Hawk DLX - Durability

[sek8271]

Originally Posted by franque

I think this would apply to any of the cheaper designed Chinese bikes, but put simply, if it wasn't ridden aggressively, it might be fine, but you might also find yourself stranded in the middle of the desert if you took one of these.

If you tried to use one, I would build up different wheels for it (get some quality rims and spokes) and I would replace all bearings, bushings, and seals with quality, name brand stuff like Timken, SKF, etc.

Also I would look at swapping a stronger swingarm onto one, but also making sure that you have good knowledge on how to repair/adapt to make things work.

Originally Posted by Oldenslow

[...]Where they fall short of those originals is in quality of parts and care of assembly, which are both lacking in every example I have seen.

This doesn't mean they are "bad" bikes, but it does mean that an owner who is somewhat mechanically skilled and meticulous in his maintenance practices will be happier in the long run than the owner who expects to jump on and ride without worries. [...] but they require an added measure of care from an owner of above-average dedication to do so.

Thank you for the info guys. I'm helping my brother out... he happens to be a professionally trained mechanic (MMI), worked for 2-3 years at an H-D dealer, and is now working in a powersports dealership on dirt bikes etc.

If anyone can handle the details of caring for such a machine, and all the "little" upgrades to make it better, he can!

The main reason I'm trying to help him find something is because his entire riding life has been Harleys on the street, and he's just now interested in doing some ADV; but wants to get in cheap.