How to Install a Kickstand on a Mountain Bike: Step-by-Step Guide

In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about installing kickstands and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
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John Watson
John Watson
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John is an experienced cycling enthusiast and a great asset when it comes to writing skills. He's a Bachelor of Arts and a talented journalist. John is in charge of our blog read more
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Jessica Kingston
Jessica Kingston
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Jessica is our expert consultant on all things connected to biking - gear, technique, you name it. Being a pro cyclist in the past, she knows exactly how things work in and read more
Last updated: September 13, 2023
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Whenever you’re not riding your mountain bike Trusted Source Mountain biking: all you need to know | Life and style | The Guardian Learn the essential skills and hone your technique – then you’re ready to hit the best trail www.theguardian.com , it won’t be wise to just leave it flat on the floor, and you never know whether there would be a wall for the bike to rest on. This is why you should have a kickstand on your mountain bike.

If you want to know how to install a kickstand on a mountain bike, this guide covers a detailed step-by-step process for you to follow. We have also included some tips for you to keep in mind when installing the kickstand.

Rather than going all the way to a bike repair shop, you can easily install a kickstand on your mountain bike. Here’s how to go about it.

How to Install a Kickstand on a Mountain Bike

When installing a kickstand on your mountain bike, there are a few tools that you need. Of course, you need to have a kickstand for your mountain bike. You will also need a 5 millimeters hex wrench and a bike repair stand, although the latter is optional.

Once you have these tools, you can follow the steps below to install our kickstand.

  • Step 1: First, you should select the kickstand you want to install on your mountain bike. You need to consider how easy and adjustable the kickstand is, how sturdy it is and whether it is compatible with the model and make of your mountain bike. It’s better to purchase kickstands that are specific for mountain bikes.

How to Install a Kickstand on a Mountain Bike: Step-by-Step Guide

  • Step 2: The next thing to do is prepare your mountain bike. Place it on a bike repair stand, and unscrew the bolts on the mounting pieces of the kickstand. They are located at the front and back.

How to Install a Kickstand on a Mountain Bike: Step-by-Step Guide

  • Step 3: Then, you should line up the mounting pieces correctly. The front mounting piece should be lined up to the back triangle of the bike frame. But the back-mounting piece should be lined up inside the back triangle.
  • Step 4: Using your wrench, you should also remove all the bolts so that the mounting pieces are only held together by the frame.
  • Step 5: Position your kickstand where you want it and use the hex wrench to tighten the bolts. Alternate them so that the tension is equally distributed between all the bolts.

How to Install a Kickstand on a Mountain Bike: Step-by-Step Guide

  • Step 6: Place the mountain bike on the ground and adjust the kickstand to match your bike. This is to test whether the kickstand is suitable for your bike or not.
  • Step 7: If something is off, you can adjust what needs to be adjusted before placing the mountain bike down again.

Tips & Advice

Although you know how to install a kickstand on a mountain bike, there are still some helpful tips that you can keep in mind if you do this properly.

Choose the Right Kickstand

It’s important to consider different factors when choosing your kickstand and then select the correct one. There are different kinds of kickstands that you can go for, especially between those made for mountain bikes and the universal stands. The kickstand must also match the height of your bike, so you should check this before purchase. Some stands have a variety of heights they can match, like UHACKER Bike Kickstand or Lumintrail Kickstand.

Although kickstands are very important, mountain bikes don’t usually come with them for various reasons. So, you should ensure that the one you pick is well-fitting.

Keep Certain Dangers in Mind

Two things can happen when you install a kickstand on your mountain bike, which is why you have to install it properly so that you can avoid accidents while cycling. After you install the kickstand, the mountain bike can accidentally deploy when riding on tough terrain. This can lead to damages to your bike or cause injuries when you fall off the bike. So, ensure the kickstand is properly installed and secured. Another danger happens when the kickstand hits other parts of the bike and causes an accident. The kickstand can hit the tire and rub against it, making it damage quickly. It can also hit other parts of the bike and cause an accident.

Consider the Reasons Why You Want to Install the Kickstand

Because kickstands don’t come with the mountain bike Trusted Source Why do Bikes not Have Kickstands? (It’s not all about cost) – Bicycle 2 Work Did you buy a new bike and realize that it doesn’t have a kickstand? It can be frustrating to stop mid-ride, and not be able to stand your bike upright while you’re not on it. If you’ve got your commuter bike loaded with groceries a kickstand can be helpful to keep the bike upright while you unload. bicycle2work.com , you also need to consider the reasons why you are installing it. A few cons come with installing a kickstand, especially since you don’t know the accidents it can cause and if it is compatible with your kickstand. So, you should install the right one for your kickstand.

FAQ

Are there any mountain bike kickstand alternatives to keep your bicycle standing?

If you don’t want to install a kickstand or leave your mountain bike on the floor, you can consider a few alternatives. Some mountain bike riders flip their bike upside down to balance between the seat and the handlebars. You can also lean your rear wheel against a solid surface.

Why don’t mountain bikes have kickstands?

For one, mountain bikes focus on being light, and so the manufacturers see the kickstand as extra weight. It would be easier to ride your bike uphill when there is no kickstand on it. Also, the engineering and structure of the mountain bike do not usually allow for a kickstand, so they don’t bother with installing it.

Why do you need a kickstand on your mountain bike?

The main reason why you might need a kickstand on your mountain bike is so that it can stand up straight when you’re not using it. Leaving your bike in random places can cause scratches, and if it’s a new one, you definitely wouldn’t want that.

Can you put a kickstand on a full suspension mountain bike?

Yes, you can. However, finding a kickstand that is compatible with a full suspension frame can be challenging as the design of the frame may not provide a suitable mounting point. You will need to purchase a kickstand specifically designed for full suspension mountain bikes or have a bike mechanic install a custom solution. It is important to make sure it is installed securely and does not interfere with the bicycle’s suspension or other components.

What is the best mountain bike kickstand to buy?

It will depend on the type of bicycle you have and your personal preferences. For a casual rider, a low-profile kickstand is usually best, as it won’t interfere with pedaling or maneuvering. More aggressive riders might opt for a more robust model that can handle rougher terrain and more strenuous activity. It’s also important to consider how much clearance the kickstand will provide when it is folded up, as this can affect the bike’s ability to fit into tight spots or be transported easily.

Final Thoughts

Once you have the kickstand that is perfect for your mountain bike, you can follow the steps to install it and start keeping your bike safe wherever you go. Although there are a few risks, you won’t have to worry about them if you install it securely and take your mountain bike on test rides.

References

1.
Mountain biking: all you need to know | Life and style | The Guardian
Learn the essential skills and hone your technique – then you’re ready to hit the best trail
2.
Why do Bikes not Have Kickstands? (It’s not all about cost) – Bicycle 2 Work
Did you buy a new bike and realize that it doesn’t have a kickstand? It can be frustrating to stop mid-ride, and not be able to stand your bike upright while you’re not on it. If you’ve got your commuter bike loaded with groceries a kickstand can be helpful to keep the bike upright while you unload.

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