Along SIDE the road is a WALK way, i.e. "sidewalk"
Unless it is designated as an area for "motorcycle parking", a sidewalk upon which to trust your steed is a gamble at best, or "rude" at worst. And I've taken that gamble.....
Some azzhole at work ruined it for the rest of us when he parked his bike on the sidewalk just prior to a HUGE area that would have been a VASTLY superior choice to have parked. He blocked access for those legally parking in the disabled parking, to roll or limp past his bike upon getting out of their car. He wasn't thinking, which resulted in a "Motorcycle Parking" area to be designated clear on the most distant extreme opposite corner of the parking lot. Nobody parks there, not even motorcycles.
Recently I rode into "the City" to check out a "biker bar." In front, parked on the sidewalk, was an old BMW. So I parked there too..... apprehensive though I was.
When I went inside (and stepped over the Pit/Boxer), I asked the barkeep about my choice of parking and if it was cool..... She advised that I was courting a very serious, VERY EXPENSIVE ticket, but that others may choose to park there. She also pointed out a motorcycle parking area across the street, complete with a machine into which you fed your money to park there legally.
I thanked her, set my stuff down, ordered a (fantastic!) Bloody Mary, and went out to move my bike. As a result of moving my bike, and not having to worry about feeding the meter (Fourth of July), I was able to sit comfortably inside the bar, smoke a cigar, and later nurse a Jack & Water.
It may be different in different parts of the country, but it's not a good idea to park on the sidewalk here. With regard to automotive parking spaces, I park in the forward half of them, angled slightly, and on the center-stand. My motorcycle is as much a vehicle to be afforded as much respect as a full size car, and this is an opportunity to express it as such.
