A bike kickstand is a useful accessory that may preserve your bike while also adding a great deal of convenience to your cycling experience. However, there is a vast range of kickstands to choose from, and not all of them are winners.
What is the purpose of a kickstand?
It's difficult to comprehend the convenience you're giving up by not utilizing a kickstand if you've never had a bike with one. A kickstand protects your bike from scratches and other damage that might occur when it is parked on the grass or on the roadway. It makes rapid repairs quicker, makes loading and mounting easier, and allows you to store your bike almost anyplace - you don't have to lean it against a wall or a fence.
Types of Kickstands
Kickstands are divided into three categories: rear-mount, center-mount, and portable.
1. Rear-Mount
The rear-mount kickstand is mounted near the rear wheel on the chainstay (the tube that links the pedals to the rear wheel). It's a single-leg, side-mount kickstand that's easier to fix than a center-mount kickstand, but it's not as sturdy as a center-mount kickstand.
2. Center-Mount
The center-mount kickstand is mounted on the chain stay, close to the pedals. It might be a single-leg or double-leg kickstand that is more powerful than a rear-mount kickstand.
However, because it restricts pedal motion when in the down position, this kickstand style makes it difficult to do repairs.
3. Portable
A portable kickstand is a lightweight, pole-like device that rapidly attaches to or detaches from your bike frame to provide a stable platform for your bike. While useful in some instances, some types require installation every time you get off your bike, which might be inconvenient.
How do you pick the best one?
The first thing you need to know about bicycle kickstands is how they work. A typical kickstand consists of an upright post with a clamp at its base and a foot-peg or pedal attached to the bottom end of the post.
The purpose of this arrangement is to keep the stand in place when it’s not being used as support. When you want to use the kickstand, simply attach the top part to whatever surface you wish to secure your bike on — such as a tree branch, fence rail, or even a parking meter pole. Then, using the lower portion of the kickstand, you can easily lift your bike off the ground so that you don’t have to carry it around anymore. This makes riding much easier than having to hold onto your bike by hand constantly.
There are many different types of kickstands available today. Still, most fall into three categories: those designed specifically for bikes without fenders, those intended for bikes with fenders, and those designed for both bikes with and without fenders. In addition, some manufacturers offer multiple versions of their products depending upon whether you prefer a more traditional look or something sleeker and modern looking.
For example, if you like classic bicycles, you might be interested in purchasing a model made out of wood rather than metal. If you enjoy sleek designs, then perhaps you would opt for a product made out of aluminum instead. Whatever type of kickstand you decide to purchase, make sure that it will fit properly on your particular bike before making any final decisions.
When shopping for a kickstand, you should consider several factors.
1. Size
First, The height of a bike's frame — the length of the vertical tube in the middle of the frame — is usually used to size kickstands. Many bike kickstands are also adjustable. Reading the kickstand's description, which states something like "fits all motorcycles up to 22 inches," can help you choose the proper size.
2. Material
Second, what kind of material does the kickstand itself consist of? Some models come in steel, others in plastic, and still others in wood. Steel stands tend to last longer because they aren’t prone to rusting over time.
Plastic kicks usually cost less money than wooden ones, although they won’t necessarily last forever either. Wood-based kickstands are typically the cheapest option, but they often require maintenance throughout their lifespan.
2. Make sure it fits well
You must ensure that the kickstand fits securely enough on your bike so that it doesn’t move unexpectedly whenever you try to mount or dismount your bike. Also, check to see if the kickstand has been treated with chemicals or other substances that could damage your frame or wheels.
Finally, take note of the overall weight of the kickstand. Heavy kickstands are generally better suited for heavier bikes, whereas lighter ones are ideal for smaller frames.
3. Foot
There isn't always a foot on a kickstand. This little modification is a rubber piece that slides over the end of a kickstand to offer more grip. It's also good for safeguarding surfaces that a metal edge may damage, such as a hardwood deck.
4. Cost of the Kickstand
Kickstands may have a wide price range, especially for such a little component. For as little as $6, you can get a simple, no-frills model. If you want a center-mount double-leg kickstand with adjustable height, you'll probably have to spend closer to $30.
5. Check for Additional Accessories (if in combo)
Once you find a kickstand that works well for you, you’ll probably want to buy additional accessories along with it. These include things like locks, lights, reflectors, and baskets. Most companies sell these items separately, which means that you’re free to mix and match various components until you get what you want.
However, certain combinations are best suited together. For instance, if you plan to ride through urban areas where theft occurs, you should invest in a lock that attaches directly to the kickstand.
Similarly, if you live near busy roads, you should choose a light that illuminates from above to spot you clearly while driving past. And finally, if you own a basket, then you shouldn’t forget to add one to your new kickstand!
6. Do Some Online Research
If you’ve decided to go ahead and purchase a kickstand, then you’ll likely want to do some research online beforehand. There are plenty of websites dedicated solely to providing information regarding kickstands, including reviews of specific brands.
It’s important to read all of the comments left by previous customers who purchased similar products. By doing so, you’ll learn everything you possibly need to know about each brand prior to buying anything.
After reading customer feedback, you’ll be able to determine whether or not a given company offers quality products at reasonable prices. Once you’ve found a kickstand that seems appropriate for your needs, you’ll want to order it right away.
Conclusion
When riding around town, the last thing you want is an unexpected kickstand that causes you to fall off your bicycle. Fortunately, there are many different types of kickstands available today. You just need to make sure that they fit properly onto your bike before purchasing them. Good bike brands have good quality kickstand.
In addition, you want to consider how much money you would like to spend on any particular product. Lastly, don’t forget to look into the potential benefits associated with using a kickstand. By taking advantage of these features, you’ll enjoy safer rides every time you leave home.