Centerstand Trouble

[Spartanman]

The centerstand on my 81xs1100 has been getting harder and harder to use, to the point where I can no longer get the bike up on it, despite the fact that I am not getting any lighter. Inspecting the centerstand, it seems to move freely, pivot points are greased, so any ideas why it's not cooperating?

[Radioguylogs]

Ideas?

Brakes are not sticking?

Tire pressure is normal?

Incline is different?

Rear shocks/springs are shorter?

[3Phase]

Check the welds where the centerstand brackets are attached to the frame.

If the welds crack and break then the centerstand isn't centered any more and eventually one of the brackets will break off.

The bike will probably get away from you and fall over, mine fell on me so check the welds and try to make sure that doesn't happen.

[Ranger_xs1100]

Yes, what 3phase said...

The centerstand bracket welds on my 81 were cracked before I got the bike, so I don't know when or what caused that to happen. I've read that sitting on the bike while rocking it off of the centerstand may cause too much pressure and slam the centerstand upwards against the frame, (which I am guilty of) and I've also read that trailering a bike while it is on the centerstand (bad idea) will cause the welds to crack. On my 81, the right bracket was actually pushed up into the frame tubing and had to be pulled back down and straightened before re-welded. Not an easy fix, but a necessary one if you want to continue using the stand. I ended up flipping the whole bike upside down to make the repair.

[alaskey2]

I noticed a lot of things that used to be easy got harder when I stopped going to the gym. Picking up a guitar amp, picking up my kids, using the center stand... Is it lunch time yet?

[BowlingSS]

My center stand has always been hard to get on or off. I replaced the stand but it is still difficult. Must be my old age.

Bill

[MaximPhil]

My center stand has always been hard to get on or off. I replaced the stand but it is still difficult. Must be my old age.

Bill

Hi Bill,
Even with good technique it requires some strength to get on the centre stand. Especially the Venturer with all the luggage. I can not do mine on my own. So yes age is a factor.
Phil

[fly]

I am 78 and have a heart condition. I can't get my 78 on the center stand
either. I had a piece of 2x8x20" i mitered the ends 45 degrees. roll the bike
on it the extra 1 1/2" gives me what i need to put on the centerstand. Put a handle on the side to carry.
fly

[Schming]

Hi folks, here is a link to a thread that may help ;

http://www.xs11.com/forum/showthread...+stand+rebuild

Check out post #19 HTH