Motorcycles are typically equipped with two supporting parts, namely the side stand and the center stand. The side stand is often used for practicality, allowing riders to park their bikes without the need to lift them. Have you ever wondered why the side stand is located on the left side of the motorcycle, instead of the right side or on both sides?
The side stand is considered practical because it eliminates the need to lift the motorcycle. Its main purpose is to support the bike temporarily, especially when parking. The history of installing the side stand on the left side dates back a long time ago. The tradition of placing the side stand on the left side originated from the practice of mounting horses. Horse riders were trained to mount their horses from the left side.
This practice made it easier for them to swing their right leg over, as the left leg was occupied by the sword they carried. Left-handed individuals were uncommon back then, so people in the past predominantly stored their weapons on the left side for easy access with their right hand. This mounting tradition continued with the invention of bicycles.
Initially, the direction of traffic in Europe was similar to Indonesia, with traffic flowing on the left side of the road. As bicycles became a popular mode of transportation, the need for side stands arose to facilitate parking and organization. Side stands were introduced to keep bicycles steady when not in use, and they were positioned on the left side to maintain the riding habit established during the era of horse riding.
The practice of installing side stands on the left side was popularized by British motorcycle manufacturers. The advent of bicycles and motorcycles originated in Europe, and manufacturers adopted the tradition of horse mounting when designing their two-wheeled vehicles. British motorcycle manufacturers were among the most prolific in Europe.
The British later spread this practice worldwide, as they adhered to left-lane traffic rules and had numerous colonies across the globe. By positioning the side stand on the left side, motorcycles could be easily leaned towards the safe side of the road, reducing the risk of being hit by oncoming traffic. This positioning ensured better maneuverability and safety while parking, aligning with the prevailing strength distribution in most people’s bodies.
Most motorcycle riders use their left foot to support the bike when stopping, while keeping their right foot on the rear brake pedal for balance. This ergonomic setup allows riders to operate the side stand comfortably without losing control. Additionally, the mechanical components such as the chain or CVT transmission on bikes are predominantly located on the left side, making it more stable when leaned to the left.
Traditionally, motorcycles were kick-started before the advent of electric starters, with the kickstarter located on the right side for most motorcycles, except for scooters. By tilting the motorcycle to the left, the range to access the kickstarter increases compared to tilting it to the right. Therefore, the left-side stand supports the motorcycle when kick-starting it.
Using the side stand for prolonged periods can cause the stand to bend at the base and hinge due to excessive load-bearing. It can also cause imbalanced wear on the front shock absorber, resulting in premature deterioration on the left side due to uneven weight distribution. Therefore, larger or sport motorcycles should utilize a paddock stand for extended parking durations.
When parked on an incline or decline, motorcycles can easily tip over if pushed towards the right side. The side stand acts as the primary pivot point while parked, making the motorcycle susceptible to sliding when resting on uneven or sloped surfaces. As a result, motorcycles parked uphill or downhill are at risk of sliding and toppling due to the gravitational pull towards the unsupported side.
In conclusion, the positioning of the side stand on the left side of motorcycles is rooted in historical equestrian practices. This side stand not only aids in supporting two-wheeled vehicles but also enhances rider safety and convenience when parking. Its natural inclination towards the left side facilitates kick-starting and offers protection to riders while mounting their motorcycles. The enduring presence of the left-side stand reflects a combination of historical traditions, ergonomic considerations, and safety precautions in the design of motorcycles.
