There are many reasons that mountain bikes do not come automatically with kickstands. First and foremost, the main reason is that the kickstand will add weight to the bike.
Due to mountain biking being such a fast-paced sport, a lightweight frame is one main component that every competitive biker looks for when choosing their bike. Unfortunately, adding a kickstand to the frame will increase the weight by an unnecessary amount.
In addition, it can add safety concerns for the rider while using the bike. Concerns can range from catching on a tree limb or bush as well as catching the rider’s leg.
Is it Because it Costs More?
Adding a kickstand to a mountain bike will cost more since you would have to purchase the kickstand components as well as attach it to the bike or pay someone to attach it for you.
This is not the reason that mountain bikes do not automatically come with kickstands, though. As covered above, the primary reason mountain bikes do not come with kickstands is that it increases the bike’s overall weight.
The secondary reason is safety concerns. Biking is a high-speed and high-paced sport. This requires that the bike and rider do not have any objects sticking out that could pose a risk of getting caught or snagged on a passing object and result in a crash or injury.
How Much Extra Weight do Kickstands Add?
The weight of a kickstand all depends on the materials it is composed of. On average, a kickstand can weigh between half a pound to one and a half pounds.
Mountain biking requires a lot of physical exertion; because of this, all mountain bikers care about every ounce their bike weighs.
Adding a whole pound or more to the bike can make a huge difference in the bicycle’s ride and performance, especially when it comes to propelling up a steep embankment.
Why Does Weight Matter?
Weight matters to all competitive bikers for several reasons. Firstly, the biker must control the weight of the bike while riding. The heavier the bike is, the more strength and energy the biker has to use in order to have complete control over all of the bike’s functions.
In addition, some bikers have to carry their bikes during races. If this is the case, the lighter bike is much easier to carry. When climbing embankments, a lighter bike will be easier to propel uphill versus a heavier bike.
The bike’s overall weight also affects the wheel inertia when traveling downhill. Therefore, a lighter bicycle is going to travel faster.
What Popular Mountain Bikes Have Kickstands?
Typically, kickstands will only be found on lower-end models of mountain bikes or on pre owned bikes. These brands can be found in major mass-production retailers such as Walmart, eBay, Dicks Sporting Goods, and Amazon.
Brands such as Schwinn, Hiland, and Huffy offer mountain bikes with manufacture-installed kickstands. In addition, bikes for children or younger riders can be found with kickstands.
One thing to keep in mind is that a kickstand can be purchased and installed on any mountain bike if the rider truly desires one. Kickstands can be found easily online through stores such as Amazon or eBay.
How to Stand Up a Bike Without a Kickstand?
When it comes to standing up a mountain bike with no kickstand, the rider is left with a few options. Firstly, the rider can rest the bike against a solid surface and ensure that the tire will not rotate and cause the bike to fall.
The second option is to use a bike repair stand. These stands can be easily found online for purchase. In addition, they are easy to assemble and use. The bike is placed on the stand and is supported by braces to stay upright.
Lastly, the rider can opt for a removable kickstand. These stands are collapsible and portable. They come together to create a stand very similar to a traditional kickstand. However, they do not attach to the bike.
Final Thoughts on Why Don’t Bikes Come with Kickstands
In conclusion, the standard production of mountain bikes does not include a kickstand. Instead, riders can purchase and attach their own aftermarket kickstand or opt for a stand or removable kickstand.
Typically, mountain bike riders do not care for kickstands on their bikes due to the fact that it adds extra weight to the ride. In addition, the kickstand can add extra threat and risk catching on a passing object resulting in a crash or injury.
A kickstand is less of a risk for the rider who is laid back and just likes the thrill of smaller treks. However, the risks are much greater for those who like extra crazy challenges and riding through tight spaces.