Friday, 26 February 2016 09:06

The TrackStand from Od Designs: Tested and Reviewed

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My garage contains a lot of bikes. At any one time there may be up to ten in there. Unfortunately, and not for the want of trying, I can only actually ride one at a time and so the problem of storing them raises its boring pedantic head. So what to do?

Obviously there is the option of leaning them against the wall. Sadly this only works with my cheaper less, cared for machines (please don't tell them I said that). No way can I let this happen to my racer, my baby and the 2nd most important thing in my life after my daughter (don't tell Julie I said that). Up until now I've found that a Kawasaki BN Eliminator 125cc cruiser has been almost perfect but I can't really wash my beloved against it and it's a bit heavy to put in the back of my car to take to Afan for the hardtail. I don't like the stands that grip the wheel because I'm wary of damaging spokes so I don't use those. What I need is a lightweight portable, stable and adaptable stand and that's where the TrackStand from Yorkshire based company Od Designs comes in.

I first came across Od Designs at Mountain Mayhem in 2015. Just about every team racing had a bike stand with an Od Designs sticker on it. It turned out just about every team was using an Od Designs stand. Chatting to the guys I got a hint of a new product in development and catching up with them at the NEC Cycle show I was shown the TrackStand.

Made from Aluminium and with a simple 3 step folding system the TrackStand is ready to us within seconds. It supports a bike by it seat and chain stays and can be used with just road or mountain. I've used both 26" and 700c wheel sizes on mine so I'll assume there shouldn't be a problem with a 650b or a 29" but I can't say if a fat bike would have issues but they're ugly anyway so I don't care.

The TrackStand has remained stable when I've washed and hosed my darlings, although it did once falter under vigorous polishing. That though may have been my fault. One major plus point is that lubricating the drivetrain is a doddle. So much easier than setting up a full work stand. Even my lesser loved steeds are getting some attention this winter.

The TrackStands party piece is even better. A simple slot allows multiple TrackStands to be fitted together. Your garage can look like a proper bike shop or racing team! In fact the Irish Track Team are already using them. 

The TrackStand has given a few problems however. Julie now wants the garage tidied and organised and there is now no excuse for not getting my Motorbike to work again.

 

Further details regarding the TrackStand and other Od Designs products can be found at http://www.od-designs.co.uk/index.php