Reynolds Ride Off Stand?

[Dogface]

What's the concensus on these ride off stands? I've read both positive and negative comments on other sites. I really need an alternative to the OEM center stand as it's too hard on a bad back if I try to deploy it alone. Wimp? Maybe but a back flare up lasts for weeks.

I guess these are no longer made? Are there any other alternatives? I do know they show up on flea-bay from time to time.

Thanks in advance for input...yep, new to Beemers :confused:

[20774]

Oh, you've stepped in it now, Dogface!! (sorry!!)

It's one of those love 'em-hate 'em items, along with the mid '70s sidestands, fairings, etc.

I have a Reynolds...I like it a lot. Both wheels touch the ground when the stand is deployed. Presents a problem when trying to do maintenance...not so much as issue in the garage but could be troublesome on the road. Some are concerned that with both wheels on the ground and parked on soft material, the stand could sink and the bike could fall over. I suppose it has happened, but in general, the Reynolds has a bigger contact patch with the ground, so the load is spread out more. Plus the wheels are touching the ground, so it's only going to sink so far. With any centerstand, you have to be smart about where you park!

The Reynolds is easier on the frame mounting points because you never really totally put all the bike's weight on the stand and the pivot points, since the wheels are basically touching all the timing. Makes getting it on and off easier, IMO. I'd suggest not using it as a "ride off" stand...just puts more pressure on the pivot points as well as abuses the clutch/tranny/tires...not really necessary.

You might want to check you centerstand parts. I understand that in the '81 or so timeframe, a mod came out and new parts were available to make the stock stand better. I'm not certain on the specifics.

Reynolds are specific to the model and year. Check here for some info:

http://w6rec.com/duane/bmw/reynolds/index.htm

It works for me...

[Dogface]

Kurt,

Thanks for the reply. Just FYI, I don't really want the 'ride off ' feature...just want one that's easier on the back for parking in the garage. For maintenance I'll likely invest in a hydraulic lift...again, for the back saving feature.

Looks like the Reynolds 310 is the one for my /5. Thanks for that link.

[lostboy]

The ride-off stands have advantages and disadvantages. They're easier to use most of the time, although if you're parking on rough pavement, you can have trouble with the stand reaching the ground. I don't think I've ever seen a bike with one of these stands fall over. They can be dragged rather easily in turns, and due to their strength, they can give you a bad scare.

One way of getting around a difficult to use stock stand is to cut the legs and weld them back together, making them shorter. I've done this many times.

[tghsmith]

faster yet is to have some "pads" welded to the bottom of a reynolds stand, not the hoist of a stock stand, but a sure footing. the worst was trying to take a bike of the stand with a stock rideoff only to have everything slide 4 ft on the smooth shop floor, riding off them never was a good idea.

[Dogface]

One way of getting around a difficult to use stock stand is to cut the legs and weld them back together, making them shorter. I've done this many times.

What a great idea! Never thought of it... About how much do you take out of the stock stand?

[bikerfish1100]

i think there might be a real simple fix for you, but not for your c-stand. when you go to put the bike on the c-stand, press down with your right foot, and pull back (not up) on the grab handle. like many things BMW, it's often changing your technique that makes the bike behave properly, rather than changing the bike to fit your previous experiences.
of course, you could always just resort to using the sidestand when your back is acting up. after all, it's not like it's a mosquito-fogger k-bike :D

[crazydrummerdude]

I use a Reynolds ride off stand every day on my R75/6. Works just fine. I like it. Now using my R90/6's stock stand seems difficult.. but still not as difficult as my friends GS750 stock center stand.

I've ridden off the ride off stand once, just because I was lazy. I wouldn't reccomend actually doing that regularly, or ever really.

[Bill Burke]

I use a Reynolds ride off stand every day on my R75/6. Works just fine. I like it.
Same with me. Much easier on the back to roll it onto the stand.
1975 R75/6.

Edit: When I am adjusting valves or removing the rear wheel for lube or brake work, I put a couple 2x4's under the centerstand and pull the bike up onto them. Voila. No maintenance problems.

[TomBarnhart]

I had one on a 81 R100RT. It was the only way I could get that unbalanced bike on a center stand. I had a love hate relationship with the stand. On flat hard surfaces it was great. Otherwise it sucked, too unstable on rougher surfaces. Also forget it when you want to do any service on the bike. I would not waste the money unless I could not heft the bike on the factory stand.

[eosnut]

I have a ride-off on my R75/6. With proper technique, I haven't found it really that much easier to deploy than any other center stand I've ever used. And I really dislike the fact that both tires are on the ground. It means I have to put the bike on a jack to do a lot of things.

Honestly, when I first bought the bike I knew nothing about a "ride off" stand and thought the stock one was broken somehow or poorly designed. Now I know better.

[Jeff488]

The ride-off stands have advantages and disadvantages. They're easier to use most of the time, although if you're parking on rough pavement, you can have trouble with the stand reaching the ground. I don't think I've ever seen a bike with one of these stands fall over. They can be dragged rather easily in turns, and due to their strength, they can give you a bad scare.

One way of getting around a difficult to use stock stand is to cut the legs and weld them back together, making them shorter. I've done this many times.

I, too would be interested to know exactly how much you removed. Also how far the front tire is off the ground afterwards. Did you just butt weld the pieces together or sleeve them as well?
Thanks

[Boxerkuh]

I love mine. I actually bought a brand new one that I have laying on the shelf for the future, when mine wears out; I can't live without it....

[26667]

I had mine on for 20 years and the only real prob I had was that it was harder to get the rear wheel off. Lifting my '82 onto a 2x4 was a pita. It's interesting to me that the oem CS on my '78 is about half way btw Reynolds Ride-Off and '82 oem.

