Many motorcycle owners are discovering that it is best to do simple maintenance and cleaning tasks on their own. It will not only save money but gives them more opportunity to interact with their bike. This is the reason why there are a growing number of manufacturers that produces motorcycle lifts.
But what is a motorcycle lift? It is a device that is commonly found in vehicle repair shops. It is typically made of steel and is operated by air or hydraulic cylinders. It can support up to 1,500 lb of load. It is synonymous with motorcycle jacks, center stands and lift tables.
It is generally used for repairs and maintenance for motorcycles and other compact vehicles (cruiser, sport bike, hydraulic motorcycle, ATV, etc.). The use of lifts cuts repairs or maintenance time shorter. It relieves the mechanic or bike enthusiast from putting any strain on their neck and back or from lying on the ground. Simple tasks like fork and engine oil change, tire replacement, chain lubrication and even cleaning of the wheels can be tiresome without the use of lifts, jacks or stands.
Now if you are wondering about what's the best lift available, you may check out air lifts and hydraulic lifts. They are the most prominent type of lift. However, if you should go by what consumers prefer, you might want to examine what they like about table lifts. If you ask me, one thing likable about table lifts are its firm and secure base which is equipped with an electric screw that easily elevate and drop the table.
After finding the right motorcycle lift either from bike shops or from online manufacturer sites, here are the best practices when working with it. Sliding the lift right under the bike and locking the rear wheels first. After the bike's rear wheel is secured, press the pedal of the hydraulic jack to raise the bike until the desired height is reached. It is observed that the lift works best if the bike is positioned vertically with the rear end placed on the swing-arm stand.
If there is no swing-arm stand, look for a wood-like projection underneath the side stand area and park your bike nearly vertical to that. This will minimize the lean.
Next, always avoid putting any leverage to either the front or the rear part of your bike. There is a possibility that the bike would tip. Anchoring may help but in some cases both the bike and lift would tip together. You might as well not take any risk and just simply check for any unnecessary weight in any part of the bike.
To lower the bike down to the ground, you must first tighten the jack valve then begin to pump the lift jack until you see that the safety bar is released. Next, securely lock the safety bar; make sure the side stand is engaged before slowly releasing the valve. You would notice that the bike is slowly descending back to the ground.
When working with motorcycle lifts or ATV lifts, there are three words that would keep your experience pleasant and disaster-free. They are safety, strength and reliability. If cost is a major consideration, then save up until you have enough to purchase a reliable lift. Never compromise quality and safety for a few dollars that might cost you more in the event an accident occurs.
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