Here's a possible easy safety upgrade to your older lifts. Rather than weld a stop at the end of the track, just drill a hole and put a stop bolt on. That way, when the bearing finally wears out and need replacing, you can take the lift apart easier. Very quick to do, and you don't have to prep for welding. Only thing you need to do is figure out where to place the bolt and the size and length of the bolts. Tom Mack (fm Mack Trucks)
I'm not a cyclist, but enjoyed the video. For those with these older lifts, do a retrofit. Drill a 3/8" hole at the end of the railing where the bearing came out and insert a bolt, maybe double nut the bolt. The bolt would do the same as the new models welded in plate.
Really, John. >>>Kevin didn't force you to watch his full video. Are you always so critical of people with integrity, as empathy. I applaud Kevin for bringing this matter to light, as he may save someone from serious injuries, or death.>>>Kudos to him, and he also showed gratitude & appreciation to this company, "Handy"......now, that is positive, as enlightning.
Hello all I also have two of the older Handy lift!! I checked one of my lift i found that the rollers off track So tomorrow I’II set it on it’s side and set it up Then I’II check the second one I’II check in tomorrow The update I inspected both Handy lifts One was fine the second one was off track Like Kevin said pull up on the front it pulled up Next I laid it on it’s side and slid the bearings up Aired it up and down a couple of times Thanks Kevin for this video Cheers
I have that lift but I have the extension wings on the side. You can ride the bike on the lift, no run at it, just go slow both feet on the ground, and the bike goes right on the lift. Side stand down, dismount, the tie the bike as you described. I welded caps on the ends of the bearing tracks to prevent what happened to you.
Thanks for the update, I have a older Handy lift and it works great hell a life saver at my age. Love the up grades and I will be boxing in the bearing chanels after this psa .
You just covered one of the biggest worries I have working alone in the motorcycle shop. The Handy company has ammaazziinngg product! Thank you for doing more than just flashy repair videos!
Handy has always been a standup company. I still have my old old electric lift. I am in the market to get a new lift…. Handy just reaffirmed that they will get my business! Thanks Kevin!!
Great video. I hear you about loading Harleys on lifts. 30 years ago I could load baggers & everything else by myself. Now I'm 72 & can't load a light bike on my lift. I Installed a 600lb wench on the front right corner of my lift. I have a Handy 1000 lift with the 8" wide extensions. Made & welded a "L" bracket out of some steel I had laying around. The wench has a wireless remote control so I can sit on the bike & let the wench do all the work. It is the safest way for me to load any bike onto the lift. I only need a 600lb wench. Loading heavy baggers are 900lbs plus & I get it. You don't need a heavier rated wench because we are talking about loading rolling weight. I have done this process several times & it works beautiful. I know it is expensive to have to install a wench on every lift in your shop. Maybe install on a couple of lifts for the heavy baggers. Just a thought. Hope this helps.
Sounds like you have a fetish for really heavy "wenches"... personally, I prefer them about 120 lbs... but they often gain weight once you get into a relationship with them! 🤣😜🤪
I've recently retired from 30yrs as Harley Mechanic. I would say it's the most dangerous due to the frequency of loading/unloading of the lifts in comparison to test rides. In my experience they're almost even....
Glad your ok, I just ratchet strapped my handy lift closed, and dollied the rear without the wheels. Also strapped the dolly to the lift as well. Then installed a small winch in my little trailer to load by myself. Cheer's DW
Glad you were not hurt Kevin!! You have SOLD me on the Handy lift. When I buy one from these guys I will be sure to mention your name and channel as the man who sold me on this lift! American Made STILL means something!!! I hardly ever comment but I wanted you, and Handy to know this. GOD Bless Brother!!!
Glad that no hurt no pain an you came out of this on the good side. Thankyou for a honest an truthful video , you just may have saved a lot of guys from a huge accident an what we should be looking at on how these lifts are made,Thank You an stay safe!!
Kevin, I gave been in the market for a lift for a while now. I have cruised the manufactures from stem to stern. IF any of them had the slightest thought of being made in an Asian country, it was not considered. Handy was my pick. Based on your video, there is no doubt where I will be purchasing my lift. Keep up the good work.
Converted a warehouse lift to a bike lift designed my own locking mechanism love it keeps the wheels free and I have a table on each side of the bike. Glad you are okay you are right safety is a must for sure.
So glad you weren’t hurt Kevin. Thanks for the info regarding these lifts. Seems that that channel should have NOT BEEN LEFT OPEN IN THE FIRST PLACE! God bless you Kevin have an incredible day
Thanks for the video. I just went out and checked mine. It is in the tracks like it should be. I got mine from a closing motorcycle shop about 5 years ago. It is an old Handy lift. We just picked it up and put it in the back of my truck, and then lifted it off the truck and put it in my garage, not know the proper way to lift it or thinking this could have happened. I have used it on several of the motorcycles we own and love it. I like the features of the new lift, but don't use it enough to justify getting a new one. Thanks again for the safety tips, I will remember this when moving the lift in the future. Ride Safe.
