What is a TBR7?
-A dual-purpose, road legal motorcycle created by TaoTao motors. Taotao is known around the world for the scooters and motorcycles but have historically not been as popular in the United States. They have become popular in the recent years and gotten a cult following across the Internet. You can find official information on TaoTao’s Website.
What is a TBR7-D? Is it different from a TBR7?
-Mechanically these are essentially the same motorcycle. The TBR7-D is an ‘upgraded’ TBR7 with slightly different decals, the headlight similar to the Hawk, and a USB charger port depending on where it was purchased and if your state allows USB on a motorcycle. Many of the TBR7-Ds are also shipping with a 520 chain (as opposed to 428) which changes the sprocket sizes (12T on front on the TBR7-D vs 15T on the TBR7).
Is this just a Hawk / Hawk 250?
-Mechnically this bike is very similar to the Hawk 250 sharing many parts. Cosmetically it is a different bike. Also, the Hawk recently created a fuel injected version. None of the TBR7s are currently fuel injected, only carbureted. The Hawk has a headlight similar to the TBR7-D but not the standard TBR7.
What’s the top speed of the TBR7?
-In stock form, without any jetting, you’ll have trouble getting over 55. With a simple carb jet to allow it to run properly, 60mph is realistic. Many owners do a front sprocket to increase the length of the gears and can do 65. Further mods (all relatively cheap) will enable 70mph. *This bike is not fun at 70mph on the interstate, if you want a bike for that, get a used cruiser bike*
Is it street legal?
-In almost every state, yes. Check the ‘Registrations‘ page to see other individual’s experience with registering the bike.
Can I take it off some sweet jumps?
-In short, not really. This bike is built as a dual sport. While it has some suspension travel, you will inevitably break things if you constantly take this off jumps. If you want something that will do this, get a used dirt bike.
Is this bike too big/too small for me?
-Maybe? If you are between 5’8 and 6’5 then you can likely ride this bike. On the shorter side you may be on your tip toes and can experiment with adjusting your forks down, on the tall side you may find yourself uncomfortable. I am personally 6’3 and find this bike to be very comfortable. My friend who is 5’10 lowered his forks 1 inch to make it more comfortable.
My bike doesn’t lean enough / my kickstand is too tall.
-Your forks are likely not adjusted correctly. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EB-DMOqmnmE&t=1s
My bike spits/sputters/bogs when on the throttle / My bike won’t idle.
-Your carb is not tuned correctly. You may need a different main jet/primary jet/needle setting/ etc.
–How to tune a carb -Carburetor upgrade steps
–Bike was running good and this happened? Go through your carb, checked for kinked hoses, jets fell out, float issues, dirty air filter, etc.
Common shipping issues?
-Cracked tank (JB weld and warranty replace)
-Missing brake clevis (Warranty replace or use improved alternative)
-Other cosmetic ‘boogers’ from the sipping process
Airbox is filling with oil.
-PCV valve not operating as intended. Replace with any one way pcv valve to allow air in but not oil out
Tires suck in the mud / Tires very stiff offroad.
-Either tire pressure too high, or upgrade to a knobby tire if you’re mostly off-road – Tire specs and Upgrades
Bike not fast enough / top speed issues.
-The TBR7 is not made for a high top speed. With correct gearing and a decent carburetor you can hit the 70-75mph range. This usually requires a front and rear sprocket, along with some good carburetor tuning. All can be found in the starter package except the rear sprocket.
The grips/levers/seat/other parts aren’t comfortable/quality.
-We’re compiling a list of compatible ergonomic upgrades.
I have other very specific questions or want more information.
-I can’t compete with the wealth of knowledge available on places like chinariders.net . While that forum is not specific to the TBR7, it has a ton of information on it. If you want, you can reach straight out to the staff here on out Contact page.