Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
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Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
I know there has been discussion on this over the years, but I am still in need of purchasing one as I do not like the idea of working on the bike on the front yard (no garage). There seems to be two types:
1) Small, fairly basic lift that has two rubberised lengths that sit 90deg's across the underside middle section of the bike when it lifts - basically around the floor pan area if I can call it that
2) larger, heavier lift that the whole bike sits on and many come with front wheel clamps.
I believe some people have used type 1 quite successfully, I just wanted to check it's safe and will cause no issues to raise the bike like this (it seems there is no need to remove the exhaust on the PCX, unlike other scooters, as long as it's not hot). They also seem to come in approx 20-28KG's which is not too bad to store and bring out when needed.
I would prefer type 2, however they mostly seem to retail about £350 (I would be fine with around £200) but the problem is their weight which is in the 130-160KG's area - much too heavy and cumbersome to store in house and bring out to the front yard - I have front door steps and modest UK size house - much smaller than many homes in the US
Any guidance would be appreciated as there are lots of work I really should start doing on the bike, despite it running like a dream & still giving 132mpg (fuelly) after 4 years and getting on for 16,000 miles (only front pads and rear tyre (both once) and oil 3 times in it's life - poor thing)
1) Small, fairly basic lift that has two rubberised lengths that sit 90deg's across the underside middle section of the bike when it lifts - basically around the floor pan area if I can call it that
2) larger, heavier lift that the whole bike sits on and many come with front wheel clamps.
I believe some people have used type 1 quite successfully, I just wanted to check it's safe and will cause no issues to raise the bike like this (it seems there is no need to remove the exhaust on the PCX, unlike other scooters, as long as it's not hot). They also seem to come in approx 20-28KG's which is not too bad to store and bring out when needed.
I would prefer type 2, however they mostly seem to retail about £350 (I would be fine with around £200) but the problem is their weight which is in the 130-160KG's area - much too heavy and cumbersome to store in house and bring out to the front yard - I have front door steps and modest UK size house - much smaller than many homes in the US
Any guidance would be appreciated as there are lots of work I really should start doing on the bike, despite it running like a dream & still giving 132mpg (fuelly) after 4 years and getting on for 16,000 miles (only front pads and rear tyre (both once) and oil 3 times in it's life - poor thing)
- Mel46
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Re: Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
There are many different ways to lift a motorcycle so I think in your case the question of storage of the lift would be your first concern.
Here is a lift that is an idea for you. I dont know if a standard car jack could be modified to do the same thing, but it's a thought.
https://www.harborfreight.com/1500-lbs- ... 63397.html
Here is a lift that is an idea for you. I dont know if a standard car jack could be modified to do the same thing, but it's a thought.
https://www.harborfreight.com/1500-lbs- ... 63397.html
Currently own:
Red 2013 Honda PCX150
Givi tall windshield & tailbox - Lots of extra lights
Custom seat from Thailand - Bad Boy Airhorn
Takegawa Lowering Shocks - Michelin City Grip Tires
Headlight assy upgraded to LEDs w/HS5 main bulbs
NCY variator, drive face, and rollers
Red 2013 Honda PCX150
Givi tall windshield & tailbox - Lots of extra lights
Custom seat from Thailand - Bad Boy Airhorn
Takegawa Lowering Shocks - Michelin City Grip Tires
Headlight assy upgraded to LEDs w/HS5 main bulbs
NCY variator, drive face, and rollers
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Re: Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
I've got a 1500 lb. lift that I've used for years on my motorcycles. . .not yet though for the PCX. Those lower body panels would have to be removed of course.
That said I've had to be very careful with it. It is a balancing act. It has been a money saver though allowing me to do some work on my own without having to pay a dealership mechanic at their rates.
You also have to be careful how you use it so as not to damage the exhaust or any other area under the engine/frame that could get damaged. I've done what I've needed to do to make it work.
I've used rope to tie off the bikes laterally (from the passenger hand grabs) so they wouldn't tip right or left. If you can't find something to secure the rope to then it's better to have another person working along with you to keep it steady just in case. Generally the bikes will sit just fine but better to be safe than sorry.
Also, if I remove a bike wheel I always put something under the front forks or rear swing arm to give additional stability.
There are usually locking devices on the lifts. The castor wheels need to be locked and there are usually bars that you need to lock into place so that if the pressure drops a bit in the hydraulics the lift won't collapse immediately or over time. You have to be careful with that pressure release valve when using the lift also. Make sure it's tight going into the job and very slowly relieve the pressure when you want to lower the bike after the job is done. It's takes a bit of concentration and skill. It's best to practice using it a few times without a bike on it so as to get used to how it functions. More weight on the lift will make the pressure release more quickly so again I can't stress enough the fact that you have to be very slow and deliberate when using that hydraulic pressure release valve.
