How to Choose Bicycle Kickstand| Buyers Guide 2022
Roy has always been skeptical about whether to install a kickstand in his bike or not. After so much thought and discussion, when he finally decided to put it on his cycle, he realized that he doesn’t know anything about it.
To help Roy and others, in this article "how to choose bicycle kickstand", we have discussed all the important aspects of a kickstand that you must keep in mind so that finding the best one is as easy as “a b c”.
How to Choose Bicycle Kickstand: Everything You Should Know
Why You Need a Bike Kickstand
Even though a it is not an extremely necessary component of a bicycle, it still proved to be a beneficial accessory for the rider, especially when they are riding an e-bike, loaded touring bike, or a bike with a child seat.
A kickstand not only helps you to park your bike conveniently but at the same time, it also provides a sense of security.
It is also helpful for mountain bikes in certain situations. For instance, if you want to stop for a moment while riding on the mountain, this accessory would be helpful.
Types of Bike Kickstand
Its come in different heights and sizes to match the size of your bicycle perfectly. In this part, we have discussed the different types of kickstands so that you have an understanding of them.
Side Stand
The side stand is the single leg kickstand that flips out to the side of the bicycle. This stand is often spring-loaded to provide the best convenience to the rider. It allows you to lean the bike over slightly and position it in an upright position.
Generally, the side stand is mounted to the left of the bike. However, this is not a “thumb rule”. You can bolt it on any side of the frame according to your preference and convenience.
Even though this type is widely used and available, you must keep in mind that it is not suitable for high-performance bikes.
Double Leg Kickstand
When you ride a comparatively heavy bicycle like an electric or motorized bike, touring bikes or heavy cargo cycles, and seeking added stability and safety, then a double leg bicycle kickstand should be your best pick. This type offers much more support and ensures that your bike won’t fall down suddenly when you park it.
Moreover, as this particular component holds your cycle in a more upright position, it is easier to load and unload from the bike without the fear of any accidents.
With all its benefits, you must also keep in mind that double leg kickstands are expensive and are not as available as single stand ones. You have to spend some time and money to get hold of this accessory.
Things to Consider
As a it is just an accessory, you might assume that all of the stands available in the market are the same and would provide you the same user experience. But this idea is completely wrong. Not all the stands offer you the services you are looking for.
To enjoy the best user experience, you must keep in mind the following aspects to get perfect one according to your budget.
Lightweight
Before making your final decision about a kickstand, don’t forget to check its weight. Most bikers want a super lightweight stand because they don’t want to weigh down their cycle. An added weight can affect the bike's performance and maneuverability and make you slow down considerably.
Try to find one that is constructed using lightweight materials like aluminum alloy and carbon fiber. These stands will let you enjoy the benefits without having to mount on extra weight on your bicycle.
Sturdy
Even though all the riders prefer lightweight ones, be careful not to buy a flimsy one. A flimsy stand is not only less durable but at the same time, it also imposes the risk of harming your favorite cycle.
Therefore, while searching, try to find the one that provides you the perfect balance of lightweight and sturdiness so that adding this accessory to your bike proves to be beneficial for you.
Adjustable
While searching, you must know that there are two types of stands available in the market- adjustable and non-adjustable.
While an adjustable one gives you the freedom to adjust the stand, remember to pick the one that doesn’t require tools to tweak so that if something goes wrong with the kickstand while you are cruising, you can always fix it on the spot.
Rubber Feet
Even though kickstands with rubber feet are not extremely essential, you cannot ignore the fact that it will provide you with added convenience.
The rubber feet offer excellent grip on the ground and ensure extra stability and safety. It also promises to protect your kickstand from regular wear, tear and increase its durability.
This additional component would also ensure that the kickstand won’t sink down in dirt, grass and cause your cycle to fall down.
Fast Installing
As a kickstand has to be installed separately on the bicycle, you should choose the one that is easy to install and take off. Otherwise, there is a high chance that you have to take your bicycle to an expert just to put on a kickstand on it.
Size
We have mentioned before that its come in different types and sizes and therefore, before making your final call, you must pay close attention to the sizes because, in the case of bike stands, one size doesn’t fit all.
People Who Should Have a Bicycle Kickstand
Before even choosing, keep in mind that a its not suitable for all types of bikes and riders. Riders who can use a kickstand are:
Hybrids or Cruiser Bikes Owners
It is a known fact that hybrid and cruiser bicycles are meant for casual riding around the neighborhood and while roaming around, you might have to stop quite often.
To place the bicycle conveniently on the ground, it is better to install a kickstand in it so that you don’t have to hold the bicycle with all your strength.
Kids
Any kids bicycle that doesn’t have a training wheel attached to it should have a kickstand mounted to its frame. This will not only keep the bicycle safe but at the same time, also teach your children to take care of the cycle perfectly.
Touring Bike Riders
Similar to city riders, tourists who are traveling long-distance need to stop frequently for various purposes. And to park the bike precisely during these shortstops, there is nothing better than to install a kickstand on it.
Aside from convenient parking, a kickstand will also help to load and unload the bike easily.
How to Install Kickstand on Bike?
Installing a it on your bicycle is quite easy, even if you have minimum knowledge about bicycles.
First, to mount a stand onto your cycle, you need to find the lower flame bars of the frame to put the second kickstand bracket to it. Then, take the main kickstand part and install it with a screwdriver to fit it securely.
Once you are done with the screwing process, make sure that there are no missing fingers. If everything is perfect, then you are good to go.
Wrapping Up
Bicycle kickstands promise to provide great convenience to the riders. And now that you know all the essential aspects you need to know about bike kickstands, it would be very much easier for you to find the best one in the market.
