JUNE 6, 2025
Do you really need a motorcycle table lift? Here’s what you need to know before you buy
Every dedicated motorcycle owner eventually asks the question: Is a motorcycle lift table truly worth the investment for my garage? While rolling your bike around on the ground might seem sufficient, a bike table lift can revolutionize your maintenance routine, turning tedious tasks into comfortable, efficient operations. Let’s explore the top reasons why a full motorcycle lift table is a game-changer and what critical factors you need to consider before purchasing.
Top 3 Reasons to Invest in a Motorcycle Lift Table
1. Standing While Working
A motorcycle lift table elevates your bike to a comfortable working height, allowing you to stand up while working. This drastically reduces strain on your back, knees, and neck, making those hours of maintenance feel less like a chore and more like an enjoyable pursuit.
2. Stability and Safety
A dedicated motorcycle lift table provides a broad, secure platform that firmly holds your bike, often with integrated wheel clamps and tie-down points. This stability minimizes wobble and the risk of your bike tipping over, protecting both your valuable investment and your personal safety. You can confidently perform tasks like wheel removals, engine work, or even detailing without worrying about unexpected shifts.
3. Enhanced Access & Efficiency
From oil changes and chain adjustments to detailing or doing a full restoration, having your bike at eye-level means you can see better, reach easier, and work faster. This improved access leads to greater efficiency, allowing you to complete tasks more accurately and in less time, freeing you up to ride more.
Top 3 Things to Consider When Buying a Motorcycle Lift Table
1. Weight Capacity & Dimensions
First and foremost, check the maximum weight capacity of the motorcycle lift table and ensure it comfortably exceeds the ‘wet weight’ (with fluids) of your heaviest bike, plus any accessories. Also, consider the platform’s length and width. Will it accommodate your cruiser, sportbike, or even a wider touring bike or trike? If you plan to work on ATVs or golf carts on the same lift, remember that side extensions are essential for safe, stable support of anything with four wheels.
2. Lift Type & Operation
Motorcycle lift tables come with different lifting mechanisms:
- Manual: Often operated by a foot pedal or crank, these are typically more budget-friendly but require more effort.
- Air (Pneumatic): These lifts use an air compressor to raise and lower the table. They offer smooth, effortless operation and are very popular for home garages that already have an air compressor.
- Hydraulic: They provide reliable power but might be slower than air lifts. Consider your budget, available power sources, and how often you’ll be lifting your bike.
3. Features, Accessories, & Storage
Beyond the basics, look for features like a removable rear drop-out panel (great for rear wheel access) and safety locking bars. Think about storage – does the lift move easily, or is it a permanent fixture? Can you add side extensions to work on your four-wheeled projects?
Investing in a quality motorcycle lift table is an investment in your comfort, efficiency, and the longevity of your bike. By considering these key reasons and essential factors, you’ll be well on your way to making an informed decision and enjoying countless hours of pain-free, productive work in your garage.
Handy Motorcycle Lift Tables
S.A.M. 1200 Air Lift
$1,699.00 – $1,899.00
Standard 1200 Air Lift
$1,621.00 – $1,821.00
B.O.B. 1500 Air Lift
$2,363.00 – $2,563.00
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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