The reason for using one of these is that it does enable you to park the bike without scraping the paint against walls etc. or the bike falling over which is a problem with a fully loaded touring machine. A few pounds more, yes, but when collapsed it tucks away with both legs together alongside the chainstay and is not obtrusive. It has proved to be an asset up to now and I am looking forward to see how it will perform on my next cycle/camping tour in the summer.