Somewhere btw '78 and '82, I think the frame may have changed or the CS itself, perhaps.

No biggie day-to-day, but when you're fully loaded...the bike, that is, the ride-off's
welcome.

[20774]

Lifting my '82 onto a 2x4 was a pita.

Yes this can be a problem, and I also struggled with it for a number of years. Then I realized if I could first get the front wheel onto a 2x12 board, that would change the angle of the bike, and put more distance between the down position of the center stand and the 2x4. So I would just lay out a sufficient length of 2x12 in front of the bike and roll the front tire onto it. That makes it easier to get the bike up on the centerstand so maintenance can be done. The front tire will naturally be off the ground. In order to work on the rear tire, a small bottle jack and a piece of wood to push up on the cross member in the area of the swingarm was all that was needed to hold the rear end up.

I've heard some people talk about using two small pieces of 2x4, not one long one. Standing on the left side, you rock the bike onto the right side of the stand and with your foot, push the 2x4 under the stand. Go over to the other side of the bike and repeat that process. Now the bike is up on the 2x4s. I've never tried it...it's a little disconcerting to push the bike away from you and worrying that it might get away and continue to fall over.

[26667]

[QUOTE=20774;267890] Then I realized if I could first get the front wheel onto a 2x12 board, that would change the angle of the bike, and put more distance between the down position of the center stand and the 2x4.

I don't know if I'm having an OMG moment or a DUH moment, but Ithink i may put another Reynolds on the new/old bike.

I think maybe that's what Kalashnikov meant about simplicity.

Thanx, 20, 774!

[crazydrummerdude]

I love mine. I actually bought a brand new one that I have laying on the shelf for the future, when mine wears out; I can't live without it....

Yep. I have an extra Reynolds and an extra oem center stand.. one for each bike when their respective center stands wear out.

[lostboy]

I, too would be interested to know exactly how much you removed. Also how far the front tire is off the ground afterwards. Did you just butt weld the pieces together or sleeve them as well?
Thanks

Tyre sizes and shock lengths affect how much metal can/should be removed from the centerstand's legs. As I recall, I removed about 1/4 inch from the last one I did (over 15 yeas ago!) I cut the legs and tack welded it together. When I was happy with the length, I completed the welding. I butt welded it together. Any amount you remove will make using it easier.

You may also may need to weld the stand's stops to keep it from going too far over center.

[Jeff488]

You may also may need to weld the stand's stops to keep it from going too far over center.

OH, that's something I didn't think of, and I'm sure it makes a difference.
Thanks

[PhilR807]

I ride off my stand all the time. I like getting on it, firing it up, checking all the zippers on the tank bag and riding off. What are the issues with riding off the stand if that was the intention?

The only time I got into trouble was on a ferry crossing the Mississippi with a metal deck and I just slid across the deck till I hit a seam weld. The Harley riders next to me were dumbfounded.

[bikerfish1100]

What are the issues with riding off the stand if that was the intention?



already mentioned- you're putting extra load onto the clutch. given that these bikes have a single large dry automotive style clutch, which is not as simple (or as inexpensive) to replace as on most bikes, it's generally preferred to try to make the clutch last a long time. but hey, it's your $, spend it where you want.

[20774]

I ride off my stand all the time. I like getting on it, firing it up, checking all the zippers on the tank bag and riding off. What are the issues with riding off the stand if that was the intention?

My feeling is that you have to slip the clutch a little extra/longer in order to get the bike to move up and over the centerstand. That, along with the additional strain on the rest of the drivetrain...not much, but it wouldn't be there if you drove away with the centerstand already up and out of the way. If you're sitting on the bike, even with a foot on the ground for stability, that's extra weight that the pivot points have to bear while you move forward. It's a cumulative thing and most likely will shorten the life of the stand/mounting.

Not to say that I haven't done it myself...but I usually only ride-off when conditions warrant it, such as if I had to park with the bike facing uphill and there's no way I can pull the bike forward with my hands.

[sumran]

Can you put the stand in place while you are still sitting on the bike? That is my primary reason for wanting one. Currently, I use the side stand to get off the bike, then put it on the center stand. I only had to hook my heel on the seat and drop the bike once to decide this was the best practice for me.:bluduh

[bikerfish1100]

Can you put the stand in place while you are still sitting on the bike? That is my primary reason for wanting one. Currently, I use the side stand to get off the bike, then put it on the center stand. I only had to hook my heel on the seat and drop the bike once to decide this was the best practice for me.:bluduh

you want to put the bike UP onto the center stand while on it? :scratch you'd need a K12LT to do that- it has a motorized c-stand.
I'd love to see someone try to raise a(ny other) bike onto it's c-stand while seated on it- that would be totally priceless. but wait- i need to get my video camera first!
yes, most probably go to sidestand first, then launch onto the c-stand- especially in touring mode, when loaded with gear.

[sumran]

you want to put the bike UP onto the center stand while on it? :scratch you'd need a K12LT to do that- it has a motorized c-stand.
I'd love to see someone try to raise a(ny other) bike onto it's c-stand while seated on it- that would be totally priceless. but wait- i need to get my video camera first...

Could I be a YouTube legend? Maybe I could make my kid's Ipod!

I don't want to go direct to center stand badly enough to spend that kind of dough. Maybe I should invent one that will work on airheads.

[lostboy]

t sounds like what you really need is a sidestand you can deploy while still on the bike. A Brown Side Stand may be just what you need. Once you've crawled off the bike, you can use either a modified stock or Ride-off stand.

[sumran]

Thanks for the input and info.

