Things You Need to Know Before Selecting a Motorcycle Jack or Lift
Other than the fun and enjoyable ride a motorcycle can provide, one of its other benefits is its ease of maintenance. Getting motorcycle lifts or jacks can be beneficial additions to your maintenance paraphernalia whether you are a new rider or an experienced one. Before purchasing motorcycle lifts on eBay, consider taking time to get some key questions answered about these crucial gadgets in order to select a befitting tool that meets your needs.
How to select the right motorcycle jack or bike liftBefore choosing a motorcycle lift or jack that is suitable for you, it is wise to take time to scrutinise these essential factors:
- Size - The size of your motorcycle jack affects its storage and portability. Make sure its dimensions and weight allow you to carry it around without significant difficulty.
- Maximum lift height - Depending on your height, working space, and the dimensions of your motorcycle, an apt lift height can simplify maintenance work.
- Total weight capacity - This is the maximum weight that your jack can sustain. If you have a large bike such as a cruiser, you want to ensure that your jack is able to handle its mass comfortably.
- Material - The material that the jack is made of can affect its durability. Make sure that it is dust and grease-resistant to prevent potential damage.
Depending on the bike you have, your motorbike lift needs to have a design that can handle it. Each design has its own benefits and can be useful in a variety of applications. These are the common types of affordable motorcycle jacks available:
- Scissor jack - It has diagonal metal rods that are connected through hinges. It raises or lowers a load when you turn a connecting screw.
- Floor jack - It functions through a hydraulic mechanism with pumps and pistons. The hydraulic pump can either be operated by foot or hands.
In certain cases, choosing pre-owned motorcycle jacks can be beneficial. It is, however, important to pay attention to the following elements as you look for a befitting used gadget:
- External coating - The external coating of your jack can hint at its age and condition. Pay attention to potential red flags such as rust and significant dents.
- Stability - Ensure that the jack is firm and does not wobble on a flat surface. This can help you tell if the gadget will be able to support the weight of your motorcycle and not roll over.
- Structural components - Test the functionality of various structural components such as the hydraulic valve to be sure that the apparatus is in working condition.