So the TT250 is better than the Hawk 250, but is it worth the extra 40 lbs?

FlyingBasset · 06-04-2021, 12:52 AM

Hey all,

Long story short I'm a new, 6'2 rider looking for a light and cheap dual sport to throw on my 'expedition' Tundra for traveling. It needs to be as light as possible to avoid overloading my hitch and GVWR. But I'd also like it to be able to carry two people on the street if needed.

There's a 2020 TT250 near me for 1900 and a 2020 hawk for 1400.

The TT seems like the better bike especially for my height - but it's also an extra 40-50 lbs heavier from what I'm seeing. Am I going to regret getting the Hawk to save weight and money? OR is there a way I can lighten these bikes a decent amount?

Thanks!

stewbrash · 06-04-2021, 02:02 AM

Wow, I would think that they are similar weight-wise. My Bashan (BSR 250) weighs 276 lbs. with the same engine~ and the same 21/18 tires.

TxTaoRider · 06-04-2021, 05:50 AM

About the only thing that that I could see that would make any difference in weight is the USD forks on the Csc tt250, but that couldn't be more than 3 or 4 pounds if any at all. I'm thinking they are weighing them differently, maybe wet weight vs dry weight.
And as for size, I think the seat heights are about the same.

To the last part, both bikes can lose a few lbs, by changing exhausts and using lithium batteries, maybe getting rid of the air box and using aluminum handlebars... but even with all that, it wont make more than 10-20 lbs difference.

What I'm saying is I'd save 400 bux and get the hawk as theres probably no actual difference in the two bikes by weight or height.

mtiberio · 06-04-2021, 07:17 AM

With the TT, you get the 300 watt alternator and counter balancer.

**JerryHawk250** · 06-04-2021, 07:32 AM

You're not going to find much difference between the two except the forks and counter balance engine. Believe me the counter balance engine and USD forks aren't needed. Save the money and get the Hawk. My Hawk is over 4 1//2 years old with well over 8500 miles. Engine runs smooth and standard forks have more travel. Changing the exhaust will be one of the biggest weigh reducers and performance gains.

TxTaoRider · 06-04-2021, 07:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mtiberio

With the TT, you get the 300 watt alternator and counter balancer.

And both are probably unnecessary and more expensive to replace (unless you're adding a bunch of extra lights).

The counterbalanced engine might be nicer on long road trips, but I dont notice the vibration on my tbr7, and not sure it's worth $400 or the extra parts inside the engine that have been known to fail.

**JerryHawk250** · 06-04-2021, 07:43 AM

Something else to note. The $400 extra cost for the TT250 is because the bike will be assembled and tested before you get it and will have a reputable company that will honor there warranty. I like to tinker and assemble so the Hawk was a no brainer. When I bought mine it was $1099.

Hunnicutt · 06-04-2021, 08:57 AM

I went with 2 TT250's for multiple reasons.

- https://cscmotorcycles.com/maintenance-tutorials/

- https://cscmotorcycles.com/owner-service-manuals/
- If I can't get the answers I need out of the maintenance tutorials, the service manual, or from the CSC YouTube Tech channel, I can call CSC and talk to the team that created the videos!
- Parts Availability: I can order anything I need for my bikes with one phone call.

- I LOVE the digital dash and analog tachometer.

I'm 6'1" and wear a size 15 wide shoe. The TT250 with a stock seat fits me perfectly. I installed an Airhawk Dual Sport Seat Cushion to reduce vibration on long trips. I can still touch pavement even with the Airhawk.

The only thing I suggest with the TT250 is to change the main carb jet to a 112. I'm in an area that is near sea level. The stock jet was far too lean. The 112 is perfect for my situation.

Bill Hilly · 06-04-2021, 09:11 AM

You may want to take into consideration things like mileage on the bike, and whether you will be getting an MCO ,or actual state issued title. You may even take the age of the previous owner in consideration .A young rider has probably ridden one harder.

mtiberio · 06-04-2021, 11:59 AM

Does the Hawk in question have a rear disc? And then there is switch quality.