I generally have no problem with the stock sidestand or the stock centerstand. The difficulty is situational. If I am dealing with inclines or soft surfaces (limestone at campgrounds) or surfaces that are slippery due to moisture or loose material, a more stable stand would be nice. The ride off stands have a larger contact patch and keep weight on both of the wheels. I assume there is much less lifting of the bike involved when taking it off the stand.

I know the brown side stand is preferred by many, but in my case the smaller "foot" would amplify the problem rather than help it. 98% of the time the stock equipment is no problem, although being able to come off the center stand with less of a lurch would be nice.

[kheerema]

I used a stock stand for awhile on my /6 and recently switched to a Reynolds Ride off stand since the little lever on the stock stand for your toe was broken off. It is ALOT easier to get the bike on and off the stand which is a big plus.

The only thing I don't like is that if you are parked on an incline or decline, since both wheels are still on the ground, the bike tends to want to roll. Turning the wheel helps it stay put, but i've noticed if you bump the bike it wants to take off. Since I wash the bike on a driveway with an incline, i'm always worried i'm going to bump the bike and its going to take off. It really only rolls a bit, and the stand stays deployed, but unnerving nonetheless.

I also notice when the bike leans to the right side on the stand, if the pavement slope shifts the bike to the right, it just seems like the bike is leaned too far over.

I think the stock is more stable if you park on alot of variable terrain, but for garage and parking lot use, the Reynolds is fine. My opinion is that the ease of getting off and on the Reynolds outweighs the pain of getting the rear tire up in the air for occasionaly maintenance.

[20774]

Kevin -

Do you put your bike in gear if you parked on an incline? That might add some security. When I use my sidestand, and especially if there's slope to the ground either forward or back, I snick the bike into first gear and then deploy the sidestand.

[Isamemon]

sometimes old and lazy a person looks for whatever is the easiest thing to do, and a ride off stand seems like an easy thing. just get on , kick and go
but for me , and old fart, ( thats why I can tease about old an lazy), the stock center stand is not an issue
its part of the routine
I hated the stock side stand, ad I did fix that, and reading some of the above posts about being on unlevel ground, or bikes rolling off a ride off stand, speeding up clutch wear, or needing 2x4's etc to pull a wheel off or do maintance to me sounds like more hassle
then again, some want thigns as easy as possible, might as well ride a honda with a automatic transmission
:violin

[kheerema]

Kevin -

Do you put your bike in gear if you parked on an incline? That might add some security. When I use my sidestand, and especially if there's slope to the ground either forward or back, I snick the bike into first gear and then deploy the sidestand.

You know, its rare i park on non-flat areas...and I didn't even think to put it in gear. Excellent advice to which I will follow. Hopefully I won't start it in gear though!

[20774]

You know, its rare i park on non-flat areas...and I didn't even think to put it in gear. Excellent advice to which I will follow. Hopefully I won't start it in gear though!

If you starter lockout switch is working correctly, you won't! But that might be another maintenance issue...let's no go there...

[bikerfish1100]

You know, its rare i park on non-flat areas...and I didn't even think to put it in gear. Excellent advice to which I will follow. Hopefully I won't start it in gear though!
Sounds like you haven't taken a formal rider training class- might be a real good idea. FINE-C and TKV are just two of the acronyms you'll learn to know & love. buncha oehr real valuable skills that might be new to you as well. http://msf-usa.org/

[lightning]

you want to put the bike UP onto the center stand while on it? :scratch you'd need a K12LT to do that- it has a motorized c-stand.
I'd love to see someone try to raise a(ny other) bike onto it's c-stand while seated on it- that would be totally priceless. but wait- i need to get my video camera first!
yes, most probably go to sidestand first, then launch onto the c-stand- especially in touring mode, when loaded with gear.

I can pull my BSA Lightning back onto the center stand while straddling the bike. I have gotten a lot of strange looks when I get ready to do it in public--guess now i know why.

[DSBMW1]

I have and love the stand. To do maintenance on the bike all you have to so is place a 2x4 under the stand. I can even deploy the stand while on the bike. Hell I took the sidestand OFF my R60.

[shire2000]

I can understand people likeing the Ride-off style stand. It is easier for them. But they are missing the point. If you want easy, get a sidecar or a trike, No stand required.

To me, The stock BMW centre stand works perfectly and I don't have to carry a 2x4 around with me in case I get a flat tire. I have always found that the tire will go flat at least 100 miles from home. Just try to get that rear tire off when all you have is that ride-off stand. If you forgot your 2x4 or just didn't have space to pack it, then you are screwed. Bmw designed the bike quite well.

As to the side stand, I have yet to figure out why people prefer the Brown's or whatever else has been concocted. The stock side stand has a good size foot to help prevent sinking, and it will automagically retrack so that you don't dig in when taking that first left turn. Makes perfect sense. Some people think that it leans the bike over to far, or not enough. If the pivot point is well maintained and you deploy it all the way, it will be at the optimum angle to park as designed by engineers that know a lot more about physics than I do.

But, it is all personal preference. I prefer my bike to be as totoaly stock as possible, while others prefer to modify them to fit their needs. Hey, what ever floats yer boat. :dance

[20774]

Just try to get that rear tire off when all you have is that ride-off stand. If you forgot your 2x4 or just didn't have space to pack it, then you are screwed.

Well, not really, or totally... I don't carry a 2x4 but I don't let that scare me from riding the bike. I can think of three ways to deal with the issue far from home:

- get lucky and find a 2x4, or even a 1x2, nearby. Maybe ask someone at a nearby house? Might even need to dig a hole under the tire to get that last bit of clearance

- possibly position the bike so that the rear wheel is hanging of a curb

- find an appropriate spot and lean the bike over onto its side. Maybe find a stump of wood or even a rock (with some padding) to support the jug so the bike doesn't go all the way over and helps lever the tire off the ground. You might have to remove the tank to keep gas from spilling, depending on how full it is.

