Mountain bikes come in various parts, but the kickstand is not included.
The fact is that a mountain bike does not really need the kickstand. And many people also don’t like their mountain bikes when they have this part.
But many people still wonder, “Why no kickstand on mountain bikes?” So that’s why we came out with this post.
Today, we will point out seven good reasons for removing the kickstand from your mountain bike.
Also, we will show you an alternative way to support your bicycle. So keep reading to see more!
Table of Contents
The Purpose of a Kickstand on Your Bike
The primary purpose of the kickstand is to make bikes stand upright. Thanks to this part, it is not necessary to lean your bicycle against the surface of a flat wall.
This part is typically made from cheap plastic. In addition, you can also easily find models made of aluminum alloy.
Convenience
Convenience is the main reason why some people prefer bike stands. Thanks to this part, you will not need to find a vertical surface or a flat wall to lean on your bike.
As a result, you can prevent your bike pedals and handles from scratches caused by rubbing against walls or surfaces. Instead, you can keep your bike upright anywhere and anytime.
Stability
Without a kickstand, you will have to lean your bike against a wall. In this case, your bike easily falls to the ground when someone touches it lightly.
With a kickstand, you can expect your bike to stand firm under any circumstances, as long as you park it on a level surface.
Many kickstands come with rubber tips for traction and increased grip, allowing your bike to be more stable.
Why No Kickstand On Mountain Bikes?
As we just discussed, the kickstand seems excellent to attach to a mountain bike because of its benefits.
So why do mountain bike owners often remove this valuable part?
Here are seven main reasons for that.
Kickstands Can Snag Things
The kickstand can pick up dust quickly when you’re on the trail.
In addition, it can also get caught in a tree branch when you are rushing down the mountainside, which can lead to an accident.
While a kickstand can be convenient when stopping a bike, the risk of a crash when mountain biking makes this part worth eliminating.
Kickstands May Impale You
It is one of the main reasons for removing the kickstand from your mountain bike. This part can be dangerous in a crash as it may impale you.
The kickstand is typically narrower than the handlebar, allowing this part to go much deeper into the cyclist if he lands on it. It will turn out to be a catastrophic accident.
They Are Not Always Stable
A kickstand is not always the most stable way to support your bike.
Many people put a lot of faith in this part only to end up with their bicycle getting damaged when it fell on the ground.
Its location is near the bike’s rear, so it may not keep the bike perfectly balanced.
Production Cost Savings
Although not all cases, many manufacturers choose a model without a kickstand to save money. It even allows them to save about $3 per product.
It’s one way that a bicycle company can make every penny to save on production costs.
Can Be Replaced by a Bike Stand
The purpose of the kickstand is to keep a bike upright and stable for long periods when not in use.
So cyclists will quickly kiss this part goodbye when there’s another way to do the same thing.
One of the ways that allow you to park your bike is by using a bike stand. It is a part to which bikes might be attached for parking goals.
A bike stand may be free-standing, securely connected to the ground, or several stationary objects like a building.
An indoor bike stand is typically utilized for private bicycle parking, while the outdoor bike one is usually used in commercial areas.
Available styles of the bicycle parking rack include the Serpentine, Bollard, Inverted U, Decorative, and Grid.
Kickstands Will Add Weight
Cyclists, especially mountain bike owners, often aim to make their vehicles as light as possible.
They will try to bring as few items as possible to reduce the overall weight and wear tight clothing to reduce air resistance.
A kickstand typically weighs between 0.5 lb and 1.5 lbs. Although it is pretty light, cyclists still want to remove it, expecting to make the weight as light as possible.
Also, the kickstand can throw off the perfect balance of your mountain bike.
This extra part might make you lose balance as your bike is heavier on one side.
That way, it significantly affects your cycling performance and slows you down.
Most mountain bike manufacturers don’t usually add kickstands to their products.
So it is unsurprising that most mountain bikes do not come with a kickstand.
Ugly to Look At
We believe a kickstand can make your bike look ugly, although others may disagree.
This part can mess up the great look of your bike and the rest of your mountain biking experience.
Many people want them to look cool while cycling, making them want to get rid of this annoying part.
How Do You Support Your Bicycle?
Lay or Lean Your Bicycle Down
You must find a pole, tree, fence, or something to lean your bike on.
By the way, many people have been cycling for years without a kickstand. So in most cases, you will easily find something to lean your bike on when not in use.
Laying the bicycle down on the ground is okay. However, there will be a risk of scratching the frame.
Utilize RAD Cycles
Using the RAD Cycles is an excellent way to suspend your bike from a workshop/shed’s roof.
However, it will make storing your bike a bit cumbersome and complicated.
Use a Click-Stand
A click-stand will be an excellent alternative to the kickstand. It is made of aluminum tubing and will support your bike’s center of gravity.
The click-stand is available in two models: Mini and maxi. This device should support all bicycle types, including loaded touring and mountain bicycles.
Utilize One Bicycle Parking Rack
You can also secure your bike to a bicycle parking rack.
But this device is not easy to carry, and you probably won’t be able to reach one to support your bike while you are in the backcountry.
In addition, you can also consider the detachable kickstand, allowing you to store it in your backpack for use when needed easily.
FAQs
Is the Double Leg Bike Kickstand Better for Stability?
Yes, it can be. A double-leg kickstand can give additional support, reducing the chance of the bike falling to the ground. But it tends to fit lighter bikes.
If your bike is heavier or you carry stuff on your bike often, we do not recommend installing a double-leg kickstand.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Mountain Bike Kickstand?
Pros
- The kickstand will be good if you use your mountain bike outside mountain riding.
- The kickstand will be valuable if your back is injured or you have another disability.
- The kickstand is good if you do not want to damage your bike. It is especially true if you have a costly bicycle.
- The kickstand might be helpful while washing your bicycle.
- If you are a beginner, you will also benefit from this part.
Cons
- A kickstand may cause injury if caught up in something while cycling.
- This part makes your bike heavier.
- It tends to appear in cheaply-made bicycles.
- Most mountain bikes can stand up fine without the kickstand.
How to Choose The Best Kickstand for My Mountain Bike?
If you want to fit a kickstand into your mountain bike, here are a few tips for you:
- Get the proper size.
- Invest in durable materials.
- Check out the kickstand’s weight.
- Opt for an adjustable kickstand.
- Consider the model that fits your budget.
- Pick the double-legged kickstand over the one-legged one.
The Bottom Line
You’ve got the answer to, “Why no kickstand on mountain bikes?”
This part is beneficial because it allows you to erect your bike anywhere without the help of a wall or vertical surface.
Yet, most cyclists remove it from their mountain bikes for many good reasons. It leads to many manufacturers not including this component in their products.
A kickstand is not needed for a mountain bike, but there may be some cases where you will want one.
Hopefully, this article was helpful to you!