There are a few reasons why kickstands are becoming rarer on bikes. First, weight reduction has become a primary focus in bicycle design, particularly for road and mountain bikes. Many riders consider kickstand as an unnecessary weight that affects their performance. Second, safety considerations have also led to the decline in kickstand popularity. Some riders have concerns that a kickstand can cause accidents if it deploys unexpectedly during a ride or if it becomes dislodged in rough terrain.
Lastly, modern bike designs and frame materials necessitate a different approach to the traditional kickstand. Newer bikes, made with lightweight materials such as carbon fiber, often lack the strength or mounting points needed for a conventional kickstand. Moreover, the minimalist design trend among cyclists has also contributed to the decline in the use of kickstands. So, while kickstands are still useful for many recreational cyclists, their absence on newer bikes reflects changing trends and priorities in the cycling world.
History of Kickstands
Kickstands have been around since the early 20th century. They were initially introduced as a convenient way for cyclists to park their bikes without needing to lean them against a wall or other support. It’s believed that inventor Eldon J. Henderson patented the first kickstand in 1926.
In the early days of kickstands, bikes were typically heavier, making the additional weight of a kickstand less noticeable. As bike designs evolved and they became lighter, kickstands started to be seen as an unnecessary accessory. Bike manufacturers began focusing on reducing bike weight and improving performance, often at the expense of convenience features like kickstands.
At the same time, different types of bicycles emerged, each targeted at specific nichés of the cycling market. Racing bicycles prioritize weight reduction and aerodynamics, while mountain bikes focus on durability and off-road capabilities. This specialization led to a decline in the use of kickstands, as they were not seen as essential for every type of bike.
However, some bikes such as city, cruiser, and touring bikes still come equipped with kickstands. These bikes prioritize convenience and utility, making them better suited for everyday use and long-distance travel, where a kickstand is a helpful addition.
In recent years, there’s been a resurgence of interest in kickstands, particularly in the development of innovative designs that appeal to a wider range of cyclists. For example, adjustable kickstands provide varying lengths for different bike sizes, and folding kickstands save space when not in use.
Despite these developments, many bikes today still don’t come with kickstands since it’s quite a polarizing topic among cyclists. Some riders consider them unnecessary weight and an eyesore, while others appreciate their practicality. But the history of kickstands shows their continued presence in the cycling world and the ongoing debate over their usefulness.
Types of Bikes and Their Usage
Mountain Bikes
Mountain bikes are designed for off-road activities and rugged terrain. They have wide, knobby tires for traction and shock-absorbing suspension systems. It’s common for mountain bikers to encounter obstacles such as rocks, roots, and steep inclines, so kickstands may not be practical or safe on these bikes. Additionally, kickstands add extra weight, which isn’t ideal for mountain biking.
Road Bikes
Road bikes are built for speed and efficiency on paved surfaces. They have thin tires and lightweight frames, making them perfect for cyclists who prioritize speed on smooth roads. A kickstand may be seen as unnecessary weight and an obstruction to the bike’s aerodynamics, so it’s usually not included on road bikes.
Rental Leisure Bikes
Rental leisure bikes are designed for casual riders and tourists. They typically have a more comfortable, upright seating position and wider tires for stability. Since these bikes are often used for short trips or sightseeing, kickstands are usually included to provide convenience when parking or stopping to take photos.
High-End Bikes
High-end bicycles cater to serious cyclists and racers who prioritize performance and weight reduction. These bikes are engineered to be as fast and efficient as possible, and adding a kickstand would be counterproductive, as it adds extra weight and affects the bike’s performance. That’s why you’ll rarely find a kickstand on a high-end bike.
Children’s Bikes
Children’s bikes are designed to be safe, stable, and easy to use for young riders. Most of these bikes come equipped with a kickstand to make parking and stopping more convenient for children, while they learn to ride and develop their balance. However, as kids grow and transition to larger bikes, they may encounter bikes without kickstands, especially if they move on to mountain or road bikes.
Reasons for Excluding Kickstands
Weight and Performance Issues
Bikes without kickstands are generally lighter, which improves the overall performance. A kickstand can add extra weight to a bike’s frame, affecting its balance and handling. For competitive cyclists, every ounce matters, so the exclusion of a kickstand is a conscious decision. On trails or rough terrains, a lightweight bike is vital to maintaining control and reducing the risk of a crash.
Safety and Hindrance
Kickstands can pose safety risks, especially when they’re not properly secured. If a kickstand becomes loose during a ride, it’s possible for it to snag on obstacles, causing the cyclist to lose balance and potentially crash. Additionally, some riders find kickstands hinder their ability to park or navigate tight spaces, so manufacturers have to weigh the potential risks against the benefits.
Cost and Production Factors
Cost and production efficiency play a significant role in whether a bike includes a kickstand. Sometimes, it’s cheaper for manufacturers to exclude a kickstand, keeping the overall cost of production down. Moreover, designing and installing kickstands takes time, and manufacturers may opt for a more streamlined production process that doesn’t involve this extra feature.
