Why Don't Road Bikes Have Kickstands and Do Motorcycles?
In the world of cycling, especially with road bikes, the debate over the absence of kickstands is a common one. While motorcycles have embraced kickstands for decades, road bikes often leave them out for practical and aesthetic reasons. Let's delve deeper into why this is the case and how it differs between bicycles and motorcycles.
Why Road Bikes Lack Kickstands
Material Considerations: A road bike is often compared to a fine Swiss watch; it is built with the finest materials and components to be as efficient as possible. Typically, road bikes can cost thousands of dollars, and they are designed to be as lightweight as possible to ensure maximum performance. A successful road bike can weigh anywhere from 15 to 18 pounds. Every gram of weight matters to professional cyclists or serious enthusiasts. A kickstand, while lightweight, is an unnecessary extra that adds weight.
The fragility of materials also plays a role. High-end road bikes often have frames made of carbon fiber, which is even more susceptible to damage. Placing the bike on a kickstand could potentially lead to scratches or other forms of damage. Motorcycles, on the other hand, are not subject to such stringent weight or material considerations as bicycles, making kickstands more practical for them.
Kickstands: Practicality and Necessity
Leaning Against Obstacles: For many modern cyclists, leaning the bike against a wall or a building serves the purpose of a kickstand. Alternatively, lying the bike on its side is another option. These methods are sufficient for most casual or light-weight users. This is particularly true for road bikes, which are often used for commuting or recreational riding.
Perception and Aesthetics: Another reason road cyclists avoid kickstands is their perception. Having a kickstand can make a cyclist look like a dork. Many experienced cyclists strive for a sleek and professional appearance, and a kickstand does not align with that image. It's a small but significant aspect of the overall aesthetic and practicality of a road bike.
Comparison with Motorcycles
Widespread Use of Kickstands in Motorcycles: In the realm of motorcycles, kickstands (or side stands) are a standard feature on most models. They are equipped for practical reasons, such as when a motorcycle needs to be parked temporarily without assistance. Unlike road bikes, motorcycles do not face the same weight and material constraints, making kickstands more feasible and usable.
Modern Features and Electric Starters: In the past, motorcycles relied on kickstarts for starting the engine. However, advancements in technology have led to the widespread adoption of electric starters. This change rendered kickstarts less necessary for motorcycles. Additionally, modern motorcycles are required to meet emissions norms such as BS6 standards, which incorporate features that reduce the need for kickstarts, such as fuel injection systems that start with the first crank.
Conclusion and Reflections
The absence of kickstands on road bikes is a natural result of their design philosophy and the demands of professional and serious cyclists. However, the question itself is often driven by curiosity rather than necessity. Motorcycles, on the other hand, continue to use kickstands due to practical considerations and technological advancements.
Ultimately, the presence or absence of a kickstand is a matter of design and personal preference. For many, the elegance and functionality of a road bike without a kickstand are preferred over the practicality of a motorcycle with one.