The 8 Best Motorcycle Stands
Special Honors
Bursig Center Lift Stand This center lift stand from Bursig is a universal model that offers more functionality than regular wheel stands and requires less space than a typical motorcycle jack. Thanks to the four smooth-rolling casters, it allows you to easily move your bike around your garage once lifted, and it can be used with practically any bike model as long as you get the correct plate, which must be purchased separately. bursigusa.com
Dynamoto Multi-Directional Motorcycle Stands If you own a fleet of bikes, regularly maintain your bike, or often need to move it while in storage, then Dynamoto may have the perfect solution for you. Their versatile and easy-to-use stands are equipped with a third set of casters at the handle end, meaning you can rotate them through 360 degrees when placed at the front and rear wheels, to easily maneuver the vehicle around the workshop or storage space. dynamoto.com.au
Editor's Notes
May 07, 2021:
Not only does a well-suited stand make motorcycle maintenance easier, but it also makes it safer, too. This is especially true when working in busy paddocks or cramped areas, such as a home garage, where the vehicle is more susceptible to knocks as you move around the space. Some bikes, in particular dirt bikes, don't have a center stand, and many types of routine maintenance involving the rear quarters of the machine are either impossible or very difficult without one. Some people also use them to elevate both ends of the bike from the floor to protect tires during the winter season, when the bike is not in use. In short, every motorcycle owner should own at least one stand, especially if they do any kind of work on their own vehicle.
In this latest update, we made several additions, some of which cater to more specific requirements, such as the Extreme Max 5600 pair that incorporates a triple tree attachment on the front stand, which is a compatible feature with many sportbikes and makes for easy and safe lifting of the front wheel.
Two notable inclusions are the Venom Sport Bike Front and Rear, and the Ruedamann Adjustable. While the former is made of steel and the latter aluminum, they are both built with a box, as opposed to tubular construction. These represent a departure from the regular horseshoe-shaped models that dominate the market, and are proving popular in both sporting and domestic situations.
We also liked the Donext Paddock and the Oxford SP822 Big Black. Both are rugged models that are tested to lift large weights with ease. In the case of the Donext, it will lift a massive 850 pounds, making it a good choice if you own a big cruiser, while the Oxford has a very thick tubular steel frame, with an extended handle for extra purchase, making lifting much easier when working on larger bikes.
January 08, 2020:
A strong and stable motorcycle stand not only makes working on your bike more convenient, but safer too. We have included both front and rear wheel lifts here, as well as some adaptable models that can be used on either end. Whichever one you choose though, it is important that you never exceed the manufacturer's recommended guidelines regarding maximum weight capacity.
If you speak to any serious motorcycle mechanic about wheel lifts, they will all tell you the same thing, Pitbull makes some of the best units around, so it shouldn't be surprising that we have included two models from that company. The Pit Bull Hybrid Dual allows you to lift your bike from multiple places, which makes it compatible with a large variety of bikes, especially when combined with seven indexable height adjustments. While slightly less versatile, the Pit Bull SS Rear is equally as well constructed, with a sturdy steel frame that has been zinc coated for corrosion resistance.
If you find the price of Pitbull stands to be a bit too hard to stomach, we recommend looking at the Moto-D Swingarm or Trackside Front Paddock, which we feel are equally as durable and sturdy, yet come for a more wallet-friendly price. The former features rubber inline skate wheels that can stand up to a lot of use on rough surfaces and still roll smoothly, while the latter has a quad-wheel design that some may feel makes it a bit more stable as you pop up your bike's wheel.
While the majority of the models on our list are suitable for long-term storage, except perhaps the very budget-friendly Safstar Rear TL27324BK, the Trackside Roll On Wheel Chock is probably best suited to the task. Unlike the others on this list, it doesn't raise the tire into the air, but instead holds it steady through the use of three cradles. It is also ideal for truck bed or trailer transport.
If you need the ability to raise your motorcycle in the air from a single point at the center of the bike, rather than with stands at the front and rear wheels, you'll want to check out our list of the best motorcycle lifts.