FlyingBasset · 06-05-2021, 07:10 PM

Thanks for all the responses so far. I thought everyone would be pushing me to the TT so I'm surprised. I'm going to ask some questions from the sellers.

I'm also considering the Magician as a potential option since it's the lightest thing out there, but I wasn't sure if the 2020 model resolved the previous quality concerns. Leaving towards getting the Hawk at this point though...

Megadan · 06-05-2021, 08:39 PM

I love my Hawk, but I would take the TT250 in a second. There is more to it than spec sheets. The 300 watt stator isn't that expensive through CSC if it did fail for whatever reason. The rear wheel hub is a better design and the bolt on sprocket is going to be more durable long term. Both bikes have the same crappy swing arm design, but the TT250 does have a better factory rear shock. The front forks are on the higher end of the Chinese fork spectrum and actually have some adjustability to them. Rim quality is better... In fact, most of the parts quality is just that next step up, as is the quality control. I have had the pleasure of riding and being around both bikes more than once. The TT250 is still a cheap bike, but it's worth the extra cost IMHO.

FlyingBasset · 06-07-2021, 01:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Megadan

I love my Hawk, but I would take the TT250 in a second. There is more to it than spec sheets. The 300 watt stator isn't that expensive through CSC if it did fail for whatever reason. The rear wheel hub is a better design and the bolt on sprocket is going to be more durable long term. Both bikes have the same crappy swing arm design, but the TT250 does have a better factory rear shock. The front forks are on the higher end of the Chinese fork spectrum and actually have some adjustability to them. Rim quality is better... In fact, most of the parts quality is just that next step up, as is the quality control. I have had the pleasure of riding and being around both bikes more than once. The TT250 is still a cheap bike, but it's worth the extra cost IMHO.

Thanks Megadan, I was hoping you would reply but didn't want to call you out specifically.

I'm still confused why everywhere I've found specs says the tt250 is 40-60 lbs heavier than the hawk. That extra weight really puts me off when I'll be hitch carrying this for thousands of miles...

Also according to sellers:

The Hawk has 300 miles, 17-40 sprockets, new chain, nibbi carb/intake/air filter, new slip on exhaust, and new battery.

The TT250 has 3000 miles, lowered/flattened saddle, folding tip shifter, new chain, new tires, brush guards, re-jetted carb, taller sprockets. Claims 70mph.

TxTaoRider · 06-07-2021, 02:36 PM

I'm skeptical of the 40lb difference. I think one may be "wet" and the other "dry".

FlyingBasset · 06-07-2021, 09:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TxTaoRider

I'm skeptical of the 40lb difference. I think one may be "wet" and the other "dry".

I don't understand it either, but CSC specifically lists the below on their site:

Dry Weight: 309 lbs

Meanwhile, every weight listing I have found for the Hawk 250 has been:

Orion Power Sports Hawk 250
BIKE WEIGHT
278 LBS

So it may only be a 30 lb difference, but it does seem like it's there.

06-04-2021, 12:52 AM	#1
FlyingBasset Join Date: Jun 2021 Posts: 26	So the TT250 is better than the Hawk 250, but is it worth the extra 40 lbs? Hey all, Long story short I'm a new, 6'2 rider looking for a light and cheap dual sport to throw on my 'expedition' Tundra for traveling. It needs to be as light as possible to avoid overloading my hitch and GVWR. But I'd also like it to be able to carry two people on the street if needed. There's a 2020 TT250 near me for 1900 and a 2020 hawk for 1400. The TT seems like the better bike especially for my height - but it's also an extra 40-50 lbs heavier from what I'm seeing. Am I going to regret getting the Hawk to save weight and money? OR is there a way I can lighten these bikes a decent amount? Thanks!
	0

