I was looking at buying a 2006 Hawkeye with around 18 hours. I rode it a little, and it seemed like it revs really high to get even to a modest speed, and rattles a good bit too. I own a Rancher and am comparing it to what I am use to on the Rancher. Is this normal for a Hawkeye? Are these decent ATV's?

Thanks

 

Great little bike. The rattle is normal. Tops out 48-52 mph.

 

I'm around 30 miles from turning 4k on the odometer. Other than the manufactured problems (quality control issues) It has been a great ATV. I don't know what sort of "rattles" you were hearing, most of the noises my Hawkeye has are some minor squeaks. But I also go through checking as many nuts and bolts as I can get to looking for any loose ones whenever I do an oil change. Might be some loose stuff on the one you are looking at. Be sure to check the front suspension mounts on the Rear a-arms. The tabs welded to the frame were very weak on the 06 Hawkeye. The replacement sub frame has reinforced mounting tabs. As for the RPMs, It's possible the current owner messed with the clutch rollers trying to get more bottom end power. The Hawkeye is Great for cruising trails. And it is comfortable on all day rides. Something to keep in mind...It is NOT a big bore ATV. So it isn't going to mud bog or hill climb as well as full size bikes, But on slow trails or just cruising it holds it's own pretty damn good. I have always had a smile on my face after day of riding. In the long run...It's proven to be a pretty tough bike.

P.S. The Hawkeye has some recalls out on it. So if you decide to get the bike, have a dealer look up the Vin# to see if they have been taken care of.