Harley Kickstand

In the beginning, there were few practical ways to prop up your bike and it was most definitely not good. A Harley kickstand is not exactly a groundbreaking part, which we’ll get into below, but it makes parking possible. This all sounds like a pretty big deal to us and we think you’ll agree. Add a Harley Davidson kickstand to the mix — or a Harley jiffy stand replacement if that’s more your vocabulary — and enjoy a confidence-inspiring park job. We’ve got both flavors here at J&P Cycles so let’s dive into a little history before you shop a Harley Davidson kickstand upgrade kit. 

The Harley kickstand: Humble, simple & necessary

Our friends over at Common Tread have penned the ultimate exploration of a Harley jiffy stand replacement, the origins of the name as a factory component and the overall mechanical operation. In short, it “allows for the bike to not fall over even when the terrain is decidedly not level, and yet it still comes back up if it's left down.” Sounds like a left-hand-mounted Harley Davidson kickstand, right? Give that article a read for a thorough dive into the differences — then get back to the Harley Davidson kickstand upgrade kit here at J&P. The custom options here are plentiful and come from your favorite aftermarket brands like Arlen Ness, Drag Specialties, TC Bros. Choppers, V-Twin Manufacturing and more. Need to know if this jiffy stand or kick stand is going to fit you bike? Call us at 1-800-318-4823 or click here to reach Customer Service!

Harley Kickstands

Why would I replace my Harley's kickstand?
Most riders replace their kickstand (or "jiffy stand") for two reasons: style or function. Style-wise, a custom chrome or blacked-out kickstand is a nice finishing touch. Functionally, you must replace your kickstand if you lower your motorcycle, otherwise, the bike won't lean over far enough and could easily tip over.

How do I choose a kickstand for a lowered Harley?
If you've installed a lowering kit, you need a shorter kickstand. Kickstands for lowered bikes are often sold as "1-inch under" or "2-inch under." You'll want to match this to the amount you lowered your bike to get the correct lean angle and keep your bike stable when parked.

Is it hard to install a new kickstand?
On most Harley models, it's surprisingly easy. The kickstand is typically held on by one or two large bolts. The trickiest part is dealing with the heavy-duty spring. You'll want to use a "spring puller" tool (or a trick with some quarters) to safely stretch the spring and get it on and off.

My bike leans over too far, can a kickstand fix that?
Yes! If your bike leans too much (which can happen if you install taller suspension), it can be hard to lift off the stand. You can buy a "1-inch over" kickstand to make the bike stand up straighter. You can also get a "kickstand extension" to make it easier to grab the tab with your boot.