06-04-2021, 05:50 AM	#3
TxTaoRider Join Date: Oct 2020 Location: Flower Mound Texas Posts: 904	About the only thing that that I could see that would make any difference in weight is the USD forks on the Csc tt250, but that couldn't be more than 3 or 4 pounds if any at all. I'm thinking they are weighing them differently, maybe wet weight vs dry weight. And as for size, I think the seat heights are about the same. To the last part, both bikes can lose a few lbs, by changing exhausts and using lithium batteries, maybe getting rid of the air box and using aluminum handlebars... but even with all that, it wont make more than 10-20 lbs difference. What I'm saying is I'd save 400 bux and get the hawk as theres probably no actual difference in the two bikes by weight or height. __________________ 2021 Tao Tbr7 - "Lucille" Mods so far- Brozz swingarm, 21" front rim (Bridgestone Tw302 rear/Dunlop D606 front tires), Digital gauge cluster, pz30b pumper carb, after market hand guards, aftermarket brake and clutch levers, round fold away mirrors, Fly handlebars shortened slightly, 13t front sprocket 2009 Q-link Legacy 250 1982 Suzuki GS1100ES - "Jolene"
	1

06-04-2021, 07:17 AM	#4
mtiberio Join Date: Jun 2016 Location: Arlington, VA Posts: 258	With the TT, you get the 300 watt alternator and counter balancer. __________________ 4 time WERA SuperVintage Roadracing National Champion, SCTA Land Speed Record Holder, 3rd AMA Motorcycle GP of Miami
	0

06-04-2021, 07:32 AM	#5
JerryHawk250 Moderator Join Date: Oct 2016 Location: Houma, La. Posts: 11,553	You're not going to find much difference between the two except the forks and counter balance engine. Believe me the counter balance engine and USD forks aren't needed. Save the money and get the Hawk. My Hawk is over 4 1//2 years old with well over 8500 miles. Engine runs smooth and standard forks have more travel. Changing the exhaust will be one of the biggest weigh reducers and performance gains. __________________ 2023 Lifan Lycan 250 Chopper 2023 Venom Evader 2022 Lifan KPX250 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 2004 Honda ST 1300 2016 Black Hawk 250 (sold) Keihin PE30 carb,125 main,38 slow.Pod filter,ported & decked head 10:1 CR,Direct Ignition Coil,15/40Sprockets,NGK DPR8EIX-9,De-Cat,Dual Oil Cooler,Digital Cluster 2016 Cazador180 XL 2014 Coolster150 JerryHawk250.com My YouTube Channel
	1

06-04-2021, 07:43 AM	#7
JerryHawk250 Moderator Join Date: Oct 2016 Location: Houma, La. Posts: 11,553	Something else to note. The $400 extra cost for the TT250 is because the bike will be assembled and tested before you get it and will have a reputable company that will honor there warranty. I like to tinker and assemble so the Hawk was a no brainer. When I bought mine it was $1099. __________________ 2023 Lifan Lycan 250 Chopper 2023 Venom Evader 2022 Lifan KPX250 2020 Kawasaki Vulcan S 2004 Honda ST 1300 2016 Black Hawk 250 (sold) Keihin PE30 carb,125 main,38 slow.Pod filter,ported & decked head 10:1 CR,Direct Ignition Coil,15/40Sprockets,NGK DPR8EIX-9,De-Cat,Dual Oil Cooler,Digital Cluster 2016 Cazador180 XL 2014 Coolster150 JerryHawk250.com My YouTube Channel
	0

06-04-2021, 02:02 AM	#2
stewbrash Join Date: Oct 2016 Posts: 405	Wow, I would think that they are similar weight-wise. My Bashan (BSR 250) weighs 276 lbs. with the same engine~ and the same 21/18 tires.
	0

