How to Lift Your Motorcycle (So You can Remove the Wheels)
It's helpful to know how to lift your motorcycle and rest assured that the process is easier than it might seem. We've gathered up the basic steps to lifting a motorcycle below. For more advice or to get professional assistance, chat with the experts at Arizona Honda. We also offer a range of motorcycles for sale if you are looking to buy. Reach out or stop by our dealership in Snowflake, Arizona. We also proudly serve those in Show Low and Holbrook, Arizona.
Reasons for Lifting a Motorcycle
- To change the tires. For example, you could be replacing damaged tires or upgrading to a higher quality option.
- To save money. Many places will charge less if you bring the wheels to have the tires mounted and balanced, rather than have the wheels attached to the motorcycle.
- To tackle do-it-yourself wheel maintenance or repairs, such as replacing wheel bearings and seals.
Tools for Lifting a Motorcycle
The exact tools you need will depend on your given motorcycle, but will likely include:
- Large-diameter sockets or wrenches for the axles.
- Small diameter allen and combination wrenches for pinch bolts.
- Chain adjusters.
- Brake calipers.
- Torque wrench.
- Waterproof grease.
- Shop rags.
- A pair of gloves.
Tips for Lifting a Motorcycle
The strategy for lifting a motorcycle depends on the type of motorcycle you own.
Lifting a Dirt Bike
Dirt bikes tend to be the simplest models to lift. There are two key ways of approaching this.
The first approach is often used with lighter dirt bikes and involves a static-style stand. This lacks moving parts and has rubber padding on the top, which helps keep your motorcycle stable and protected.
With this stand, you will need to:
- Lift the rear of the motorcycle and put its weight onto your thigh.
- Move the motorcycle over the stand.
- Place the center of the motorcycle frame on the center of the stand.
The second approach is often used with heavier dirty bikes. A lift-type stand comes with a pedal attached to a linkage. This makes it possible to put the stand under the motorcycle, then step on the pedal to lift it. Since you won't need to use your body to bear the motorcycle's weight, this approach is much easier on the body.
Lifting an Adventure Motorcycle
These motorcycles usually have center stands or mounts for an optional center stand, which makes it easier to remove the rear wheel. In order to raise the front wheel, you can use a scissor-style bike jack under the front of the skid plate. If there isn't a center stand, you can use a hydraulic motorcycle jack. Put it under the skid plate to lift the motorcycle.
Lifting a Cruiser
Cruisers are usually designed low to the ground and heavier in weight. But their wide and flat frame under the engine makes a great platform for lifting with a hydraulic lift. Simply use a hydraulic motorcycle jack to lift the motorcycle.
Next Steps After Lifting a Motorcycle
Once you have lifted your motorcycle, you are close to being done! Check the owner's manual for specific steps to removing the wheels. The steps are mostly the same across motorcycle types and models, but it's always helpful to consult any manufacturer recommendations.
Want more information on lifting a motorcycle or adjusting the wheels? Want to shop motorcycles for sale? Whatever you need, the experts at Arizona Honda are here to help. Contact us or visit our dealership. We are located in Snowflake, Arizona, and also serve those in Show Low and Holbrook.