I bought a Magician last August, and only had time to put about 300 miles on last year. I've got a bit over 700 on it now, and so far I'm happy with it. I've lost zero bolts, no cracked welds, etc. Mine will run 55 all day long. Only mods I've done is NGK plug, sealed battery, adjusted valve lash,and jetted the carb. When I got it, it had a leaky head gasket, which the dealer sent right out. Only other problem is the blue lens on the light that shows brights fell off in the woods somewhere. The engine runs great, and I do have a welder, so it will be here for awhile.
Back in 2007, I bought an American Lifan LF200GY-5 Chinese dual sport, shipped to my door in a crate, for $1200 total. Being a long time motorcyclist and professional mechanic, I had no problem putting it together and setting it up. I had to fix a couple of design problems. But one problem I was unable to fix was the same issue you had with that one. The front and rear sprockets were not positioned correctly, and when the chain was adjusted properly with no rider on it, it was WAY too tight with my 250 pounds on it. So I wound up adjusting it very loose to compensate for that. This bike had an ancient Honda clone 200cc pushrod motor, with a centrifugal oil filter on the end of the crankshaft. Other than the chain, it wound up doing very well for around 3600 miles, when the centrifugal oil filter managed to unscrew itself from the crankshaft, causing a total loss of oil pressure, and that was that. I wound up giving it to a coworker. Several months later, during the GREAT RECESSION of 2008, I bought a used 1994 Yamaha XT225 with only 1800 miles on it off Craigslist for $1400, in near new condition. The guy had lost his job, and needed money to buy Christmas presents for his kids. I have made a lot of modifications to it since, due to my weight I had to completely replace the front and rear suspension, I replaced the stock 2.1 gallon gas tank with a 4 gallon plastic tank from Clarke, I put a kickstarter on it using parts from a Yamaha TTR-225, the pure dirt version of the XT225, I put a bolt on centerstand on it, made by a member of an XT225 forum I belong to who was a retired welder/fabricator/machinist, I got bars that were about 2" higher than stock, I put a luggage rack on it, some better mirrors, I installed 4mm thick inner tubes (which are FOUR times as thick as standard tubes), and a bunch of other small things. That 4 gallon tank gave me a 250+ mile range, and the centerstand probably saved my life a few times. It is impossible to ride around in the AZ desert without getting flat tires, and the centerstand held the bike up while I removed a wheel to fix the flat. But the engine has not been modified, it is still 100% stock, it HAS been over maintained, and it now has over 30,000 mostly off road and dirt road miles on it. Yamaha engines last forever. At least the old ones do. I advise staying FAR away from the newer EFI ones. Oh, and as someone who can weld, I found it virtually impossible to weld Chinese "metal" without burning through it. If you have a steel tank with a leak, I recommend coating it with Caswells tank sealer. DO NOT use any other brand.
Having watched several of your videos on motorized bicycles and now this video on the magician, I think you are well on your way to being a qualified small engine mechanic. I learned some tips from you about 2-stroke carbs that I didn’t know. And you give the best “real world” testimonies on a lot of things that are hard to find on TH-cam. So hats off to you for that. And I can’t help but think you’d make a great ham radio operator with fantastic videos on that hobby. Don’t sell yourself short on your abilities as you seem more capable than most.
I'm a proud Magician owner. I have 1000 miles and I guess it's time to proactively take off the tank to prevent the leak. I haven't had a problem with bolts coming off and haven't changed the carb yet, maybe I won't, because I'm not experiencing alot of vibration problems. I would guess that you trust the bike if you ride it to work, or maybe you don't like your job. I'm 5'9" and it's comfortable on long road rides, but I rarely go over 50 mph. the bike seems to like 47 mph. I've had it WOT for a total of 5 seconds since I have owned it. I put a tachometer on it and try to keep my rpm's down, never went over 7000 and never needed to. It's a street legal dirt bike, that's all and it does pretty good off road and also taking me to go off road. I accept the limitations because it's a fun bike that hasn't let me down.
@@LAHover I had to tighten the bolts to the exhaust, that's all. I don't make videos, it is not a unicorn, it is a Magician, some folks get lucky, I guess.
Thank you for the honest review & going over this thing's woes. Been looking for a cheap commuter, preferably a dual sport. Was eyeing this one tough, but you helped me in my research more than any other review on it. Much appreciated.
I have the same bike. I have the same problems minus tank leakage. But not really mad about it. It’s given me lots of experience and no how. Definitely ready for a bigger bike
What I personally like about this bike is it's not a the exact same thing. The TBR7 is a rebadged Hawk 250 which is a rebadged appolo. RPS did their own thing. It was a horrible execution but i love that they made something unique
Best Chinese manufacturer is by far Lifan. They make very good bikes My 2006 Lifan GY 5 200 cc bike has been flawless. It is now 2024 and I am still riding it.
Got a magician. Don't really have the problems you're having. Opened the air box, installed a uni. Better quality same carb. 30 slow 125 main jet, full crf150 exhaust. Can get it to hit 72-74 mph. I weigh 200lbs. I'm happy with it. Oh yeah, got a welder too. 😂
Thanks for the warning! I've been thinking about getting one and I'm glad I didn't. I have a yamaha TW 200 and have never had a problem with it in 6000 miles, it always starts, has never had anything fall off of it and just scratches the paint if you crash it. I would recommend you get a TW 200 also. Thanks again.
