Proper Jack Placement

[SpongeBob]

I'm considering getting a Motorcycle/ATV jack for use on the Spyder RT-S.

There have been several photos on other threads showing the jack in use from the side of the Spyder.

Can, or should, the Spyder be jacked from the front as well?

Also ... I have automotive ramps with a fairly low incline.

Any thoughts on using ramps on the front wheels for access to the underside?


Thanks

 

[SpyderFun]

I have both ramps and a Sears ATV jack. Its a matter of personal preference and $$$. Ramps are a bit safer to use (IMHO) but limit your access while a jack with jack stands (don't rely on the jack for safety) gives a person better access (again, IMHO). Which ever way you decide just make sure your elevated bike is secure from a potential fall or roll back!

 

[clueless]

i use the yellow sears motorcycle jack to jack the whole spyder up

then 3 jack stands (from harbor freight) 1 spare (they come in pairs :doorag
place stands under left and right front arms and rear under rear shock area

remove motorcycle jack and bike is stable on stands and easy to work on hyea:

reverse process to lower

 

[SpongeBob]

Back to the question ... " jack placement ".

Are you lifting only from the side ?

Can, or should, a Motorcycle/ATV jack be used from the front of the Spyder?

 

[NancysToy]

Back to the question ... " jack placement ".

Are you lifting only from the side ?

Can, or should, a Motorcycle/ATV jack be used from the front of the Spyder?

There is no good way to lift from the front with a motorcycle jack, because there is nowhere to put the jack. The frame rones fore and aft. The side is your only option. I have lifted just the front, using a standard jack, but it is tricky, and can't be lifted too far as the frame tilts off the jack pad.

 

[SpyderFun]

i use the yellow sears motorcycle jack to jack the whole spyder up

then 3 jack stands (from harbor freight) 1 spare (they come in pairs :doorag
place stands under left and right front arms and rear under rear shock area

remove motorcycle jack and bike is stable on stands and easy to work on hyea:

reverse process to lower

:agree:

I have the same jack and it "locks" on its way up to prevent a complete and unintentional lowering - an added safety feature of that jack. I place another stand under the trailer frame as well (4 places - overkill maybe?). Given the weight of the bike, you don't need to invest in having heavy-duty jack stands ......but I would think twice on using them on a heavier vehicle like your car or truck.

Hope this helps!

 

[SpongeBob]

Good advice ... thanks. I will proceed with caution.

I'll likely give the ramps a try before investing in a jack.

It may be that the ramps will be all I need for the limited amount of self service that I'll be doing.

 

[NorthStar]

I drive my RT's front wheels up on ramps, slide the ATV/Motorcycle ramp under the middle frame and jack up the back. Then I put 3 axle stands in place and remove the jack. I like having the ramps in place just in case.