The Complete Guide to Paddock Stands: How to Use Them & Choose the Right One
If you’re serious about motorcycle maintenance, then paddock stands are an essential part of your toolkit. Whether you're adjusting the chain, cleaning wheels, prepping for track day, or storing your bike over winter, paddock stands make the job easier, safer, and more efficient.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how front and rear paddock stands are used, the different styles available, and how to pick the right one for your motorcycle setup.
What Are Paddock Stands & Why Use Them?
Rear Paddock Stands
A paddock stand rear is typically the first stand you’ll use. It lifts the back wheel by supporting the swingarm—usually via paddock stand bobbins (small metal bobbins screwed into the swingarm).
Use it for:
Chain maintenance, Rear wheel removal, General cleaning and storage
Front Paddock Stands
A paddock stand front is used after the rear is securely supported. It lifts the bike via the fork legs or the lower triple clamp (on stem stands), allowing access to the front wheel and forks.
Use it for:
Front wheel and brake servicing, Fork maintenance, Easier deep cleaning
Different Types of Paddock Stands – Explained
Rear Hook or Bobbin Stands
- Best for chain and wheel work
- Highly stable with correct bobbins
- Requires fitted bobbins
Tech 7 Rear Stand – Black »
View Paddock Stand Bobbins »
Cradle-Style Rear Stands
- Doesn’t need bobbins
- Slightly less stable under load
Front Fork-Lift Stands
- Easy to use
- Not suitable for fork removal
Tech 7 Front Paddock Stand – Black »
Front Stem-Lift Stands
- Allows full front-end strip-down
- Requires a compatible headstock pin
Oxford Front Headstock Stand »
Lightweight Alloy Stand Pairs
- Great for casual maintenance
- Less rigid for heavy bikes
Tech 7 Front & Rear Alloy Stands Pair – Lightweight »
Heavy-Duty Front and Rear Paddock Stand Pairs
- Strong, stable, built to last
- Bulkier and heavier
Common Problems & How M&P Paddock Stands Solve Them
Stability Worries
M&P stands are built from solid 3–4 mm aluminium, with wide-set wheels and reinforced mounts for maximum stability.
Fork or Swingarm Mismatch
Our range includes adjustable stands and both bobbin-hook and cradle options to fit most bike types.
Struggling with Clearance
The angled designs of our Tech 7 stands help avoid common contact points with low-slung exhausts or aftermarket fairings.
Paddock Stand Buyers Guide
| Job | Stand Needed | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Chain adjustment | Rear paddock stand (hooks or cradles) | Rear Stand » |
| Front brake/pad work | Front fork-lift stand | Front Stand » |
| Full front-end service | Front stem-lift stand | Headstock Stand » |
| Storage for both ends | Front and rear paddock stands pair | Alloy Pair » |
| No bobbins fitted | Cradle-style rear stand | Universal Rear Stand » |
Final Tips
- Always lift from the rear before using a front stand.
- Check your bike’s compatibility: does it use bobbins or need cradle lifts?
- Match your needs: casual cleaner, weekend warrior, or full-time mechanic? We’ve got a stand for every rider.
Explore our full range of paddock stands »
Need help choosing? Contact our team »
