Jacking Up A Motorcycle With A Car Jack
Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience, but sometimes you need to work on your bike's undercarriage. Whether you need to change the oil or replace the brake pads, lifting your motorcycle is a must.
While there are many types of motorcycle lifts on the market, using a car jack can be a cost-effective and efficient option. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to jack up your motorcycle with a car jack.
Step 1: Prepare your workspace
The first step is to prepare your workspace. Ensure that you have enough room to maneuver your motorcycle and the car jack. Find a flat surface and clear the area of any debris that could cause instability or accidents.
Position your motorcycle in the center of the workspace, and turn off the engine. Make sure the bike is in neutral and the kickstand is up. You should also wear protective gear, including gloves and eye protection.
Step 2: Locate the lifting points
The next step is to locate the lifting points on your motorcycle. Lifting points are specific areas on the frame where you should position the car jack to lift your bike safely.
Refer to your motorcycle's owner's manual to locate the lifting points. Typically, lifting points are located on the frame, under the engine or on the swingarm. Make sure the lifting points are strong enough to support the weight of your motorcycle.
Step 3: Position the car jack
Once you have located the lifting points, position the car jack under the lifting points. Make sure the car jack is centered and level with the lifting points.
Slowly pump the car jack until you feel the motorcycle start to lift. Be cautious and go slowly to ensure that the bike is stable and not in danger of toppling over.
Step 4: Secure the motorcycle
Once you have lifted the motorcycle, secure it to the car jack. Use straps or bungee cords to keep the bike in place and prevent it from slipping or falling off the car jack.
Ensure that the straps or bungee cords are tight, but not so tight that they damage the motorcycle's frame. Double-check that the motorcycle is stable and won't tip over before you start working on it.
Step 5: Lower the motorcycle
When you're finished working on your motorcycle, it's time to lower it back down. Slowly and carefully release the pressure on the car jack, and let the motorcycle down gently.
Ensure that you remove all straps or bungee cords before lowering the motorcycle. Once the motorcycle is back on the ground, check the kickstand and make sure it's secure. You can now turn on the engine and take your bike for a test ride.
Conclusion
Jacking up a motorcycle with a car jack is a cost-effective and efficient way to lift your bike. However, it's important to follow these steps carefully to ensure that you lift and lower your motorcycle safely. Always refer to your motorcycle's owner's manual for specific lifting points and guidelines.