If you can get some of the pressure off the tire, you could even fix the flat (tube-type tire) with the tire still mounted and pulling the tube out of the tire and then stuffing it back in. Not a very pretty situation, but deparate times...

The downside of the (hopefully) rare flat tire away from home with no piece of wood is easily far exceeded by the confidence the Reynolds provides in the hundreds of times I have to use the centerstand.

That's what floats my boat...

[sumran]

Well, not really, or totally... I don't carry a 2x4 but I don't let that scare me from riding the bike. I can think of three ways to deal with the issue far from home:

- get lucky and find a 2x4, or even a 1x2, nearby. Maybe ask someone at a nearby house? Might even need to dig a hole under the tire to get that last bit of clearance

- possibly position the bike so that the rear wheel is hanging of a curb

- find an appropriate spot and lean the bike over onto its side. Maybe find a stump of wood or even a rock (with some padding) to support the jug so the bike doesn't go all the way over and helps lever the tire off the ground. You might have to remove the tank to keep gas from spilling, depending on how full it is.

If you can get some of the pressure off the tire, you could even fix the flat (tube-type tire) with the tire still mounted and pulling the tube out of the tire and then stuffing it back in. Not a very pretty situation, but deparate times...

The downside of the (hopefully) rare flat tire away from home with no piece of wood is easily far exceeded by the confidence the Reynolds provides in the hundreds of times I have to use the centerstand.

That's what floats my boat...


I can't remove my wheel from the bike without these kind of steps, even with the stock stand. :scratch I have lay the bike over and have someone else pull the wheel out. Maybe the folks with drum brakes can do it, but not with the disc. That was one of the reasons I built the bike lift. Of course I'm new at this, so maybe there are some good tricks I haven't learned yet. Do tell, if there is something I'm missing.:help

[tghsmith]

all this done at your own risk!!!
rear wheel removal-stock stand-two people
remove saddlebags,empty gold boulon from trunk,set duffle bag aside, leave overloaded tank bag in place
place bike on stand -remove air from tire,axel, brake calipar
person one ,right side(throttle)of bike, right hand apply and hold front brake,left hand grab lift handle and lean bike towards self.
person #two slides out rear wheel.
set bike back on both feet of stand.
reverse process to put wheel back on (caution!!!! no air in tire, make sure tire person does not push bike forward with tire or you could be doing the "lay it on the side method"
in most cases a 2 inch block under the stand will let you sneak out a rear alone.

[bikerfish1100]

yeah, you're missing something.
Let's see if i can remember all the steps- I've been on K-bikes and Oilheads for umpteen years, and their process is a bit different.
Put bike on c-stand. Weight front end to lift rear off ground (some years do this step naturally, others need assistance). Loosen pinch bolt, unbolt axle and pull it thru. IIRC, i would then unbolt & remove the left side muffler (undo clamp, and remove 2 underside bolts for bracket attachment at passenger peg mount), giving clearance to get the wheel in and out. I don't recall if i had to unbolt the brake caliper and move it out of the way or not before taking the wheel off the rear hub. (?)
if need be, I could even get both wheels off at the same time by removing the front one first, then tipping the bike forward (place something under the forks to keep them from digging into the ground) and then pulling the rear. made for easier tire changes.

[sumran]

all this done at your own risk!!!
rear wheel removal-stock stand-two people
remove saddlebags,empty gold boulon from trunk,set duffle bag aside, leave overloaded tank bag in place
place bike on stand -remove air from tire,axel, brake calipar
person one ,right side(throttle)of bike, right hand apply and hold front brake,left hand grab lift handle and lean bike towards self.
person #two slides out rear wheel.
set bike back on both feet of stand.
reverse process to put wheel back on (caution!!!! no air in tire, make sure tire person does not push bike forward with tire or you could be doing the "lay it on the side method"
in most cases a 2 inch block under the stand will let you sneak out a rear alone.

Exactly the method I had to use (except for the gold:) ). If I was by myself on the side of the road, I would be pulling the tank and gently laying it down regardless of the stand I had installed.

[tghsmith]

if a rear disk airhead unbolt at the stay rod(strap,bar) too cast calipar mount, push bar down for clearance, lift calipar and mount up and out of the way(bungie so brake line doesn't get damaged. stock muffler will not be in the way, mud flap might be.

the dig a hole method works , just fill it before taking bike off stand or your back to the lay it on the side method

[bikerfish1100]

the dig a hole method works , just fill it before taking bike off stand or your back to the lay it on the side method

digging a hole doesn't work so well on pavement. and not all pavement has a curb.
the method i detailed is one i came up with that allowed me to keep my bike off the ground, let me do it all on my own, allowed for changing tires on both wheels if necessary, could be done with tools that lived under the seat and little else, and kept it as a safe procedure for the bike (not likely to fall over from leaning it, etc.).
but as with most things, YMMV.

[tghsmith]

to use your method you should strap the center stand so it will stay in place or you may be back to the on the side method(if you use the on the side method don't forget about the battery!!!)just herd a horror story about a customer buying a battery and going through a self checkout lane at a big box store, the upc code was on the side of the battery and he laid it on its side to scan it!!!! cleanup lane 2 bring baking soda.

[bikerfish1100]

herd a horror story about a customer buying a battery and going through a self checkout lane at a big box store, the upc code was on the side of the battery and he laid it on its side to scan it!!!! cleanup lane 2 bring baking soda.

