Hydraulic lift or hoist, what do you use?

[oldGSfan]

I just read about an injury and MC damage due to a bike falling off a hydraulic lift, the kind that you roll onto. I have had a big one given to me free, and sold it. I couldn't get up close enough to the bike. I also had a smaller one given to me that lifts by the frame, sold it too. Good luck with it, wow, that was sketchy. It fit zero bikes that I tried it on. I rely on a $50 Harbor Freight 1-ton chain hoist. You need a strong beam, but I've had no problem with the big 1100s, etc, with my 2x4 garage beam, which is supported on either side by 45-degree angled 2x4s tying it up to the main roof beams.

With a strong sling (yeah, HF purple one, $10), and/or some ratchet straps, I can lift from front, back, or the whole bike, and get in close, micro-adjust, and rotate 360 as needed. I can't see lifts as being as simple, cheap, or effective. Maybe the only downside I can see is that you may need to take the seat and tank off if lifting from the middle to hoist the whole bike upright.

[Buffalo Bill]

I use the same system you do. I found a small 1/4 ton chain hoist. I use it for front end work, removing front wheel.