Kevin, I'm so glad you did not get hurt.The man upstairs was definitely looking out for you that day.And also the other day when the bearing shattered from the big box store.
Well sir, I had so many things to say, with your content I have to wait until the Very End to realize you've put all the in & outs of your content into the conversation. I've always heard Handy was the best and you've confirmed the last 15 years of listening to friends and family saying "if you're going to get a lift spend the money and get a Handy" great stories and great info! Appreciate you giving us your knowledge.
Really happy to hear that you didn't get injured. I don't have experience with Handy lift, but this design of the lift, whatever company you might choose, always made me question if it wouldn't topple over on a person. I made a shop in a container, just a hobbiest, doing work on my own bike, and recently brought a 800kg motorcycle lift. It has smtwo huge cylinders at the back, but it has a frame at the bottom where the lift wheels glide in. I feel, for my use, (everyone is different in their choice and views of this) that it is the safest option to get. There aren't like with both the lifts you have here, any way of leaving something in front or at the back of the front wheels, so nothing can get stuck, and cause the lift to fall over to the side. Like I said, to each their own, but also when I moved the lift, I wrapped a tie strap around the lift, as when you go to pick it up, you will lift it from the table platform, as in this case of this particular lift, there is no room to get a Forklift or dolly underneath, unless you have a couple of strong guys lift it up onto some round logs, and you pick it up that way. My point here being, always strap a lift table down to the frame, if possible, around the whole outside, and ratchet that sucker down good. That way, nothing moves when you are loading and unloading it. Always perform safety checks without a load on the lift first, after moving it, but even on a weekly basis to ensure that all is still working fine. Its like when you gear up for a weekend away with your family, you fill the car up with gas, check all the fluids, before you set off on your journey. The same should apply with your lift, as you do when packing away your tools, you clean them after use, so that when you grab them tomorrow they are clean and ready for the next job you're about to tackle. Happy and safe wrenching.
Wow they have addressed every concern I've had with my old lift. I did end up putting the side extentions on just to have somewhere to put my feet while loading my road glide ultra by myself. Too narrow and slippery to balance without them. I really like the idea of a longer ramp. I've had the rear wheel spin and slide sideways on mine. Hose routing and especially spring loaded foot pedal are a big safety improvement as well. This video may if not probably will save damage, injury, or lives. Super important info!
I don’t have one, I’ve used others lifts, all from harbor freight. Scary really doesn’t describe the feelings I’ve had during said lifting of the bike and work being completed…nerve racking. I made blue prints so I could make my own version. Definitely happy I haven’t bought or built yet! This video is quite literally a blessing to me Kevin. 💯 The liability involved with putting others motorcycle up on one has kept me away from them thus far. Gonna go on over to Handy’s site now. And seriously??? I don’t see how you have anytime to sleep crazy man!!! Until next time hoss!
I have the same older Handy lifts, they even survived when my shop got flooded. Glad you mentioned greasing the pivot as I never have but will be checking. Thanks for doing this video.
Glad it wasn't a catastrophe and you are ok. I purchased that exact lift last fall, i just ordered the 12" extension kit for it. I think it is well built and built in USA was a must.
Ive been using them for years in several shops and have never seen that!! Ill be adding stop tabs to the ones at my shop this week! im also a solo owner/operator.. good job handy !! Ive had to reseal some older used pneumatic cylinders Before, usually in a shop with no water filters and lazy ppl who never drain tanks .. tends to chew up seals .. i love the updated airbag, that will outlive us both haha .. again another great vid.. my shop is half paid for, I shld rent it out (Savannah Ga) and find me 3 or 4 acers and come work with you !!
Kevin, since you've changed shops I've noticed you by yourself. All the safety equipment, safe practices can go wrong. You're out there at all hours of the day and night, you need to hire somebody to be out with you.
You stay safe, Kevin. I've learned so much from you, Doc harley, and TH-cam in general... I've had 5 Harleys, and I do all my own work if possible. I think I speak for all of us jug-lovers... We need you! Also, it takes a real man to admit something, no matter how severe, was his fault in front of the world. Respect+++
Call it what you will (everyone will have their own opinion). Devine intervention, luck or the moon was in the right phase, whatever. Just glad you weren't hurt when that lift let go. Your transition to the new shop and doing 99.99% of the work by yourself was simply amazing in my view. Looking forward to more videos from the new shop.
Very happy you’re Ok! Thank God for that and thank the good folks that build the Handy motorcycle lifts for their due diligence to provide a very SAFE product for us to use! 👍🙏
I learned the hard way also. Was injured working alone in a printing plant operating a printing press with no one else in the building. With over twenty years experience operating all types of printing presses yep it got my hand. Lucky I was able to get loose and drive myself to the hospital. Never worked alone since. Thanks for your reminder!
I love my Handy Lift, I have the same one you reviewed. I got this lift because I do not want my son working on a lift that flexes and wobbles like the HF one. The delivery was what I thought would be a pain, but it was super easy. 100 % satisfied with this lift.
