AUTONEWS

Tips for safely lifting a motorcycle

A motorcycle crash can happen to any rider. At times like these, it’s important to know how to safely get the motorcycle back on its wheels. Lifting a motorcycle can be a challenging task, which, if not done carefully, can result in injuries ranging from a stiff back to serious injury...

To avoid this scenario, follow a few important steps and follow these guidelines. Your fitness plays a key role in this situation, so proper body positioning and proper motorcycle lifting technique are essential. Remember that you are always in control of the situation, not the other way around – the motorcycle follows you, not you.

Step 1 – Assess Your Options

When a motorcycle falls, the most important thing is to stay calm in order to better handle the situation. Although it is difficult to watch your pet on the ground, panicking will not help. Take a deep breath and ask yourself a few key questions:

– Are you hurt?

– Is it possible to lift the motorcycle by yourself?

– Is it safe to lift a motorcycle?

Do not rush to make decisions. A few minutes will be enough to assess the situation and decide if you need help. If so, make sure the person helping you is not lifting the motorcycle by the exhaust pipe or turn signals.

Step 2 – Assess the Environment

If you are in a place where there is a traffic hazard, move to a safe place and let the authorities take over. Before attempting to lift the motorcycle, assess the surface it is on (is it firm, gravelly, wet, near a canal). Safety must always come first!

Step 3 – Evaluate the Motorcycle

If the motorcycle is still on, be sure to turn it off. Also, shut off the fuel supply if possible, as a leak may occur, increasing the risk of an explosion. If the motorcycle has fallen to the right, lower the stand and put it in gear. If it is on the left side, this will not be possible. Pay attention to these facts and remember that haste is not your ally. The goal is not to lift the motorcycle as quickly as possible, but to do it carefully and safely, so that it does not tip over to the opposite side.

Motorcycle Lifting Techniques

Technique 1: Turn the motorcycle on its back (for larger engines, but suitable for all sizes)

Step 1. Place the levers in the “full-lock” position with the front point facing down.

Step 2. Find the “balance point”. Remember that when lifting the motorcycle, you are responsible for distributing the weight.

Step 3. Stand with your back and body straight, lifting the motorcycle with your legs, without turning your body. Be aware that you are in control of the situation, not the motorcycle.

Technique 2: Face the Motorcycle (for small and medium-sized engines)

1. Place the levers in the “full-lock” position with the front point facing up.

2. Find the “balance point”.

3. Stand close to the handles, but keep the hand that is closer to the ground between your feet. Lift the motorcycle slowly, using the strength of your legs, not your back.

Be careful not to tip the motorcycle onto the opposite side. If possible, put the motorcycle on a stand when you finish the job.

Always remember, patience and attentiveness are your best allies when faced with a motorcycle lift situation.

by Mundoquatrorodas