Tiger seal is the dog's bollox for sealing, stopping leaks etc an it's heat proof so I even use it as instant gasket on me exhaust an it's worked a dream no more unnecessary noise no more popping etc, the last thing a used tiger seal on was my fuel filter only the other week but still no leakage, it's like multi purpose miracle snot
Well..., before watching your video on this bike, I had watched three others on it, they were positive reviews. And I was sure this bike is for me until I watched your video. Now I'm wondering hm... I do appreciate an honest review and I do believe your's is. This is not to say the other people lied, it just means Chinese bikes don't have a consistent and tight quality control. Some bikes of the same model may be okay and some others are just a ride with a lot of headaches. And I'm really not sure if Chinese are to blame or US importers. Chinese manufacture bikes based on the specs and budget of the importer. If the importer wants to have the lowest prices on bikes, therefore, Chinese have no choice but to install the lowest quality parts and the shotiest craftsmanship due to "Hurry up and rush it out through the door" hence, the validity of "You got what you paid for". Good video, thanks.
Thank You Sir. You made my mind up for this mill. I like the simple look of this mill. As in it looks as tho you can get to anything on the bike with ease , but the issues you have mentioned has pushed me away.
Sounds like you had some really unfortunate luck with your bike. That really sucks! Here is a very important pre run checklist (for Chinese enduros): th-cam.com/video/80Kfqy4ZhkU/w-d-xo.html This will make a huge difference with your experience with the bike! I also have a “after the bike is running” checklist. Both checklists are very important to having a successful relationship with the your bike. Many already know, if you want to cruise at 55+ you have to put a smaller sprocket on the back.. you are absolutely right about the vibrations on the bike.. I have the hawk 250, I’m running 17-40 gearing, the bike is happy cruising at 55-60 mph, Very low vibration, and the motor isn’t going to get burned out.. only downside is 1st gear is too tall for my riding style.. I do a lot of road riding, I also do a lot of hardcore off-road riding. Unfortunately you cannot have the best of both worlds.. that goes for most bikes, Chinese or Japanese. My two cents, thanks for reading if you made it to the end :)
Mine has been non stop problems. I bought it as a cheap learner bike but everything has fallen off of it and I've spent more time zip tying it back together than actually riding it. The fuel leaks in particular have been constant. Just absolute garbage all around and I regret not just saving up a bit longer for a used Japanese bike.
New magician owner here! I know its a old video but seriously well done my man. If youre still around, any advice you'd give that wasn't covered in the video? Seems like you touched on it all but who knows
Great videos. I started watching your bike builds and wanted to follow up on the Magician and am surprised. When I was a kid we had a Honda CB360 that we were quite hard on. That was a smooth riding fairly fast bike that rarely broke down. If you ever see one of those old Honda's for sale and wanted a project road bike, you would love how it cruises along at 50, 60mph with ease. You have quite a few nice trails you can ride motorized bikes there, very jealous. Seems like there isn't much off road stuff here in Wi.
Ya man, anything with Honda on it gets grabbed up fast for good reason around here... As clunky as this little 250 is, it's some how still running at 3000 miles lol
@@derekwaszkiewicz8338 Good point. I am near Eau Claire but havent researched too much on what is available but have friends with UTV's that go some place often.
LAH - Nice video! This looks like the Honda CG 125/200/250 clone - pushrods & rocker adjusters, cam located near crank? There are apparently counterbalanced & non-CB versions, this looks like the non-CB version. Is this engine "buzzy" at higher RPMs? If so that explains the broken motor mounts & bolts shaking loose. That CG motor is a hammer though, and a 5 speed gearbox is a good start. Is this bike carbureted or EFI? If Carburetted would explain the warm up issue.The frame looks like trials bike geometry - is it easy to pick your way thru boulder strewn or stump infested trails? This looks like a good cow-trailer to me. I believe I'd have to start with throwing away the 20 pounds of weird covers, passenger pegs and useless electrical frippery like sidestand & clutch interlock switches. You mentioned three crashing episodes - good tires make a huge difference, but sometimes traction just evaporates thru wet leaves, thin layers of goo on harder substrates, or lots more factors. How are the brakes holding up - usable or grabby or ?? It sounded like there was some warp in the front disc? Have you changed out the engine oil many times? Other sources claim the Chinese OEM oil is vegetable oil, so maybe the grinding/whining would be less with 20W-50? The cheesy bolts come with the turf on lo-buck hardware; my India made bike has lots of Velveeta-grade fasteners and threads cut into butter soft aluminum cases. At about $1000, to me it looks like the makings of a good trail bike if you toss everything that isn't necessary and ride it smoothly. Suspension tuning can use valve springs added on top of the OEM fork springs to increase preload & total resistance. Appropriate weight fork oil for the riding conditions you have is always a plus - ATF is cheap, about 15W & a good place to start. The monoshock rear is a tougher problem, you'd need to disassemble & get some dimensions and spring rate numbers to work with. Anyhow - sounds like you've has fun, mostly, and done a good bit of learning!
