Front head lift stand recomendation...

[Michael_A]

Thinking about one, the kind that uses a pin under the steering stem to lift the front end on my 2026 v7 (and likely my KTM Duke).
Any recommendations, experiences, or things to look out for?

[Perazzimx14]

Paddock stands to get the rear off the ground you only need a rear paddock stand. To get the front wheel off the ground you 1st need to put the rear of the bike in a paddock stand then raise the front with its own paddock stand. You cannot use a the front only or the bike will fall over.

Personally I do not like paddock stands as they are limiting and deepening on the type you get if the handles are not removable they are a trip hazard.

I much prefer a wheel chock, scissors jack, two straps and a block of wood.

Pull or back bike into wheel chock and using the two straps go from high up on the bikes frame to the eyelets in the wheel chock pulling the bike back into the chock and also keeping it from listing side to side. Then under the skid plate or engine case slid the jack under with a block of wood on top as a softie and raise the jack unit the opposite wheel of what's in the chock is off the ground. When you are done you can lower the bike turn it around and raise the other wheel of the ground.

[YellowDuck]

As described in another thread here recently, I eventually gave in and installed a center stand on my V85.  With the bike on the center stand it is a simple thing to lift the front end and support the bike under the motor with wood blocks or whatever.  At that point you can do everything you can do with a steering stem lift, except remove the engine and front wheel simultaneously.

If you don't want a center stand installed, for the V7 you can get one of those little wheeled stands that lift the bike up by the frame crossover rail - then lift the front as above.   

[Michael_A]

Thanks for the input, guys. I'm reconsidering my options. Part of the consideration was to have something that can work on my KTM track bike but also be functional on my V7 should the need arise. In reviewing input, practicality, and other available means of lifting the front, I think I will forgo pursuing a head-lift stand at this time.

[draco_1967]

Pit Bull dual lift front stands. PB stands are incredibly well made in the USA. They are expensive, but they are lifetime tools. Interchangeable head pins for any bike out there. No affiliation, just a happy customer.

[Perazzimx14]

Thanks for the input, guys. I'm reconsidering my options. Part of the consideration was to have something that can work on my KTM track bike but also be functional on my V7 should the need arise. In reviewing input, practicality, and other available means of lifting the front, I think I will forgo pursuing a head-lift stand at this time.

If you have the space and cash a lift/table is the way to go. After years of crawling around the garage floor then finally getting a lift, it was a game changer. While you'll still need means and methods to get wheels off the deck the same as off the floor bringing the work to you makes all the difference in comfort and safety.

Before I spent $400, $500 or $1 on a set of paddock stands I'd buy a HF lift for $599, wheel chock for $69.99 and a scissors jack for $24.99 totaling $694 and have a much more versatile setup. Or better yet wait for a 20% off coupon and save $140.

[Michael_A]

Had the lift table for years, wouldn't be without one! Lifting the front on it really isn't that bad... can lash the back down and use a jack. Just trying to see if there may be an easier way... FWIW, the HF lift table is worth every penny. Had everything from little dirt bikes, to my lawn mower, to Gold Wings on the thing! Highly recommended!

[DC950]

I second Pit Bull.  Absolutely the best.

You will likely need different sized pins for different bikes.

I occasionally see the stands for sale used.  I wouldn't hesitate to buy used.