THAT is funny!

i've found that the airhead c-stands are pretty darn secure when deployed. the one on my R11S (if mounted- i remove it for local riding, and just put it on when going mroe than a day away) does not go as far forward, so is a bit less secure,

[sumran]

All of this explains why I have a motorcycle AND a truck!:) Of course, sometimes calling for the truck is not an option. I'm trying to decide which method would be more efficient. The hole digging method is out as I don't have a shovel in my tool kit.

The note on the battery is worthwhile. It would stink to discover you had fixed your the hole in your tire and burned a hole in your frame!

Mix in a little cold and dark and the whole thing is no fun at all. Makes me want to pay careful attention to the condition of the rubber and change anything questionable on my terms. I know if I ride enough miles the day is still going to come, but I sure want to keep the frequency at a minimum.

[shire2000]

I have put many a mile on older airheads. Well over 400,000 miles. Riding them since 1979. Had a few flats over the years and for some reason they have always been on the back. On all the bikes with a stock centre stand I have always been able to remove the rear wheel without the help of a second person. Just find a good flat spot as close as possible to point of stopping, and put it up on the centre stand. Plenty stable. Then remove whatever is needed, i.e. saddle bags, caliper, and axle. With a little effort get the rear wheel off and fix the tube. Reverse procedure to get back on the road.

I have a ride off stand on my present bike, 1981 R100RT, that I have been looking for a stock stand for. The fool that I bought the bike from had put on the Reynolds stand and a Brown's side stand. Got rid of the Brown's stand very quickly and put a stock one on right after purchasing the bike. Still looking for a stock centre stand and springs.

For me, I would much rather a stock set of stands. I just find them much more stable.

[Isamemon]

20774
that person said he could fix a tube flat without pulling the wheel off the bike
wow
I guess it can be done.....wow
can not imagine
but one thing I will agree on , in the above posts
if your gonna get a flat.....its always just a few miles from home or help
in the middle of bumb fuc* no-place

[PostalJoe]

What's the concensus on these ride off stands? I've read both positive and negative comments on other sites. I really need an alternative to the OEM center stand as it's too hard on a bad back if I try to deploy it alone. Wimp? Maybe but a back flare up lasts for weeks.

I guess these are no longer made? Are there any other alternatives? I do know they show up on flea-bay from time to time.

Thanks in advance for input...yep, new to Beemers :confused:

I recently purchased a 1981 R100 RT (my first bike since I bought a 1972 R60/5 new when I was 20, and kept for three years). The R100 has a Reynolds ride-off stand, and the PO indicated that riding off was the only option (he had only owned the bike for a few months).

I've parked the bike for the winter after a few short rides, and plan to take the MSF course (and getting a licence) before doing any serious riding.

How does pushing off the ride-off stand compare with pushing off the original equipment stand? I'm paranoid about dropping the bike until I'm more familiar with it. I did notice that it is more difficult to ride off the smooth surface of the garage (parked facing directly at the door, of course). I had to lean back on the seat to get enough traction. I guess I'll get a "spotter" on the right side and try pushing it off the stand.

I drove my old bike from Maryland to the Florida Keys and back, in December, no fairing, snow suit, etc., and to a big concert in Watkins Glen NY in the summer of '73. It is absolutely mind-blowing and gratifying this time around to find the wealth of information on the internet, and also how many Airheads (bikes and riders) are still out there. Thanks-

[20774]

20774
that person said he could fix a tube flat without pulling the wheel off the bike
wow
I guess it can be done.....wow

I didn't say that I could do it, just that, I've heard someone else suggest it as a possibility. I actually have trouble getting a tire off the rim in the best of circumstances! Tubeless tires have such a stiff bead...much different than the old tube-type tires. But that's another thread...probably... :lurk

[20774]

I did notice that it is more difficult to ride off the smooth surface of the garage (parked facing directly at the door, of course). I had to lean back on the seat to get enough traction. I guess I'll get a "spotter" on the right side and try pushing it off the stand.

Yes, sometimes that can happen...the stand skidding without folding up. By leaning back, IMO, you're putting more strain on the pivot points. Also, over time, the contact patch on the bottom of the stand is going to wear through, resulting in a loss of height of the stand and making the bike unstable. This is a concern, no matter the type of stand you have. With the stock stand, though, you would still have the front tire off the ground even if you lost a 1/8-1/4 of an inch on the bottom. But still, it will tend to wear. I've taken to parking my bike with a small sheet of old linolelum under the Reynolds just to protect it somewhat. Of course, I don't carry the linoleum around with me, but using it at home when I can will save wear and tear in the long run.

Getting the bike off the center stand takes some practice. I don't straddle the bike and try to rock it forward. That's probably something you would do with a stock stand...just get the bike rocking forward and with enough momentum, it will push over and the stand will come up. You can't get the bike to rock with the Reynolds since both wheels are on the ground.

With the Reynolds, I stand by the bike on the left side, left hand on the grip and right hand on the lift bar by the seat. I take a quick look at the situation, such as what's immediately in front of the bike just so I know what the bike's going to roll toward when it comes off the stand. I then begin to pull with my right hand slow and steady and pull up some if I can. It's not a jerk, but a slow steady pull. Once the bike is up and and just over so that it begins to fall forward on its own, I quickly reach over to the right grip and grab some front brake. I then have full control over the bike. Again, it takes some practice, but a slow steady pull and a quick reach over to the brake does the job. Or, you can maintain a firm grip on the left-side lift bar, but the best thing to do is get the bike to stop rolling as soon as possible. A spotter can be helpful at first.

Works for me...

