Side stand and spring

The side stand is the leg on the left side that holds the bike leaning when parked. It swings on a pivot bolt under the frame, and one or two strong springs hold it up when riding and down when parked. Many bikes have a switch that stops the engine if you put it in gear with the stand down.

What it does

The springs pull the stand past a centre point so it stays either fully up or fully down. If a spring is weak or missing, the stand can drop while riding and dig into the road in a left turn, which can throw the rider off. A worn pivot lets the bike lean too far and fall over.

Signs it is worn or failing

• Stand does not snap up, flops, or the bike leans too far: Side stand spring is weak or the stand is loose.
• Engine dies when the stand moves or when selecting gear: Engine dies when the side stand moves. This is the stand switch.
• Will not start with stand up: Will not start on the side stand.

When to replace it

Replace a weak, stretched or broken spring at once. Do not ride with a stand that does not stay up. Replace the pivot bolt or bushes if worn, and the stand if bent or cracked.

What to match when buying

• Springs: make, model and year; length, wire thickness and hook shape. Some bikes use two springs, one inside the other.
• Stand: length and foot shape; a longer stand makes the bike stand too upright and fall over the other way.
• The stand switch is a separate part: Side stand, clutch and neutral switches.

Fitting notes

• Springs are very strong. Use a spring puller or a strap; keep fingers clear. Wear eye protection.
• Grease the pivot bolt, tighten it so the stand moves freely, then lock it.
• See Check the side stand.

Reference (K-Light 125)