Correct Length of Side Stand 1978 KZ1000A2

The Side stand on my my bike seems to short causing the bike to lean over too much. It was likely changed at some point to match the 16" rear and lowering of the front by moving the fork tubes up in the clamps. Having put the forks back to their stock position while working on the front end, fork seals etc. it seems even worse, but today I'm hoping to get the 18" rear fitted which will only make it worse.

Looking at the parts diagrams it seems there are different side stands for the LTD and A models and a different one again for a KZ650 of which I have some spares. So how long should the correct stand be from the pivot to the ground? I'd rather not have to carry some "2 ber 4's" with me just in case I need to stop and get off

One of your spares might work. If not the A model should. The LTD's had 16" rear wheels. Also tighten up the bolt and nut. They get loose and the bike leans more.
Steve

My KZ650 spare fits, it's fractionally longer, I don't think whatever is on there, is the right one for any KZ1000 since the length to the spring attachment is too short meaning the spring tension is too little. There's definitely an issue with play where it attaches that is making it worse, perhaps I'll try a shim washer or two. I'd still like confirmation of the length for an A1 or A2 model if anyone has one they can measure.

Mine broke so I put a 350 Honda one on. It leaned like a Harley. :lol:
Steve

I'll see if I can take a measurement off my 78 A2 in the morning for you.

PFD wrote: I'll see if I can take a measurement off my 78 A2 in the morning for you.

That would be great, that way I can at least identify the correct one, or one of the right length from something else. The ones I have do not seem to have any part #'s or identifying marks on them.

So I get 12" from the ball on the tip of the foot to the top of the bolt head that secures it to the frame, I'm pretty sure it's the original side stand but who knows, I've always wondered if the bend or curve is supposed to be there. Hopefully someone can comment on that one lol.

Many thanks PFD - the story of my life, I'm a good 1 1/2 inches short of what I should have with whatever found it's way on to the bike and still about 1/2-3/4" short with the KZ650 one. At least I know now what too look for, Thanks again.

You're welcome, glad to be of service!

With your help PFD, I managed to identify a KZ1000A2 side stand on Ebay, it arrived this morning. There is a curve in the stand, but I think yours is "somewhat exaggerated" I'll post a shot of mine when fitted, I just got through rust removal and painting it. It seems there is a curve in towards the bike but not forward like yours appears in the picture.

Hopefully the new one will do a better job, the original one always had me holding my breath when deployed. Currently my bike is held up by my 2T engine hoist, so not going to fall, while I await the last pieces that will allow the final fitting of my 18" rear Police wheel - good old UPS for delivering my sidestand today, but bad old USPS having a day off for Veterans day, my Sprocket and Cush drive are sitting at my local Post Office, so near and yet so far .

Well here it is, painted and fitted, huge improvement now I don't feel the need to pray every time I leave it on the stand. The bike sits more upright, but also the stand seems to come out further so the bike feels a lot more stable.

Nice, that does look better. I've always thought the curve on mine wasn't right, once I get it on a jack and get the wheels off for new tires I'll have to see about straightening the side stand a bit.

Cheers