06-04-2021, 08:57 AM	#8
Hunnicutt Join Date: Apr 2021 Location: Central Florida Posts: 103	I went with 2 TT250's for multiple reasons. - https://cscmotorcycles.com/maintenance-tutorials/ - https://cscmotorcycles.com/owner-service-manuals/ - If I can't get the answers I need out of the maintenance tutorials, the service manual, or from the CSC YouTube Tech channel, I can call CSC and talk to the team that created the videos! - Parts Availability: I can order anything I need for my bikes with one phone call. - I LOVE the digital dash and analog tachometer. I'm 6'1" and wear a size 15 wide shoe. The TT250 with a stock seat fits me perfectly. I installed an Airhawk Dual Sport Seat Cushion to reduce vibration on long trips. I can still touch pavement even with the Airhawk. The only thing I suggest with the TT250 is to change the main carb jet to a 112. I'm in an area that is near sea level. The stock jet was far too lean. The 112 is perfect for my situation. __________________ ___________________________________ 2021 CSC TT250 - Silver (Mine) "Buzz" 2021 CSC TT250 - White (Wife's) "Seymour" 2021 CSC TT250 - White (Daughter's) "Gemini"
	2

06-04-2021, 09:11 AM	#9
Bill Hilly Join Date: Feb 2021 Posts: 929	You may want to take into consideration things like mileage on the bike, and whether you will be getting an MCO ,or actual state issued title. You may even take the age of the previous owner in consideration .A young rider has probably ridden one harder.
	0

06-04-2021, 11:59 AM	#10
mtiberio Join Date: Jun 2016 Location: Arlington, VA Posts: 258	Does the Hawk in question have a rear disc? And then there is switch quality. __________________ 4 time WERA SuperVintage Roadracing National Champion, SCTA Land Speed Record Holder, 3rd AMA Motorcycle GP of Miami
	0

06-05-2021, 07:10 PM	#11
FlyingBasset Join Date: Jun 2021 Posts: 26	Thanks for all the responses so far. I thought everyone would be pushing me to the TT so I'm surprised. I'm going to ask some questions from the sellers. I'm also considering the Magician as a potential option since it's the lightest thing out there, but I wasn't sure if the 2020 model resolved the previous quality concerns. Leaving towards getting the Hawk at this point though...
	0

06-05-2021, 08:39 PM	#12
Megadan Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Omaha, NE Posts: 7,986	I love my Hawk, but I would take the TT250 in a second. There is more to it than spec sheets. The 300 watt stator isn't that expensive through CSC if it did fail for whatever reason. The rear wheel hub is a better design and the bolt on sprocket is going to be more durable long term. Both bikes have the same crappy swing arm design, but the TT250 does have a better factory rear shock. The front forks are on the higher end of the Chinese fork spectrum and actually have some adjustability to them. Rim quality is better... In fact, most of the parts quality is just that next step up, as is the quality control. I have had the pleasure of riding and being around both bikes more than once. The TT250 is still a cheap bike, but it's worth the extra cost IMHO. __________________ Hawk Information and Resource guide: http://www.chinariders.net/showthread.php?t=20331 2018 Hawk 250 - Full Mod list here. http://www.chinariders.net/showpost....62&postcount=1 2024 Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 https://chinariders.net/showthread.php?t=34124
	2

06-07-2021, 02:36 PM	#14
TxTaoRider Join Date: Oct 2020 Location: Flower Mound Texas Posts: 904	I'm skeptical of the 40lb difference. I think one may be "wet" and the other "dry". __________________ 2021 Tao Tbr7 - "Lucille" Mods so far- Brozz swingarm, 21" front rim (Bridgestone Tw302 rear/Dunlop D606 front tires), Digital gauge cluster, pz30b pumper carb, after market hand guards, aftermarket brake and clutch levers, round fold away mirrors, Fly handlebars shortened slightly, 13t front sprocket 2009 Q-link Legacy 250 1982 Suzuki GS1100ES - "Jolene"
	1