Most new riders don’t think twice about stands until they’re in a car park, bike in hand, wondering which one to use and why. Knowing the difference between a centre stand and a side stand is one of those small bits of knowledge that makes you look and feel like you know what you’re doing from day one.

A side stand (also called a kickstand) is the one you’ll use most often. It swings out to the left, lets the bike lean at an angle, and is perfect for quick stops. It’s quick, easy, and the go-to for everyday parking. A centre stand lifts the rear wheel completely off the ground, keeping the bike upright and balanced. It takes a bit more technique to get on and off, but it’s ideal for longer parking, maintenance, and chain checks. The key thing to remember?

Always check your side stand is fully retracted before riding off. It’s one of those habits that separates a thinking rider from a careless one. So, which stand do you find yourself using more, and did anyone actually show you the proper technique for the centre stand?

At Betta Biker, we cover the practical stuff like this from the very start of your CBT training 🏍️ No experience needed, bikes and equipment are all provided, and our group sizes are kept small so you actually get proper attention rather than being lost in a crowd. Based in Warrington and serving the North West, we’ve been getting complete beginners riding confidently since 2015.