I'm sure the 2020's are better now . They've most likely shot all the girls they had welding in the base of the skull , and rolled them into the body pit before they became of age to reproduce . I'm sure there's a new crew of disposable workers on the job now , with slightly better skills than the last . 😂
Hmm, have you tried replacing the chain with a Japanese chain? I haven’t heard of much trouble with the newer magicians. What year is yours? I have a 2020 Magician on the way. I’m aware the older models had some issues, but hey, they’re clocking in 10k miles now!
Even Chinese manufacturers update and fix well know problems. Does anyone know if “newer” models were fixed with the tank and front frame member. Moto cheese had the same problems. National Parks will not let unregistered motorcycles on their trails. This would be the perfect solution especially for us riders that don’t have to tear it up. It’s lighter than the hawk 250. I agree about the ease of working on. I had a hawk (CSC 250) and loved working on it. I have a KTM know and think I have to be ana engineer to,work on it.
I am now 15 and I am currently look for a way to get to and from work I took into consideration motorized bycicles 4 stroke preferably because well fuel. But I have currently came across because it's cheap but due to this review I'm not sure.
You really should put a oring chain on it it look like a 520 from your video or a 420 but either way It will make a difference especially in power if it don't have a oring chain you need to oil it before and after you ride it...I learned that the hard way after messing up a few...
+That's too bad.. I too find it attractive as well.. some of your issues are definitely caused by QC ( or lack thereof ) It also seems possible that your height and weight are at least partly responsible as far as chain and suspension issues. As far as not noticing much, if any, difference in top speed you have to remember this bike doesn't even have 15 Hp.. Most likely it's just not strong enough to take advantage of the sprocket change... Good luck..
I’d put a different tank on it or I’d recommend looking at a company called Sinnis the middle would be the terrain it’s a adventure touring style enduro I’d get it with the luggage just cos it’s easy to remove and install and it will slow you to go camping on a trail side campsite also they have extremely good parts availability tho they are only a 125cc but there are big bore kits for it that can take it up to 250 that are pretty cheap because there a upgrade part meant for the engine
My father just purchased one of these and the shifter broke and I've been trying to find a replacement but came up empty if someone could help me out that would be amazing
I always picture them selling these bikes in the back of comic books.Growing up there were all kinds of neat things for sale in comic book adds and I could totally picture a kid ordering this from a comic book add.Even the stupid name "the Magician" gives me that impression.
Those calipers are a nightmare as well especially if you take it through a little bit of mud and don't clean it proper and dry it proper they will literally seized up overnight and you have to take everything apart clean it put it back together again every single time you go through mud and I mean right up to taking the Piston out of the caliper. Junk. Your throttle cable and your clutch cable are pretty much guaranteed to snap at the handle bars as well. Just to big of a list of many things that will happen.Junk Junk Junk.One thing it still runs OK only good thing I can say but everything around the engine will fall off eventually. Get out your Loctite ASAP...
Well,you should get out one of your motorized bicycle,,,never heard you say anything good about this bike,,,,,always working on it,,,I got mine running nice,,,,I'm having trouble with wheel bearings,,any pointers,,? Are their other bearings that can take the weight,,?
Sounds like anyone in the market for something like the Magician would be better off spending a bit less on a Tomos or similar moped and some kit to soup it up. Definitely more dependable.
are you getting pulled over because the bike looks small or not legit? i bought one just to play with. i have a 1500 cruiser but it is good for long rides but kinda a pain around town.
@@LAHover I was wondering. Our cops are pains in the butt. So i will probably loose some time until they get used to it. I have not seen any of these around my area at all.
Jb weld worked for my china bike, started leaking from what sounds like the same area that you had problems with. Used the steel reinforced formula though lol. Yeah the china bikes come with a shit load of things that need to be fixed asap but at the end of the day im satisfied with mine. Paid 600 for it used w/ 1200km on it and put almost 1500km on it. After doing all the repairs on my lifan GY-200 I definitely feel much more confident working on bikes now, these single cylinder aircooled bikes are so basic and barebones I love em though
Good news is the shimmy was not in the motor... Bad news is it was another broken weld on the top motor mount (above the head)... Got Blue Magic's "Steel Stick" holding that one together lol, that stuff is amazing!
Now that I can push the motorized bikes further and further distances I don't ride it anymore. Heck, I have not even driven my truck to work in over a year.
@@LAHover that's crazy brother which bike do you ride the most I'm looking st building a good solid motorized bike any recommendations or like what motor bike frame etc etc I'm looking probably around like 1k or more I'm sure probably could make a decent one for that whatcha think 🤔
Thank U for the honest review, I almost purchased one . Believe I'll go with the Bozz .Very nice to find an honest person these days . Was gonna start dating women again n decided to buy a motorcycle, side by side n two horses instead ! Definitely a hetersexual male just haven't had much luck with women ! American Patriot ! The O'l basic rule if it has tracks tires or tits ur gonna have problems !
The only issue related to water that I can remember is that I had to turn the flasher module upside down so it would not fill with rain water. Other than that I don't think I ever had any water related issues :)
Good review... I think if you had a welder, you could have avoided slot of work time and you would have gave it a slightly more favorable review... that being said, I do I fact have a welder, and my main concern is the engine, which I’m not afraid to work on an engine either, but I would rather avoid an engineering nightmare if it exists... really from watching a lot of videos, it’s all quality control... you need to make sure your bike is put together properly... lots of lose bolts...
