Bike Kickstands: Why They’re Essential for Your Rides

It might seem easy to lean your bike against a wall or lay it on the ground to keep it stable. Yet, the moment you stop mid-ride without a reliable support, you quickly realize how useful a sturdy kickstand can be. In this article, we’ll explore why a kickstand is practical, when it becomes truly essential, and the different types available for your bike adventures.

Functions of a Bike Kickstand

The main purpose of a bike kickstand is to keep your bike upright without needing any additional support. This is especially handy if you frequently stop for breaks, travel with luggage, or ride in the city where it’s not always possible to secure your bike to a rack.

Here’s why a kickstand is so useful:

• Prevent falls and scratches: Your bike stays stable and protected.

• Make loading and unloading easier: Perfect for panniers, baskets, or cargo.

• Free your hands: No need to hold the handlebars or find somewhere to lean your bike.

• Park almost anywhere: You can leave your bike safely without risking damage to the drivetrain or brakes. And don’t forget to secure your bike properly once parked! (Read more about bike locks)

When a Bike Kickstand Comes in Handy

City Riding and Daily Commutes

If you use your bike as a means of transportation - for errands, commuting to work, or getting to school - a kickstand makes every stop much easier. No need to search for a post or railing; simply deploy the kickstand and your bike stays upright.

Cyclotourism and Bikepacking

When traveling with luggage, a kickstand becomes especially practical: a loaded bike is harder to keep upright, particularly on uneven terrain. It’s perfect when you’re setting up a tent, unloading gear from panniers, or taking a quick photo break. Discover all the essential accessories for a successful bikepacking adventure. (Read more here)

Family Rides with Children

If your bike is equipped with a child seat, stability is crucial. A kickstand allows you to safely seat your child without worrying about the bike tipping over at the slightest imbalance. Check out @vascoutdoor’s experience and more tips for cycling adventures with kids.

Outdoor Rides, Fishing Trips, and Nature Escapes

Whether you stop by a lake, in a meadow, or in the forest, a kickstand keeps your bike clean, stable, and ready to ride - even when there’s no tree or rock nearby to support it.

The Different Types of Bike Kickstands

• Center Kickstands These attach near the bottom bracket or rear stays. Universal and suitable for most bikes, they handle weight well, especially on flat surfaces.

• Rear Kickstands Mounted near the rear wheel, they are often more convenient for bikes with unusual frame geometries or when the center of the frame is already occupied, for example by a frame bag.

• Double Kickstands Perfect for heavy bikes, cargo bikes, or touring bikes. They unfold like a motorcycle kickstand, keeping the bike perfectly upright and stable, even when fully loaded with panniers.

• Adjustable Kickstands Ideal if you frequently change tire sizes or want to use the same kickstand on multiple bikes.

To equip your bike with a versatile and durable kickstand suited for all your rides and adventures, check out the Cluxx Roxter and Cluxx Supra.

When can you leave the kickstand out?

• For Sports Bikes Road, gravel, and cross-country bikes often go without kickstands to reduce weight and avoid any risk of snagging during rides.

• For Racing In competitions, every gram counts, and a kickstand becomes an unnecessary accessory that riders prefer not to carry.

• For Aesthetics Some cyclists choose not to install a kickstand, believing it can affect the bike’s sleek appearance or interfere with the frame’s clean geometry.

However, if you’re not chasing maximum performance and value practicality, a kickstand remains a highly useful accessory to have on your bike.

A kickstand is a small but incredibly practical accessory that makes everyday bike use much more comfortable. It’s particularly useful for city commuting, bike touring, or family rides. If you value convenience, don’t want to chase a bike that falls over at every stop, and want to protect your components, installing a kickstand is a smart choice to ensure your bike stays stable.

For a stable and versatile urban or touring bike setup, check out the robust and adaptable Cluxx kickstands.