Convert center stand

[gearman]

I used to be able to use the center stand on my 1976 Convert. Getting older I can not do it by lifting the rear crash bar and pushing down on the end of the left curved foot. I used to have  a 84 cal 2 auto that had a clunky arm on it that gave more leverage. What are my options? I assume that the horizontal rods are only to be used to get the stand to the ground as they are too small to put your foot on. Correct?

[chuck peterson]

Think of rolling it backwards more than lifting....get a little momentum rolling, then a slight lift to get up...

From memory...left hand handlebar, right hand crashbar, foot in curve, roll back...sort of a pole vault action once you get the stand down

[gearman]

I'll try that. Thanks

[guzzisteve]

Many a arm have been snapped off using it as it looks instead of just for deployment.
You could put a 2x4 under back wheel to make it easier, roll it on the board then put it up.

[John A]

Maybe it's time for some maintenance on it. The pivots and stops get worn allowing the stand to sit farther forward making it more difficult to deploy. What doesn't look like a lot of wear on the stops can make a difference .

[gearman]

The wheel is one and a half inches off the ground when up.I thought about shortening the center stand.Ideas? I did get it up but way too scary for me. When I had Gold wings some people had roll on/off aftermarket stands. The wheel hardly if at all cleared the ground.Can some one measure the ground clearance on their bike for me.?Thanks

[chuck peterson]

Are the forks raised in the triples? If so, perhaps lower them until only a halF inch is showing between the rear tire and the ground will make it easier...will also change your steering, but only slightly...less height to come up

[gearman]

No , the forks are not lowered. I think I am going to make a roll off stand.It will be an interesting project.

[Guzzer]

It is very difficult unless you make sure the bike's weight is evenly on BOTH centerstand feet.  It might help to put a strap around the frame up high to grip. 
If I'm in the shop & not energetic, I just roll the little floor jack under the bike right in front of centerstand & lift a bit, then flip centerstand down.

[Brevaman]

The wheel is one and a half inches off the ground when up.I thought about shortening the center stand.Ideas? I did get it up but way too scary for me. When I had Gold wings some people had roll on/off aftermarket stands. The wheel hardly if at all cleared the ground.Can some one measure the ground clearance on their bike for me.?Thanks

That's really not necessary.  A short length of 3/4" board is all you need when you're home.  Roll the bike's rear wheel back onto the board.  The other 3/4 inch of lift will be very easy.  Once I learned this tip, I could get the bike on the center stand on trips, anywhere there was a parking lot.  Look for puddles - or signs of them.  That's where to put the stand feet.  Easy peasey!
Steve

[gearman]

Well after a week of trying  and three attempts I made a roll off center stand. It is baking in the oven now.Finding the proper geometry and clearances was a pain.Now I can easily put it on my stand. In order to get the wheel off the ground I need a one half inch board. To get the stand up with out the board I just drive away.I wish I could post pictures.The thing looks more like a gold wing stand with a rubber pedal pad. elegant!

[guzzisteve]

They made 'Ride Off' stands for Guzzi's, they were mounted to the front of the oil pan area. Real ugly. Make a few & sell em.