Thanks, and I agree. A welder makes life so much better! Bike is still running, motor is still strong. Some sounds and vibrations I thought were coming from the motor were just bad welds on the frame, and more lose hardware.
Hell ya it's terrifying. Your putting your life at 50 MPH in a $1300 Walmart special. I guess I'm confused. You said the suspension was crap, but it was good on back roads, and bad on the highway, bit of a contradiction. I KNOW YOUR ISSUE!!! You're riding your freaking bike in sandals and pajama pants. In terms of your idle issue, just put a new carb on her, or drill out your jet. Usually on these cheep Chinese bikes the carb is the first part you want to switch out. Why the hell wouldn't they ship you the title for a 100% paid for bike? I also own a Chinese dirt bike, but I bought the Apollo 125, and I have been very happy with the bike, and the parts are readily available.
If you can weld you should be fine :). So many of my issues can be solved with a welder lol... in the mean time I'm holding to some broken welds together with "Quick Steel" epoxy putty. That stuff is amazing!
this bike is the yamaha xg250 tricker copy. it shares most parts with yamaha xt250 serow. obviously you Have successfully picked one of the worst. the importer only like take the cheapest one. which alour buyer on price. the egine should be push rod 223cc. if it is ohc with balancer engine. the riding will be sweet. all vibrations are from the engine. vibration cause losen nuts. of course the nuts quality is poor. the suspension settingbsi for 75kg which is for asia person size. if you contact the importer they should give me parts ready.
Plus if the motor pops on a motorized bike, it takes less than 1 hour to swap out a little two stroke :)... I just wish Louisiana was a motorized bike friendly state :/
You are thinking of the back sprocket. I switched the front sprocket... Remember back to riding a 21~ speed, and how the three crank rings effected your ride ;)
I bought a Magician last August, and only had time to put about 300 miles on last year. I've got a bit over 700 on it now, and so far I'm happy with it. I've lost zero bolts, no cracked welds, etc. Mine will run 55 all day long. Only mods I've done is NGK plug, sealed battery, adjusted valve lash,and jetted the carb. When I got it, it had a leaky head gasket, which the dealer sent right out. Only other problem is the blue lens on the light that shows brights fell off in the woods somewhere. The engine runs great, and I do have a welder, so it will be here for awhile.
Back in 2007, I bought an American Lifan LF200GY-5 Chinese dual sport, shipped to my door in a crate, for $1200 total. Being a long time motorcyclist and professional mechanic, I had no problem putting it together and setting it up. I had to fix a couple of design problems. But one problem I was unable to fix was the same issue you had with that one. The front and rear sprockets were not positioned correctly, and when the chain was adjusted properly with no rider on it, it was WAY too tight with my 250 pounds on it. So I wound up adjusting it very loose to compensate for that. This bike had an ancient Honda clone 200cc pushrod motor, with a centrifugal oil filter on the end of the crankshaft. Other than the chain, it wound up doing very well for around 3600 miles, when the centrifugal oil filter managed to unscrew itself from the crankshaft, causing a total loss of oil pressure, and that was that. I wound up giving it to a coworker.
Several months later, during the GREAT RECESSION of 2008, I bought a used 1994 Yamaha XT225 with only 1800 miles on it off Craigslist for $1400, in near new condition. The guy had lost his job, and needed money to buy Christmas presents for his kids. I have made a lot of modifications to it since, due to my weight I had to completely replace the front and rear suspension, I replaced the stock 2.1 gallon gas tank with a 4 gallon plastic tank from Clarke, I put a kickstarter on it using parts from a Yamaha TTR-225, the pure dirt version of the XT225, I put a bolt on centerstand on it, made by a member of an XT225 forum I belong to who was a retired welder/fabricator/machinist, I got bars that were about 2" higher than stock, I put a luggage rack on it, some better mirrors, I installed 4mm thick inner tubes (which are FOUR times as thick as standard tubes), and a bunch of other small things. That 4 gallon tank gave me a 250+ mile range, and the centerstand probably saved my life a few times. It is impossible to ride around in the AZ desert without getting flat tires, and the centerstand held the bike up while I removed a wheel to fix the flat. But the engine has not been modified, it is still 100% stock, it HAS been over maintained, and it now has over 30,000 mostly off road and dirt road miles on it. Yamaha engines last forever. At least the old ones do. I advise staying FAR away from the newer EFI ones.
Oh, and as someone who can weld, I found it virtually impossible to weld Chinese "metal" without burning through it. If you have a steel tank with a leak, I recommend coating it with Caswells tank sealer. DO NOT use any other brand.
Maybe you could do an old timey lead repair on the chinese steel tank
Having watched several of your videos on motorized bicycles and now this video on the magician, I think you are well on your way to being a qualified small engine mechanic. I learned some tips from you about 2-stroke carbs that I didn’t know. And you give the best “real world” testimonies on a lot of things that are hard to find on TH-cam. So hats off to you for that. And I can’t help but think you’d make a great ham radio operator with fantastic videos on that hobby. Don’t sell yourself short on your abilities as you seem more capable than most.