[shire2000]

First off, If you have little to no riding experience, you should not be riding a 1000cc motorcycle to begin with. Go and get something under 450cc and learn. Better yet, something in the 125cc catagory. Put lots of miles/kilometers on it and learn how to put a bike on the centre stand, how to pick it up after you dropped it, and of course how to lay one down in an emergency. Nobody wants to do it, but there will come a time when you have no choice. Take an approved riding course where they actually teach you something. Some of them out there don't teach you more than enough to get your licence.

Remember, Statistics show that over 80% of all new riders will have at least one accident within their first 6 months of riding. It might be major, but hopefully it is only a minor one.

As to how to use the stock centre stand for an airhead. Simple.

1. Get off the damn bike and stand next to it. You cannot sit on the bike and deploy the centre stand.
2. Hold onto the left handle bar with your left hand and grab the grab rail with your right hand.
3.Place your toe on the little tang sticking out of the centre stand and push it down so that it touches the ground. DO NOT KEEP PRESSING THERE!! IT WILL BREAK OFF!!
4. Move your right foot so that you can place pressure on the rear of the centre stand's foot.
5. Rock the bike to the rear and with a gentle tug back and upwards on the grab rail, you should be able to get it up on the stock stand. May take a little practice. It is a learned technique. Basically think of it as rolling the bike up onto the stand.

To take bike off the centre stand is quite similar.

1. While standing next to the bike, on the left hand side, grab the left handle bar with your left hand, and the grab rail with your right hand.
2. Place your toe of right foot firmly in front of the centre stand.
3. With a slight upward and forward tug, you should be able to rock the bike off the centre stand. Again, this is a learned procedure and may take a little practice.

If in doing either of these procedures, you find that the centre stand appears to be notchy or does not want to move smoothly, then you have to inspect the pivot points on the centre stand. They should be perfectly round and well greased. As a part of normal maintenance, I always grease mine at every oil change. Just remove the bolt on one side, pull the bushings and grease it up, put it back and do the other side. Do this while you have the bike on the side stand, otherwise it will fall over.

Again, if you cannot put the bike up on the centre stand and back off, without giving yourself a hernia, then the bike is too big and too heavy for you. Go get something smaller!!

I have taught 5 foot 2 inch 90 pound ladies how to do this. And in less than 30 minutes they have the technigue down pat. They have no problems with a fully loaded R100RT. So if they can do it on a stock centre stand, so can everyone else. You just have to learn the technique. It isn't rocket science.


This is the same thing as I always teach people the correct method of picking up their bike if it is laying on it's side. If you cannot pick it up, then it is too big a bike for you. Many a Harley Rider is amazed when I show them the correct method to pick up their fully customized fully dressed Road King, that fell over in the soft parking lot. He thought it was on solid ground when he left it. Now he can try and explain the nice new "road rash" on his fancy custom paint job to all his friends.

[Isamemon]

so, not that I have a problem, but would you want explain your tricks to standing a bike up thats laying on its side
you never know, as I get to be an older fart, might be nice to know some tricks ........so I can help my friends stand up their full dress hogs or goldwings

[Isamemon]

so, not that I have a problem, but would you want explain your tricks to standing a bike up thats laying on its side
you never know, as I get to be an older fart, might be nice to know some tricks ........so I can help my friends stand up their full dress hogs or goldwings:laugh

[20774]

so, not that I have a problem, but would you want explain your tricks to standing a bike up thats laying on its side
you never know, as I get to be an older fart, might be nice to know some tricks ........so I can help my friends stand up their full dress hogs or goldwings:laugh

Check out http://www.pinkribbonrides.com/dropped.html. She's given demonstrations at several MOA rallies in the past few years. If she can do it, I guess us old farts can!!

[Red100RT]

I have put many a mile on older airheads. Well over 400,000 miles. Riding them since 1979. Had a few flats over the years and for some reason they have always been on the back. On all the bikes with a stock centre stand I have always been able to remove the rear wheel without the help of a second person. Just find a good flat spot as close as possible to point of stopping, and put it up on the centre stand. Plenty stable. Then remove whatever is needed, i.e. saddle bags, caliper, and axle. With a little effort get the rear wheel off and fix the tube. Reverse procedure to get back on the road.

I have a ride off stand on my present bike, 1981 R100RT, that I have been looking for a stock stand for. The fool that I bought the bike from had put on the Reynolds stand and a Brown's side stand. Got rid of the Brown's stand very quickly and put a stock one on right after purchasing the bike. Still looking for a stock centre stand and springs.

For me, I would much rather a stock set of stands. I just find them much more stable.

I left you a private message about maybe trading you an OEM center stand for your Reynolds. Check your messages:type

[shire2000]

tghsmith, I use the same method that Carol Youorski teaches. By approaching the bike backwards, it forces you to use your legs to lift and not your back. I was taught this by an old time Danish rider back in the early 70s. He was acient even back then. He was a courier rider in the Danish army during the 2nd world war. He taught me a lot of things about riding and maintenance on his old Nimbus.

The basic principle is about using your legs and leverage. Just have a look at the photos and videos on Carol's site and with a little practice, you will be able to impress your friends riding their lazyboy chairs, oops, I mean their Goldwings.

[tghsmith]

my two person method involves just leaning, not lifting, the lean points being the front wheel and right leg of the stand(less effort than putting the bike on the stand) the stock stand can do some neat things, there was a bmw promo film from the 70s that showed with the right balance position a person standing next to the bike could pivet everything 180 degrees on the left foot of the stand(I saw this film in an msf instructor course I attended in the coast guard, after had to prove to the goldwing riders there that it did work!! that was the B.R. years for goldwings(before reverse))

[shire2000]

Two people to lift is always better, but sometimes you just have to do it alone, just because. As to turning the bike on the centre stand, very easy to do. These bikes are nice and light and have a nice low centre of gravity, so it makes it real simple. Can swivel it 360 degrees if you want to just look cool. Just lean it towards yourself til you find the balance point and start taking small steps around the circle. Hmm starting to sound like square dancing. Turn your partner round and round.....

