike has lots of good reviews on Amazon
You’d be surprised how often people steal Chinese/ clone bikes. I used to own a Chinese style grom and it was stolen...I saw it as free recycling. On Facebook I’ve seen this exact bike listed as stolen so be careful.
I've had three of these bikes and two were stolen.
You can buy that display for $100 on Amazon. Or if you don't mind waiting $40 from Alibaba.
Man it sucks to live up here in ny. I've been looking into buying this and with tax and the laws toward street legal dirt bikes, it's not worth it.
I wish this bike was still available I would order one right now.
Calling it a Hawk is a stretch. A Parakeet would be more accurate. Lol
The motor is based on the old Honda 230. It is ancient tech made to last forever in the third world.
Just like gy6 engine
Cq
It is a 'copy' and good luck making it work seen this time & time again (oh the same parts) until you actually have to work on it. Why buy a cheap imitation - buy the original and be done.
I just bought a 2024 titan dlx 250... it be here in a week I'll let you all know updates