Thank you so much! Comments like this give me motivation. I learn most of what I know from you guys... and from breaking stuff :P
I'm a proud Magician owner. I have 1000 miles and I guess it's time to proactively take off the tank to prevent the leak. I haven't had a problem with bolts coming off and haven't changed the carb yet, maybe I won't, because I'm not experiencing alot of vibration problems. I would guess that you trust the bike if you ride it to work, or maybe you don't like your job. I'm 5'9" and it's comfortable on long road rides, but I rarely go over 50 mph. the bike seems to like 47 mph. I've had it WOT for a total of 5 seconds since I have owned it. I put a tachometer on it and try to keep my rpm's down, never went over 7000 and never needed to. It's a street legal dirt bike, that's all and it does pretty good off road and also taking me to go off road. I accept the limitations because it's a fun bike that hasn't let me down.
1000 miles and no bolts coming out? Congrats! Can we see some video of this magical unicorn you are riding? o.O
@@LAHover
I had to tighten the bolts to the exhaust, that's all. I don't make videos, it is not a unicorn, it is a Magician, some folks get lucky, I guess.
@@LAHover
I check the bolts regularly, I don't mess with them if they aren't loose, I suppose they will keep getting worse with each re tightening.
Would you still recommend one today?
Thank you for the honest review & going over this thing's woes. Been looking for a cheap commuter, preferably a dual sport. Was eyeing this one tough, but you helped me in my research more than any other review on it. Much appreciated.
Thanks for the video. Scratching this one off my list.
I have the same bike. I have the same problems minus tank leakage. But not really mad about it. It’s given me lots of experience and no how. Definitely ready for a bigger bike
This was an excellent review! Well put together and thought out. Great tips and warnings. Thank you for all the information.
What I personally like about this bike is it's not a the exact same thing. The TBR7 is a rebadged Hawk 250 which is a rebadged appolo. RPS did their own thing. It was a horrible execution but i love that they made something unique
Best Chinese manufacturer is by far Lifan. They make very good bikes My 2006 Lifan GY 5 200 cc bike has been flawless. It is now 2024 and I am still riding it.
Motocheez did a video on tank problems for this bike. Its a bracket placed backwards, and he shows how to fix it, among other problems.
Got a magician. Don't really have the problems you're having. Opened the air box, installed a uni. Better quality same carb. 30 slow 125 main jet, full crf150 exhaust. Can get it to hit 72-74 mph. I weigh 200lbs. I'm happy with it. Oh yeah, got a welder too. 😂
Thanks for the warning! I've been thinking about getting one and I'm glad I didn't. I have a yamaha TW 200 and have never had a problem with it in 6000 miles, it always starts, has never had anything fall off of it and just scratches the paint if you crash it. I would recommend you get a TW 200 also. Thanks again.
Great review. I thought it was doing well so I’m glad to see the proper review. Good thing the motorized bicycles are more reliable 🤣
I contemplated comparing it with one of the bikes lol... As far as reliability is concerned, the motorized bikes win hands down :)
Same here,,,,
If you ever decide to get a higher quality bike you'll be a wiz at keeping it going.
I've been biking around town too long time to upgrade that bitch to a Magician
@@thameekstaninjahman8337 🤨
Tiger seal is the dog's bollox for sealing, stopping leaks etc an it's heat proof so I even use it as instant gasket on me exhaust an it's worked a dream no more unnecessary noise no more popping etc, the last thing a used tiger seal on was my fuel filter only the other week but still no leakage, it's like multi purpose miracle snot
Thanks for the honest review. I guess I will need to look at a Hawk or something else affordable
Well..., before watching your video on this bike, I had watched three others on it, they were positive reviews. And I was sure this bike is for me until I watched your video. Now I'm wondering hm... I do appreciate an honest review and I do believe your's is. This is not to say the other people lied, it just means Chinese bikes don't have a consistent and tight quality control. Some bikes of the same model may be okay and some others are just a ride with a lot of headaches. And I'm really not sure if Chinese are to blame or US importers. Chinese manufacture bikes based on the specs and budget of the importer. If the importer wants to have the lowest prices on bikes, therefore, Chinese have no choice but to install the lowest quality parts and the shotiest craftsmanship due to "Hurry up and rush it out through the door" hence, the validity of "You got what you paid for". Good video, thanks.
Thank You Sir. You made my mind up for this mill. I like the simple look of this mill. As in it looks as tho you can get to anything on the bike with ease , but the issues you have mentioned has pushed me away.
Sounds like you had some really unfortunate luck with your bike. That really sucks! Here is a very important pre run checklist (for Chinese enduros): th-cam.com/video/80Kfqy4ZhkU/w-d-xo.html
This will make a huge difference with your experience with the bike! I also have a “after the bike is running” checklist. Both checklists are very important to having a successful relationship with the your bike. Many already know, if you want to cruise at 55+ you have to put a smaller sprocket on the back.. you are absolutely right about the vibrations on the bike.. I have the hawk 250, I’m running 17-40 gearing, the bike is happy cruising at 55-60 mph, Very low vibration, and the motor isn’t going to get burned out.. only downside is 1st gear is too tall for my riding style.. I do a lot of road riding, I also do a lot of hardcore off-road riding. Unfortunately you cannot have the best of both worlds.. that goes for most bikes, Chinese or Japanese. My two cents, thanks for reading if you made it to the end :)
I own a tbr7 and just passed 5k miles just this spring/summer. The suspension sucks but they can be quite reliable
I have a 2017 hawk 2k miles. It took a lot of work and another 700.00 to get it how I like it. May upgrade to a used drz400 some day.
