JUNE 1, 2025
Air Lift vs Motorcycle Scissor Jack: What’s the Difference?
Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a dedicated DIY enthusiast, having the right equipment in your garage or workshop makes all the difference. Let’s break it down to help you make an informed decision.
While both air lifts and scissor jacks aim to elevate your ride, there are a few differences:
- Motorcycle Scissor Jacks (Portable & Focused Lift)
- Typically more compact units that lift a specific part of your ride.
- They are often manually operated via a crank, or sometimes hydraulically/pneumatically assisted.
- Built for targeted work for quick tire changes, chain adjustments, or getting just the wheels off the ground.
- A motorcycle scissor jack is specifically designed with a flat platform or pads to cradle your bike’s frame securely.
- Work occurs close to the ground or on the floor.
- Air Lift Tables (Full Platform & Powered)
- An air lift table is a larger, more robust platform that lifts the entire vehicle. These are typically powered by an air compressor, offering smooth, effortless lifting to a comfortable working height.
- They provide a much larger, more stable surface to work on, making them ideal for extensive maintenance, detailing, or long-term projects where you need full access to the motorcycle’s underside.
- Work occurs while standing.
What’s the best set-up for me?
If you don’t want to work on the floor, we recommend the air lift. An even better choice? Get both. Our Handy scissor jacks provide crucial extra working height and stability, and are meant to be paired with a lift.
What you need to know about our scissor jacks: Universal and Lo-Boy
Similarities:
- Capacity of 750 lbs.
- Zinc plated steel
- Weight 43 lbs.
- Minimum height of 3.5”
- Drive of 7/8”
- Include safety stops
- Made and manufactured in Sully, IA
Differences:
- Maximum height:
- Universal: 15 inches
- Lo-Boy: 13 inches
- Dimensions:
- Universal: 6” W x 19” L
- Lo-Boy: 10” W x 16” L
- Scissor Jack Deck:
- Universal: Has adapters for various frame models and include a rubber padded cradle for Sportster & V-Twin models with integrated transmissions.
- Lo-Boy: A wide deck with a non-skid pad raises the front or rear end of bikes and ATVs.
Investing in the right scissor jack and lift table empowers you to take control of your vehicle maintenance. By considering your specific needs, and the type of vehicle you’ll be working on, you can create a safer, more efficient, and more comfortable working environment in your garage.
Handy Recommendations for Scissor Jacks and Air Lifts
- Bravo 1000 Air Lift + Handy Scissor Jack
- Standard 1200 Air Lift + Handy Scissor Jack
- S.A.M 1200 Air Lift + Handy Scissor Jack
- Gruntavore 1800 Air Lift + Handy Scissor Jack
Handy Scissor Jacks and Air Lifts
Bravo 1000 Air Lift
$1,430.00
S.A.M. 1200 Air Lift
Price range: $1,699.00 through $1,899.00
Standard 1200 Air Lift
Price range: $1,621.00 through $1,821.00
Gruntavore 1800 Air Lift
$3,881.00
Lo-Boy Scissor Jack
$494.00
Universal Scissor Jack
$433.00
About Handy Industries
Built on nearly 50 years of manufacturing experience, Handy is proud to manufacture high-quality motorcycle/ATV/UTV lifts, shop equipment, and accessories. Handy’s entire product line is manufactured in the United States and shipped to customers around the world. Our team is passionate, energetic, and confident in all we do, and we are dedicated to manufacturing superior products.
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