Mine is similar to this one which sounds like your item #1.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Big-Red-1-5 ... wQod4XAIZg
That said I've had to be very careful with it. It is a balancing act. It has been a money saver though allowing me to do some work on my own without having to pay a dealership mechanic at their rates.
You also have to be careful how you use it so as not to damage the exhaust or any other area under the engine/frame that could get damaged. I've done what I've needed to do to make it work.
I've used rope to tie off the bikes laterally (from the passenger hand grabs) so they wouldn't tip right or left. If you can't find something to secure the rope to then it's better to have another person working along with you to keep it steady just in case. Generally the bikes will sit just fine but better to be safe than sorry.
Also, if I remove a bike wheel I always put something under the front forks or rear swing arm to give additional stability.
There are usually locking devices on the lifts. The castor wheels need to be locked and there are usually bars that you need to lock into place so that if the pressure drops a bit in the hydraulics the lift won't collapse immediately or over time. You have to be careful with that pressure release valve when using the lift also. Make sure it's tight going into the job and very slowly relieve the pressure when you want to lower the bike after the job is done. It's takes a bit of concentration and skill. It's best to practice using it a few times without a bike on it so as to get used to how it functions. More weight on the lift will make the pressure release more quickly so again I can't stress enough the fact that you have to be very slow and deliberate when using that hydraulic pressure release valve.
Mine is similar to this one which sounds like your item #1.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Big-Red-1-5 ... wQod4XAIZg
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Re: Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
Thanks for that. It seems the full length bike lifted type is the way to go, as with the smaller type 1 style it seems so much needs to come off, or should come off to safely lift the bike anyway - trim, exhaust, etc.
I've been contemplating making a DIY one that can be assembled and taken apart for storage, lots of ideas on youtube.
I've been contemplating making a DIY one that can be assembled and taken apart for storage, lots of ideas on youtube.
- Mel46
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Re: Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
That would be the way to go. I believe someone else on this forum made a DIY one as well a little while back. When you are limited on space it is the best way to go. Just be safe and make sure the bike won't fall over on you.
Currently own:
Red 2013 Honda PCX150
Givi tall windshield & tailbox - Lots of extra lights
Custom seat from Thailand - Bad Boy Airhorn
Takegawa Lowering Shocks - Michelin City Grip Tires
Headlight assy upgraded to LEDs w/HS5 main bulbs
NCY variator, drive face, and rollers
Red 2013 Honda PCX150
Givi tall windshield & tailbox - Lots of extra lights
Custom seat from Thailand - Bad Boy Airhorn
Takegawa Lowering Shocks - Michelin City Grip Tires
Headlight assy upgraded to LEDs w/HS5 main bulbs
NCY variator, drive face, and rollers
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Re: Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
+1
As you saw and said ice, many custom tables out there.
Here's a link to give you an idea of materials used on one you can Buy.
http://www.aerostich.com/aerostich-alum ... crate.html
^ But why? ^ When you can build similar yerself - to your specs/strength/weight, etc
Have fun! Build it! Show it Off Here
More:
https://www.hondapcx.org/viewtopic.php? ... ilit=Lifts
As you saw and said ice, many custom tables out there.
Here's a link to give you an idea of materials used on one you can Buy.
http://www.aerostich.com/aerostich-alum ... crate.html
^ But why? ^ When you can build similar yerself - to your specs/strength/weight, etc
Have fun! Build it! Show it Off Here
More:
https://www.hondapcx.org/viewtopic.php? ... ilit=Lifts
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Re: Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
Still thinking about which way to go for a lift table, but just ordered a service kit for when the time comes.
All supposedly Honda original parts for 2015-2018 LED models (mines a '14 reg but classed as a 15 model) and includes belt (dual sided ribbing), filter, plug, rollers and sliders - £55 delivered off Ebay.
For the 1st time since I purchased the bike, and that was slightly over 4 years ago, I just checked the air filter. After 15,000 miles it and the housing were fairly clean - some dirt in all the gaps but overall not in too bad nick. Unlike most of the rest of the underside and engine - lots of grime to brush / scrape off.
All supposedly Honda original parts for 2015-2018 LED models (mines a '14 reg but classed as a 15 model) and includes belt (dual sided ribbing), filter, plug, rollers and sliders - £55 delivered off Ebay.
For the 1st time since I purchased the bike, and that was slightly over 4 years ago, I just checked the air filter. After 15,000 miles it and the housing were fairly clean - some dirt in all the gaps but overall not in too bad nick. Unlike most of the rest of the underside and engine - lots of grime to brush / scrape off.
- MikeP
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Re: Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
I have grown tired of rolling on the ground to service my scooter so I designed a custom lift based upon my needs.
It can be adjusted to any height if desired.
I have two scoots now, a 2013 with 47,000km on it (bought it new) and a 2015 with 3000km. The first one is due for brakes, brake fluid flush, and a good detailing of the drive system. So this summer it gets worked on as I ride the 2015.
When not in use as a lift, it makes a great workbench so it is usefull for other things.
