Sporty on a jack

[xena]

I now have a new bike lift, but I haven't used it yet and I'm wondering how you keep the front of bike from swinging to one side when it's on the lift. Do you guys use something specific to keep the fork straight, or does it just stay straight on its own?


In a few days I'll be installing a fork spring lowering kit so I guess I'll find out the answer but thought I could get a heads up from some of you.

[engine]

I would guess you can use a bungee cord wrapped around the tire and frame down tubes to keep it straight. Don't have to be too tight...

I don't have a lift. I use an auto jack with a plank of wood on it :p

[RedRider]

If you're worried about the forks flopping around, you could just use the fork lock and have them steered over to the left, unless of course you're working on the forks and need access to both sides.....maybe bungees on the bars pulled back to the frame then???...

[thunderpaw]

I wouldn't use bungees to keep the fork straight, as it will still flop around some. I'd use some of those (used to be nylon, but are now polypropylene) straps that you can get in many hardware stores...you buy the strap and then buy the buckles/clips to go with it. An easier way would be to just buy the six or twelve foot luggage straps sold in most hardware or home improvement stores. Anything that will allow you to cinch the forks down to prevent movement.

Personally, I just leave mine loose when I am working on the bike up on the lift...personal preference.

Kim

[xl1200r]

I use the straps. The same ones I use to tie the bike down...one around the swingarm, and one through the front wheel.

[Rainman]

If I am working on the front end, I jack the scooter up to the height I want. I then sit something under the front wheel. Not to support it, just to keep it side to side stble. Make sure you do however stap it to the jack. Just in case....

[xllent01]

ATTENTION: WORD OF CAUTION!!!!!!!!!!!!
When working on a bike, off a bike lift, always make sure you
tie or strap your bike to the bike lift itself.
I forget who it was here at the forum but they were working
off a lift and the bike fell over. Not a good situation for anybody:yikes

[Moved On]

I haven't used 'em yet, but I saw this idea here in a picture, I think from one of the guys up in BC Canada.

I bolted a couple angle irons with bolts and a piece of steel sleeving to my ceiling rafters. I plan on using them to attach a saftey strap from the frame to the rafters next time I jack the bike up.

Gazza

[decman]

Besides using straps, I made some wooden blocks
that are cut to fit the frame rails, makes for a more
secure lift. Usually the pipes will hit the lift first
before the frame if you are not careful.