Been there / done that, with the same lift (without the air bag). Fortunately caught it while we were moving it. Great lift. Mine's about 20 years old and still going strong. Glad you're OK!
Great you weren't squished by a bike! A good reason why most mech shops don't let people stand around in the work area, around the lifts and machinery. And... I know this is a hard thing to hear... But sometimes, a mechanic can... "Make a mistake..." Aaaah! I know! That was brutal! The truth can be so vicious at times! It was great Handy went on to even fix an issue that had been in their designs for years. Have a great week Kevin!
This is the first time I have seen a video on this subject and while I am aware of the potential dangers of bike lifts this video is a timely reminder to check your gear!
First and foremost, glad to hear that you came out without any damage to yourself or any bike. Secondly, thank you for all the great information about lifts. I am not currently getting a lift, but am looking at getting one in the near future. This information is very beneficial in helping me decide what to look at and for. You are always a wealth of good ideas and advice. Thanks for being YOU Kevin.
There is another option that is rarely discussed - I sunk my lift into the garage floor. It’s at floor level, so no safety problems getting bikes on or off. There are a couple of disadvantages though. You need to own the floor, and (once finished) the lift is there for good (until you decide to move, and fill the hole with concrete). Overall, it’s been a good decision.
5yrs ago I was shopping for a lift for my home garage. I looked at the cheap HF one and all the Chinese ones. I called Andy @ Handy and explained I wanted an American product. After listening to my needs, he worked out a deal that if I picked up the table at the freight company, I was within a few hundred more than a Chinese one. Best thing I bought for my garage! The air bag design is slick
Kevin. Thank you for your knowledge. I too have HANDY as well as my son. Both lifts are well over 20 yrs old. We have never experienced a situation. But it’s always in the back of your mind. What If ? I like what handy has done with there product. Very forward thinking.a safety minded Especially like the new foot pedal . Can’t tell ya how many times I’ve bumped it while working on a Bike. Of course the latch system was in place to prevent it from lowering. But still it wakes you up. Thanks again. I’ll pass this video on to our friends.
Very happy you or no one was hurt. Hope you get a welder in the shop and have him put that small piece of metal on your lifts to keep that wheel/bearing on the track. Love your videos you're the best.
I had the same experience with HF lift that your dad had. The bearing exploded while my bike was in the air. The other side lasted a little longer, the it exploded and the bike went down. The air cushion stopped it from ruining my bike. I put good bearings in it, but it not a quality product. I would buy Handy from now on!
My late stepdad had a car lift fail in the early 80s and it crushed both ankles. Thankfully, he lived to recover. An old coworker of mine wasn't as lucky. His younger brother was killed while under a car lift that failed. So, spot on for the episode and information. God bless!
First time viewer of your videos, Kevin, and I must say that you are a true gentleman. Not many people would take the time to do a video of a company who truly shows respect & value their customers, and for this company known as "Handy", to send you a brand new lift & wanting your feedback is extra-ordinary, as that is unseen & unheard of. Kudos to you, as this company.......job well done!
I appreciate the story and the endorsement, I Only use Quality Tools and Equipment, first thing i did was check my lift..were good. Cheers from South Oz 👍
Have you fixed all your old style lifts yet? Seems like simply drilling a couple holes through the sides, insert bolt and nut, and the roller won't be able to slide out of the track again. Could also do this from the top if the side can't work.
I have a Handy lift in my shop, that's older than any of yours by I'd say at least 5 years, I think it says Western Handy lift on the side, has never missed a beat. Mine has an air cylinder, not a hydraulic cylinder. Impressive company!
Great video good thing to know I have 3 handy lifts in my barn and a bike on all 3 most of the time. I've had them longer than you have. Never had an issue. Great product. I move 3 years ago to Kentucky. My question to you is have you thought of saw cutting out cement the size of your lift digging up dirt pouring new cement with rebar to be able to insert a lift to floor level height get rid of ramp if need longer it is simple to do raise it up block front and rear add ramp or like I do have one that is a utility lift trikes up to 10 over front ends. And stock bikes. In the floor is safesest way. I work on my motor cycles constantly including deep cleaning. # 2 suggestion I'm in my shop daily ALONE ok my smart watch has fall detection, a phone verbal calling, 911 keypad also. But crash sound and fall detection is my partner. Just adds a little more safety to you. Keep those great video’s coming. Now I'm going to respect my lifts. Good job. Thank you so much
I am in the market for a new motorcycle lift, had been looking at Kendon but after watching this video I am now considering the Handy lifts. Thanks for the informative video and testimonial.
I have a Handy lift and I'm not crazy about it. I have 2 hydraulic 2000 lb capacity 4 foot x 8 foot tables made by Southworth. They go lower to the floor and raise up higher. And they are large enough that I can roll a full dressed bike on them and put the kickstand down. From there I can strap it upright if I want.
Love my Handy Bob Lift for trikes. I added extended tubes in fron for a more secure tie down hook point. I used some old steel fork tubes. All good for my home shop.
