Here's a tip for you that I learned from Deer Slayer...find a board that is approximately 12 to 15" long, 6" wide, and 3/4" thick (yes, a 1 X 6 will do ) Note: In my case, I had some rubber stall mat material lying around that I got at a tractor supply store. Ride your bike's rear wheel up on that board or mat and you will find putting the bike on the center stand far easier. It's surprising how much easier it is to get the bike on the center stand when you have a little "head start".