How to Fix a Kick Stand

Factory-installed on many bikes over the years, the use of kick stands declined for a while following a change in focus toward faster and lighter models, especially mountain and road bikes. Now, however, kick stands are once again being used in greater numbers as bikes are ridden for recreation and fitness. As a result of normal use, a kick stand requires basic adjustments to fix minor problems.

Things You'll Need

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Socket wrench
  • Pliers
  • Replacement spring
  • Multipurpose oil
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lean the bike against a work bench or wall so it is securely supported, with the kick positioned away from the wall.

    • 2

      Loosen the nut on the bottom of the mounting plate with an adjustable or socket wrench. Turn the bolt to the left ,or counter clockwise, to loosen, but do not remove.

    • 3

      Position the kickstand forward or back depending on how it has become incorrectly aligned. Position the kick stand so that, when extended, it will extend away from the bike at a 90 degree angle.

    • 4

      Position the top bracket and bottom mounting plate evenly across the support bars extending from the pedals back toward the rear tire. Tighten the nut on the bottom of the mounting plate securely to hold the kick stand in place during use.

    • 5

      Inspect the spring attached to the mounting bracket and leg extension. Insert the hooks on the ends of the spring securely into the mounting holes so the spring is held in place. Crimp the ends of the spring wires, if necessary, to secure them.

    • 6

      Change out worn or broken springs with suitable replacements from the company that manufactured the original kick stand, or home improvement or hardware stores.

    • 7

      Apply a few drops of multipurpose oil to the pivot point on the kick stand so it will move freely during extension and retraction.