Thank you for this video Kevin. I have had my Handy Lift since 2007. It is the older 1,000 lb. model, I moved from Calif. to Okla. in 2020. I loaded and moved my lift by myself and do not remember if I Over lifted my lift as you did. I will however go out to my garage and double check my lift. Thank you again. Ken
When you put the strap on don’t drop the hook through the slot and up through the hole. Thread the hook down through the hole and up the slot. Seems backwards but if the strap goes loose just a tiny bit it can’t fall out. If you come up through the hole it can fall out.
Thanks for sharing. I think promoting safety is always good. I have see the local box store selling and that is more what I can afford when it is time to buy. But, after watching this I know don't cheap out. Even though I am not a mechanic and would not even really get much use out of it. Just the safety aspect alone should be money well spent.
Hi Kevin-glad that you managed to dodge a bullet, and you have taken the time to share the lessons learned on safety when operating motorcycle lifts. My early career was in the aeronautical industry and I am a keen watcher of a program on National Geographic called Air Crash Investigation. The key takeaway in these true life events is that after each crash analysis is to learn from the incident and make improvements to technology, process, procedures, human behavior etc to hopefully avoid a reoccurrence in the future.
The same thing almost happened to me on a Direct Lift. I had a Road Glide on it and leaned on the back of the lift and it started tipping. Scared me to death. Looked under the lift and those wheels were out of the guide.
One thing i need to do is non skid or use maybe wire mesh grate or thin metal trailer grate on my lift ramp..its not a steep angle but man it is slick..and the rear tire want to move out from under it even just pushing it on..I also put eye bolts in for the front tie down..took off the screw clamp and installed the trailer wheel lock system ...makes it safer and easier to tie down the bike ..Great info here Kevin thanks again for sharing..Peace
Question does not the Bearing Ride outwards not Inwords ? I have worked on alot of Heavy Safety things over the Year's doing inspections on Death inspections on Forklift Accidents over the Year's. But you are Proving a Great Point where , Safety is a Major Issue in Working , with or Without People !!! Yes Handy does Make a Great Products !!! After thinking it through. You are right bearings will roll in words not out !!! I did not want to erase my commit as I was thinking wrong on your story. You have great Wisdom in your Platform !
Without you giving a little PSA about the incident, most people would never tell on themselves to alert the public of a danger to themselves and others. Thankfully it was a cleaning thing that the lift failed. We want you to know that you are doing great things and need to keep your expertise alive and well!!
my handy lifts dont use hydraulics at all.... its a pnuematic (air powered) cylinder..... yours are probably fancier thsn mine tho....prayin for your continued success and sayin hello from Arkansas
I did the same thing when I moved my SAM 1000 years ago, lifted under the table, not under the legs. I was fortunate that I tested the lift first before I put my bike on it! Just pure good luck that I did that first. Now, since that time, I use two ratchet straps under the bottom of the legs, front and rear, then the straps go over the table which secures the legs up under the table. Then you can move that lift without the bearings running off the track.
Here's a possible easy safety upgrade to your older lifts. Rather than weld a stop at the end of the track, just drill a hole and put a stop bolt on. That way, when the bearing finally wears out and need replacing, you can take the lift apart easier. Very quick to do, and you don't have to prep for welding. Only thing you need to do is figure out where to place the bolt and the size and length of the bolts. Tom Mack (fm Mack Trucks)
Know those lifts Well, worked in Dealerships from 1973 to 2010 and then a few independent shops.........ALL used Handy Lifts Great Product !!
I'm not a cyclist, but enjoyed the video.
For those with these older lifts, do a retrofit. Drill a 3/8" hole at the end of the railing where the bearing came out and insert a bolt, maybe double nut the bolt. The bolt would do the same as the new models welded in plate.
30 minutes to tell a 10 min story. I’m glad your ok!!!
Really, John. >>>Kevin didn't force you to watch his full video. Are you always so critical of people with integrity, as empathy. I applaud Kevin for bringing this matter to light, as he may save someone from serious injuries, or death.>>>Kudos to him, and he also showed gratitude & appreciation to this company, "Handy"......now, that is positive, as enlightning.
I don't mind listening to him, I've learned alot by keeping my mouth shut & listening...just saying @jontnoneya3404
When you know better you do better. Thank you for the insight and information. Glad your ok... "Lucky"
Hello all
I also have two of the older Handy lift!! I checked one of my lift i found that the rollers off track So tomorrow I’II set it on it’s side and set it up Then I’II check the second one I’II check in tomorrow
The update I inspected both Handy lifts One was fine the second one was off track
Like Kevin said pull up on the front it pulled up Next I laid it on it’s side and slid the bearings up
Aired it up and down a couple of times
Thanks Kevin for this video
Cheers
Ride defensivly and be ready. safety first!
I have that lift but I have the extension wings on the side. You can ride the bike on the lift, no run at it, just go slow both feet on the ground, and the bike goes right on the lift. Side stand down, dismount, the tie the bike as you described. I welded caps on the ends of the bearing tracks to prevent what happened to you.
