Kickstand or Center Stand: The Essential Parking Tips for Bali Riders

As you navigate Bali's bustling streets, serene beaches, and hidden waterfalls on your reliable scooter from Cinchy, you'll inevitably face a simple but important question: which stand should you use?

Riding a scooter here is the ultimate freedom, but it comes with the responsibility of keeping your rental safe and well-maintained. 

Whether you're piloting a nimble Compact scooter like the Honda Vario or a Comfort maxi-scooter like the Yamaha NMAX, understanding the proper use of both the kickstand or center stand is crucial. 

Planning to explore Bali on two wheels?

Book your scooter in advance. Guaranteed Reservation.

BOOK NOW

Use Promo Code: EARLY5 Save 5% by booking 1 month ahead

This guide will help every international and local rider choose the right support for the right situation, ensuring your ride stays pristine from pickup to drop-off.

The Kickstand (Side Stand): Quick & Easy

The kickstand (or side stand) is what most international riders are familiar with. It's the quick, single-leg support attached to the left side of your scooter, allowing the bike to lean.

Advantages of the Kickstand

• Fast and Effortless: This is the ultimate tool for convenience. You only need to push the stand out with your foot, and the process is instant and simple.

• Minimal Effort: It requires very little physical effort, making it ideal for all riders, regardless of size or strength.

• Better on Sloped Surfaces: The lean angle of the kickstand can actually make the bike more stable when parking on a slight slope or uneven ground.

Disadvantages of the Kickstand

• Less Stable: The main drawback of the side stand is its limited stability. The scooter is more susceptible to being knocked over if bumped from the right side, or if parked on overly soft or loose ground.

• Uneven Weight Distribution: The entire weight of the scooter is resting on one side. Over time, this constant uneven load can put unnecessary stress on the left side’s suspension components and tires.

• Suboptimal Lubrication: If the scooter is left on its side stand for a long period, the engine oil can pool to one side. This prevents optimal lubrication on the right side of the engine, a serious concern for long-term parking.

• Space Consuming: The bike’s necessary lean means it takes up more precious space, especially a problem in crowded Bali parking areas.

The Center Stand: Stable & Space-Saving

The center stand is a two-legged stand that pivots down from the middle of the scooter’s underside. 

When deployed correctly, it lifts the rear wheel off the ground, causing the bike to stand straight up.

Advantages of the Center Stand

• Superior Stability: The scooter's weight is perfectly balanced and evenly distributed, making it exceptionally stable and highly resistant to being pushed or knocked over.

• Component Longevity: This is the healthiest position for your scooter. It keeps the suspension components and tires lasting longer and ensures the engine oil is evenly distributed and ready for the next ride.

• Space Efficiency: Since the bike stands upright, it significantly reduces the space needed for parking, a massive benefit when maneuvering in small warung or busy street parking areas.

• Maintenance Ready: The center stand is necessary for simple maintenance tasks like checking tire pressure, lubricating the chain (if your rental has one), or giving the bike a quick wash.

Disadvantages of the Center Stand

• Requires More Effort: Engaging the center stand requires a coordinated lift-and-push maneuver, using a bit of extra effort to get the stand's pivot point to lock securely. It's not the easiest move when you’re in a rush.

• Slower to Deploy: It’s simply not as practical for a quick stop as the kickstand.

• Risk on Soft Surfaces: The two narrow feet of the center stand can sink into soft ground, like mud, sand, or even hot melting asphalt, causing the scooter to topple. Always ensure you are on a firm, solid surface.

Read Also:

Riding Etiquette in Bali

Do's and Don'ts When Renting a Scooter in Bali

20 Expert Tips for Scooter Rental in Bali: Scooter Guide 2025

When to Use Kickstand or Center Stand?

Choosing the right stand is a simple way to practice responsible riding and ensure your Cinchy rental stays in perfect condition. 

Use the Kickstand (Side Stand) When:

• Short Stops: You are only stopping for a moment, such as waiting for a traffic light, quickly grabbing a drink, or waiting for a friend.

• Uneven Ground: The terrain is slightly sloped or uneven, where the kickstand’s lean provides better balance than a potentially unstable center stand position.

• In a Hurry: When you need to park and go fast.

Use the Center Stand (Centre Stand) When:

• Long-Term Parking (Over 3 Hours): If you are leaving the scooter overnight at your hotel, going on a day trip, or leaving it for any extended period. This prevents the tires from developing flat spots and protects your bike’s components from uneven stress.

• Garage or Secure Parking: You are on a flat, solid, and firm surface, like a concrete garage or a paved parking lot.

• Saving Space: You are in a crowded parking area and want to minimize the space your scooter takes up.

• Hot Engine: If you've just finished a long ride and the engine is hot, standing the bike upright helps prevent warping or uneven cooling of the frame.

• Pre-Ride Checks: Anytime you perform maintenance like checking your tires or before you set out.

A special reminder for those renting the powerful Honda PCX and Yamaha NMAX (our Comfort category) or venturing into areas with rougher roads: always be mindful of your ground clearance. 

A common mistake is scraping the center stand against speed bumps or steep driveways. 

Be aware of the stand’s position when riding over obstacles, and be ready to slightly shift your weight to lift the bike's center when necessary.

Ride Smarter, Not Harder, in Bali with Cinchy!

Riding a scooter in Bali is a wonderful experience, and making the right choice between a kickstand or center stand is a small habit that demonstrates a big responsibility towards your rental.

At Cinchy, we make the entire process easy, from helping you choose the right bike to a Quick and Easy Rental Process requiring just your Valid ID, Driving License, round trip flight tickets, and hotel bookings.

Our commitment to quality means we offer scooters in pristine condition at competitive prices, and we back it up with 24/7 Service and Free Delivery and Pickup Service in major Southern Bali areas.

Ready to explore Bali with peace of mind? 

Rent with Cinchy today and discover the island on a bike that’s safe, well-maintained, and parked perfectly! 

👉 Book Cinchy’s Scooter Now! 👈