Doing bike maintenance and cleaning at home has many benefits for motorcyclists. They get savings plus an opportunity to spot engine trouble early. With the increase in demand, motorcycle lifts have expanded in variety of design.
Motorcycle lifts used to be found solely in auto repair shops. Nowadays, any bike enthusiasts can have one ready in their garage. This stainless steel gadget is either operated by air or hydraulic cylinders and can withstand a 1,500 lb bike. It is also referred to as motorcycle jacks, center stands and lift tables.
Bike lifts can be very versatile. Aside from lifts for motorcycle rides, some models are able to support compact vehicles (cruiser, sports bike, hydraulic motorcycle, ATV and others).
Benefits
There are several advantages of bike lifts. It saves time during repairs and maintenance. The bike lover can now say goodbye to neck and back pains usually associated when working with bikes. Even when doing several tasks like engine oil change, chain lubrication and tire replacement is never that stressful.
Good Lifts
There are a number of motorcycle lift types available. The most popular are air and hydraulic lifts. However, most consumers prefer having table lifts. The most admirable quality of table lifts is its firm and secure base. It has an electric screw that can quickly lift and drop the table.
Safe and Stress-Free Routines for Lifts
More lifts are available from online manufacturer sites. After you've ordered the right lift, note that there are good practices that will help you avoid stress and accidents when working with your jack, stand, table or lift.
First, slide the lift or stand underneath the bike. Make sure the rear wheels are locked and firmly secured. Then, press hydraulic jack's pedal to elevate the bike to the desired height. It is advised that the bike is standing vertically with its rear end affixed on the swing-arm stand. If the lift does not have a swing-arm stand, there should be a wood-like projection below the bike's side stand. The bike must be parked vertical to that wood-like projection. This will decrease the bike's tendency to lean sideways.
Second, do not put any leverage on either the bike's front or rear. This will prevent any chances that the bike would tip. Some motorcyclists would anchor their bike but both the bike and lift might topple down. Might as well check and remove unnecessary weights on the lift and bike.
After the repair is done, getting the bike down requires some delicate attention. The jack valve must be tightened first. Next, pump the lift jack until the safety bar is unlatched then lock the safety bar. Lastly, the bike's side stand must be engaged before the valve is gently released. The bike should slowly descend to the surface.
There are two important qualities that motorcycle lifts or ATV lifts must possess. They are safety and durability. Cost should just be a secondary consideration. Your safety when working with your bike and lift must be primarily considered.