Stand Up for Your Bike
The motorcycle stand consists of a metal frame base that supports the weight of the motorcycle's rear or front wheel.
The motorcycle stand is not a common element found in most garages or bike shops. Before we delve into what constitutes a stand, first let's clarify what it is not. Foremost, it is certainly not a kickstand. The kickstand, similar to one seen on a bicycle, supports the weight on one side of the frame allowing it to stand upright. They are usually located in the middle of the bike and spring out from the frame.
Every motorcycle will have a kickstand equipped. The motorcycle stand should not be confused with a motorcycle lift; which is larger and supports the entire bike as opposed to front or rear end only. The stand and lift may have similar uses but the stand is not adequate for heavy duty maintenance work that the lift encourages.
The motorcycle stand consists of a metal frame base that supports the weight of the motorcycle's rear or front wheel. The stand is typically made out of steel, although aluminum models are gaining popularity, The top arch is called the swingarm, and the base of the stand usually has wheels to slide underneath the bike. Also a handle will be included to manually lever the bike up and down.
The stand exists to lift the wheel, front or rear, of the motorcycle from the ground. The two primary reasons for using a motorcycle stand are for repairs and storage. If you intend to do neither with your bike, the stand may not suit you, and will collect dust in your garage.
Repairs and Storage
Considering the main function of the stand, you should decide whether you will need it primarily for storage or maintenance.
Spools, or a spool kit, can be purchased online and most local motorcycle shops.
Motorcycle stands can be sold for the front wheel, rear wheel, or a dual pack; which includes both. If you are storing your bike, due to cold weather or any other reason, I highly suggest you get a dual front and rear wheel stand. That way, both tires are off the ground, preventing unnecessary stress on suspension and tire rot. Also, at the risk of damaging the bike, if you intend to store it for an extended period of time, I strongly advise you familiarize yourself with the proper storage procedures, including draining oil and gas from the tank. The average stand is lightweight, and takes up little room, however, it should be factored into the space you have provided in your garage for storage.
If you are performing your own maintenance on your motorcycle, the stand you purchase may differ from a simple storage stand. If you are concerned with oil changes and chain cleaning, you most certainly will need a rear wheel stand. For fork and front brake maintenance, obviously the front wheel stand is more adequate. Dual packs will be offered usually at a discounted rate, and they are intended for this purpose.
Regardless of the function of your stand, first you must make sure the stand is appropriate for your bike. Many hook unto your bike with spools. Spools, or a spool kit, can be purchased online and most local motorcycle shops. Of course you must check the spool size; not every spool will fit on every bike. They are inexpensive, and make working on your motorcycle with a stand safe and secure.
If spools are not compatible with you bike, you can also purchase a stand that will support the bike by the frame. Again, check with the manufacturer first; most will know first hand which stand is appropriate for you.
A Brief History of Motorcycle Stands
The modern motorcycle can trace its roots to the second half of the 19th century. A motorized bicycle sprang into existence at the same time in many parts of Europe. Germany and England dominated the market by the turn of the century and America excelled soon afterwards. Harley-Davidson became the gold standard for American riders (and to some extent it still is today). Motorcycle sport racing became popular as well, and the demand for innovations in the field were high; larger engines, aerodynamic frames, and safety features all improved drastically at this time.
A motorized bicycle sprang into existence at the same time in many parts of Europe.
The emergence of motorcycle maintenance at home is relatively new. Do not be fooled by the best selling book, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, which offers little intel on Zen Buddhism or motorcycle maintenance.
The history of the motorcycle stand itself is unclear; most likely it emerged in the 1980's when most riders began to do simple maintenance work in their own garages.
The stand cannot offer many innovations; it's a simple design with a simple purpose. The motorcycle stands fifty years from now will look nearly identical to today's models, I predict. A sturdy stand should last you a lifetime, provided it is properly care for. Good luck out there and congratulations on making a step forward towards a DIY warrior!