Thanks for the update, I have a older Handy lift and it works great hell a life saver at my age. Love the up grades and I will be boxing in the bearing chanels after this psa .
I've been looking for a lift, after this video, I'm sold on getting a Handy.
Glad you didn't get smooshed Mr Baxter. Please keep that master builder knowledge coming. Thank you.
You just covered one of the biggest worries I have working alone in the motorcycle shop.
The Handy company has ammaazziinngg product!
Thank you for doing more than just flashy repair videos!
Handy has always been a standup company. I still have my old old electric lift. I am in the market to get a new lift…. Handy just reaffirmed that they will get my business! Thanks Kevin!!
That Handy 1200 looks super beefy and professional ! Wow, real quality and good customer service has always been invaluable to me. Very nice indeed.
Good to hear that you wasn't hurt or bike damaged. The way Handy treated you, says a lot about the company. Well done Handy! Be safe pardner!
Great video. I hear you about loading Harleys on lifts. 30 years ago I could load baggers & everything else by myself. Now I'm 72 & can't load a light bike on my lift. I Installed a 600lb wench on the front right corner of my lift. I have a Handy 1000 lift with the 8" wide extensions. Made & welded a "L" bracket out of some steel I had laying around. The wench has a wireless remote control so I can sit on the bike & let the wench do all the work. It is the safest way for me to load any bike onto the lift. I only need a 600lb wench. Loading heavy baggers are 900lbs plus & I get it. You don't need a heavier rated wench because we are talking about loading rolling weight. I have done this process several times & it works beautiful. I know it is expensive to have to install a wench on every lift in your shop. Maybe install on a couple of lifts for the heavy baggers. Just a thought. Hope this helps.
Sounds like you have a fetish for really heavy "wenches"... personally, I prefer them about 120 lbs... but they often gain weight once you get into a relationship with them! 🤣😜🤪
Glad you or anyone else wasn’t hurt. Glad to hear a good American company stands by their products beyond the warranty. 👍👍👍
I've recently retired from 30yrs as Harley Mechanic. I would say it's the most dangerous due to the frequency of loading/unloading of the lifts in comparison to test rides. In my experience they're almost even....
Glad your ok, I just ratchet strapped my handy lift closed, and dollied the rear without the wheels. Also strapped the dolly to the lift as well. Then installed a small winch in my little trailer to load by myself. Cheer's DW
Thank you for this video. At 61 years old, & many crazy moments, It’s still great to be here. God bless you and everyone here. Smitty.
So glad you were not hurt!!!
The man upstairs was looking after you!!!
Excellent safety tip; thank you for the context. Handy for the win! Love mine!
Glad you were not hurt Kevin!! You have SOLD me on the Handy lift. When I buy one from these guys I will be sure to mention your name and channel as the man who sold me on this lift! American Made STILL means something!!! I hardly ever comment but I wanted you, and Handy to know this. GOD Bless Brother!!!
Glad that no hurt no pain an you came out of this on the good side. Thankyou for a honest an truthful video , you just may have saved a lot of guys from a huge accident an what we should be looking at on how these lifts are made,Thank You an stay safe!!
Thanks Kevin! I worked 32 years operating power plants. Dodged a few bullets during my career. It's those little things that will get you.
I been wanting to get a lift for a few years now I know what 1 I'm getting so thanks.
Kevin,
I gave been in the market for a lift for a while now.
I have cruised the manufactures from stem to stern. IF any of them had the slightest thought of being made in an Asian country, it was not considered.
Handy was my pick. Based on your video, there is no doubt where I will be purchasing my lift.
Keep up the good work.
The new lift table looks great! Need one of those In my work place !
Converted a warehouse lift to a bike lift designed my own locking mechanism love it keeps the wheels free and I have a table on each side of the bike. Glad you are okay you are right safety is a must for sure.
Mine is getting a stop installed on each end of the tracks asap! Thank you very much for this information sir.
So glad you weren’t hurt Kevin. Thanks for the info regarding these lifts. Seems that that channel should have NOT BEEN LEFT OPEN IN THE FIRST PLACE! God bless you Kevin have an incredible day
This was the 1st video of yours I've seen. Really good info. Thanks
Thanks for the video. I just went out and checked mine. It is in the tracks like it should be. I got mine from a closing motorcycle shop about 5 years ago. It is an old Handy lift. We just picked it up and put it in the back of my truck, and then lifted it off the truck and put it in my garage, not know the proper way to lift it or thinking this could have happened. I have used it on several of the motorcycles we own and love it. I like the features of the new lift, but don't use it enough to justify getting a new one. Thanks again for the safety tips, I will remember this when moving the lift in the future. Ride Safe.
Thank the Lord for your safety, you’re one of the good guys we can’t afford to lose, best always, B.
Kevin, I'm so glad you did not get hurt.The man upstairs was definitely looking out for you that day.And also the other day when the bearing shattered from the big box store.
I'm glad you are ok and nothing got damaged.
