Motorcycle lift: 5 key factors to consider before buying

Owning a motorcycle is an exciting experience that combines the passion for motorbikes with the freedom of the road.

However, like any vehicle, motorcycles also need regular maintenance and occasional repairs to ensure optimal performance and safety while riding.

This is where the motorcycle lift comes into play, an indispensable tool for any professional mechanic.

Read on to find out all the essential considerations to find the perfect lift.

Comprehensive all-encompassing assessment of a motorcycle lift

The lift bridge, allowing the vehicle to be lifted off the ground, offers easier and safer access to the lower parts of the vehicle.

This not only facilitates maintenance interventions such as oil change, fork replacement or chain lubrication, but also makes complex work safer and more comfortable.

Without a dedicated lift, these operations can be uncomfortable and risky, negatively affecting the quality of the work in the workshop and the results offered to customers.

This is why, before choosing your new lift, it's a good idea to make a series of targeted considerations based on your specific needs.

Lifting capacity

Lifting capacity is one of the first and most important factors to consider when choosing a motorcycle lift and refers to the maximum load it can support without the risk of failure or damage.

It is essential that this capacity is compatible with the weight of the motorcycle because, if the lift bridge is not able to support the weight of the vehicle, not only is there a risk of damaging the bridge itself, but also of causing potentially dangerous accidents during use.

There are lift bridges on the market with different lifting capacities, usually expressed in kilograms (kg).

It is important to know the exact weight of the bike, including any additions such as side bags or windshield, in order to be able to choose a lift bridge with adequate capacity.

Dimensions and available space

When choosing a lift, it is essential to consider the size of the lift and the space available where it will be used.

These factors affect not only the practicality of use, but also the safety and efficiency during maintenance and repair operations.

A bridge that is too large may make it difficult to move and access around it, while one that is too small may not provide adequate support during repairs.

It is important to consider also the space necessary for the use of accessories, such as ramps, which can increase the overall footprint of the lift bridge.

The height is another crucial aspect to consider, specifically the maximum achievable and the one when is closed.

An adjustable bridge allows you to work at different heights and find the most ergonomic position for the various operations: this not only improves comfort during work, but also reduces the risk of repetitive stress injuries.

In addition to the size of the bridge, it is essential to evaluate the available workspace around it. A large enough work area allows you to move freely and use tools without obstacles.

Make sure you have sufficient space to carry out all maintenance operations without having to continuously move the motorcycle or other tools.

Type of operation

The type of lift bridge operation is another fundamental factor to consider during the purchase process.

There are different types of activation, each with its own advantages and disadvantages, which affect the ease of use, maintenance and overall cost of the lift bridge.

Manual operation

Manually operated motorbike bridges are often the simplest and least expensive on the market.

These models use a foot pedal to lift the bridge.

Although they require physical effort for operation, they are generally reliable and easy to maintain. However, they may be less practical if heavy motorbikes have to be lifted frequently.

Electric-hydraulic operation

Electro-hydraulic motion bridges are the most advanced.

This type of drive is more common in mid- and high-end models and does not require physical effort, unlike manual models.

Operation is generally smoother and allows the motorbike to be raised and lowered in a more controlled and safe manner.

Pneumatic operation

Pneumatic motorbike bridges use compressed air for lifting.

This type of bridge is popular in professional workshops due to its speed and ease of use. 

It should also be considered that the type of operation directly affects the initial cost of the lift bridge and long-term maintenance costs.

Manual bridges are generally cheaper and easier to maintain, while hydraulic and pneumatic bridges offer greater comfort and capacity, but at a higher cost and with more complex maintenance.

Stability and safety

Stability and safety are fundamental aspects to consider when buying a motorcycle lift.

A well-built and safe lift bridge not only ensures a more protected working environment, but also prevents damage to the motorcycle during maintenance and repair operations.

A good lift bridge must be equipped with essential safety features to protect both the operator and the motorcycle.

Some of the most important include:

• safety locking systems to prevent the deck from being accidentally lowered during use
• provision for attaching motorbike straps
• non-slip almond plate that helps keep the bike steady and stable on the deck, preventing accidental movements

The quality of the materials and the strength of the structure are equally crucial for stability and safety.

Opting for a bridge built with high-quality materials guarantees greater durability and resistance. The structure of the bridge must be solid and free of manufacturing defects that could compromise safety.

Finally, choosing a bridge produced by recognised brands and equipped with safety certifications can provide an additional guarantee of quality.

Certifications, such as those issued by international organisations (e.g. CE, ISO), indicate that the bridge has passed rigorous safety and conformity tests.

Price and budget

When it comes to buying a lift, price and budget play a crucial role.

The cost of a bridge can vary greatly depending on the characteristics, the quality of the materials and the brand.

It is essential to balance the available budget with the specific needs to find the best value for money.

Establishing a realistic budget is essential to avoid excessive expenses and to make a conscious purchase.

Here are some tips on how to manage your budget:

• assess needs
• compare products
• plan for the future

If you are looking for a reliable lift, made with quality Made in Italy and high-performance materials, KIRO has what you need!

Request a free consultation and let our experts guide you in choosing the next motorcycle lift for your workshop.