noob question - bike jacking

[shadowfist]

So i have my GS750 which has been sitting for quite some time (pretty much since i got my VTX) and i took it out the other day and enjoyed myself far to much. As a result i have decided to finally fix my speedo drive gear and other such things. but this brings me to my question...

I got a bike jack to use on my vtx which worked great on my vtx and my late vulcan... but on my suzuki the jack cant lift the frame, the exhaust is in the way. now here is the meat of my question which option is easiest?

lift front wheel for spedo drive gear replacement by...
1) center stand + holding back end down with ratcheting straps (attaching to some point in the garrage i guess)
2) center stand + lift front end with straps (attaching to rafters of garrage?)
3) removal of exhaust pipes and using the bikejack.
4) ???? brilliant idea that i haven't thought of?

[Tarbash 27]

I usually use the centerstand than put a small bottlejack under the front of the motor to bring it up just a little. I think I used a ratchet strap once to hold the back down. As long as the wheel is up and the bike is sturdy, you should be fine. It helps to lossen the axle nuts when the bike is on the ground so you dont shake it while the wheel is up.

[tkent02]

Use the center stand and lift the handlebars from something overhead, like a garage door track or tree branch or something. It only take a few pounds lift, a ratcheting tie down or a piece of rope is fine.

[officerbill]

I've used the jack with wooden "spacers" between the pipes. Works ok.
bill

[hampshirehog]

Stand the bike on a plank and tuck a ratchet strap underneath the plank at the back and pull the back end down = lifts the front up.

[LarryA_Texas]

chick-lift

Use the center stand and lift the handlebars from something overhead, like a garage door track or tree branch or something. It only take a few pounds lift, a ratcheting tie down or a piece of rope is fine.

Have a very attractive young lady come over and sit on the back of the motorcycle to lift the front end up. If none is available do what tom said above.

The bottle jack, or scissors jack, under the engine also works well but leaves the front end to flop around while you're working on it. Maybe not a good thing.

[shadowfist]

Have a very attractive young lady come over and sit on the back of the motorcycle to lift the front end up.

preferably one that is wearing a skirt of somekind.