Well sir, I had so many things to say, with your content I have to wait until the Very End to realize you've put all the in & outs of your content into the conversation. I've always heard Handy was the best and you've confirmed the last 15 years of listening to friends and family saying "if you're going to get a lift spend the money and get a Handy" great stories and great info! Appreciate you giving us your knowledge.
I will definitely keep that in mind if I need to move mine. Glad you're ok.
Really happy to hear that you didn't get injured. I don't have experience with Handy lift, but this design of the lift, whatever company you might choose, always made me question if it wouldn't topple over on a person. I made a shop in a container, just a hobbiest, doing work on my own bike, and recently brought a 800kg motorcycle lift. It has smtwo huge cylinders at the back, but it has a frame at the bottom where the lift wheels glide in. I feel, for my use, (everyone is different in their choice and views of this) that it is the safest option to get. There aren't like with both the lifts you have here, any way of leaving something in front or at the back of the front wheels, so nothing can get stuck, and cause the lift to fall over to the side. Like I said, to each their own, but also when I moved the lift, I wrapped a tie strap around the lift, as when you go to pick it up, you will lift it from the table platform, as in this case of this particular lift, there is no room to get a Forklift or dolly underneath, unless you have a couple of strong guys lift it up onto some round logs, and you pick it up that way. My point here being, always strap a lift table down to the frame, if possible, around the whole outside, and ratchet that sucker down good. That way, nothing moves when you are loading and unloading it. Always perform safety checks without a load on the lift first, after moving it, but even on a weekly basis to ensure that all is still working fine. Its like when you gear up for a weekend away with your family, you fill the car up with gas, check all the fluids, before you set off on your journey. The same should apply with your lift, as you do when packing away your tools, you clean them after use, so that when you grab them tomorrow they are clean and ready for the next job you're about to tackle. Happy and safe wrenching.
I have a Coats now and I have used the old Handy lifts. I would choose Handy for my next lift. Glad you are ok
Wow they have addressed every concern I've had with my old lift. I did end up putting the side extentions on just to have somewhere to put my feet while loading my road glide ultra by myself. Too narrow and slippery to balance without them. I really like the idea of a longer ramp. I've had the rear wheel spin and slide sideways on mine. Hose routing and especially spring loaded foot pedal are a big safety improvement as well. This video may if not probably will save damage, injury, or lives. Super important info!
I don’t have one, I’ve used others lifts, all from harbor freight. Scary really doesn’t describe the feelings I’ve had during said lifting of the bike and work being completed…nerve racking. I made blue prints so I could make my own version. Definitely happy I haven’t bought or built yet! This video is quite literally a blessing to me Kevin. 💯 The liability involved with putting others motorcycle up on one has kept me away from them thus far. Gonna go on over to Handy’s site now. And seriously??? I don’t see how you have anytime to sleep crazy man!!! Until next time hoss!
I have the same older Handy lifts, they even survived when my shop got flooded. Glad you mentioned greasing the pivot as I never have but will be checking. Thanks for doing this video.
Glad it wasn't a catastrophe and you are ok.
I purchased that exact lift last fall, i just ordered the 12" extension kit for it. I think it is well built and built in USA was a must.
Ive been using them for years in several shops and have never seen that!! Ill be adding stop tabs to the ones at my shop this week! im also a solo owner/operator.. good job handy !!
Ive had to reseal some older used pneumatic cylinders
Before, usually in a shop with no water filters and lazy ppl who never drain tanks .. tends to chew up seals .. i love the updated airbag, that will outlive us both haha .. again another great vid.. my shop is half paid for, I shld rent it out (Savannah Ga) and find me 3 or 4 acers and come work with you !!
Kevin, since you've changed shops I've noticed you by yourself. All the safety equipment, safe practices can go wrong. You're out there at all hours of the day and night, you need to hire somebody to be out with you.
I never know what you're going to teach me next. Thanks for posting such a potentially injury/damage saving video. Not everyone would take the time.
You stay safe, Kevin. I've learned so much from you, Doc harley, and TH-cam in general... I've had 5 Harleys, and I do all my own work if possible. I think I speak for all of us jug-lovers... We need you! Also, it takes a real man to admit something, no matter how severe, was his fault in front of the world. Respect+++
God bless you brother. He gives us opportunity’s like this when we need to step back, regroup, reset. 🙏🏻🌞
Thanks Kevin I have a sam 1000 and I am moving the shop in 2 weeks. happy you did not get hurt !!!!!!
So glad you weren’t hurt. It’s also great to see a company that actually cares and appreciates their customers.
I have two old Handy lifts & have never had a problem ! When I do move them I strap the legs to the table just to be safe ! Thanks for the info !
Call it what you will (everyone will have their own opinion). Devine intervention, luck or the moon was in the right phase, whatever. Just glad you weren't hurt when that lift let go. Your transition to the new shop and doing 99.99% of the work by yourself was simply amazing in my view. Looking forward to more videos from the new shop.
Thank you for this video. Kevin. I will be buying 3 of these shortly. 🙏🏼🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
I have an old Handi and I'm so grateful for your help.