Aesthetics and Design
A bike’s appearance is important to many riders, and some believe a kickstand detracts from the overall aesthetic. Excluding a kickstand allows for a more streamlined, sleek design, appealing to those who value aesthetics. Aerodynamics may also come into play; a kickstand-less bike might offer better airflow and reduced drag, which benefits competitive riders.
Consumer Preference
Ultimately, many cyclists simply prefer bikes without kickstands. Some riders find they don’t use or need them, so the added weight and potential safety risks aren’t worthwhile. When manufacturers cater to consumer preferences, they create products that people will love and choose to buy, so excluding kickstands can be a strategic decision based on market demand.
Alternatives to Kickstands
Bike Parking Racks
Bike parking racks are a great alternative to kickstands, especially when it comes to public or commercial spaces. They’re designed to hold multiple bikes at once, making them an efficient solution for bike storage. Bike parking racks come in various styles and sizes to accommodate different bike types and locations, making them a versatile option. Installing bike parking racks can encourage more people to use bikes for transportation, reducing congestion and promoting a greener lifestyle.
Wall Mounts
Wall mounts are perfect for indoor bike storage and can save floor space in homes or offices. They’re available in a range of styles and sizes, catering to different bike types and wall materials. Installing a wall mount is generally easy, and it keeps your bike secure and out of the way. It’s essential to choose a suitable wall for mounting and ensure it can handle the weight of your bike. Wall mounts can also help protect bikes from potential theft or vandalism as they’re stored inside and out of sight.
Bike Stands
Bike stands offer a stable and secure way to store your bike without using a kickstand. They come in various designs, including upright, horizontal, and vertical options to suit your preferences and space constraints. Bike stands are portable and typically easy to use, making them an excellent solution for bike storage at home, in the garage, or at events. Some bike stands even feature adjustable height and angle options for added convenience.
Attachable Kickstands
If you prefer a kickstand but your bike doesn’t come with one, attachable kickstands are a viable option. These can be easily installed on most bike frames, and you can find different styles to match your bike’s design. Attachable kickstands provide the classic convenience of a built-in kickstand while allowing you the flexibility to remove or change it if needed. It’s essential to choose an attachable kickstand compatible with your bike’s size and weight to ensure proper support and stability.
Installing an Aftermarket Kickstand
When it’s time to install an aftermarket kickstand, make sure you choose one made of durable materials, such as aluminum or steel, as these tend to last longer. It’s also essential to pick a kickstand compatible with your bike’s components, ensuring a proper fit and performance.
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools for installation. Often, you’ll need a wrench or Allen key, depending on your bike’s attachment point. The kickstand may come with its own hardware or require separate bolts and washers.
Here’s a simple installation process for an aftermarket kickstand:
- First, locate the attachment point on your bike frame. It’s typically near the bottom bracket or on the rear chainstay.
- If your bike has a mounting plate, align the kickstand with the plate and thread the provided bolt or screw.
- If there isn’t a mounting plate, place the kickstand’s top plate against the bike frame, ensuring that it’s level with the ground.
- Insert the bolt or screw through the top plate and bike frame, attaching it securely with a washer and nut on the other side.
After installing the kickstand, double-check that it’s securely fastened and doesn’t interfere with the functionality of your bike. Test the kickstand by placing your bike on a flat surface and engaging it. If it offers stability and supports your bike as expected, you’re good to go!
Other Factors to Consider
When examining why many bikes don’t come with kickstands, it’s essential to explore other factors that contribute to this decision. One significant aspect to consider is a bike’s stability and safety. A kickstand can sometimes present a risk of malfunction, which could lead to the bike tipping over and possibly causing injury.
Additionally, professional bike riders often prioritize control and strength in their bikes. In races, where every little detail counts, a kickstand can be seen as an unnecessary hindrance, detracting from a bike’s overall performance. High-end bikes, which are usually designed to cater to professional riders, tend to forgo kickstands for this reason.
Another point to consider is that some riders might find it more convenient to use other methods of keeping their bike upright, such as leaning it against walls or using bike-specific stands. These alternatives can offer a more stable and secure way to park a bike. In some cases, the option to add a kickstand to a bike separately is available, giving riders the choice based on their preference and needs.
Of course, there are practical concerns when a kickstand is added to a bike. It can get caught in chains or impale a rear tire while riding, posing a danger to the rider and increasing the risk of crashing. Safety concerns about potential malfunctions also play a role in a rider’s decision to opt for a kickstand or not.
In conclusion, the reasons why bikes don’t always come with kickstands are varied and include factors such as stability, safety, performance, and rider preference. Understanding these diverse elements helps shed light on this seemingly simple question and contributes to a better comprehension of the factors that influence bike design and use.
