A case for a kickstand
 

Are there certain kinds of bikes where you wouldn't install a kickstand? I can understand not installing kickstands on mountain bikes, because of safety risk of getting it caught on something. I can also understand not putting it on a racing bike, since you want to be as free and light as possible.

But for bike that you're going to use on the road... as a commuter bike? Is there a case for installing a kickstand? Or a case for not installing a kickstand?

Some people say they're just not supposed to be used on some types of bikes, and I've gotten some strange looks when I put a kickstand on my new road hybrid. But they couldn't really explain to me why they thought it was a bad/silly/dumb idea. I'm interested to know how others feel about this.

Make your case for a kickstand.

I added a kickstand to my hybrid. Gives me more flexibility; I don't see any compelling reason not to for my kind of riding since I'm not obsessed with weight.

I had not originally planned to add one, but I kept dropping the bike when I thought I had it properly leaned up against something solid. That got old quick.

Maybe "serious cyclists" associate the kickstand with toy bikes, or with learning to ride, like training wheels? If so, that's a line of thought I do not subscribe to.

I stripped off my kickstand when I was about 9 years old. Recently my son talked me in to getting one and I really like it. It's fantastic on my commuter - with bags on it it can be hard to lean it up against something in a stable manner.

commuter:yes
racer/mtb: no.

If you're gonna go for a ride for fun and probably not stop much, (like on a race or mtb) then you don't need it. If you're going to commute/get groceries/run errands then it's super useful.

IMO - they don't belong on road/racing/mountain bikes. I have one on my commuter and it doesn't get in the way or add weight that I'm worried about. It serves its purpose and adds to the Fred factor...

I got sick and tired of trying to hold up my commuter with one hand while loading the rack with the other. I bought a lousy Schwinn kickstand at Target, but that was a mistake: it's dangerous! It could easily get kicked into the spokes and wipe me out. I've got a good one on order. In the meantime I'll have to be careful.

This is what my son and I have on our bikes:

http://www.rivbike.com/search/run?qu...product=20-139

That's exactly what I have on order!

I'll be getting one for the dumpster bike I scavenged the other day. MTB that I'm going to convert to a utility bike: CETMA 7-rail, rear rack, and trailer.

Kickstands are awesome on utility bikes because it makes them easier to load up.

My local REI installed a Greenfield kickstand (aluminum), custom-cut for my bike, which has proven absolutely unremarkable. That is: it just works!

http://www.greenfieldny.com/chart_bicycle.htm

Does the word "sidestand" sound more mature?
I prefer the kickstand on my rear triangle.
With the front derailer cable and fender taking up space behind
the seat tube it was the only choice.

I tried 4 different stands on one hard to fit rear triangle.
The Greenfield rear stand was the closest fit that I
was able to find so far.

The first thing I do on a bike is take off the kick/side stand. I can't think of being in a situation where I've needed one.

Just my personal reasons

-they are ugly
-they are heavy
-I don't need one

I was gonna try a two leg center stand. I believe that
it won't fit with the bike I want it on.

Heavy?? Seriously?

For some cyclists, Fashion Rulz! Same CW-Group-Think applies to the removing of fenders, reflectors, etc from a bike even when they would make the bike more practical for something other than club rides on sunny days.

My wife and daughter got bikes for Christmas and I put the rear mounted kickstand on theirs. I've thought of putting one on my commuter, I might still, but so far I haven't had a need for one.

I have one on my main commuter - it's so old that it came with one, apparently before they were too passe for the bike-buying public. Not particularly caring, I never removed it (I'm still sporting the factory-installed dork disc on each of my bikes, if that gives a clue).

Really, when the bike itself weighs 35-40 lbs like mine does, that 6 oz isn't your problem. Sort of like the diet coke with the Super-sized value meal.

I have Greenfield Rear Stabilizers on three of my bikes. The fourth bike came with a rear stabilizer on it.

Seeing as how I'm often loading shopping bags into my milk crate, kickstand is essential.

As for the weight... honstly, even if you're on a 'racing' bike, are you really getting paid to win races? If so then sure it may add up over the length of a race course, but otherwise just get a kickstand. It'll help keep your bike from falling over when you leave it locked to a rack, save your paint from some ugly scratches.

One thing though, I recommend the type of kickstand that attaches to your rear triangle instead of by the bottom bracket. Seems much more stable, also those mount more solidly without crushing down on your bb.

It's not essential, like a chainguard, lights, or fenders, but it is very convenient. Bikes are all about convenience. A bike that lacks one doesn't seem like a real bike to me.

Paul

I think they're great if you need to load racks, panniers, or a trailer. The bike is more stable than just propping it in a rack and you have better clearance than leaning it against a wall.
I won't put one on my daily commuter, but the purpose-built utility bike I'm putting together will certainly benefit from having a kickstand.

Not that I need to be defending my kickstand, but mine attaches between the chainstays just behind the bottom bracket, not to the bottom bracket itself. I don't think it does any damage.

I prefer the rear mounted ones as they don't get in the way when you're wheeling the bike backwards.

I have never had an issue loading my panniers or anything without a kickstand. Everywhere that I leave my bike is right next to something convenient to lean against. I've just never felt the need for one. If you want one though, go for it.

I installed a kickstand on my Trek Valencia shortly after purchasing it. I believe a kickstand is a great accessory for a commuter bike - especially if you use your bike to run errands, have frequent stops, etc.