I also add a small loop strap around the front rim and wheel chock
Very happy you’re Ok!
Thank God for that and thank the good folks that build the Handy motorcycle lifts for their due diligence to provide a very SAFE product for us to use! 👍🙏
I learned the hard way also. Was injured working alone in a printing plant operating a printing press with no one else in the building. With over twenty years experience operating all types of printing presses yep it got my hand. Lucky I was able to get loose and drive myself to the hospital. Never worked alone since. Thanks for your reminder!
I love my Handy Lift, I have the same one you reviewed. I got this lift because I do not want my son working on a lift that flexes and wobbles like the HF one. The delivery was what I thought would be a pain, but it was super easy. 100 % satisfied with this lift.
Been there / done that, with the same lift (without the air bag). Fortunately caught it while we were moving it. Great lift. Mine's about 20 years old and still going strong.
Glad you're OK!
Great you weren't squished by a bike!
A good reason why most mech shops don't let people stand around in the work area, around the lifts and machinery.
And... I know this is a hard thing to hear... But sometimes, a mechanic can... "Make a mistake..."
Aaaah! I know! That was brutal! The truth can be so vicious at times!
It was great Handy went on to even fix an issue that had been in their designs for years.
Have a great week Kevin!
Great Video Kev.
Would have been nice if you had shown how the safety locking system worked.
This is the first time I have seen a video on this subject and while I am aware of the potential dangers of bike lifts this video is a timely reminder to check your gear!
First and foremost, glad to hear that you came out without any damage to yourself or any bike. Secondly, thank you for all the great information about lifts. I am not currently getting a lift, but am looking at getting one in the near future. This information is very beneficial in helping me decide what to look at and for. You are always a wealth of good ideas and advice. Thanks for being YOU Kevin.
There is another option that is rarely discussed - I sunk my lift into the garage floor. It’s at floor level, so no safety problems getting bikes on or off. There are a couple of disadvantages though. You need to own the floor, and (once finished) the lift is there for good (until you decide to move, and fill the hole with concrete). Overall, it’s been a good decision.
Outstanding video and advice. Very happy that no injury to you or damage to any property happened. Greetings from the MS gulf coast
Things happen when one burns the candle to hotly. Looks and sounds like HANDY is The Only Lift to Own. Glad you’re OK Kevin.
For a few dollars more they are well worth the money. Very well built.
5yrs ago I was shopping for a lift for my home garage. I looked at the cheap HF one and all the Chinese ones. I called Andy @ Handy and explained I wanted an American product. After listening to my needs, he worked out a deal that if I picked up the table at the freight company, I was within a few hundred more than a Chinese one. Best thing I bought for my garage! The air bag design is slick
Kevin. Thank you for your knowledge. I too have HANDY as well as my son. Both lifts are well over 20 yrs old. We have never experienced a situation. But it’s always in the back of your mind. What If ? I like what handy has done with there product. Very forward thinking.a safety minded Especially like the new foot pedal . Can’t tell ya how many times I’ve bumped it while working on a Bike. Of course the latch system was in place to prevent it from lowering. But still it wakes you up. Thanks again. I’ll pass this video on to our friends.
Very happy you or no one was hurt. Hope you get a welder in the shop and have him put that small piece of metal on your lifts to keep that wheel/bearing on the track. Love your videos you're the best.
So rare these days to see the new version of a product that's better than the previous model! Love my bright red Handy S.A.M. 1200 Air Lift!
I had the same experience with HF lift that your dad had. The bearing exploded while my bike was in the air. The other side lasted a little longer, the it exploded and the bike went down. The air cushion stopped it from ruining my bike. I put good bearings in it, but it not a quality product. I would buy Handy from now on!
My late stepdad had a car lift fail in the early 80s and it crushed both ankles. Thankfully, he lived to recover. An old coworker of mine wasn't as lucky. His younger brother was killed while under a car lift that failed. So, spot on for the episode and information. God bless!
I am very sure that once they heard your name, "service" kicked-in. Glad you shared your experience.
First time viewer of your videos, Kevin, and I must say that you are a true gentleman. Not many people would take the time to do a video of a company who truly shows respect & value their customers, and for this company known as "Handy", to send you a brand new lift & wanting your feedback is extra-ordinary, as that is unseen & unheard of. Kudos to you, as this company.......job well done!
I appreciate the story and the endorsement, I Only use Quality Tools and Equipment, first thing i did was check my lift..were good. Cheers from South Oz 👍
Have you fixed all your old style lifts yet? Seems like simply drilling a couple holes through the sides, insert bolt and nut, and the roller won't be able to slide out of the track again. Could also do this from the top if the side can't work.
I have a Handy lift in my shop, that's older than any of yours by I'd say at least 5 years, I think it says Western Handy lift on the side, has never missed a beat. Mine has an air cylinder, not a hydraulic cylinder. Impressive company!