For the price to that you could buy a cheap used Honda trail bike and then it'll last forever.❤❤❤❤ We love your show.
Mine has been non stop problems. I bought it as a cheap learner bike but everything has fallen off of it and I've spent more time zip tying it back together than actually riding it. The fuel leaks in particular have been constant. Just absolute garbage all around and I regret not just saving up a bit longer for a used Japanese bike.
I know you went over the hawk as a comparison, but I think the realc alternative is the tbr7
New magician owner here! I know its a old video but seriously well done my man. If youre still around, any advice you'd give that wasn't covered in the video? Seems like you touched on it all but who knows
I just bought a magician 2 days ago too!
@@Kulzlzupt killermotorsports 999$ deal?
@@underoathfan1231 i paid 1300 plus 80 to have it delivered from a dealership
Its been a while how have the bikes held up?
@@Kulzlzupt ^
Hey love the video nice bike to bad about all the trouble good luck with it
Great videos. I started watching your bike builds and wanted to follow up on the Magician and am surprised. When I was a kid we had a Honda CB360 that we were quite hard on. That was a smooth riding fairly fast bike that rarely broke down. If you ever see one of those old Honda's for sale and wanted a project road bike, you would love how it cruises along at 50, 60mph with ease. You have quite a few nice trails you can ride motorized bikes there, very jealous. Seems like there isn't much off road stuff here in Wi.
Ya man, anything with Honda on it gets grabbed up fast for good reason around here... As clunky as this little 250 is, it's some how still running at 3000 miles lol
Depends on what county in Wisconsin. I knew of a lot on north central
@@derekwaszkiewicz8338 Good point. I am near Eau Claire but havent researched too much on what is available but have friends with UTV's that go some place often.
LAH - Nice video! This looks like the Honda CG 125/200/250 clone - pushrods & rocker adjusters, cam located near crank? There are apparently counterbalanced & non-CB versions, this looks like the non-CB version. Is this engine "buzzy" at higher RPMs? If so that explains the broken motor mounts & bolts shaking loose. That CG motor is a hammer though, and a 5 speed gearbox is a good start. Is this bike carbureted or EFI? If Carburetted would explain the warm up issue.The frame looks like trials bike geometry - is it easy to pick your way thru boulder strewn or stump infested trails? This looks like a good cow-trailer to me. I believe I'd have to start with throwing away the 20 pounds of weird covers, passenger pegs and useless electrical frippery like sidestand & clutch interlock switches. You mentioned three crashing episodes - good tires make a huge difference, but sometimes traction just evaporates thru wet leaves, thin layers of goo on harder substrates, or lots more factors. How are the brakes holding up - usable or grabby or ?? It sounded like there was some warp in the front disc? Have you changed out the engine oil many times? Other sources claim the Chinese OEM oil is vegetable oil, so maybe the grinding/whining would be less with 20W-50? The cheesy bolts come with the turf on lo-buck hardware; my India made bike has lots of Velveeta-grade fasteners and threads cut into butter soft aluminum cases. At about $1000, to me it looks like the makings of a good trail bike if you toss everything that isn't necessary and ride it smoothly. Suspension tuning can use valve springs added on top of the OEM fork springs to increase preload & total resistance. Appropriate weight fork oil for the riding conditions you have is always a plus - ATF is cheap, about 15W & a good place to start. The monoshock rear is a tougher problem, you'd need to disassemble & get some dimensions and spring rate numbers to work with. Anyhow - sounds like you've has fun, mostly, and done a good bit of learning!
Bike looks like you rag the hell out of it ..no wonder it falls apart
Thank you!
I almost wasted money on one of these.
Apollo 125 or Apollo 250. Best bike for the money!
Same I thought about wasting money
I have the same one but when i go to ride it i put it in first gear and when i give it gas it shuts off
I have a 2016 hawk and aside from one or two bolts coming loose i ride it and enjoy it more than my klr650, i do love my klr
I had one of these amazon bikes. The buzzy was bad, I went up 3 teeth on the front sprocket and that helped a lot. I think 2 would be better.
Great Video,
I like your honesty!
LOL 😂 It's one of those things where... "you just gotta find out for yourself." 2:12
Chinesium metal has the qualities of butter. The children in the factory need better training on welding skills. Excellent video sir thank you.
I'm sure the 2020's are better now . They've most likely shot all the girls they had welding in the base of the skull , and rolled them into the body pit before they became of age to reproduce . I'm sure there's a new crew of disposable workers on the job now , with slightly better skills than the last . 😂
Hmm, have you tried replacing the chain with a Japanese chain? I haven’t heard of much trouble with the newer magicians. What year is yours? I have a 2020 Magician on the way. I’m aware the older models had some issues, but hey, they’re clocking in 10k miles now!
Thanks for the info. I'll grab one to try out along with a smaller ream sprocket.
Thank you for the heads up
No problem 👍
Reliability and motorcycles. ..seldom hear them called reliable. pd for pd they need airplane levels of maintenance. which is fine.
Another thing you can do is empty the tank and use bondo. Yes bondo, it's an old trick from back in the 50s 60s and 70s.
