I love riding my bike. But for me, part of the hobby is also about upgrading and customizing my bike with accessories. I like that I’ve created a unique look for my bike and added features that correspond to my needs.
One of the best upgrades I did was add a kickstand to my road bike. It’s an accessory I use a lot. Read on to learn more about the different products I tested and some tips for choosing the best kickstand for road bikes.
Reviews of the Best Kickstands for Road Bikes
Kickstands need to be reliable, durable, and easy to install. The best kickstand for a road bike depends on how you ride, which is why you should learn more about the features of different products and select the most relevant one for your needs.
Comparison Chart
BV Adjustable Bicycle Kickstand
We like this 16.5” long kickstand because of its lightweight material and angled design. It’s a center kickstand that you’ll have to install on an existing mounting plate, but the kickstand comes with two different bolt lengths to accommodate different configurations.
It’s the best kickstand for road bike if you have wheels between 24” and 29.” You can adjust the length of the kickstand thanks to the spring-loaded latch.
The kickstand uses aluminum moving parts and a plastic foot for a total weight of 2.6 oz. The foot features a rubber pad with a non-slip surface and an angled design to keep your bike upright in a wide range of scenarios.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Easy to install
- Adjustable length
Cons
- Need a mounting plate and enough room to install the kickstand
TopCabin Bike Kickstand
We recommend this one if your road bike doesn’t have a mounting bracket for a kickstand. Thanks to the unique design of this kickstand, you can clamp it over the chainstay of your bike. You’ll be able to install it as long as the chainstay has a diameter of 15 to 28mm.
This accessory is suitable for bikes with 22” to 28” wheels. It measures 12.2” to 14.2” with a bolt you can use to adjust the length.
The kickstand uses an aluminum alloy frame for durability. It’s a feature that makes it waterproof and resistant to rust. We also like the durable folding mechanism, which is ideal if you use the kickstand a lot.
Pros
- Install on any bike with the clamp system
- Sturdy folding mechanism
- Rust-resistant
Cons
- Need to loosen a bolt to adjust the length
Greenfield Kickstand
This kickstand is perfect if you’re looking for a discreet look and simple design. It’s a traditional kickstand where you can’t adjust the length. There are no extras like rubber padding that would add weight and bulk to the accessory.
You can choose between a black or brushed aluminum finish. The smaller 11.2” size is ideal for 20” wheels, and you can order the 12” size for a bike with 22” or larger wheels.
The kickstand comes with a top plate and bolt. It’s easy to install it if there is a pre-drilled hole in the chainstay.
Pros
- Great budget option
- Two sizes available
- Lightweight design
Cons
- No extras like padded rubber foot or adjustable length
Schwinn Bike Stand
This Schwinn kickstand is a great option if you want a name brand accessory at an affordable price. It will work on bikes with 20” to 27” wheels, but you’ll need a central mounting plate to install it.
We like the steel construction because it makes the kickstand sturdy and durable. The coil spring is another interesting feature because it’s a reliable way of keeping the kickstand open or closed.
Pros
- Quality name brand product
- Coil spring feature
- Steel construction
Cons
- Heavier than other kickstands
Veckuson Kickstand for Kids Bike
This sturdy kickstand is great if you need to upgrade a child’s bike. It will work on any bike with a frame that sits 7” to 10” away from the ground, or with any bike that has tires between 16” and 20.”
You can adjust the length of this kickstand by loosening a screw. The kickstand can measure anywhere between 9.6” and 12.5.”
The aluminum alloy construction makes this kickstand a durable accessory. You won’t have to worry about rust or water damage. We also like the wide padded foot that will keep the bike stable.
Pros
- Ideal for kid’s bikes
- Durable aluminum alloy construction
- Adjustable length
Cons
- Design is somewhat bulky
Buying Guide
The right kickstand depends on where you usually park your bike. Here is what to consider when choosing a new bike accessory.
What to Look for in a Kickstand for a Road Bike
Because most people ride road bikes on paved surfaces, you should look for a kickstand you can use on flat and sometimes uneven surfaces. A feature like a non-slip rubber foot will come in handy.
You should also pay attention to the shape and design of the kickstand. Make sure it will sit flush against the bike when you fold it so it doesn’t snag on anything.
Weight is another important consideration. Most road bikes are lightweight, and a kickstand is an accessory that can add weight and bulk to your bike unless you pick a lightweight material.
How to Choose the Right Length
You should hold your bike slightly inclined to the left and measure the distance between the center of the bottom bracket and the ground. This distance is a good indication of the kickstand length you’ll need. Anything shorter, and your bike will tip over easily.
Adjustable kickstands make it easy to find the right length and angle when parking your bike. However, you can always shorten a non-adjustable kickstand with a hacksaw.
How to Install a Kickstand
Some bikes have a central bracket between the two chainstays. All you have to do is place the kickstand bracket over or under this plate and secure it with a bolt.
If you have a road bike with an aluminum frame, the chainstays will have a rectangular or oval shape that allows you to attach a clamp over it. It’s a convenient way of installing a kickstand without making any modifications to your bike.
Wrap Up
Installing a kickstand is a simple upgrade, but it’s important to choose the right length and design for your road bike. We highly recommend the BV Adjustable Bicycle Kickstand because you can adjust the length of this kickstand, and it’s a reliable accessory thanks to its sturdy design.
