Motorcyclists share a unique connection. We have all seen it. The silent nod or quick wave as one motorcyclist zips past another.

According to one passionate rider, “those of us who love motorcycles have a common bond that transcends language, technological superiority, riding style or brand elitism.” Of course, such a rare bond is impossible without a properly functioning bike. Thus, motorcycle enthusiasts understand the importance of properly maintaining their hydraulic motorcycle lift – in personal garages or specialty shops – for routine maintenance, serious overhaul, or detailed cleaning.

In the following content, we explore the three most common types of motorcycle lifts, three benefits of utilizing a hydraulic motorcycle lift, and our primary small equipment lift recommendation.

Types of Hydraulic Motorcycle Lifts

Three varieties of motorcycle lifts are commonly found in garages and shops. Each type of lift discussed below is named from the power used.

Air Lifts

Air lifts are inexpensive and relatively popular. Compressed air operates these lifts, often requiring only 100 PSI. A simple foot valve initiates operation. Adding pressure to one side of the valve lifts or lowers the air cylinder. The majority of air lifts have a load capacity of about 1,000 pounds. Most also have a range of locking positions at various working heights.

Air Hydraulic Lifts

Air hydraulic lifts are also powered by air – however, these operate with a pump that surges hydraulic fluid into a lifting cylinder, initiating lift movement. Once more, a foot pedal is used to operate the air pump. Within the pump, an extra supply of hydraulic oil is stored.

How do air hydraulic lifts differ from air lifts? Primarily, in operation movement. Air hydraulic lifts move seamlessly, without hesitation or surging. Both these factors can be noticed on an air lift.

Electric Hydraulic Lifts

The third and final motorcycle lift variety is powered by an electric hydraulic pump. Due to the cost of electric hydraulic power, these lifts can be slightly more costly than air or air hydraulic lifts, but their benefits often outweigh a slightly greater upfront fee. Certain attractions are operating speed, operating consistency, and added convenience. For example, certain electric hydraulic lifts have hand-held remote operators, instead of a foot pump.

3 Benefits of Hydraulic Motorcycle Lifts

1. Storage

Similar to four-post automotive lifts, motorcycle lifts can provide convenient storage. For example, if you do not ride during the winter, your motorcycle can be stored on the lift itself. Lift storage prevents air pressure loss in the tires and any unwanted deconditioning while not in use. Storing your motorcycle on the lift ensures that your motorcycle will be in the same shape as when you put it away for the season. Storage is also beneficial for bikes on sale at motorcycle shops.

Furthermore, certain hydraulic lifts collapse into the floor entirely, allowing for parking directly on top. Limited obstruction is an essential feature for shops and home garages alike.

2. Comfortable Work Environment

Any motorcycle or vehicle enthusiast understands that performing maintenance or total overhaul while on your knees is inconvenient, impractical, and dangerous. Motorcycle lifts can be adjusted to the desirable height, perfect for performing repairs, maintenance, or cleaning at your height. The right motorcycle lift is ergonomic and safe on the body.

Hydraulic motorcycle lifts are unique in their ease of use. As mentioned, hydraulic lifts raise and lower seamlessly. Selecting the proper height for work is simple and convenient.

3. Load Capacity

Hydraulic motorcycle lifts can bear a load capacity of nearly 2,000 pounds. As best practice, one should select a lift that can hold about double the weight of the bike. Selecting a hydraulic lift with extraordinary lifting power ensures lift use across a variety of motorcycles and, occasionally, ATVs.

SESM Lifts: Small Equipment Shop Maintenance

SESM lifts are an ideal combination of the three primary benefits of using lifts, the perfect solution for anyone engaged in selling, servicing, or using motorcycles. SESM lifts are designed to be the coolest piece of equipment in your garage or professional shop, and the benefits associated with the lift are many. A list of benefits include:

• Height adjustability, making for a comfortable work environment
• Prevent tip overs during service via strategic tie down slots included in the platform
• Full access for front and rear wheel service
• Extraordinary ease-of-use with only one moving part
• Self-contained unit
• Operates off shop-air compressor
• Load capacity extends from 1,000 to over 25,000 pounds, depending on the requirements of your specific application
• Many stroke lengths and cylinder sizes are available
• Compatible with all hydraulic fluids, including environmentally safe fluids
• Designed to last a lifetime
• Fiberglass encapsulated casings protect from corrosion over time
• Improves productivity within the shop or garage
• Lift is easy to install and relocate, ideal for rental properties or homes
• The ability for 360-degree rotation allows for use between the work and the workbench
• When lowered, no obstruction exists, ideal for parking directly over the lift
• Superior operation and safety compared to above-ground scissor lifts
• Built in the U.S.A. for guaranteed quality
• Option for a beautiful platform, ideal for showroom displays

SVI International, Inc.

SVI International has an extensive engineering data bank, extending back to 1928. This wealth of knowledge informs every product – including SESM motorcycle and small equipment lifts. A depth of understanding and a “can-do,” innovative attitude has driven SVI into a multitude of markets as mainstay product supplier. Ultimately, SVI’s mission is to increase productivity via innovative solutions.

This mission, driven through years of innovation, excellent customer service, and the timely delivery of parts, has continuously increased growth. Along with the unique and appreciated production of “legacy” parts for auto lift lines that are no longer manufactured, SVI has become an industry leader. Today, SVI has 3 warehouses throughout the country, over 40,000 repair parts, 50 product lines, nearly 2,000 distributes, and a unique knack for solving industry problems. To get in touch with our team, please do not hesitate to reach out at (800) 321-8173 or via our online contact form.