Below is a link of the lift in action.
Ignore the plump guy, he was just a stand in while I made the video.
https://youtu.be/IV05IExT9Ac
It can be adjusted to any height if desired.
I have two scoots now, a 2013 with 47,000km on it (bought it new) and a 2015 with 3000km. The first one is due for brakes, brake fluid flush, and a good detailing of the drive system. So this summer it gets worked on as I ride the 2015.
When not in use as a lift, it makes a great workbench so it is usefull for other things.
Below is a link of the lift in action.
Ignore the plump guy, he was just a stand in while I made the video.
https://youtu.be/IV05IExT9Ac
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Happiness is two wheels and a full tank of gas!
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Re: Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
Brilliant!I have grown tired of rolling on the ground to service my scooter so I designed a custom lift based upon my needs.
It can be adjusted to any height if desired.
I have two scoots now, a 2013 with 47,000km on it (bought it new) and a 2015 with 3000km. The first one is due for brakes, brake fluid flush, and a good detailing of the drive system. So this summer it gets worked on as I ride the 2015.
When not in use as a lift, it makes a great workbench so it is usefull for other things.
Great idea to use a boat trailer winch. . ..
It really is a lot easier working on a bike/scooter higher off the ground. My 1500 lb. store bought lift doesn't go that high but it's just enough to remove/replace wheels.
Just curious if you use a ramp to load and unload the scoot off your lift.
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Re: Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
Bloody impressive that.
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Re: Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
Forgot the ramp, its a 2 x 10 plank thats 6ft long so it fits under the table when not in use. Nice easy grade to roll the bike up on.
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Re: Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
Well, well, I am glad I saw this, I am contemplating doing the same thing. Thanks for sharing, good video too.
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Re: Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
First time really using my bike lift. Getting the pajamas off the 2015 pcx was interesting to say the least.
Checked the valves, too tight so adjusted. Changed oil and final drive. Now installing driving lights. Thats the reason for all the plastics off. I want to tie into the switched ignition. Only 3100km on her, cant wait to get it on the road.
Checked the valves, too tight so adjusted. Changed oil and final drive. Now installing driving lights. Thats the reason for all the plastics off. I want to tie into the switched ignition. Only 3100km on her, cant wait to get it on the road.
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Re: Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
MikeP, that is very cool. I like that a lot. A suggestion, for securing the bike and to avoid any unfortunate mishaps would be to install some eyes or hooks and use tie downs to secure the scooter in place.
Paul Smith
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scootinfool.blogspot.com
Scootin' Fool on YouTube
Lancaster County Pennsylvania
2013 Honda PCX-150 (Angry Hornet) - Leo Vince Corsa Exhaust, NCY Variator (13g Rollers), NCY shocks, Givi D322S windscreen, NCY drum brake actuator arm, Denali Soundbomb mini horn
2006 Piaggio Beverly 250 (Rosa)
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Re: Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
honkerman wrote:MikeP, that is very cool. I like that a lot. A suggestion, for securing the bike and to avoid any unfortunate mishaps would be to install some eyes or hooks and use tie downs to secure the scooter in place.
It is tied down isn’t it.
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Re: Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
Thanks for the tip honkerman. It is tied down across the back end, but I agree 2 straps tied to hooks would be better.
you you, you have a good eye for detail.
you you, you have a good eye for detail.
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Re: Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
Ah hah! That strap blended in to my eye. Good that you did that though.
Paul Smith
scootinfool.blogspot.com
Scootin' Fool on YouTube
Lancaster County Pennsylvania
2013 Honda PCX-150 (Angry Hornet) - Leo Vince Corsa Exhaust, NCY Variator (13g Rollers), NCY shocks, Givi D322S windscreen, NCY drum brake actuator arm, Denali Soundbomb mini horn
2006 Piaggio Beverly 250 (Rosa)
scootinfool.blogspot.com
Scootin' Fool on YouTube
Lancaster County Pennsylvania
2013 Honda PCX-150 (Angry Hornet) - Leo Vince Corsa Exhaust, NCY Variator (13g Rollers), NCY shocks, Givi D322S windscreen, NCY drum brake actuator arm, Denali Soundbomb mini horn
2006 Piaggio Beverly 250 (Rosa)
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Re: Bike Lift for ease of maintenance
Something else to consider would be a removable wheel chock. Nice, but not necessary if you have good tie down straps already.
That said, I have one on my utility trailer . . ..
When I need to move a scooter or bike I just slide the thing on into the fittings that are already mounted to the deck and insert the locking screw.
Pingel makes different types and sizes.
http://www.pingelonline.com/wheel-chock ... -3-1-2.asp
That said, I have one on my utility trailer . . ..
When I need to move a scooter or bike I just slide the thing on into the fittings that are already mounted to the deck and insert the locking screw.
Pingel makes different types and sizes.
http://www.pingelonline.com/wheel-chock ... -3-1-2.asp