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Old 06-02-2008, 06:11 PM   #1 (permalink)
krazydru784
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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).
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Old 06-02-2008, 11:49 PM   #2 (permalink)
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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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Old 06-03-2008, 02:47 AM   #3 (permalink)
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I think it would be a good starter and you'll have alot of fun with it as you gain experience.
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Old 06-03-2008, 07:38 AM   #4 (permalink)
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The Hawk is an awesome bike. Its great to learn on, have for years and even do track time.
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Old 06-03-2008, 10:50 AM   #5 (permalink)
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Not only is it a great bike to learn on, they are getting rare and are becoming a bit of a cult bike. Grab it with both hands!
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Old 06-03-2008, 11:56 AM   #6 (permalink)
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I sure wish I could have started on the mini-Hawk. Buy, it now.
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Old 06-03-2008, 12:43 PM   #7 (permalink)
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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.
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Old 06-03-2008, 12:45 PM   #8 (permalink)
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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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Old 06-03-2008, 04:11 PM   #9 (permalink)
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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.

1989 Honda Nt650 Hawk
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Old 06-03-2008, 04:18 PM   #10 (permalink)
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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.
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Old 06-03-2008, 04:25 PM   #11 (permalink)
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Oooo - thanks for giving me yet another idea for my first bike
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Old 06-03-2008, 04:38 PM   #12 (permalink)
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High mileage Hondas don't faze me a bit provided records of proper maintenance are available.
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Old 06-04-2008, 10:51 AM   #13 (permalink)
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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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Old 06-04-2008, 11:02 AM   #14 (permalink)
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I smile whenever i see a 650 hawk. they seem so friendly.
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Old 06-04-2008, 03:49 PM   #15 (permalink)
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I earned my racing licence on the Hawk many years ago.
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