I think a headstock stand is the least likely to cause damage, not sure which brand would be strong enough though (and that’s assuming the headstock tube is open ended to accept the pin on the stand).
I use something like (but not) this, https://www.demon-tweeks.com/uk/warrior-front-paddock-stand-ubrpdsfrt/. One prong sits under the fork leg whilst the other sits behind the fork leg. I added 3 extra layers of heatshrink tubing over the existing plastic tube lining the prong, just to make sure it left no marks.
I have one of these https://www.motea.com/en/paddock-stand-head-lift-constands-falcone-358296-0 excellent bit of kit
That’s very similar to mine MP but I’ve not had cause to use it on my M1200, if that one’s ok with the weight of an M1200 mine will be, I’d definitely recommend going for a headstock stand JG, really stable, less chance of damage and you can take the forks out.
that’s a point regarding the rear stand, can you imagine the consequences of someone using the headstock stand on it’s own. :0
Constands front and rear in use. The quality is excellent and the bike is very stable when using them
I don't know much about front stands... I know I need to lift from the steering stem to take the wheel off... Right? BUT I also heard that sometimes when lifted like that the lifting arms can block the brakes and make working on them harder than if lifted the other way. Any truth to that? Rex
Negative. You do NOT have to lift from the steering stem to remove the front wheel or service the brakes. Here's a photo of my Panigale with both wheels removed. Zoom-in on the front stand.
Explain please? I thought the other way besides the steering stem was at the "THINGS" at the axle. That would stop me from removing the wheel. I would imagine I could do the brakes while the tire was on the ground Rex
The bike is supported from under the forks where the brake calipers are mounted. The axles just slides-out and the front wheel drops. Yes, you can service the brakes easily once the wheel is removed. The steering stem lift attachment (not shown) is only required to remove the forks for servicing.
So it lifts by the calipers then? Interesting. I thought it had to be done with the crash things... I was looking at the convertible?? PitBull that could do both. I have the PitBull rear and love it. Why does anyone need to lift by the steering head? Rex
Yes, it lifts by the forks either under the axle hole or from the brake caliper mount. Either is good. It's just a preference thing. Although I have the front steering stem lift attachment (not shown) , I have not used it yet. The steering stem lift attachment is only required to remove the forks for servicing. I just bring the wheels to the dealer where he mounts the new tires for $10 each. P.S. Having both front and rear stands will save you a bundle on dealer labor charges and will pay for themselves after two tire changes.
i am not sure i will ever mount tires to rims... but i will remove the wheels to get tires and do brakes and all fluid changes. if i buy another house and then own more than 1 bike i will go further Rex
You can also take the wheel off using a stand that supports under the fork legs Rex, but they aren’t as secure as a steering head stand, depending on the bike/Stand they can actually be really precarious!, with the Majority of steering head stands there’s no issue removing the brakes, you can see in the photo the stand isn’t obstructing anything, I did once go to help a mate that said he couldn’t take the axle out because the uprights of his steering head stand we’re in the way, I turned his steering a few degrees and it allowed the axle to be removed, he felt pretty foolish! PS it’s good practice to loosen calliper bolts, axle etc before lifting onto any stand so that you’re not applying large amounts of force to the bike whilst it’s suspended, same goes for reassembly, nip everything up but don’t torque up til it’s back on the ground.
