Gotta love this forum.. seems like everyone is willing to lend a HAND!

 

Luckily, I've never had a bike without a centerstand. Here's how I've been doing it for decades: I put my foot on the centerstand tang and lift up on the handle above the rear wheel with both hands. Both hands? Yep, both hands, just like doing a deadlift on the rear of the bike.

It comes right up. But aren't you supposed to keep a hand on the handlebar and try and lift the bike with one hand? That's crazy. I keep the front wheel pointed straight and lift the rear of the bike using my legs. That's safe and smart.