Blog Summary: Choosing the right motorcycle lift stand makes maintenance safer and detailing easier. But remember, motorcycle lifts and jack stands are for working on your bike, not storing it. For storage or easy movement, that’s where a motorcycle dolly comes in.
- Lift jacks and stands add stability, protect tires and suspension, and save strain on your back.
- Four main types include center stands, head stands, lift jacks, and paddock/wheel stands.
- Key factors when choosing: weight capacity, garage space, lift range, intended use, compatibility, safety features, and durability.
- For extended storage or easy repositioning, use a Let’s Roll Dolly rather than a lift.
Have you ever tried to balance your bike against a wall or leave it freestanding, supported only by its side stand, while cleaning the chain or changing the oil?
Most of us have been there at some point in time or other during our lives. But if you have, then you’ll know how that gets old pretty fast.
The simple answer? A motorcycle lift jack or lift stand. It makes garage work safer, easier, and more comfortable. But if you’re wondering how to pick the right motorcycle lift stand – or when to use a dolly versus a motorcycle lift, keep reading.
Lift, Jack, or Dolly: What’s the Difference?
Before you decide which motorcycle lift stand or jack to buy, it helps to understand how each tool works and what the best use cases for each.
While the terms “motorcycle lift stand”, “motorcycle lift jack” and “motorcycle lift dolly” often get used interchangeably, they serve different purposes in your garage.
- Motorcycle Lift Stands: These are lightweight, easy-to-use stands that lift one or both wheels just off the ground. They’re perfect for short-term maintenance like chain lubes, tire changes, or cleaning. A lift stand keeps the bike upright and stable but isn’t designed to raise the entire motorcycle or hold it for long periods.
- Motorcycle Lift Jacks: Think of these as the heavy lifters. A jack (hydraulic or scissor style) raises the whole motorcycle higher off the ground, giving you full access for mechanical or under-frame work. They’re best for heavier bikes like a Harley-Davidson Road Glide, Honda Gold Wing, or Indian Chief, but again, not for long-term storage. Once the job’s done, the bike should come off the jack.
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Motorcycle Dollies (Let’s Roll): Here’s where Let’s Roll stands apart. A motorcycle dolly isn’t about lifting. Instead, it’s about mobility and storage. It keeps your bike off its tires but lets you move and position it effortlessly around your garage or workspace. That means no balancing, no strain, and no stress on your suspension.
Key Takeaway: Use lift stands or jacks for maintenance and cleaning, but when it’s time to store, roll, or reposition your bike, the Let’s Roll Dolly is the safest, easiest choice.
More About Motorcycle Lift Stands
If you’ve settled on a stand (or dolly) for long term storage, here’s what you need to know.
The 4 Main Types of Motorcycle Lift Stands
Here are four of the most common types of bike lift stands you’ll encounter:
- Motorcycle Center Lift Stands: These stands lift your bike from its frame, providing excellent stability for comprehensive maintenance.
- Motorcycle Head Lift Stands: Ideal for front-end work, these stands lift your bike from the triple tree.
- Motorcycle Lift Jacks / Combo Stands: These hydraulic or scissor lifts provide a one step lift sometimes with wheels but can be challenging to move if the wheels are not substantial.
- Motorcycle Paddock / Wheel Stands: These are a quick and affordable option for simple tasks like lubricating your chain or changing a wheel.
How to Choose the Right Bike Lifts / Motorcycle Stands
Now that you know why bike lift motorcycle stands matter and some of the most common types you’ll find, let’s get down to the most important part. How do you choose one?
Here are 7 factors to reflect on that taken in consideration together, will help you choose the perfect bike stand for your needs:
- Weight Capacity: Your stand must be able to support your motorcycle's weight with an added safety margin of 20-30%. For example, a 500 lb bike requires a lift with at least a 650 lb capacity.
- Garage Space: Match the stand to your workspace. Paddock stands or foldable jacks are great for small garages, while larger spaces can accommodate full-sized hydraulic lifts.
- Lift Height & Range: Ensure the stand's lowest setting can clear your bike's ground clearance and that it can lift high enough to raise both wheels off the ground.
- Intended Use: Choose your stand based on your needs. A rear paddock stand is perfect for quick tasks, a center lift or hydraulic jack is good for full maintenance, and a dolly that elevates both wheels to roll around and get into hard corners is ideal for winter storage.
- Compatibility: Confirm that the stand is compatible with your motorcycle. Some require specific mounting points like swingarm spools or triple-tree adapters.
- Safety Features: Prioritize safety. Look for features such as a wide base, locking pins, non-slip pads, and tie-down points (if needed) to ensure your bike is secure.
- Durability & Quality: Invest in a stand made from heavy-duty steel with strong welds and rust-resistant finishes. A quality stand is a long-term investment.
Another important factor to keep in mind? Budget. While you want to purchase a stand that doesn’t break the bank, you also shouldn’t skimp on quality to save a buck. Rather, you might be better borrowing a ride-or-die stand (if they have one) ‘til you can purchase something that’s high quality and will stand the test of time.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right motorcycle lift stand is about understanding your tools and what each one is designed to do. Use lift stands or jacks or maintenance, cleaning, or short-term work. Use a Let’s Roll Dolly for maneuvering or storing your bike.
If you’ve decided a stand or jack is the right choice, choose one by starting with your bike’s weight, garage space, and how you intend to use the lift, and go from there. Next, factor in safety and quality, and you’ll have a stand that makes the most sense for your unique needs, making maintenance and storage both easier and safer in the process.
Ready to pull the trigger on your next bike lift? We’ve got plenty! Shop now.