Great video good thing to know I have 3 handy lifts in my barn and a bike on all 3 most of the time. I've had them longer than you have. Never had an issue. Great product. I move 3 years ago to Kentucky. My question to you is have you thought of saw cutting out cement the size of your lift digging up dirt pouring new cement with rebar to be able to insert a lift to floor level height get rid of ramp if need longer it is simple to do raise it up block front and rear add ramp or like I do have one that is a utility lift trikes up to 10 over front ends. And stock bikes. In the floor is safesest way. I work on my motor cycles constantly including deep cleaning. # 2 suggestion I'm in my shop daily ALONE ok my smart watch has fall detection, a phone verbal calling, 911 keypad also. But crash sound and fall detection is my partner. Just adds a little more safety to you. Keep those great video’s coming. Now I'm going to respect my lifts. Good job. Thank you so much
I just backed a zero turn of my old handy and will inspect it in the morning 😮
Not taking a chance now 😊
Thanks 🙏
I am in the market for a new motorcycle lift, had been looking at Kendon but after watching this video I am now considering the Handy lifts. Thanks for the informative video and testimonial.
I have a Handy lift and I'm not crazy about it. I have 2 hydraulic 2000 lb capacity 4 foot x 8 foot tables made by Southworth. They go lower to the floor and raise up higher. And they are large enough that I can roll a full dressed bike on them and put the kickstand down. From there I can strap it upright if I want.
Love my Handy Bob Lift for trikes. I added extended tubes in fron for a more secure tie down hook point. I used some old steel fork tubes. All good for my home shop.
Glad to see your ok with no injuries
Thank you for this video Kevin. I have had my Handy Lift since 2007. It is the older 1,000 lb. model, I moved from Calif. to Okla. in 2020. I loaded and moved my lift by myself and do not remember if I Over lifted my lift as you did. I will however go out to my garage and double check my lift. Thank you again. Ken
When you put the strap on don’t drop the hook through the slot and up through the hole. Thread the hook down through the hole and up the slot. Seems backwards but if the strap goes loose just a tiny bit it can’t fall out. If you come up through the hole it can fall out.
Glad you are alright Kevin . I think I will take a closer look at my lift
Thanks for sharing. I think promoting safety is always good. I have see the local box store selling and that is more what I can afford when it is time to buy. But, after watching this I know don't cheap out. Even though I am not a mechanic and would not even really get much use out of it. Just the safety aspect alone should be money well spent.
Hi Kevin-glad that you managed to dodge a bullet, and you have taken the time to share the lessons learned on safety when operating motorcycle lifts. My early career was in the aeronautical industry and I am a keen watcher of a program on National Geographic called Air Crash Investigation. The key takeaway in these true life events is that after each crash analysis is to learn from the incident and make improvements to technology, process, procedures, human behavior etc to hopefully avoid a reoccurrence in the future.
The same thing almost happened to me on a Direct Lift. I had a Road Glide on it and leaned on the back of the lift and it started tipping. Scared me to death. Looked under the lift and those wheels were out of the guide.
One thing i need to do is non skid or use maybe wire mesh grate or thin metal trailer grate on my lift ramp..its not a steep angle but man it is slick..and the rear tire want to move out from under it even just pushing it on..I also put eye bolts in for the front tie down..took off the screw clamp and installed the trailer wheel lock system ...makes it safer and easier to tie down the bike ..Great info here Kevin thanks again for sharing..Peace
Question does not the Bearing Ride outwards not Inwords ?
I have worked on alot of Heavy Safety things over the Year's doing inspections on Death inspections on Forklift Accidents over the Year's. But you are Proving a Great Point where , Safety is a Major Issue in Working , with or Without People !!!
Yes Handy does Make a Great Products !!!
After thinking it through. You are right bearings will roll in words not out !!!
I did not want to erase my commit as I was thinking wrong on your story. You have great Wisdom in your Platform !
Without you giving a little PSA about the incident, most people would never tell on themselves to alert the public of a danger to themselves and others. Thankfully it was a cleaning thing that the lift failed.
We want you to know that you are doing great things and need to keep your expertise alive and well!!
Weld a stop plate at each end and they will never come out.
Or just drill a couple holes and put in a couple of bolts as stops. That way you can take it apart if need be.
my handy lifts dont use hydraulics at all.... its a pnuematic (air powered) cylinder..... yours are probably fancier thsn mine tho....prayin for your continued success and sayin hello from Arkansas
Stay safe,Kevin,glad your OK,great customer service, from handy,made in usa, regards Mike, softail deluxe owner,United Kingdom
Your Guardian Angels were watching over you that day. Glad that you're okay. I have an older style Handy and that info is handy (no pun intended).
Perfect timing! I just started looking into new lifts and now I now what one I'll be purchasing.
Thanks!
I did the same thing when I moved my SAM 1000 years ago, lifted under the table, not under the legs. I was fortunate that I tested the lift first before I put my bike on it! Just pure good luck that I did that first. Now, since that time, I use two ratchet straps under the bottom of the legs, front and rear, then the straps go over the table which secures the legs up under the table. Then you can move that lift without the bearings running off the track.
Handy has always been the best !