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Why Such Big Lean on Sidestand

768 Views 5 Replies 3 Participants Last post by  gunsmoker
I know I'm not the only person who is bothered by how much my bike (cruiser, Honda Shadow 1100) leans to the left side when it is on the kickstand / sidestand.

I saw some photos of other peoples' bikes with a piece of a wooden board underneath the kickstand to lift it up, to make the lean angle less extreme.

Why don't motorcycle manufacturers build a kickstand to a height that gives you a slight lean when the bike is parked instead of an extreme lean.

I imagine this would be better for the engine is when it's idling : doesn't the oil have trouble pumping if the oil is not centrally located in the bottom of the crankcase?

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First: Your bike should NOT be left idling while on the kickstand.

Second: The bike in the picture needs only a little bump or a strong wind and OVER it goes.

What exactly is it about the lean that bothers you ??
I never thought it was a problem.

Edit: Also you might want to be sure that you have the original stand and that the end has not been broken off.
Given such a scenario, is there a problem with letting it idle for 5 to 7 minutes on the side stand while you put on all your protective gear?
WOW. that must be a LOT of gear !! :)

No problem but absolutely not necessary either.
The engine will be fully lubricated after about 30 seconds.
Taking it easy for the first 5 to 10 minutes of riding is much better.
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