One of the primary reasons why mountain bikes don’t have kickstands is because kickstands can get in the way when riding on uneven terrain.
Another reason is that having an extra piece of hardware like a kickstand would add unnecessary weight and alter the way a bike handles.
Therefore, for pro mountain bikers, having a kickstand isn’t necessary and adds bulk that riders would rather avoid.
Do mountain bikes have kickstands?
No, most of them don’t have.
Although modern mountain bikes are often created without kickstands, still, you will see some bikes with them.
You will see kickstands commonly on lower-end models or those made for kids and young teens. Kickstands are very rare on mid-range or high-end mountain bikes since most of these are designed for long adventures that don’t require a kickstand.
This is why it’s usually safer to assume that, no, most mountain bikes don’t have kickstands.
Deciding whether to get one or not is entirely up to the rider and will ultimately depend on their personal preferences.
7 Reasons why mountain bikes do not have kickstands
1-Adds extra weight
Cyclists are incredibly focused on weight and makes sure every available ounce of it is used to create the lightest, fastest bike possible. Special skin-tight clothing is designed specifically for road cyclists to minimize air resistance, and accessories that provide comfort, such as a rear rack or kickstand, are left off due to their weight.
2-Adds extra cost
Although a single bike stand won’t cost too much, this may seem minimal for a high-end road bike that typically costs over $500, but for a company looking to save money in production and maximize profits, it’s an easy way to cut costs.
Also, some manufacturers sell kickstands separately, and you have to pay extra, and that’s how it is a more profitable way to make some money.
3-Can catch stuff on the way
Riding a mountain bike is an incredibly thrilling experience; you don’t want to risk it being turned into a nightmarish disaster through the addition of a kickstand.
Kickstands can catch roots, branches, sticks, or any number of obstacles when you find yourself on a descent.
With this in mind, most mountain bikes lack this attachment as people opt to lean them against nearby trees or rocks.
Ultimately, safety wins over convenience regarding kickstands and mountain bikes.
4-Risk of accident
Kickstands are convenient for keeping your bike upright while you rest or adjust things, but a kickstand can cause accidents as well.
By design, kickstands shift the weight of the bicycle onto their legs when in use, causing an unstable centre of balance, making it easier to tip over or slip on loose terrain.
When you’re out on a mountain trail, this reduced stability decreases your reaction time if you have to make quick turns or abrupt stops, both of which can cause serious harm.
5-Creates Drag during a ride
Further, riding with a kickstand increases drag which can tire you out quickly over long distances.
6-Shakes & Rattles
When it comes to mountain bikes, specialized frame angles and sizes are key as they are meant to give optimal balance and performance. However, installing a kickstand disrupts this.
The bike’s weight is no longer evenly distributed, so you could easily find yourself off balance. Not only can the kickstand weaken your downhill speed and make the bike harder to manage – but it can also create technical problems like throwing off-chain tension and adding stress to places on the frame that aren’t designed for it.
7-There is no need for it.
The simple answer to why you don’t need a kickstand on your mountain bike is because it is just unnecessary.
There are much better ways to park your bike after you’ve had a trail ride so save yourself from buying the best kickstand in the market or double-leg kickstands whatsoever.
What are the alternate ways to support a bike without a kickstand
1-Removable kickstand
If you want to find a reasonable way to add support to your bike, the first simple answer is to add a removable kickstand.
Its Installation is straightforward – all you need to do is quickly attach the fixing piece onto the quick-release lever of the rear wheel, followed by securing the kickstand into the piece. When it’s time for storage, all you need to do is remove the extension rod, and you’re good to go.
2-Lay your bike down
Knowing where to lean your bike is an important part of owning and riding a bicycle. As someone who has been using road bikes for years, I find it relatively simple to find a fence, pole, tree or something similar that is strong enough to support my bike. But if these options aren’t available, you can also choose to lay your bike on the ground.
3-A parking rack can help
If you’re looking for a stable way to store your bike for longer periods of time and don’t want to risk it falling over and getting damaged, then a bike parking rack can be a great solution. Unlike the other options out there, these racks are designed specifically for storing bicycles, so you’ll get an extra level of confidence knowing your bicycle is supported properly. They’re not ideal for transporting anywhere since they are heavier than other support solutions, but if you intend to use them just at home or at the office, then they make a great way to keep your bicycle standing upright while not in use.
Pros and cons of kickstands
Pros
- Provides support to your bike.
- Useful for bike surface protection, as lying the bike on a flat surface can scratch your bike’s frame.
- Useful while washing your bike.
- It helps as support during maintenance and inspection.
- Very useful for new bikers and beginners.
Cons
- Adds extra weight. Although not too much, but little.
- Adds extra cost.
- Makes the bike a little heavier.
- It can cause injury if something is caught on the kickstand on your way.
Sum Up: Should you try a kickstand with your mountain bike?
If you’re the type of rider who loves to explore hilly terrain, then adding a kickstand to your mountain bike may be unnecessary and even hazardous. But if you often use your mountain bike for commuting or just casual rides, then having a kickstand is essential for convenience. It can come in handy when you want to park quickly on the streets when there are no bicycle racks or other definitive places designated for parking. And since the kickstand is a very simple addition, you won’t need to make any drastic changes – it all depends on your own personal choice!
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Biking has become an essential part of my life. Not only does it help me stay fit, but it also allows me to share my experience and knowledge of biking with others. I enjoy the challenge of cycling, the satisfaction of completing a long ride, and the feeling of freedom that comes with being on the open road. For me biking is a great way to explore the world, and to stay fit and healthy.