Who knew there were so many ways to mount a motorcycle?

[@MCrider]

If you are a new rider or a rider who wants to continue to grow (That should be all of us ;) ) and you are not a Member at MCrider you are missing out on the best part of MCrider. Go to www.MCrider.com/Member and get access to the Forums and Field Guide. - The Forum is an active, friendly place where riders share riding tips, ideas, travel photos, and show off their new motorcycles. Riders and instructors from all over the world are active on the forums and ready to share in the adventure with you. - The Field Guide is a section of the forums that have very specific training exercises that you can work on in any open parking lot to develop your riding skills. In addition to these resources, you can discuss every MCrider video, suggest future training videos, read and share gear reviews, and more. By becoming a member you help support MCrider and keep the weekly videos coming but you also get access to a world of riders who share tips and techniques to help us all enjoy the ride and increase our skills. www.MCrider.com/Member

[@carlpop2324]

My first thought was, how can it possibly take eleven minutes to explain how to get on and off a bike? Then I started watching. Kevin does a great job of addressing a variety of circumstances, and discussing different methods for riders of different sizes. Brilliant! Thanks, Kevin!

[@MCrider]

That's funny, I asked myself the same question. 🤣

[@davealley2761]

Me Too!

[@honestkris1]

I second that Mr. Pop!

[@dcccharles4569]

Well detailed video covering a variety of mount/dismount scenarios. Excellent!

[@bradiacm7828]

One thing about dismounting the bike, if you are facing a down hill slope: With the engine turned off, keep the bike in first gear with the clutch out, and let it roll forward against the gear set. Then set it on the fully deployed side stand before you swing your leg over the seat to stand up. This IS your parking brake, and it will allow you to park facing down hill without the bike rolling forward off the side stand and take a dirt nap. I'm enjoying the videos - thanks.

[@lrowlands53]

I used to own a 70s Ducati 750 GT with only a centre (Aussie) stand. To get it on the stand I developed the skill of having my left foot on the 'lever' part while pulling the rear of the frame up with both arms. I"m about 5'6" and my weight around that time was only about 9 stone (126lb) so this method worked for me and the bike never fell over in the three years I owned it. To get it off the stand I sat in the seat and rocked the bike forward - it made for quick getaways. Just the other day I went on a ride with some veteran riders on veteran bikes. I parked next to a 1940s Vincent Rapide - I chickened out of trying to catch him on some back roads on my Ducati 748S super sport. As we were leaving he pushed the bike off the centre stand and leant the bike against his thighs as he reached around the rear of the bike to lift the stand and secure it with a huge chrome wing nut mounted to the mudguard ('fender' I suppose in American). Anyway, great respect for that crazy old guy and the effort it takes to fiddle with his bike at each stop.

[@VanGoWanderlust]

I've been riding for 30 years and I still found my way to this video LOL. Decreased mobility in older age led me to having to find a new way to mount my motorcycle.

[@victorhawkins3461]

Hey, Kevin -- with everything I've learned from you and everything I hope to learn from you, you're 8 feet tall in my eyes! Great tip about turning the front wheel to the right to ease the bike over when mounting. Brilliant!

[@lynchmobb7237]

Im new to your channel im 49 yrs of age been riding since i was about 12 it is so true how you can never learn everything. Ive been able to get my wife to start riding and i refer her to your video's all the time thinks for all the great info its been really helpful in teaching my wife to ride safe keep up the awesome video's thanks again

[@jeramieogle883]

You rock Kevin, just want to let you know my wife and I really appreciate what you do for all of us.

[@topdowngeorgia4398]

Being 5'6" with a dual sport, I have to put my left foot on the peg, face plant the gauges, and pray I don't get my right foot hung up on the bag strapped to the rear part of the seat. I'm sure I look totally cool doing this.

[@topdowngeorgia4398]

I'm not even sure I could get on a KLR. I only have a 30" inseam. I sometimes have issues on my Versys X 300.

[@OnlyKaerius]

@@jonb4763 I'm also 5'7", and I've got the KLE(Versys 650), I got the low gel saddle and set the preload to its lowest setting, I can get both balls of my feet down, but only one flat foot at a time, I mostly toe or single-flat it at stops(to get the balls of my feet down I have to uncomfortably put my legs behind the pegs). My inseam is only 29".

[@steadycruising3251]

Megan griffiths

[@Biglug8888]

Top Down Georgia I have a 30” inseam and had a KLR. I usually got on the way Kevin did on his Super.

[@erinshannon9935]

Top-down Georgia - that's okay I looked like a frog stuck in a fishing net trying to get on my bike today past the sissy bar

[@scottgorman7166]

Nice job as usual Kevin. I have been riding 43 years with at least 450K under my belt but since watching your videos I now think more of what Im doing on the road instead of just doing it. It has added more tecnique and actually enjoyment as entering a curve and thinking about conversion points....never thought of it that way just did it....Thanks a bunch...always something to learn.

[@redwhiteandrzroffroad8922]

Even though it seems like Ive been riding forever these videos are a great way to learn tips and safety information. Thank you.

[@bryantchandler2925]

Here's another way - I have a Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Classic with a driver's backrest and I'm only 5' 6". I can mount from the left side by stepping up on the floorboard with my left foot or I can mount from the right side. With the bar turned all the way to the left, I place my left hand in front of the master cylinder on the left bar and put my body over the bike. I then put my right foot on the right floorboard and step up keeping my body over the bike while swinging my bent left leg over the seat. Works like a charm every time and it's convenient because the steering lock is on the right side. I can unlock the steering and mount from the right side and dismount on right side and lock the steering without having to walk around the bike.

[@kenbarwell3261]

After riding 2 up with the same passenger for 28 years we have developed our own way to mount the bike. It may be different from what you teach but it works for us

[@Pentycofe55]

I always see your gear in the background of your videos. Would you do a video of storing tips and tricks for jackets/helmets. Or how you have yours hanging?

[@CGR89]

Even though I almost always do a left side mount/dismount, It's good to practice the right side mount/dismount. You never know when you might need to pull over on a narrow shoulder that you really should be getting off on the right side. I've personally used it when returning to my bike to find that someone else parked their bike super close on the left side. I probably could have just pushed it forward a few feet to make room but it was cool getting a use out of that right side practice.

[@deborahmusgrove5937]

Your info is excellent! Just wanted to let you know that for those of us that have had different surgeries, we have found that mounting the bike on the high side much easier. Thank you, your explanation of emergency stopping was excellent. I sold my 2003 Road Glide two years ago due to a divorce. A few weeks ago, I found a 03 RK Anniversary Edition for a reasonable price. Unfortunately I was having hip replacement so the bike had to go in storage for winter. 😢 During my post op recovery I have been reviewing many KZbin’s on motorcycle safety issues and beginner education. I have only been riding for about 7 years with the last year was very infrequent. So needless to say I’m a little anxious about driving confidantly. Your KZbin’s, along with Dandanfireman, and motojitsu, and Hrider are informative, and interesting .

[@billclark8323]

Hi Kevin. Another informative edition. Just an addition; when coming off the centre stan keep your right foot on the centre stand just like you do when putting it up. As you demonstrated you can balance the bike anyway but this allows you to control it's forward movement until you can reach a break lever. I hope you find this helpful

[@donshaw3834]

Hi Kevin. Great videos on your site. This one was especially helpful for me. I purchased a Goldwing 1500 last fall. I’m 5’ 6” tall and I really have to put some serious effort into standing the bike up from the side stand. I tried your tip on turning the wheel to the right and it stands up almost as easy as my Ducati Monster 695. Thank you and keep up the excellent videos. You are helping to make us all better riders.

[@allangosling6134]

Hi Kevin I am one of those people who are kind of short and I bought a big Harley cruiser (880lb) and could not get it off the side stand. I am very happy I came across your channel. I will try turning the handle bars to the right and stand up. Thank you very much I will continue to follow you on your channel

[@fprintf]

Your instruction on the center stand is really helpful, I never got along with the one on my Dad's bike after feeling that it was almost tipping over and not being able to "roll it up". Using the step technique as you demonstrated and trusting the stand to balance the bike will be awesome!

[@colinwilliamson9114]

I own a BMW K1600 and my wife finds it hard to get onto the back seat. A technique I was shown goes like this - put the bike on the centre stand - wife hops onto front seat - then simply stands up a bit on the rider foot pegs and places her backside down on the passenger seat - then I get on the front seat - then rock bike forward off the centre stand And, many thanks. Your videos are great. I’ve been riding for 40 years and never knew that trick of turning the bars to the right

[@zardoz2350]

Hi Kevin. Thanks for all the videos. I know this sounds weird but when my bike is packed, and a big bag on the pillion, i use what i call the backwards hop. Not being very limber, i face away from the seat, lift or grab my pant leg and place my foot on the seat. Laces on seat. Then push my leg over while taking a quick hop and twist to slide on the seat. Reverse to get off.

[@willyb933]

Great tips! Especially for some of us,​ 'old' guy's who don't bend and hinge as well as we used to! I will have to try the knee/pivot method. Thanks for sharing!

[@richardsokolis4668]

I thought the same thing. Well hell I blew my knee out. Back to the drawing board for me.

[@Scorp497]

I would suggest doing a few stretching exercises daily and then some light stretching before mounting up!

[@deanroddy3066]

Thanks for the tips Kevin. I know how you can get an inch taller! Last September of 2019 I had both knees replaced....at the same time and, it made me 1.75 inches taller! Yes, I'm taller. I'm 57 years old and I also just upgraded to a big cruiser bike three weeks ago. Yamaha Stratoliner. My biggest struggle has been with my range of motion with new knees, getting on and off the bike. Thanks for the tips. I've been standing on the foot pegs, from either side, practicing mounting and dismounting to get my leg over the bike. Still don't have full range of motion with either knee. Good tips for everyone in your video. Thanks for your time and effort to put these videos out. God speed.

[@richardsokolis4668]

Everything changes in when you get up in years. I mount it anyway my body allows me.

[@firstamendmenttshirt4768]

Try stretching the muscles or get rid of the fat. Stop drinking beers.

[@GregMorris-w2t]

I'm 75 and I hear you just fine. I just posted my mounting technique above. My way wouldn't work on a light bike. I also have a Triumph America that would tip over if I mounted it that way. I mount that from the left by lifting my right leg pulling up with my right hand grabbing the pantleg near the ankle and pulling my leg up. (Not pretty or graceful.)

[@ThatguyFirst]

One comment on using the center stand: I only use it in my garage to keep the bike upright and save space. Out "in public" I don't use it because, with the rear wheel off the ground, you lose the "parking brake" effect. It would be pretty easy to bump a bike from behind and knock it off the center stand. Also, after you shut down, before you dismount, make sure the bike rolls forward as far as it can to take the "slack" out of the transmission - otherwise it might roll forward after you're off and fold the side stand. Oops. Good video Kevin, I learned a few things.

[@phil1898]

Hmm, that's interesting. Must be a relatively new thing, I've never had a bike with a parking brake! For some reason I could never bring myself to trust the sidestand.

[@2wheelsrbest327]

Thanks Kevin at 5'10" I struggle to get onto my new Pan America so I will definitely try the footrest method from the left over here in the UK. Stay safe.

[@mikemitchell3889]

Kevin, As a "recovering" rider (20 years since my last bike) --I had to finance my daughters malocclusion issues, so the Sporty went to the sales-block. Your efforts are making my re-immersion much easier. I started with an 883 sportster, very similar to the last bike I owned and that helped with bringing muscle memory current. Now I have added an Africa Twin to the stable and that 34" saddle is quite a challenge, so this "mounting" episode further enhances my technique. I will say that at 64 years, mounting my AF (with a top-box) is much like your more youthful efforts at getting on your Super Ten. Left foot on peg -- "Brilliant!" I appreciate all you do, ride well, and Thank-You, Mike

[@Hoggdoc1946]

I have riden for over 45 years and never heard the tip of turning the bars to right when bringing the bike off the side stand…. Thanks will be tring that soon with my very tall Suzuki Gen 1 V Strom 1000.

[@shawngreathouse3720]

Hey kevin, I just watched the how to mount video, and I have a 2005 Fatboy. I'm 5'9 and for me it's easier to mount cop style than from the left. I didnt know about turning the handlebars. THANK YOU for the videos they've helped me alot.

[@jamesmcgrath1952]

I'm 6'0" but I have the inseam of a guy 5'7" so sometimes it can be a pain. Now I've been riding 50+years but I allways learn something with your videos.

[@gabbyhayes1568]

I never felt comfortable taking my Concours 14 off the center stand while standing on the left side of the bike. I always felt like once it was in motion balancing it from the side could get away from you fairly quickly. I used to mount the bike and gently rock it forward with both feet down until it rolled off the stand with my hand covering the front brake. That may not be the right way, but it felt more comfortable to me. At 6'1", my feet were pretty close to the ground when straddling the bike on the stand. However, that may not be the best method for shorter guys though.

[@peteschutza3566]

If you haven't already covered it in a past video, how about tips on parking challenges. Like backing into a slot or parallel parking on uphill/downhill streets. Thanks!

[@justpassinbyy]

i was thinking this would be a good topic as well

[@cazgerald9471]

me too

[@tobyhadron3194]

I'd really like to see that too. It's those simple little things that bring new riders unstuck. I've had more than a few occasions where I've wanted to stop somewhere on a ride but couldn't figure out the best way to park the bike so just rode on.

[@tonyg1773]

Pete - good point, especially for those of us who are older and have heavy bikes...

[@bryantchandler2925]

Always park facing up the hill. If gravity don't get you out, your motor will.

[@bluerider7922]

I was able to borrow a 2020 Honda Africa Twin for a week and it is TALL. My son in law showed me how to stand on the foot peg to get my leg over the seat. I'm 73 years old and that was a Godsend because my hips don't work quite as well as they did when I was 20.

[@ronsweigart6052]

Hey Kevin, I noticed the small skid guards clamped to your front crash bars on your road king. A State Trooper (Rob) who works for HD Motor Co. as a police Fleet representative told me to buy metal clamps that look like yours for practicing my tight turns in the parking lot to save my chrome. I forget what type of clamp it was but I think it is some sort of hose clamp. Also love ever video you have put out, too bad all riders aren't required to watch them. I have taken a rider course even year since I started riding again 5 years ago. Basic, Basic II, and 2 Advanced Riders Courses. But I am lucky, in PA MSF courses are free of charge. Thanks for saving lives. You may have saved mine several times now. Ron Sweigart

[@garretlewis4103]

In regards to the center stand. I never have had any luck putting the bike on its center stand by just stepping in it like a stair. Maybe my technique is off; but, it has never worked for me on the various bikes (heavier & lighter) I've had with a center stand. What I do is everything stated in the video AND take my right hand, grab something solid on the bike (my R1150RTP actually has a handle for this), and pick up while I am stepping down and the bike comes right up on the center stand. In regards to mounting on the "high side", I've heard it is a safety thing too. If the side stand is on a soft surface or the bike for some reason falls, you are not on the "low side" and the bike is less likely to fall/land on you. Just my 2 cents. Hope some of this helps.

[@furicle]

Pull up on bike as you step up

[@ellenj8896]

GREAT VID! Thank you! And I loved, “we ride on the correct side of the road”, ha ha!

[@rjoetting7594]

All of the motor officer videos I've seen they mounted from the right by stepping up and over using the footboards. I'm 6'4" 285lbs I just recently started using this method, and it works great. I'm riding a 1992 Electra Glide Ultra Classic.

[@VanGoWanderlust]

Great video. I’ve been riding 30 years but in my older age knee pain was making it hard to just swing my leg over the same way I did as a kid. Appreciate all the alternatives to try and find another way.

[@rkba4923]

When placing right hand on hand grip, also engage the front brake. Least that's what RLAP taught. An advantage of mounting from right is it gets you away from traffic when on side of road where many accidents occur. Using the footpeg or floor board to mount from right is helpful too. It takes a bit of getting used to.

[@josea5949]

Hey Kevin, glad you showed the proper way to mount the motor (from the curb side). That's the other reason motormen don't mount/dismount on the left. That's the side traffic is and you dont want to step into a passing car. I'm also one of those vertically challenged riders so I will sometimes stand on the right floorboard and swing my left leg over the box or tour pack. I even dismount that way most times too. Again, thanks for sharing your great videos

[@wb416]

The method I use to mount and dismount my tall ADV bike (Triumph Explorer) is a "step-through" method. I thrust my right leg straight across the seat to the right side of the bike. It allows me to mount when I have gear strapped in over the pillion seat. I'm 6'2" with a 33" inseam, and this does require some work on your hamstring flexibility, so it might not work for everyone. Sometimes, when I'm tired or sore, I'll step on the pegs like you demonstrated and use that method too. Thanks for your channel!

[@SadaEKE]

I know I have long legs but dude, I'm 6' with 36'' inseam. Either I'm inhuman or you guys have short, like really short legs.

[@wb416]

pants with an inseam of 32-34 seem to be the first out of stock online or in the store.... so I'm going to go with "you're inhuman". LOL. Also, I bet you dislike deadlifts and squatting but are really good at bench press. :) (joking, of course)

[@SadaEKE]

wb416 actually I used to play football (no, not the American, the real one) so my lower body is pretty strong. However I have no upper body strength whatsoever.

[@ianparrish6543]

Kevin. Great video and very eye opening. I never knew i was mounting my bike wrong especially with luggage on my sissy bar. Thanks for this!

[@antman5474]

I wanted to see you demonstrate the Leap Frog technique

[@BigMoeFo]

Ant Laud 😂I used to do that on an old Suzuki of mine with varying degrees of success!!!🤣

[@antman5474]

Mitch Clyman ...hence safety gear lol

[@garthhowe297]

Maybe "young" Kevin might have, but I'm pretty sure that "mature" Kevin won't. LOL

[@MCrider]

No, you don't want to see that. Trust me. 😉

[@skunkhome]

MCrider, you didn’t demonstrate getting on when you have a backrest on the front saddle. None of that leg swinging will work.

[@patrickcoleman3]

Hi from Australia, well Ive been riding for 40 plus years and am pleased to know I am doing everything right amazing what experience does for a person, also as i own a Vstrom 1000 i only like to mount it from the left. Stay safe always.

[@scottschrader1630]

I rode up the Alcan to fairbanks first night there had my gallbladder removed 6 days later I'm riding home with a drain bag coming out of my right side ! Having to stop every hour yo walk around the bike ( to stop bold clots) I learned real quick how to mount from the right side of the bike . Still do today ! I weigh 290 and I can put my whole weight on the right floor board of my harley ultra and softail deluxe,short left leg lift over and I'm good to go! Great videos your doing!

[@oregonoutback7779]

I got a good giggle from your 5'11" comment. For many years (high school, etc) I was 5'11 3/4". My coaches would say "stand up straighter, suck in your gut, etc". It was funny, never could make my body gain that last 1/4". Now I'm old and have many life injuries. Shrinking farther and farther from that elusive 6' mark :)) Thanks for another quality video.

[@Brent_K]

Great information as usual. Regarding the use of the centrestand, I often mount my Royal Enfield first, warm it up and rock it off the stand (it won't run with the sidestand down). If I am on the left side I make sure my bars are pointing slightly to the right so when I push it off the CS it wants to fall against me, not away so I don't lose my balance.

[@1OlBull]

With a Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited, I personally mount from the right side, placing my right foot on the right floorboard and keeping my center of gravity over the bike, I swing my left leg (knee bent) over the backrest and past the saddlebag. Dismounting is done cop style as you demonstrated. I've seen others simply lifting their leg up high and slide into the riding position.

[@CurmudgeonExtraordinaire]

I also mount my HD FLHPI that way, but it's because of having permanently damaged my left knee many years ago. I often still need a cane to walk. Front wheel turned to the left, front brake locked, lean over the bike so that my center of gravity is as far to the left as possible, and then step up on the right floorboard and swing the bum leg over the seat and backrest. Dismounting the bike though, I do it the standard way off the left side of the bike. It's not an issue if I can keep the knee straight, but if I have to bend it, there's going to be a lot of pain and it (my bum knee) might go out from underneath me. On a narrower bike like a sportbike though, I can still mount the bike from the left side, so I'm thinking that maybe the hard bags and crash bars that are around them make me have to bend my knee so much that I can mount the bike from the left without some difficulty.

[@danielcharles-b5f]

Correct - this is the recommended way to mount/dismount Harley tourers

[@av8dr]

Thanks for the great tips. I've always been afraid that the side stand is not strong enough for my passenger to step on with me on the bike but it looks like it's OK to do.

[@wildtrapper46]

I usually mount from the right side like you say the police do. I was never a police rider, did not learn to mount the bike that way either. I just found it easier for me to do it that way, especially with the way my bike is equipped. I also dismount the same way, to the right.

[@dougerlendson6273]

Hey Kevin. I’m 6’6” tall and 66 years old. Little different for me to get on my bike. When I’m on a trip and luggage is in my way to mount my bike I grab my knee and pull it up and over. Hell getting older. Just found your website and enjoy all the does and don’t. I enjoy all the content.

[@genehauser3913]

Hey Kevin, this is off subject for this video, but I wanted to tell you that I just found your blog. Didn't know you had one! I was researching cornering and inertia on google and voila, there it was. I wonder how many of your video watchers like me don't know you write blogs? Maybe worth a mention in an upcoming video? Could be you already have but I missed it. Keep up the great work. No doubt you are helping to decrease injuries and saving lives, and we thank you for that.

[@garthhowe297]

Thanks for the tall bike tips. I recently got a "tall" bike, and as an older rider, have struggled with the mount/dismount a bit. I had wondered whether using the foot pegs was a reasonable option.

[@jamessilberschlag1705]

After a long time on various seats, and adding the wear and tear of those same years, I have worn out my left hip joint. Now, I mount from the right side (infirmities have also prompted me to transfer to a trike). Straighten out the handlebars, hold on to the right grip, step up right foot on the right footboard, left knee to the saddle, adjust and finish swinging the left foot to the left footboard. Much quicker to do than to write. And the left hip doesn't ache for the next twenty minutes!

[@ironhorsegladiator5034]

I always keep my bike in gear and not in neutral when taking it off the center-stand, mainly because I have had instances where the bike kept rolling when it is loaded with 1,000 pounds, when motorcycle camping on my BMW GSA 1250. I also load from the right to prevent too much stress on the left side-stand. Great videos and tips as always - Thank you.

[@buneerdavies5180]

After 45 years of motorcycling what can this guy teach me about getting on a bike? Well about 5 things I'd never thought of and found really handy...

[@x-man5056]

I have short legs, 29" inseam. Also have arthritis in my left hip. I can get on my Triumph Street Scrambler much easier from the right side. I don't have to hardly lift my left leg at all. I'm also stepping right over the high pipes on the right side with no issues. Learned it from Rob at "be the boss of your motorcycle". The man has incredible low speed maneuver skills also. Wheels baggers around like the are little bicycles. Former NYC Moto Cop I think.

[@newlife155]

I have only seen one other comment suggesting to put the gear box in 1st before rolling off the center stand. It makes sure the bike doesn't run away after the roll off especially on any incline. Thanks.

[@DavidSmith-me2el]

Great channel Kevin....I have a fair size bike, 08 Royal Star Venture and was always clipping the backrest when mounting from the left side, after seeing a video on one of the other youtube channels with weekly biker tips I have started mounting from the right (high) side placing a foot on the right floorboard and it works like a charm, I find it much easier, bike seems very stable. I realize this only works on the heavy bikes and while you did demonstrate a right side mount I was surprised that you didn't stand on the floorboard.

[@davemiller1007]

Almost didn’t watch this one, and discovered great tips, who knew! Especially the one about a passenger...thanks!

[@theslowride66]

I have a 1992 Electra Glide with a front mount center stand & also the side stand(Jiffy Stand on a Harley),Full tour pack with a driver's backrest, there is no leg swinging .I get on from the right side (sorta like a cop)wheel turned to the left & I grab the front brake & lift my left leg straight up in front of me with my toes pointing up when I get my leg on the seat about my calf I can then slide the rest of the way on MY CENTER STAND a passenger can get on 1st & when I am ready I just ride off .I wish I could post a picture or two.. The Forum is a good idea. Keep up the good work.

[@fredglitz]

great ideas. I have a custom Saddleman seat on my BMW 700gs. It has a raised passenger section and the bike is quite tall. The easiest way I found to mount is to turn the steering away and to foce the bike and throw my leg forward and over. I once tried to mount it from the foot peg and the switch broke and the bike would shut off once first gear was engaged. I was on the road and had to be towed to a BMW dealer. BMW covered all expenses but I will never do that again.

[@PWoods-cd6tk]

On a dual sport with a trunk and something on the backseat, sometimes I face the seat, raise my knee, and extend my leg up and over the seat, then slide over the motorcycle, but typically I use the pegs and swing my right leg over the trunk. I'm 5' 9" and almost 50, so hopefully if I keep doing this I won't get too stiff. I'm paranoid about getting my right foot hung up on something and toppling the motorcycle over to the right. Center stands are stable and safe and it looks cool if you can take off without putting your feet down.

[@edmundkonkolich8743]

6'2" w/a 32" inseam & I mount my '05 Suzuki GSF1200s Bandit from the L/S by swingin' the R leg over when she's unladen. However, I do the"step-thru" when there's something on the back 1/2 of the seat. I'm kinda stiff in the knees from bein' heavy most of my life & doin' the step-thru can be a bit of a pain, but w/somethin' on the seat it's either that or ridin' is a no-go. I believe I'll try a variation of the "Police Mount" to see if holdin' on that way might make the step-thru any easier. Thanks for another great video lesson.

[@richardmourdock2719]

Glad you showed the Super Ten "stand on the left peg method." I own one as well and at 5'10 and 67 years old, it is definitely the easy way BUT... Given where Super Tens are used, I'd suggest adding to the footprint of the side stand (adding more square inches to the bottom than the stock side stand). In soft soils, standing on the left peg with the OEM sidestand could result in a quick dump of the bike and in your direction... Not a good combination.

[@andreikaportsev6684]

Richard Mourdock One can carry a wood block to use on unstable grounds :)

[@gorillaau]

The "hockey puck" is a good idea. A half inch high disc around 3 to 4 inches is enough even in sand.

[@richardmourdock2719]

True enough. But I permanently attached my "bigger footprint" because I didn't want to be standing next to the bike in soft conditions, digging through my stuff with one hand while balancing it, dropping it in place and then maneuvering it to exactly the right spot with one foot. Put it on, forget about it seemed the simple route and it works great.

[@jimsz0100]

At the age of 70 I traded my FJR for a Burgman maxi scooter. I find that I ride a lot more and no longer feel the need to go 150+ mph.

[@russellhorn6372]

I have a driver back rest on my Honda Valkyrie. Fortunately it will fold forward to help in mounting and dismounting the motorcycle. Also the bike is heavy enough that I can mount the motorcycle on either side by stepping up on the floorboards. The driver backrest is totally worth the little amount of inconvenience getting on or off the bike.

[@kkooloo5781]

Thanks for explaining which side to mount it left or right

[@davealley2761]

Turning the bars right is a new one on me! I'll use that with my wife. With the bike parked on the left side of the garage, I often dismount my 1100 Honda Shadow cop-style...and yes, I grab the crash bar..... 'cuz I'm old! Also, there's the "grab your pant leg and stick your foot through first"; handy when she's sitting up there already! Even though I started riding 'way before motorcycle endorsements, I find your videos have made me a safer rider. You've challenged me to keep trying to improve mt "parking lot" turns. I'm fine under way, but my balance skills still suck going that slow and tight...but I practice anyway. (Now if I could only fasten a 50# shot bag under the engine...)

[@srhintz]

I saw the title and thought, what kind of nonsense is this, I have to watch it. Well I actually enjoyed the vid. The tip about turning the bars before righting the bike is something I never thought of, thanks. So a S10 and a HD Bagger? Nice.

[@bigjim383]

It is early in the riding season here, but everyday I mount/dismount my bike about 10 times, getting in shape for the upcoming season.

[@kcpl8er]

I'm 5'5" tall and the way I get a bike off of the center stand is to mount the bike, be at the ready with the front brake and the side stand up rock the bike forward and once both tires are on the ground apply the front brake then extend the side stand and lean the bike onto the center stand .

[@longt61]

Thanks for the good tips as I have learned many things to join the new rider group. And you are absolutely right about the correct riding side of the road. Lol. Ride safe and keep up the good work.

[@marksheppard5488]

Great clear and simple demo's. Like most things we do what we learnt first without thinking of other options. Thank you Kevin for making me think of other ways in different situations. Mark 5' 10''

[@dadtrap]

Kevin I was an instructor on large power equipment for years. I always told my students do a quick walk the vehicle including motorcycles to check for any visible fluid leaks etc. I also had them get in on the left side including getting on a motorcycle. One person asked me I told them since the starting of time horses were mounted on the left side and it just makes sense the way bikes are built. I have to confess I get on my softail and sportster on the left side but my ultra from the right don’t ask why

[@danrahn9863]

I've always mounted from the right side. I'm 5'6" and I'd rather have the motorcycle fall away from me, just in case. :)

[@dadtrap]

Dan Rahn great point

[@worldofzap]

I think it is an ultra thing. I don’t like dragging my jiffy stand across the ground while turning the handle bars to the right. I know it will not hurt it I just don’t like it. So I get on the side with the most room, which is the right side when parked. Also, I can fold my left leg a bit better than my right so I don’t hit the tourpac or the seat. I have gotten on and off the left side of the bike when my handlebars are turned right usually when I am getting gas.

[@ChrisS-sw1ll]

Think it's the panniers, another comment pointed it out. I am the same with my heritage. You don't want your foot to be coming down on the higher pannier

[@rideon379]

A right side pass through method is easier on baggers with tour packs. Hold on right brake with right hand. Grab left cuff of pant, or tongue of shoe, pick up foot and pass through. Easy and you keep your balance. I also haul bikes for a living, the absolute best way to be sure not to do boot damage to a customers motorcycle. Also if you have lower back issues you don't twist your body. Works great if you have a rider backrest, or a passenger already on the bike, but it's not "cool". Love the videos, keep it up.

[@LakeOfLitSterno]

I ride a tall-seated Versys 1000LT. I use the right knee on the saddle trick, but also, when swiveling into riding position (from facing the bike to facing forward), I raise up on my left toe. This makes it easier to get the right leg over the seat. I do not mount the left footpeg out of fear the side stand might collapse, leaving me no way to catch the bike from falling toward me if that happened. So, it's right knee on the seat, then up on the left toe as I rotate to face forward. I'm no spring chicken, and if you don't mount these tall bikes efficiently you can put a lot of stress on hip joints and legs!

[@MrEye4get]

I injured my back and hips (several times) in the Army. I am 5'10" and have a short inseam. I stand on the left peg to make it easier to step up and swing my right leg over the panniers and back rest. It took some practice but it is natural now.

[@mindfield7]

I did a nice dismount once when I left the disc lock on and tried to take off. :) Another great video!

[@karlastringham416]

I mount my Ultra Limited from the right side with the handle bars locked left. I squeeze in the brake with my right hand, step up on the floor board, swing my left leg over, slide down into the seat and then turn the handle bars to the right to pick up. I find this easier to do with my height at 5’5 and with having my back rest to navigate over.

[@richardparkersmith4810]

I have an adventure bike and use the centre stand quite often. One safety tip I have is to just be careful when pushing the bike off its centre stand that the side stand does not drag along the ground, go over- centre and fold. Keep the bike vertical until it stops.

[@thereplacementfordisplacement]

Inspect your side stand. They can be weakened by cracks and corrosion. Saw an older GS fall on my brother as he mounter the bike using the pegs putting stress on the stand causing it to collapse at an old crack. He wasn't injured and the bike survived but had to fiddle with the kickstand start lockout so we could ride bikes home and deal with the issue/repair.

[@charlescummings1484]

Hi Kevin, one way I mount a tall KTM 690 is to face the bike, and swing my leg straight up and out over the seat and mount. Similar to the last part of a football kicker leg kick. Works for me. I never used this way when I was 18.

[@4-n52]

Nice video. I always pick up at least one little detail when I watch these.

[@jameszee7585]

Hello, I am 5’8” with a 28” inseam. I bought a 2002 Ultra Classic. The dealer showed me to mount it on the jiffy stand side. Using the passenger foot board. Step on it with my left leg, grab the handle bars. Kneel on the seat with my right leg. Then swing my right leg up and over the tour pack.

[@MrPhendy2002]

I know this breaks all the rules, but I have been riding for many years and I'm only 5"6. , I mount from the right, away from the stand. I slide my knee onto the seat first, this allows me to swing my left foot across using knee as pivot.. I have found this really easy and quick to get onto bike, avoiding any swinging of legs.

[@afterburner2869]

Kevin, I would love an episode on riding with a passenger, the do’s and don’ts of both the rider and passenger. Also an episode dedicated to techniques for safe night riding.

[@joshua.merrill]

Turning the bars to the right to make is easier will be nice to try out with a passenger! I've just been muscling it up this entire time!

[@ruckus48]

Hey Kevin, great video as usual. One comment about mounting a cruiser with side bags from the right: with the bike on the side stand the right bag is higher than the left bag. Lifting your leg over the right bag first is easier than having to clear it from the left side. Especially helpful for someone with limited flexibility.

[@ChrisS-sw1ll]

Thanks for that. I always mount my heritage from the right. That must be why !

[@frankdavis230]

So simple, but good information! Thanks, and Ride SAFE..

[@maxwellmark]

Something to be aware of is foot position when bringing the bike down from the center stand with the side stand also in the down position. If your left foot is too close to the bike the side stand could crush your foot and can cause you to loose control possibly dropping the bike on you as well. I have not had this happen with full impact but I have been close... once is all it takes to be careful and pay attention to your foot placement.

[@christopherfassett9973]

I know I'm very late to this video but just wanted to say, I had the hardest time figuring out the center stand on my Vulcan at first, I only weigh 150 lbs and that just wasn't enough to lever it up. I found that I can grab the passenger handle under the seat and lift it at the same time that I'm stepping. I'm not lifting the bike, but I'm using it to put more weight (pressure technically) on the center stand's leverage point and that brings it right up.

[@twowheeledanimal4805]

I too, often forget which side of the road to ride on but I have a CDL so it's okay.

[@garykrager7772]

I actually use a method you didn't describe. I'm a bit over 6'-8" tall and ride a GL1800 Goldwing with a custom 4"-5" taller seat with a large rider backrest that doesn't fold forward even as low as the rear seat level. For me, the easiest (and possibly only) way I mount my bike is to face the bike from the left (low) side and place my left hand atop my reservoir and kick my right foot over the front portion of the seat, pivot on my left foot as my right leg is sliding across the seat. As that is happening, I'm reaching for the right hand grip and brake lever. A slight 'hop' on my left foot centers me on the bike and I'm squarely on the seat & ready to go.

[@timg1262]

Thanks for the vid! I just got a motorcycle and getting on it was very awkward and uncomfortable but your techniques will probably make it a lot easier now

[@mitch9198]

Hi Kevin.....this is not relevant to this video,some time ago I watched your video/explanation regarding planing your escape route when stopped at traffic lights/junctions.the following day I rode out just to try out some modifications id made on the bike.The first set of traffic lights I came to I thought Id put in practice your advise . Think you might guess what happened next........sure enough the fella approaching me from behind was looking down at his mobile ! ! Im almost sure if I hadn't seen your video I wouldnt be adding this comment. NEVER NEVER give up your work Kevin. Many thanks Mitch Pepper.

[@MCrider]

Awesome Mitchell, thanks for sharing this with me.

[@Shaiy007]

Yeah, I too have used this fellows advice and applied it many times in the real world and that is why I have to help support this channel, which has helped me many times understand the importance of practicing good rider skills. I watch and rewatch these helpful videos just to refresh my memory from time to time. Thank you MCrider!!👍🙂

[@douglascollins3335]

Mitch, what video was it regarding your escape route? Be safe riding.

[@AutomotiveAllStars]

Great tips Kev I learn something from every video you upload thank you from Australia

[@patrickfredette8064]

Thank you! Didn't expect to learn so much on mounting bike !

[@CocoaBeachLiving]

It's funny, I never thought about this..I use both left and right sides of my vtx1300c, depending on the situation. But you have me thinking about it 👍😁

[@andreikaportsev6684]

I have been watching this video and half way through I thought it would have been nice if Kevin could have posted another video about the center stands.. :) Then watched a bit further.. My wish have come true! :) Thanks Kevin!