Pretty much anyone would think of that, lol. Unfortunately...

I need a 250 that is somewhat decent. And I do not have more than 1500 to spend. Cannot find a used Japanese roadbike here for that that is at least a 250 and also is dependable with good tread left on tires and padding left on brakes. My options are very limited. And I certainly have looked high and low. I've bought Chinese before, and can turn a wrench. 'Nuff sed.

Where are you located. It's possible that someone on here is within driving distance that would offer you a demo ride.

Chandler, TX

There are a few dealer in the Dallas area. Powerports 360 and Killer Motorsports to name a couple. We should have a few members in that area too. maybe one will chime in.

Where is Chandler, Texas, per-zactly?...ARH

OK, I found it. It's west of Tyler a little bit. From Dallas east on I-20, to around Van, Tex., then south a few miles...ARH

yeppers. dallas is like 100+ miles from me. :cry:

but thanks for taking the time to look around. what really sucks is I had a shot at an older honda nighthawk 250 for cheap, but people put up online ads sometimes without phone numbers, and then your emails go unanswered. >:(

A Suzuki TUX 250 is another good one, but hard to find at your price point...ARH

May be worth the trip. You might be able to make a deal on a demo model that's already assembled plus the dealership will take care of all the paper work. Just call before you make a trip.

I cannot make the trip, unfortunately. No transportation, no extra money for bus, no time to get away. I take care of a very sick relative full time.

Well if I was closer I would take a ride to let you try it out. Sounds like you have a full time job on hand. The Hawk would be a good reliable bike that is affordable. I did a lot of research before buying my Hawk. My decision was based on price, the availability of parts through RPS or CSC at about half the price and of course this site for support.

You have painted quite a picture for us. Please keep us updated on what you decide !

If you have a bicycle, you can set the seat up, and practice mounting it that way. And if you've never ridden a motorcycle, it will also teach you how to stop so as to position yourself to start again and end up in a straight line. Teaching yourself how to stop pointed a little bit left, put your right foot down, so you stay away from that terrible habit of stopping in gear with the clutch disengaged, because your left foot is down. By stopping with your right foot down, your left foot is ready to select low gear when you are ready to go...ARH

If you have a Honda dealer in town, you can try to sit on a CRF250L. It should be pretty close to how the Hawk would feel.

thanks to all for your replies. It's been very helpful. :tup: