How To Install A Kickstand On A Mountain Bike

Last Updated on March 10, 2022

Most mountain bike riders rarely have kickstands on their bikes. Some find it unnecessary, while others say that it’s just an eye-sore.

Whichever the case, we can’t deny the fact that these are handy parts that make cycling more convenient for you. Not only can you park your bike anywhere you like without laying it on the ground. But it also assures you that your bike won’t fall when parked.

This is why you may need to have one. You also need to learn how to install a kickstand on a mountain bike. That’s just what this article is about. Because we’ll be showing you the correct on how to install a kickstand on a mountain bike.

Benefits of Installing a Kickstand

Mountain bikes bought directly from the store rarely have a kickstand. This is because most mountain bikes are more durable than most road and urban bikes. And most mountain bike owners just don’t care if they lay their bikes on the ground.

But others still prefer installing a kickstand on their mountain bikes because of its many benefits.

Here are some of the best reasons installing a kickstand can benefit you as a rider:

  • Having an adjustable kickstand can be useful at every stop. It can hold your bike whether you’re outside a cafe, on the trails, or when you’re doing a quick bike check.
  • You can park your bike upright and don’t have to struggle in propping your bike against trees or street fences. You also don’t have to dump it carelessly on the ground!
  • A parked mountain bike gives you easy access to its parts. You can also easily fix loose bolts so you can get back to riding. You don’t even have to worry about scuffing the grips, frame, and saddle every time you park.

Related: 7 Best Mountain Bike Kickstand

Things to Do Before Installing a Kickstand

Pick the kickstand that suits you best

There are varieties of kickstands you can choose online so you get the features you want. Most come in matte black or gray colors, while others have fancier-looking designs.

Choose the perfect position for the kickstand

Having maximum clearance is important for mountain bikes. So make sure that the kickstand isn’t caught into anything when parked on the trails. Choose the best position until you get the right spot to install the kickstand. Also, make sure that it won’t be in contact with the tires.

How to Install a Kickstand on a Mountain Bike

It’s now time to install the kickstand once you’ve chosen the right one for you and chosen the right place and position.

Here’s how to install a kickstand efficiently:

Step 1: Connect the bolt to your bike

Position the kickstand correctly and then plug in the bolts. Then connect the kickstand bracket to the frame near its chain stay’s two lower bars. The kickstand should also go under the bottom bracket.

Step 2: Make sure the kickstand bracket includes flanges

Having flanges ensure that the kickstand won’t hit your rear shift cable. The bracket also holds the kickstand in place when not in use which is important when riding on trails. This prevents your kickstand from accidentally deploying itself and causing injuries.

Step 3: Tighten the bolts

Tighten the bolts once you’ve put everything in place. Tighten it further using a 14 mm box-end wrench to make sure you’ve placed it securely. But don’t over-tighten it because this can break your frame.

It’s best that you use a torque wrench tool and set it at 10 Newton-meters. Also, remember that you’ll use your foot to extend the kickstand. So, it must be able to withstand the force without loosening in the long run.

Step 4: Enjoy your newly installed kickstand

After you’ve followed the steps above, you have successfully installed the kickstand on your mountain bike.

You can take your bike out for a spin and see if you are comfortable with your kickstand. You now have a convenient option for parking your bike anywhere. If the positioning doesn’t work for you, then unscrew the bolt, and repeat things up.

Related: How To Update An Old Mountain Bike The Right Way

Cautions for Installing a Kickstand

Having a kickstand makes it easy for you to park your bike. But you need to be careful when riding rough trails because the kickstand might accidentally extend. This can hit rocks or even entangle in bushes which can lead you to crash.

Kickstands are made of cheap metal bolted on wherever it fits best. This can even get stuck on your wheel and damage the bike if not attached securely.

Mountain bikers also spend a lot of money to have a lightweight and high-performance bike. Unfortunately, kickstands just defeat that purpose. They add weight and can even ruin the look and style of your bike.

There are also times when your gear shift cable and kickstand intersect with each other. This can lead to serious damage and can even lead to injuries!

Think about these things and weigh if the compromises are worth it.

Conclusion

Most mountain bikes don’t have a kickstand. This is because there are many ways to park it, especially if you’re in the mountains.

You can stick your rear tire on a tree or lean your saddle on a bush. You can even use your pedals and lodge it on a rock or stump to make it stand!

But nothing still beats the convenience of having a kickstand. These help you park your bike in the fastest and easiest way possible. And even if it compromises your bike’s look and safety, sometimes this compromise is still worth it.

You’re the owner of your mountain bike, right? It doesn’t really matter if they think it looks bad or it’s unnecessary.

What matters is how you feel and ride on your bike.

Just weigh the pros and cons and use it with more caution. Also, follow the correct way of how to install a kickstand on a mountain bike. This prevents damages and injuries. When you do, then you’ll surely have a more enjoyable time riding your bike!

Ride safe and have fun.

Related: