Mountain bike kickstands are different. They need to be extra strong as mountain bikes themselves are stronger than the typical bikes. You can’t just use a normal kickstand with your mountain bike because it doesn’t just go right.
You need something that comes with heavy-duty construction while it doesn’t add extra weight to your bike. And yes, sometimes the typical kickstand does slip a lot, so you need an anti-slip feature as well. How about something that doesn’t get rusted easily?
All these features and more can be piled up together to form the best mountain bike kickstand. And we really have some kickstands that do show off these features. Keep reading to know more.
A Quick Lookup at Our Favourites
- Aluminum Body
- Polished Finish
- Suitable For Mountain Bikes
- Adjustable Height
- Dual Suspension
- Aluminum Frame
- Adjustable Length
- Rust & Water Proof
- Adjustable Length
- Easy To Install
- Steel Construction
- Coil Spring
What Is a Kickstand?
A kickstand is a simple yet very effective way to prop up your bike when you aren’t riding it. Can you imagine if you had to lay your bike on the floor every time it isn’t being used?
Yes, it may be possible if you owned the bike for a couple of years and it has already gone through some wear and tear. But what if you just bought it? No one would want their brand-new bike to be lying on the ground.
A kickstand is a great little tool attached to your bike to help it stay upright. You can kick it in a vertical position and balance the bike against it. When you’re riding the bike, you can just kick the kickstand back, and it will easily go to a horizontal position to avoid any distractions when riding.
In fact, kickstands aren’t just used for mountain bikes. They also come with motorcycles. Basically, anything that runs on two wheels can benefit from a kickstand.
Types of Bike Kickstands
There are two main types of kickstands. A side stand and a double-legged kickstand. Both are pretty self-explanatory but let’s get into a bit more detail about how they differ.
Side Stand
A side stand goes exactly where the name suggests. It will be on the side of the bike, and the bike is rested on the stand. For most people, this type will work just fine.
However, some might feel like they don’t give you much stability. That might be true compared to a double-legged kickstand, but it isn’t completely the case.
A good side stand will have non-slip pads that make sure it stays put. You need to ensure you get the right-sized stand, though. Otherwise, the bike will fall over.
Double Leg Bike Kickstand
The other type is the double-legged one. Unlike a side stand, two legs practically help the bike to stay upright. This can give you more stability in some cases.
Especially if you need to work on the bike for repairs or any modification, these types of kickstands should be your go-to.
However, we don’t expect this one to be the more common type since most bikers who ride their bikes daily use a side stand. A double kickstand for heavy bikes seems like the more appropriate use case.
Top 7 Best Kickstands for Mountain Bike
When you have so many options for a kickstand, buying the right one can be a daunting task. We rounded up the best ones and give you a complete review of the top 7 picks.
1. BV Bike Kickstand
What makes a kickstand a good kickstand for your bike? If you ask us, it should be durable first, and a little style also doesn’t hurt either. This one from the guys over at BV Bike Kickstand checks both of those boxes.
For starters, the build of this kickstand is very impressive, thanks to the aluminum alloy it uses. When you have it installed on your bike, you don’t have to worry about the kickstand coming loose or breaking under pressure.
The design is nothing to get too excited about, though. That being said, it isn’t the worst-looking kickstand you can find. There are two color options available, a black and a silver one.
Needless to say, we love the black one because it gives it a premium look. Plus, it features a polished finish which further enhances its looks. Mounting the thing is easy too. It will seamlessly fit on an oval or rectangle tube chain that’s between 22 and 28 mm thick.
Whether you have a mountain bike or a trekking bike, you can use this with no problems whatsoever. And since it’s adjustable, you will have some versatility in it too.
Pros
- Durable build quality
- Multiple color options
- Adjustable
- Seamless fit
Cons
- It will not fit all oval-shaped chain tubes
2. Lumintrail Center Mount Double Leg Kickstand
Lumintrail Center Mount is one of the highest-rated kickstands. Customers love it. So, what do they like about it, actually?
A double kickstand for heavy bikes is useful when you want to add some extra stability. That’s why we decided to mark it as the best performance kickstand. The thing that makes this one different from the rest is its ability to accommodate big bikes.
This double-legged kickstand can hold the bike upright. That’s good if you need to perform any repairs or don’t want your precious bike to be slanted on one side. If you work in a shop and are constantly fixing broken bikes, you will not regret this one.
The adjustability is also great for the most part. It’s easy to adjust since it uses a push-button latch system. You won’t be needing any pesky tools when you adjust it.
On-the-go adjustability like this is one of those quality-of-life features that are hard to live without once you have experienced it. So, let us warn you, you might be spoiled a bit.
Plus, the non-slip sole and the surprisingly good build quality are nothing to complain about either.
It will fit bike tires that are between 24 to 28 inches. That makes it a good buy for commuter bikes, though. For road bikes, we wouldn’t suggest this particular model.
Pros
- Tool-less adjustability
- Good build quality
- Stands the bike upright
- Non-slip sole
Cons
- Not recommended for road bikes
3. BV Adjustable Concealed Spring-Loaded Kickstand
Another kickstand and another BV product. What did the company come up with this time to earn two spots in this review? Well, how about a toolless adjusting mechanism with a non-slip base?
That tool-less adjusting feature is quite a cool little innovation this kickstand brings to the table. Compared to many other ones in the market, adjusting this one is very easy.
Another cool little thing is you can balance your bike on uneven ground with this one. This is because of the angle that it has. Speaking of balancing your bike, there is also a non-slip reinforced foot that makes sure your bike stays put. What is the point of a kickstand if it slips and topples your bike over?
Thankfully, scenarios like these are a thing of the past now. It has the same level of premium build quality that you would expect from a brand like BV. Besides, the rating for this kickstand alone speaks to its merit.
Design-wise, it actually looks very similar to the previous one. However, that isn’t too much of a problem. There are only so many ways you can design a good quality premium kickstand.
Pros
- Innovative tool-less adjustability
- Durable build quality
- Adequate design
- Non-slip reinforced foot
- Can balance on uneven ground
Cons
- Not the best for a touring bike
4. Schwinn Bike Stand
Schwinn is a trusted name when it comes to bike-related products. So, it’s no surprise that the company would make one of the best mountain bike kickstands as well.
This particular model is a great choice for those who need a durable and sturdy kickstand. It’s made of steel, so you can expect it to last for a long time.
Design-wise this is quite the looker. The black color gives it quite a stealthy look, and the red Schwinn branding adds a bit of personality to the whole thing. Minimalistic and classy is how we would describe the design of this one.
Build quality is also top-notch. Its heavy-duty construction will make sure it keeps your bike completely grounded and won’t buckle under pressure. A kickstand for a mountain bike that can’t even hold the bike upright?
Fortunately, you don’t have to deal with any of those with this one. If you’re wondering about the fit, it will fit bikes that are 20 to 27 inches. Thus, making it quite a versatile kickstand too.
Pros
- Solid construction
- Good design
- Easy to assemble
- Adjustable
Cons
- Needs to be mounted properly; otherwise, the peg might fall out
5. Yeipower Bike Bicycle Kickstand
Yes, we know that the name of this one is quite a mouthful. But if you’re in the market for an adjustable bike kickstand, this is one of the better buys.
The unique and innovative thing about this one is it mounts in the center of the bike. That should give you more stability.
This kickstand is great for adjusting 16 to 18 inches tires. The adjustability of this kickstand is quite good as well. You will find a wrench in the package which can be used to change the length of the bicycle bracket.
A good kickstand is nothing if it isn’t durable. The rust-proof solid aluminum alloy construction of this one makes it quite a robust kickstand. Not only that, it even has a waterproof coating and will not wear as easily.
Once deployed, your mountain bike isn’t going anywhere either. That’s thanks to the non-slip bottom. It makes sure your bike will stay firmly planted.
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Non-slip bottom base
- Water and wear-resistant
- Cool design
- Adjustable bracket length
Cons
- Not the best for use with wider tires
6. TOPCABIN Bike Kickstand
If build quality is your top priority, this one from TOPCABIN deserves a close look. The best part is it doesn’t sacrifice other features for build alone.
So, let’s touch on that build first, then. It’s made from aluminum alloy and is frankly a tank of a kickstand. It’s as robust as it looks. TOPCABIN didn’t just stop there. In a show of pure due diligence, they even went ahead and made this kickstand waterproof, wear and rust-resistant.
You can adjust the height as well. Simply loosen the middle screw with the wrench and adjust it however you like it. The kickstand can be adjusted between 12.2 to 14.2 inches.
This one will also fit on a lot of different types of bikes. Whether you have a BMX, mountain bike, or 700-road bike, as long as they are either 22, 24, 36, or 28 inches, you should be all good.
If you are searching for a robust and high-quality rear-mounted kickstand for a bicycle, TOPCABIN has you covered.
Pros
- Phenomenal build quality
- Adjustable
- Water and rust-resistant
- Adequate design
Cons
- A bit bulky
7. Sataway Bike Kickstand
Alright, let’s finish off the review with this double-legged kickstand from Sataway. With its easy installation process and versatile adjusting features, this is a great kickstand for a mountain bike.
You can install this stand on most 26, 27, and 28-inch tires. A good thing about this particular one is you can install it on a bike that has a center mounting plate. That’s thanks to the 2 sets of optional screw kits. Installing it is easy too, so no worries there.
Durability is on point as well. The kickstand is made from an aluminum alloy which not only makes it light but also robust. On top of that, it’s anti-rust.
Keeping your bike in place is the non-slip foot. So, even if you stand it on a wet surface, it should hold just fine. Couple the non-slip foot with its dual-legged design, and you essentially have a very stable kickstand.
Pros
- Durable build
- Anti-rust
- Easy to install
- Very stable
Cons
- The design isn’t the best
What to Look for Before Buying a Kickstand
It’s easy to just pick a product that has been recommended to you. But if you know what to look for when buying a kickstand, you can make a more informed choice. At the end of the day, you are the only person who knows what you exactly want. Here are the things you need to consider before pulling the trigger.
Compatibility
Kickstands will have different sizes. Not all of them will fit all mountain bikes. That’s why it’s important to make sure you get the right size for your bike. Without the right size, it will not serve its purpose.
Too small, your bike will just fall to the ground, and if it’s too big, the stand will push your bike over.
Durability
Then comes the durability of the kickstand. A well-made kickstand will last you a long time. It also ensures that your bike is properly supported and that the stand won’t break when some pressure is applied.
All good kickstands will be made from aluminum alloy. This material not only makes the stand light but also gives it some strength. So, it’s a win-win situation for you. You can also look into additional durability features like waterproofing, rust, and wear resistance.
Design
This will depend on your personal preference. Although the design won’t have an impact on the performance of the stand, it’s still something to consider. Why not get a stylish kickstand that you will love using?
There are a lot of options available. Pick the color and the design aesthetic according to your taste. We like minimalistic designs, but that might not be the case for you.
The good news is you will find a lot of different designs. So, it shouldn’t be that difficult to choose one that you like.
Brand and Price
When it comes to settling on a brand and price point, just go with the most reputed brand within your budget. Kickstands do not cost an arm and a leg. So, price shouldn’t be an issue for the most part.
As for a brand, all the ones we mentioned in this review are quite reputable. No matter which one you choose from, make sure it checks all the other boxes we mentioned above, like size and build.
When and Why Should You Need a Bike Kickstand?
If you do some digging around, you will find not all bikes come with a kickstand. This might make you wonder, do you need a kickstand in the first place? If it were so important, wouldn’t the manufacturer install it from the factory?
Well, the answer to this is a bit more complicated. Not all bikes come with a kickstand because not everyone needs it. Road bikes don’t really need a kickstand.
A kickstand will add weight and drag. Road cyclists prefer minimalism and speed. But if you want to be able to prop up your bike without it falling over, a kickstand will really shine in that case.
Especially for mountain and touring bikes, you won’t always find something to lean your bike against on the mountain. And you certainly don’t want to put your bike on the ground.
In this case, a kickstand will be a very easy way to stand up your bike when you aren’t riding it. Touring bikes may have heavy packs on them. You also don’t want to place the bike on the ground in this case, either.
If your bike already comes with a kickstand built-in, then there is no need to go ahead and buy a new one. For most people, a kickstand is a very convenient thing to have.
Mountain Bike Kickstand Alternative
Here is a little secret; you don’t absolutely need a kickstand. If for some reason, you just don’t like the look of it, there are different ways you can still stand your bike upright.
But none of them are quite as easy as just having a kickstand.
Leaning the Bike
The most obvious way you can keep your mountain bike propped up is by leaning it against a support. Whether it’s a tree or a large rock, leaning on the bike will achieve the same thing.
There are a couple of spots you can lean the bike from. You can either choose to lean the handlebar or the back wheels. If you have a buddy with you, then you two can lean both your bikes against each other.
Your bikes can bond as well this way. Okay, jokes aside, leaning two bikes against each other is a viable option. But it, of course, takes a bit more time to balance them.
Turning the Bike Upside Down
If you’re adamant about not keeping the bike on the floor, you can actually turn the bike upside down and place it that way. When you find the perfect balance, it will stay propped up quite nicely. Of course, this is more of an unconventional means of propping a bike up.
Frequently Asked Questions
When picking out a kickstand, it’s very important to make sure you get the right size. Measure the center of the bottom brackets to the floor. This is the minimal length of kickstand you should buy.
Most mountain bikes will not come with a kickstand included since most people don’t want the additional weight. Plus, the kickstand can also get stuck on things. Those who want one can just easily install one later.
This will depend on whether you want one. If you want to be able to prop your bike up easier, then a kickstand is a no-brainer. But If you think you can do without it and you will just lean the bike against support, then you don’t really need to.
Bike kickstands aren’t universal per se. You need to pick the right size for the right bike. You can say the ones that mount on the rear of your bike without a mounting plate are universal kickstands.
Most mountain and road bikes don’t have kickstands because it adds additional weight.
Installing a kickstand is easy. Just unscrew the mounting plate and latch it on your bike. Then, just make the final adjustments and secure the kickstand in place. This is, of course, only a top-level overview of the whole process.
Wrapping Up!
After reading all these, you may think, ‘should I really get a mountain bike kickstand?’ And we say, ‘You should.’ When you’re riding through the mountains, you won’t be able to keep your bike upright, and that’s when you’ll feel the need for the kickstand.
Don’t you even worry about getting any inconvenience because you won’t be getting it anytime soon? All you need to do is get your hands on the best mountain bike kickstand, and you won’t even feel that your bike has gained extra weight.
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