Of course dancing with a ride off stand is a totally different dance.

[R100RS]

I found the ride-off stand on my dad's /6 a whole lot WORSE than the stock center stand. It was harder to get the bike onto the ride-off (due to the angles involved) and of course, makes maintenance more difficult. He felt the exact same way and is much happier with the stock center stand. Anyone wanna buy a ride-off for a /6?????

As to getting the rear wheel off without help, I remove the saddlebags that are full of gold bullion, tie off the center stand to the exaust crossover to keep it from coming up, then remove the front wheel. Leave the gold bullion in the saddlebags and set them in front of the bike. Tie the front end of the bike down to the saddlebags. You should now have plenty of clearance to remove the rear wheel since the forks are on the ground.

And, yes, I have put my R100RS on center stand while on the bike numerous times. I had to for a while as I would park as close as I could with the left side of the bike against the garage wall.

[20774]

I found the ride-off stand on my dad's /6 a whole lot WORSE than the stock center stand. It was harder to get the bike onto the ride-off (due to the angles involved) and of course, makes maintenance more difficult. He felt the exact same way and is much happier with the stock center stand.

I'm not sure I quite understand this, but I suppose it's possible. There does seem to be two sides to the Reynolds - those that love them and those that hate them.

It just seems to me that the Reynolds would be easier for getting up and on in all situations. That's provided the Reynolds is the right one for the bike, pivots aren't worn, etc. The Reynolds has both wheels on the ground throughout the whole on-off scenario, and the overall lift of the bike is less than the stock stand. For the stock stand, the tire comes completely off the ground - by an inch and more - and the bike must be lifted higher to get off and on. I have a hard time seeing what's easier about lifting the bike that much?

I know the stock stand has the little curved piece on the left side that you're supposed to use for leverage. I haven't used a stock stand on my /7 for over 20 years, but my /2 has the stock stand. I really don't see or feel the leverage advantage for this small protrusion. But the /2 fits my body and has an excellent hand hold on the frame just in front of the left rear shock tower. It's no problem to get on the stand...the bike's lighter also.

Anyway, I guess the ride-offs work for some and not for others. But I would have thought that a properly sized and functioning Reynolds would be easier in several different ways. :dunno

[shire2000]

If you are refering to the "tang" that sticks out the side of the stand as something that you can stand on to help lever it up, be prepared for it to break. If you are refering tot he actual foot of the stand, then yes, you can and should put your foot on it to help keep the stand in postion to ROCK the bike up onto the stand. You do not lift the bike onto the stand. You push the stand down with your toe, then place your foot on the back part of the foot of the stand and grab hold of the grab handle, then rock it up onto the stand. very easy as long as you get the concept down of not actually trying to lift the bike and actually rocking it back onto the stand. Same concept to get it off, put your foot in front of the stand and rock/push the bike forward and down off of the stand.

[20774]

If you are refering to the "tang" that sticks out the side of the stand as something that you can stand on to help lever it up, be prepared for it to break.

I was not refering to the "tang" but the actual curved foot of the centerstand as you point out. I was suggesting that the leverage from this small curved portion doesn't seem to be that great. It's like 150 lbs over a length of maybe 6 inches? That just doesn't seem to be very much. As I said, I use the curved portion of the centerstand on my /2 but more to stabilize the bike from moving backward as I can easily grab the frame and begin a lifting and pulling process to get the bike moving up and back onto the centerstand.

My point on the previous poster's difficulty of using the Reynolds focuses more on the differences in height required to operate it versus the stock centerstand. Seems to me that less energy is involved because you're having to lift (or rock or pull or whatever) the bike much less than with the stock stand.

[shire2000]

Well, yes, the Reynolds stand is a little easier to get your bike up on to. But it has some definite draw backs that have already been pointed out.

On the other hand, if ease of use is the ultimate test, then those inclined can just get someone to install a Honda Goldwing's hydraulic centre stand and never risk using any muscles except maybe a little one in a finger to push the button. If that is too much for them, then maybe check out http://www.safetyfeatures.com/. I am certain that the company can adapt a set to just about any bike.

[20774]

Well, a guy can only take so much deviation from a stock bike!! :stick On the scale of pure stock to radical cafe bike, I'm much, much closer to our friend Kent....I basically like stock, or pretty close. We don't need no stinkin' hydraulic stand!!

IMO, the Reynolds serves me more for stability than for easy of deployment...getting it up on the center stand is just a pleasant side benefit. I was crunching some numbers just a few minutes ago, while taking both my bikes for a spin. The stock stand probably supports 90% of the total bike weight (say, 500 lbs), meaning that each foot of the stock stand must carry around 225 lbs.

I would think that a properly fitted Reynolds (as well as proper tires) would support about 50% of the bike's weight, or about 125 lbs per foot. Any less than that, and the tires are holding the bike up too much and there's a danger of it falling over. More than say 70% of the bike's weight would seem to me to be the wrong stand for the bike or something's wrong with the size of the tires. If this 70-30 distribution causes the stand to sink in a bit, it tends to move closer to a 50-50 split between the tires and the stand.

With those kinds of differences between weight per foot (and assuming the contact patch is the same in square area, and it's probably close) the Reynolds will have less of a tendency to sink into the ground than a stock stand. That means more stability over a wider range of surfaces.

As for drawbacks, I've forgotten what everyone might have said, but I can only see the issue with having to do maintenance, either at home or on the road. Not a problem for planned maintenance. Unplanned maintenance tends to be few and far between (for me, knock wood), so I think that downside is a minor one.

