by Kyle Tabone Betts

Created on: December 13, 2011   Last Updated: April 01, 2012

More often than not, general motorcycle maintenance can be performed by the owner himself, eliminating the need to pay a visit to a local mechanic. Some tasks may require the motorcycle to be lifted in the air as certain parts may otherwise be either difficult or impossible to reach. In such cases, a floor jack will be indispensable. Using a floor jack is relatively simple, requiring no expertise to use. That being said, certain precautions must be taken.

Step 1

For starters, work on the motorcycle must be performed on an even surface with good grip, such as that provided by concrete. A floor jack set on uneven or slippery ground is bound to unbalance and topple the motorcycle, potentially causing extensive damage to the motorcycle and injuring you in the process. Once a suitable working surface is selected, you will need to identify the motorcycle’s ideal lifting point.

Step 2

Take a proper look at the motorcycle’s underside and take the time to become accustomed to it. Identify the best place from which the motorcycle can be lifted. The lifting point, which can be identified by skimming through the owner’s manual, needs to be both flat and durable as it will be the point of contact between the floor jack and the motorcycle’s weight.

Step 3

Once the lifting point is identified, the process of jacking the motorcycle can begin. If the motorcycle is equipped with a centre stand, you will need to use it to smoothen the lifting as much as possible. However, if the motorcycle is equipped with a side stand, you will need to insert a wooden block beneath the stand in order to keep the motorcycle upright.

Step 4

At this point, an extra hand will become useful. Have someone hold the front handlebars while maintaining a strong grip on the brake lever. Position yourself at the motorcycle’s rear end and co-ordinate your actions together with those of the other person in order to make the motorcycle stand perfectly upright. Insert the wooden block underneath the side stand and ensure the motorcycle is balanced properly and is stable.

Step 5

Most floor jacks come complete with a couple of ratchet tie-down straps – use them to secure the motorcycle to the floor jack. This step may appear to be unnecessary after going through the hassle of choosing a level surface on which to work and making sure the motorcycle is standing upright in a stable manner, but it will prevent the motorcycle from falling to the ground should it become

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