How to Put Your Dirt Bike on a Stand (Without Breaking Your Back)
Coach's Note: "It's not that you're not strong enough. It's just that you don't have the right technique."
Putting your bike on the stand doesn't have to be a struggle. It is one of the most common things women ask me about. Often, we feel like we aren't strong enough to lift a 230lb machine, but I am here to tell you: It isn't about strength. It is about technique.
I am going to show you three methods to get it done.
Method 1: The "Hip Lever" (Coach's Favorite)
I use this one the most because I think it is the easiest. It uses leverage rather than your lower back.
- Placement: Line the stand up right in front of your bike. Do not put it in front of the foot peg, or it will catch and you might fall over.
- The Lean: Grab the handlebar closest to you. Lean the bike toward you so it rests on your right knee/hip.
- The Grip: Reach down and grab the frame (or pipe if it isn't hot).
- The Lift: Because you are reaching down so low, you get massive leverage. Use your legs to lift it right onto the stand.
Method 2: The Rear Lift
This isn't necessarily the easiest way, but it is a valid way if the mechanics of the hip lever feel awkward for you.
- Line the bike up next to the stand.
- Get a solid hold on the rear fender and the rear tire.
- Lift up and shimmy the bike sideways onto the stand.
Method 3: The Kickstand Pivot (Last Resort)
Warning: I do not recommend this method as a daily habit because people have broken their kickstands doing this. Only use this if you have to.
- Put your kickstand down.
- Lean the bike entirely onto the kickstand so the wheels lift.
- Pull the stand underneath the bike as far as you can get it.
- Set the bike down and shimmy it to center.
Summary
Don't let the garage be the reason you don't ride. Try the Hip Lever method first—it saves your back and gives you the most control.