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New Rider ForumsJust joining the motorcyclist hobbie? Looking to get some information about a first bike? Or have some newbie questions. Are you new to the website?
Hey Guys,
I am brand new to the motorcycle scene and just wanted to give you guys a shout out for having a nice forum going on here. I am about to take the MSF class at the end of the month and already ordered all my gear. I know there are a lot of mixed feelings about starting off on a 650 twin as your first bike but truthfully I think the Honda Hawk has a little of both. It seems to stand pretty low (good for me since I am 5'7") and has more low and mid range power than crazy 12k high revving supersports. What are your thoughts on this as a first bike? How hard is it to find parts for them since I know they are relatively rare? Reliability? Thanks in advance.
Info- 24, 5'7" ~170lbs. Not looking to do canyons yet but would like to buy something that I can take to the twisties once I gain some confidence. Also have some decent deals around my area for them (Bay Area CA).
A Hawk GT is a fantastic starter bike! If I were to buy a second bike, that's one of the bikes I'd like to find. Just recently saw one on Craigslist in your area for a decent price.
Once you get some experience you should find the Hawk to be able to keep up with you. For many years they were a very desirable track bike.
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For as dumb as you are, even you will remember this. - Lee Ving/ Fear
Ever feel you've been cheated? - Johnny Rotten
I go Beltway blitzin' on my mad mofo musclebike WFO. Its a true choice, a god-like experience if you will. The thought that I could buy the farm in a spectacular fireball...................well, that gives me a stiffie! Tesco Vee/The Meatmen
Thanks for all the positive responses guys. Have any of you actually ridden them or owned one? And if so what is your overall impression of the ride and reliability. Is it hard to find parts? Thanks.
I think basic parts like oil filters are the same as the CBRs of the era, same for brake pads, etc. I've ridden one and they're a fackin' hoot. Seriously, you're going to love it.
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Jesucristo, make the ganglia twitch!
"Good men who drive vans have to transcend a stigma."
Sounds good. What is the general perception of buying bikes that have already been modified and at what mileage is considered high? I know on cars 100k mi is kind of a benchmark but it seems that with bikes it is more like 40-50k. Anyways here is a link to a bike I am looking into. Any input is greatly appreciated.
A friend of mine had one for a few years, loved it except finally wanted something with a bit more power. Should be a great bike for you.
Regarding mileage - the chain, forks and rear shock should be checked out. Also, make sure the controls work well, throttle spings back, engine starts and idles properly, brake fluid is a decent light color... Normally I'd say the engine should be fine, but one rebuilt by a race shop - well, no telling what they've done, or how good they were at it.
Good thing about Honda's is you can get ANY part ever made. Walk into any other dealer and ask for some obscure part off of a rare bike from the 60's and they'll laugh at you. Not Honda.
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Famous Misquote:
"Nice Bike, whats insurance run on one of those?"
"More than you can afford pal. One THOUSAND"
Newb Honda Hawk NT650
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