Spring Installation Tip

Sometimes you may find that you need to remove and reinstall a spring such as the kickstand or rear brake return spring. Even in the "relaxed" position these springs are slightly stretched (needed to keep them in place) and they are strong. Stretching them by hand can be difficult and even painful.

One option is to bend them slightly and insert a nickel or two between the coils. If you use more than one nickel, insert them opposite each other by bending the spring one way and then the other. This will stretch the spring slightly and make it easier to install.

When the spring is stretched by putting the kickstand down or depressing the rear brake pedal the nickels will simply fall out.