Thanks, I'll have to look into that.
My 19 Brozz I like , except for the throttle cable
😂😂 the analogies in the beginning were awesome
Chongquing Astronautic Bashan Motorcycle Manufacturing Company LTD. is the manufacturer of this bike. Now you know.
That response from ricky looks more like it translates to "i will have the parts department contact you" try to follow up with him
Even Chinese manufacturers update and fix well know problems. Does anyone know if “newer” models were fixed with the tank and front frame member. Moto cheese had the same problems. National Parks will not let unregistered motorcycles on their trails. This would be the perfect solution especially for us riders that don’t have to tear it up. It’s lighter than the hawk 250. I agree about the ease of working on. I had a hawk (CSC 250) and loved working on it. I have a KTM know and think I have to be ana engineer to,work on it.
I am now 15 and I am currently look for a way to get to and from work I took into consideration motorized bycicles 4 stroke preferably because well fuel. But I have currently came across because it's cheap but due to this review I'm not sure.
Do you think the tank capacity was able for a long ride?it's only 7 liters I believe
You really should put a oring chain on it it look like a 520 from your video or a 420 but either way It will make a difference especially in power if it don't have a oring chain you need to oil it before and after you ride it...I learned that the hard way after messing up a few...
The best most reliable Enduro I've owned was a Dr 250 Suzuki that thing just kept going and going with very little maintenance...
Jason Mercer n
That shimmy actually sounds like a timing chain. What did it end up being?
it's hard to do but can be done. i found a 90s xr250 with title for $1100 couple years ago
+That's too bad.. I too find it attractive as well.. some of your issues are definitely caused by QC ( or lack thereof ) It also seems possible that your height and weight are at least partly responsible as far as chain and suspension issues. As far as not noticing much, if any, difference in top speed you have to remember this bike doesn't even have 15 Hp.. Most likely it's just not strong enough to take advantage of the sprocket change... Good luck..
I’m looking at getting one of these do you know what kind of oil it takes?
I’d put a different tank on it or I’d recommend looking at a company called Sinnis the middle would be the terrain it’s a adventure touring style enduro I’d get it with the luggage just cos it’s easy to remove and install and it will slow you to go camping on a trail side campsite also they have extremely good parts availability tho they are only a 125cc but there are big bore kits for it that can take it up to 250 that are pretty cheap because there a upgrade part meant for the engine
My father just purchased one of these and the shifter broke and I've been trying to find a replacement but came up empty if someone could help me out that would be amazing
Like the NRA sticker on the tank. I have one on the top tube of one of my non-motorized bicycles
My wife was 100% a Magician! Only good part about the damn marriage was the ride!
Definitely thanks for this video la hover you🤔 save me pockets 🤘
Just watched this, do you still have it
I always picture them selling these bikes in the back of comic books.Growing up there were all kinds of neat things for sale in comic book adds and I could totally picture a kid ordering this from a comic book add.Even the stupid name "the Magician" gives me that impression.
great story bud
Those calipers are a nightmare as well especially if you take it through a little bit of mud and don't clean it proper and dry it proper they will literally seized up overnight and you have to take everything apart clean it put it back together again every single time you go through mud and I mean right up to taking the Piston out of the caliper. Junk. Your throttle cable and your clutch cable are pretty much guaranteed to snap at the handle bars as well. Just to big of a list of many things that will happen.Junk Junk Junk.One thing it still runs OK only good thing I can say but everything around the engine will fall off eventually. Get out your Loctite ASAP...
check the valve adjustment if there lose it will make a loud taping sound and sound like crap
Whats the song in the intro please..... i need to add it to my Pump playlist. Lol.
th-cam.com/video/dW8fdFoUXLY/w-d-xo.html
Well,you should get out one of your motorized bicycle,,,never heard you say anything good about this bike,,,,,always working on it,,,I got mine running nice,,,,I'm having trouble with wheel bearings,,any pointers,,? Are their other bearings that can take the weight,,?
Sounds like anyone in the market for something like the Magician would be better off spending a bit less on a Tomos or similar moped and some kit to soup it up. Definitely more dependable.
thanks for sharing! great vid! What is the wet weight of this bike?thanks!
Good to know, thanks
are you getting pulled over because the bike looks small or not legit? i bought one just to play with. i have a 1500 cruiser but it is good for long rides but kinda a pain around town.
Once for that exact reason lol
@@LAHover I was wondering. Our cops are pains in the butt. So i will probably loose some time until they get used to it. I have not seen any of these around my area at all.
It's so cheap you don't ever feel like washing it. It's so cheap you don't care if the paint gets scratched. It looks good dirty.
I would have never chose the magician because of the fender on top of the front tire.
THAT"S a pretty stupid reason.... so why is that a problem???
@@bultacowally , it looks bad.
You crack me up when you said this bike is a engineering problem 😂😂😅🤣😁
i love this bike is this tricker
Do tricker parts work on this bike?
