Triumphrat

wolfmanjr · 01-29-2010, 04:09 AM

After some consideration and research (and lubing my chain without a lift or centerstand), I decided to buy the Rivco Centerstand from newbonneville.com. Here are my first impressions.

1. The installation manual uses photos and some of the detail is hard to see, but I worked it out. A schematic/diagram would've been a helpful addition.

2. Who are these hulking midgets with the back strength and lack of lean angle that can actually lift the ******n bike onto the stand with the strap? I tried the 2x4, and then added a 4x4, and finally got it up. Sheesh. I'm not really clear on the physics of how to apply backward force to the bike while facing it from the left side, at least per the instructions provided... any tips from more experienced folks?

3. I'm not getting the stop bolt and nut. I fit the nut on the bolt and it created far too much clearance between the stand handle and the exhaust. I had to basically unscrew the bolt all the way out to get it to the reccomended 1/8 inch clearance.

4. I'm pretty sure the foot pedal shattered my heel the first time I accelerated away from a stoplight as my feet came up. I'll let you know when feeling returns. It also makes it tougher to back the bike up. I'm not used to having that extra catch there.

5. I'm a little concerned about lost cornering clearance, although I've read it's not too much of an issue from other members. Time will tell I guess.

6. Lubing the chain is much, much easier with this little device.

7. It's quite expensive, all things considered... and there are clearly some compromises, but in the long run, it will be worth it, if I can figure out how to use the GD thing without rupturing a disk.

me1.0 · 01-29-2010, 03:12 PM

I have to admit, it can be a PITA to get the bike up on the stand, but one thing that makes a HUGE difference is making sure to put as much pressure with your foot as possible. It can still be tough, but it does make it easier.

Do America · 01-29-2010, 05:30 PM

Just installed my Rivco (New Bonneville) a few days ago, I love it. Takes a bit of practice to get bike onto stand, but I have found by placing all my weight on the stand lever and pulling/lifting at the same time usually gets it up. I do not use the strap provided, I place my right hand just above the passenger footpeg and lift from this point (top of footpeg bracket). I did not use the stop bolt/nut - clearance was okay without it. And yes, gota watch caughting your heel when riding off!

skromfols · 02-02-2010, 11:09 AM

I've had my Rivco center stand for a few months now. I agree that they could have provided better instructions for installation, but it wasn't all that difficult to figure out. Since I ride solo I've replaced the passenger seat with the chrome rack, and I use the rack as a hand hold when I put the bike on the center stand. It's a bit of a push/pull to get it on the center stand, but it gets easier with experience. I also have the Rivco center stand on my Valkyrie, which is probably 300 lbs heavier, and it's easier to put the Valkyrie on the center stand than the America. I've had no problem with cornering because of the center stand, and yes, it makes chain maintenance so much easier. Overall I think the center stand is worth the expense and effort, especially for fuel stops.

Kiwi Tiger · 02-04-2010, 12:23 PM

I have recently fitted one up to my America. I fitted one as I'm heading off on a 15 day tour of the Sth Island and will be loaded up with gear for 2 and a pillion and I didn’t want any tip-overs while parked using the side-stand. Now here’s what I found. I put a small piece if 3/8 ply that I carry in my pocket for my side-stand on soft ground down and ran the rear wheel up on to it, then put it up onto the main stand. Much better.

thundershortz · 02-05-2010, 02:04 AM

I put one on my '09 America, pretty straightforward, and also do not use the strap, just yank up on the portside fender arm, step down HARD on the pedal and rock the bike backwards. Easier with practice. The arm does scrape with a hard lean, a bit tricky with two up, but manageable. The stand is just peachy, though, for cleaning and lube.

wolfmanjr · 02-18-2010, 12:23 PM

I finally found out at what point it will scrape. I came around a low-speed turn on a banked road and RAAAAAAAKKKK! There it was.

skromfols · 02-20-2010, 10:47 AM

Wolfman, be careful who you mention this to. With the financial situation that California's in they might try to charge you for damaging the road.

wolfmanjr · 02-20-2010, 02:25 PM

Ha Ha that's the truth Skrom! I've probably been designated as an Enemy of the State.

SMJoe · 02-22-2010, 07:06 PM

Technique or brute force I still find it an effort to get the Speedmaster on the centre stand so I keep a piece of wood in the saddle bag to assist. It is great for lubing and when sitting at the curb amongst a pack of bikes it really makes it stand out. (npi)
Another good use for the stand and I hope noone ever has to use it is if you have to lay the bike down on the left side in a panic stop due to a golfer trying to make her Toff

it immediately extends and keeps the bike off the ground protecting all but the handle bar.
As it turned out I wound up with an extra one after this episode if anyone is interested let me know.