I'm preparing to do the 5,000 service on my 2011 RKC and I was wondering if a motorcycle lift is absolutely required to perform this service? I'll be changing fluids in all three holes to synthetic at this time as well.

Moco specifies the following tasks for the 5,000 service. I'm sure that a lift makes many tasks much more convenient, but is one required? I suppose if I have to adjust the drive belt, I might need a lift, but I could take the bike to my dealer or an indy for just the items I can't do. I would prefer to avoid the additional expense and storing a lift in my garage could be a challenge.

· Engine oil and filter. Replace.
· Oil lines and brake system. Inspect for leaks, contact or abrasion.
· Air Cleaner. Inspect, service as required.
· Tires. Check pressure, inspect tread.
· Wheel spokes. Check torque.
· Clutch. Check adjustment.
· Drive belt and sprockets. Inspect, adjust belt.
· Brake and clutch controls. Check and lubricate.
· Jiffy stand. Inspect and lubricate.
· Fuel lines and fittings. Inspect for leaks, contact or abrasion.
· Brake fluid. Inspect sight glass.
· Brake pads and discs. Inspect for wear.
· Spark plugs. Inspect.
· Electrical equipment and switches. Check operation.
· Air suspension. Check pressure, operation and leakage.
· Fuel door, TourPak, saddlebags. Lubricate hinges and latches.
· Exhaust system. Inspect for leaks, cracks, and loose or missing fasteners or heat shields.
· Road test. Verify component and system functions.

 

No its not needed unless you have spoke wheels, then you will need a lift to get them off the ground to spin, check & tighten.

If you plan of doing all your services, a lift is a good investment.

 

Nope. Handy, but not required.
Sure makes routine things easier in the long run.
A jack can be used for almost anything.
A jack wouldn't take up much space, Harbor Freight is a bargain...

 

+1 I have a Harbor Freight at home. Has come in very handy, and not expensive at all. Can't remember what I paid for it, but it wasn't a lot and haven't had any problems so far.

 

You need a jack(not table lift) to check/adjust drive belt.

 

Me too, it was $99 and I use it constantly.

 

I got a J & S jack 5 years ago it's paid for itself several times over.

http://www.jsjacks.com/index.php/pro...ycle-lift.html

 

Most can be done with a 2' x 4' to lift the jiffy stand, but wheel and belt work requires a jack. The older you get, the higher the bike the easier it is to see and make sure everything is good.

A motorcycle jack is a great investment. I have the Sears Aluminum version, but they all work the same. I also have the Harbor Freight lift Table with a black Jack sissor jack and they make my life very easy. Only catch with a lift table is I am old enough, I have my neighbor come over to help walk my Road King on and off. The sportster I do myself. The motorcycle jack, whether a Harbor Freight or other brand only takes a few seconds to use and you do it by yourself.

 

I agree. Motorcycle lifts are an excellent investment. They stow well when not in use and has so many applications in maintaining your bike. As an example, I use mine to clean and polish the wheels. I can free-spin them and get to the spots I otherwise couldn't easily get at when my bike's on its jiffy stand.

 

if this was a question coming from the WIFE i would have to say (why of course its necessary to do a proper service & inspection honey, & just think honey the money i spend on this is still cheaper than having the dealer do the work)