Buddy just dropped off a completely disassembled 1982 GS650e

[Nessism]

Can anyone recommend a decent engine stand?

Fortunately, you don't need one. Just a workbench and maybe a couple of 2x4's.

Regarding the engine, if you enjoy engine building, then I'd encourage you to take it fully apart. The crankshaft uses caged roller bearings, and they don't like grit in them. Also, taking apart the engine will give you a chance to learn and check everything properly.

[Suzukian]

I prefer a good workbench also.

[Mr.humbucker]

I use an automotive style stand utilizing a simple set of brackets fashioned from steel framing brackets from Lowes/Home Depot. I like this system as it allows me to easily flip/rotate the engine 360 for servicing, cleaning and painting if so desired. It also allows me to move it around my garage easily and doesn’t take up space on my workbench … which is overloaded with crap most of the time . I’ve also sent you a pm. All the best on the build … you’ve come to the right place to get lots of great advice.

[Suzukian]

I have a Heavy Duty engine stand. I've used it for automotive engines, as they tend to be much larger and heavier. I used mine to rebuild my Mercedes 450SL 4.5 V8 engine among others, worked great for my M.G. 1275 cc engine rebuilt..

I prefer a strong wooden bench for motorcycles engines though. You can position the engines in so many different angles, as motorcycle engines are much lighter. I find it takes up less space, I have a 16' foot x 3' x 3" thick work bench, it came out of a high school science lab. I also like the height, as I have a bad back and can sit there doing what I want to do more comfortably. It would be easier to separate the cases on a bench than on an engine stand, remove/install the head, and a lot of other things. IMHO.