Jb weld worked for my china bike, started leaking from what sounds like the same area that you had problems with. Used the steel reinforced formula though lol. Yeah the china bikes come with a shit load of things that need to be fixed asap but at the end of the day im satisfied with mine. Paid 600 for it used w/ 1200km on it and put almost 1500km on it. After doing all the repairs on my lifan GY-200 I definitely feel much more confident working on bikes now, these single cylinder aircooled bikes are so basic and barebones I love em though
Has anyone ever thought about using Loctite🦾🤯👍
damn cracked welds and a shimmy in the motor wowee that thing must be really cheaply built out of inferior metal
Good news is the shimmy was not in the motor... Bad news is it was another broken weld on the top motor mount (above the head)... Got Blue Magic's "Steel Stick" holding that one together lol, that stuff is amazing!
@@LAHover oh ok good to know it wasnt actually the motor ... those epoxys are good stuff but they cant handle gasoline
Do you still ride this never see many videos of you riding this anymore
Now that I can push the motorized bikes further and further distances I don't ride it anymore. Heck, I have not even driven my truck to work in over a year.
@@LAHover that's crazy brother which bike do you ride the most I'm looking st building a good solid motorized bike any recommendations or like what motor bike frame etc etc I'm looking probably around like 1k or more I'm sure probably could make a decent one for that whatcha think 🤔
Thank U for the honest review, I almost purchased one . Believe I'll go with the Bozz .Very nice to find an honest person these days . Was gonna start dating women again n decided to buy a motorcycle, side by side n two horses instead ! Definitely a hetersexual male just haven't had much luck with women ! American Patriot ! The O'l basic rule if it has tracks tires or tits ur gonna have problems !
:) Ride on Friend!
Lol that’s where I’m at no gf so getting a motorbuddy
Not disposable bro if you treat it right it will go to 10 k with no burning oil or leaking
Hey did you have to waterproof your connections and stuff before you hit a puddle
The only issue related to water that I can remember is that I had to turn the flasher module upside down so it would not fill with rain water. Other than that I don't think I ever had any water related issues :)
@@LAHover thank you so much
And where do you get spare parts?
Good review... I think if you had a welder, you could have avoided slot of work time and you would have gave it a slightly more favorable review... that being said, I do I fact have a welder, and my main concern is the engine, which I’m not afraid to work on an engine either, but I would rather avoid an engineering nightmare if it exists... really from watching a lot of videos, it’s all quality control... you need to make sure your bike is put together properly... lots of lose bolts...
Thanks, and I agree. A welder makes life so much better! Bike is still running, motor is still strong. Some sounds and vibrations I thought were coming from the motor were just bad welds on the frame, and more lose hardware.
Do they have the parts to be street legal?
Yup :)
Hell ya it's terrifying. Your putting your life at 50 MPH in a $1300 Walmart special. I guess I'm confused. You said the suspension was crap, but it was good on back roads, and bad on the highway, bit of a contradiction. I KNOW YOUR ISSUE!!! You're riding your freaking bike in sandals and pajama pants. In terms of your idle issue, just put a new carb on her, or drill out your jet. Usually on these cheep Chinese bikes the carb is the first part you want to switch out. Why the hell wouldn't they ship you the title for a 100% paid for bike? I also own a Chinese dirt bike, but I bought the Apollo 125, and I have been very happy with the bike, and the parts are readily available.
whats your closest town, I was raised in Vidalia :-)
Dang i wanted one of these too
😄😄😄🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣wow it became a back and forth about the speedometer wow maybe they need to get to know about what they selling
To late l bought one, got a good deal on it,just have to make the best of it
If you can weld you should be fine :). So many of my issues can be solved with a welder lol... in the mean time I'm holding to some broken welds together with "Quick Steel" epoxy putty. That stuff is amazing!
Oh is it for you i was about to buy one
Everything he says in this video about the bikes I have the same problems. I'm sure he has more just forgets to mention them all.
So, did you adjust the valves? that's probably where its coming from... Lmk
Found it later that month. The odd sound was a broken weld on the top motor mount.
@@LAHover That sounds about right, How's the bike doing now?
whats the seat height?
this bike is the yamaha xg250 tricker copy. it shares most parts with yamaha xt250 serow. obviously you Have successfully picked one of the worst. the importer only like take the cheapest one. which alour buyer on price. the egine should be push rod 223cc. if it is ohc with balancer engine. the riding will be sweet. all vibrations are from the engine. vibration cause losen nuts. of course the nuts quality is poor. the suspension settingbsi for 75kg which is for asia person size. if you contact the importer they should give me parts ready.
it seems the importer is not serious for motorcycle business. in USA. when buy good value bike the importer is important
I am not sure if this review is more sad or hilarious ?
Happy cruising speed is 35 ? My Honda monkey is better lol , 45 happy speed .
Better off with the motorized bicycle lol. I do 45 with me and my dog. 35 with trailer n weeks worth of groceries lol
Plus if the motor pops on a motorized bike, it takes less than 1 hour to swap out a little two stroke :)... I just wish Louisiana was a motorized bike friendly state :/
Texas isn't much better lol
@mike brink Texas is getting worse on it even electric . Almost like our government doesn't want us to save money.
If you went up in the amount of teeth on your sprocket. That gives you more low-end less top end. So that would mean you went backwards. LOL
You are thinking of the back sprocket. I switched the front sprocket... Remember back to riding a 21~ speed, and how the three crank rings effected your ride ;)
You must work in that factory because I've never seen a Factory Business that would let you ride through on a motorcycle.🤔
OH! I tupid. Lol
I'll pass on this bike 🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️