bike lift

[bdub]

Does anyone here have a lift table?  You know, the lifts that shops have. I want one but don't know how much room I would need to have around it. It would be very convenient, I don't really work on my bike but my knees hurt and the normal stuff is a pain for them and my back. Also it would keep my work space from becomming cluttered with other peoples stuff (maybe). I've looked at one from Smith Equipment, it's 93 inches with a lift off ramp that adds another twenty inches and it's a coupe feet wide. How much space around the table do you need?

thanks for advice
bdub

[DucHead]

I got a foot-operated model off Craig's List for $125.  I use it all the time, and I can't imagine being without it. 

[Speeddog]

My Handy air lift is 24" wide x 84" long.
Ramp is 20" long, it just hooks on, so it's not on there when the table's up.

I'd say 2 1/2 feet clearance perimeter all round as a minimum.

Handy makes a great lift, but they ain't cheap.

[bluemoco]

If you've got a few spare 2x4's and plywood, you can build a useful work table for not a lot of $$.  Basically a wood frame with a 3/4" plywood top.  Ramps could be added, too.  I think Speedbag built one for his "Panhead rigid chopper that someday will be complete". 

I've been considering doing this for some time.  I'm too cheap to spring for an air lift (though they are really nice).

[grandpa nate]

The broad that hit me paid for mine.....i do not work on the ground anymore.   I bought the side extensions and all.  Since it is a Handy and i didn't research much (shit she payed for it) all told about a grand. It does take up most of the space i a 2 car garage but ..eh

[TAftonomos]

I got a foot-operated model off Craig's List for $125.  I use it all the time, and I can't imagine being without it. 

I've got the same one, and paid the same 125 for it off CL as well. 

Unless you are a bike shop, and putting bikes up/down all day, there is no reason to spend the $$$ (IMO) on a $1200 lift.   What would you rather have, a dull grey lift in your garage while you are out riding, or a red one that lifts the bike up....and a slipper clutch on your bike 

[Bigbore4]

I have one I bought from Smith a few yrs back.  Wish I had done it years ago.  It isnt as nice in finish etc as a Handy, but it was a few hundred less.  I also bought the side extensions for the lawn tractor ATV etc.

I can park my pick-up over top of it up to the wheel vice.  Without a bike on it of course!

[ducducgooseme]

Well, here ya go!!  Sorry the delayed post.  DucMouse, ThePlumber and I built this in a few hours.  Rock Friggen solid, with NO bolts, all friction grooves.

Shopping list:
2 sheets 3/4 plywood
1 can non skid paint for the top
2 cans black cheap spray paint

optional removable side stands:
1 2x4x8
1 sheet 3/4 plywood or scraps


pics of the plan:



Before it was painted (we removed the strips on top and replaced with non skid paint)


Final product.  Notice we added notches in the side to slide two by fours through to add side stands...easy to ride right up the ramp and dismount the bike.  also allows for a pitbull.  Entire stand assembles or disassembles in 2 minutes.  it has held my monster, my 1098s, ,and my fat ass without worry.

[JEFF_H]

Harbor Freight has a couple different cheaper ones.

There is also a folding table made by powerstands. not too bad but it would be sturdier if it had feet in the middle

[BK_856er]

How about a Kendon?  I've never used or seen one, so no FHE here.

http://www.kendonusa.com/lift.htm#Sport_Bike_Lift

BK

[DucHead]

How about a Kendon?  I've never used or seen one, so no FHE here.

http://www.kendonusa.com/lift.htm#Sport_Bike_Lift

BK

The Kendon isn't wide enough to accommodate front/rear stands, or to work on for that matter.  I think they sell pieces for the sides to widen it, but its already $650.