[Isamemon]

I guess living in the northwest, I really dont think about a center stand sinking into stuff, the side stand , not the stock one, but aftermarket, yes, but not the stock center stand
if I have to start worrying about the center stand sinking into pavement etc,
well, then I guess global warming is happening:brow

[20774]

I guess living in the northwest, I really dont think about a center stand sinking into stuff, the side stand , not the stock one, but aftermarket, yes, but not the stock center stand
if I have to start worrying about the center stand sinking into pavement etc,
well, then I guess global warming is happening:brow

On a trip 3-1/2 years ago, I parked my /7 in the motel parking lot on a bit of a sideways slant...not much. After registering, I came back out and the bike was leaning quite a bit. I hurried over to the bike after seeing the lean angle. Turns out the pavement in the parking lot had just been paved; maybe 2-3 days old. It was still soft enough to let the ride-off stand sink in. Any stand would have sunk in with those circumstances...

[shire2000]

If the ground is soft, it does not really matter which stand you use. They will all sink in. The only fix for that is either find another place to park or lay down a piece of plywood under the stand to spread the weight over a larger area.

I know it all comes down to personal choice.

I know that there are others that prefer ease of parking and therefore prefer the ride-off stand. That is their choice.

As I do a lot of my riding on long distant runs, where I will not be within 200 miles of home, I prefer to be able to do simple maintenance such as repairing a flat, etc. without any problems. And I have had flats in some of the most out of the way places. Just try finding some way of getting your bike up high enough to pull a wheel while on top of Kicking Horse Pass in the Canadian Rockies, while watching for bears, wolves and moose. Must have been the fastest patch install I had ever done. There wasn't a store or gas station within 150 miles and it was just before sunset.

That said, we have to remember that these bikes are made for riding and we all ride differently. Therefore we will all want our bikes set up so that they "fit" our individual riding style. These bikes can fit all sorts of riding genre, from Boulevard Cruiser, Long Distance Tourer, Sport Touring as well as Canyon Carver. That is what is so unique about these bikes and why we love them.:rocker

[R100RS]

My point on the previous poster's difficulty of using the Reynolds focuses more on the differences in height required to operate it versus the stock centerstand. Seems to me that less energy is involved because you're having to lift (or rock or pull or whatever) the bike much less than with the stock stand.
I guess my dad and I are both the exceptions in this case. I find the curved foot (NOT THE TANG) to be a huge help in getting the bike onto centerstand. The ride-off stand he previously had did not have any curve. It had straight legs, and consequently, there was no leverage to get the bike back and up. The additional height of the bike on the stock stand was a complete non-issue as far as effort was required. Just my $0.02 having tried stock and ride-off stands on the same bike basically back-to-back.

[cimarron]

I have a browns side stand, stock side stand(never used), and a reynolds zip tied to frame for flat tires, etc. All came with the bike.....I have a diagram/copy of the spring and plate sizes but if anybody has springs or knows a replacement model#, source, etc. for the reynolds lemme know.
backtalk8124@sbcglobal.net

[20774]

...but if anybody has springs or knows a replacement model#, source, etc. for the reynolds lemme know.

When I realized my original springs were sagging on my Reynolds, I went on a long search for replacements. I didn't find any. I measured the collapsed length of the original spring along with the coil size and wire diameter. I went to True Value Hardware and checked out there large selection of springs. Found one whose overall length was shorter by about 3-4 inches but had more or less the same dimensions. I then found some steel wire of the same diameter and made two s-hooks to make up the difference in length. This arrangement on either side which has been working just fine for me.

[Isamemon]

Shire 2000 "Just try finding some way of getting your bike up high enough to pull a wheel while on top of Kicking Horse Pass in the Canadian Rockies, while watching for bears, wolves and moose"

ok, ok, I know I am a strange person, my wife reminds me all the time
but hey "shire 2000" that sounds like fun, and a beautiful place to ride
well maybe not fixing a flat, but watching for........ lions and tigers and bears....oh my ( wiz of oz)
but just another reason why my next long distance bike will have tubeless cast wheels, so I can plug and play ( and get the heck out of dodge)

[shire2000]

Isamemon,

British Columbia is indeed a beautiful place to ride. I have riden all over North America. Canada from coast to coast, all 49 states in the USA as well as coast to coast through Mexico, and have found just about every place has it's own beauty. I have to admit that there are a few places that I would pass on now. And others that I would be careful what time of year I went. But when I get home, I always enjoy almost all of the roads in B.C. I live on Vancouver Island, where we have some great destinations. I always feel that the journey is always the most fun and interesting, while the destination is like icing on the cake.

If you are so inclined to visit, you might want to check out the Bee Cee Beemer's Rally in August. http://www.beeceebeemers.com/rally.htm
It is a great time to meet old friends and develope new ones. Maybe not quite as big as your MOA ralley's in U.S.A., but still a great time had by all. And we tend not to have quite as much of an issue sharing the roads with those driving cars, etc.

[wpunch]

I have a Reynolds on my '83 R100 w/ Luftmeister fairing.
On a few occasions I will pull the bike onto the center stand while on the bike. Not on a level surface, but on a moderate incline. It's not that difficult, and I am not a gorilla, 5'9" 160 lb.
Get your video camera out and come on over.


you want to put the bike UP onto the center stand while on it? :scratch you'd need a K12LT to do that- it has a motorized c-stand.
I'd love to see someone try to raise a(ny other) bike onto it's c-stand while seated on it- that would be totally priceless. but wait- i need to get my video camera first!
yes, most probably go to sidestand first, then launch onto the c-stand- especially in touring mode, when loaded with gear.