centerstand all the time

[crc1214]

Hello all.

I learned the proper centerstand technique in this forum, and now I put it up on the centerstand all the time. I don't even use the kickstand. You should see the looks on Harley riders at the gas station when I put the thing up on the stand. It's so effortless when you know how to do it right!
I would give $50 just to see one of them try to lift their big fat boy up on the centerstand only to watch it tip over!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Infact, I just took the kickstand completely off!!! I don't think the holes were drilled right on my kickstand or mounting plate anyway. The kickstand when fully raised still has about a good 1.5 inches to go before it would fit snug against the pipes. It looks really weird with it on, as it is definetely the lowest point on the bike. I'm afraid to put it back on because its so damn low, I think I could very well scrape it when leaning in a curve. I think the the Suzuki QA dept. took the day off when my bike's kickstand plate and kickstand were being put together.

Anyhow, I'm wondering if it is ok to to use the centerstand as much as I do? Is it rugged enough to withstand me using it all the time? The bike is
a 1978 GS550E, so it's pretty easy to get up on the stand.

Chad

[KennyJ]

I use my centerstand 99 out of 100 times I am parking it. I feel it is more secure that way, especially with small kids around. Have been doing it this way for 18+ years, so it should be sturdy enough (look at the build, it is way sturdier than a sidestand). The only problem is if you go aftermarket 4 into 1 pipes, usually you have to remove the centerstand to make them fit.

And I agree, most people give you the wall-eye when you put it on the stand at a gas station. Heck I don't need to sit on it to fill it (like most HD and Star riders do).

Kenny

[MichaelHoward]

I agree, mine is on the centerstand 99% of the time, I just keep it greased up and tightened. No problems what so ever.

[whodatpat]

So what is the majic touch to getting it up on the center stand. I tend to stand next to it on the left side, and sort of roll my bike backwards slightly to get a little momentum, and then stand on the center-stand while I lift on the frame under the seat. It is not easy and i did drop it once this way. Please tell me that that is not the "easy way."
Patrick
VERRY HEAVY 1980 GS 850G

[Anonymous]

I always use my centre stand. If I've got my gear on the back of the bike I can't get on unless I stand on the left peg and hop over. I for one can't lift my leg over my head if I've got a case of beer on the back so the sidestand is not used. 8O

Steve

[KGB]

I always use the center stand, alot more stable.

As to the trick, just make sure it's on both pads or feet before trying to ease it onto the center stand.

You described the correct technique, just make sure both feet/pads are planted firmly.

And Fatboys don't have center stands.

[Anonymous]

I use mine 100% as well.

I use mine 100%. My bike is hard for me to get on the stand if I am working against an incline. I usually park it up hill so I can pull it down hill onto the stand.

When I was going to college in TX I parked next to this Sportster when ever I could. I would always come out and find the Harley had been moved away from my Suzuki. Ha.Ha.

I was tempted to put oil under his bike. I figured the rider might be an A-hole so I didn't do that.

[Anonymous]

Oil under a Harley??

If it was a Harley it probably had oil under it