Best Jacks for Lifting the HD Tri Glide

I’ve been wrenching on bikes and trikes for years, and let me tell you, lifting an HD Tri Glide isn’t like lifting a dirt bike or even a standard Harley-Davidson cruiser. These beasts are heavy, wide, and demand a robust, stable lifting solution. When you’re trying to get under your Tri Glide for maintenance, tire changes, or even just a good clean, you need a jack you can truly trust. I’ve seen firsthand what happens when you use the wrong tool for the job – it’s not pretty, and it’s definitely not safe. That’s why I put together this guide. We’ll dive into what makes a jack truly great for your Tri Glide, look at a few options (and explain why some popular choices just won’t cut it), and help you pick the best jack for lifting your HD Tri Glide safely and efficiently. Let’s make sure your next garage project is a smooth one.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	ZNDAW Car Scissor Lift Jack Crank Handle, Steel Tire…	View on Amazon
	SHMZK Handle Keeper, Rubber Lift Jack Rust-Resistant Handle…	View on Amazon
	1500LB Hydraulic Motorcycle Lift Jack, Heavy Duty Scissor…	View on Amazon
	Powerbuilt 2 Ton Triple Lift Floor Jack, Lifts Cars,…	View on Amazon
	Ohleats 4 PCS Lifting Jack Pads Compatible for Model…	View on Amazon

ZNDAW Car Scissor Lift Jack Crank Handle, Steel Tire…

Alright, let’s start with something you might stumble upon online. This ZNDAW Scissor Lift Jack Crank Handle looks like a simple, useful tool for basic car maintenance. It’s designed to make operating a small scissor jack easier, giving you better leverage to raise a vehicle. While it’s crafted from high-quality steel for durability and rust resistance and features an ergonomically designed plastic handle for comfort, it’s crucial to understand its actual application. This is a crank handle for a car scissor jack, not a jack itself, and certainly not a jack designed for the immense weight and unique frame of an HD Tri Glide. Its purpose is to assist with tire changes or minor repairs on lighter vehicles.

• Key Features:

  • Made of high-quality steel for strength and rust resistance.
  • Ergonomic 3.74-inch handle for comfortable grip and leverage.
  • Simple hook-and-turn operation for car scissor jacks.
  • Designed for car tire replacement and repair.
  • Widely applicable for cars, trucks, and SUVs (when paired with a suitable scissor jack).

• Pros:

  • Durable steel construction.
  • Ergonomic handle provides good leverage.
  • Simple to use for its intended purpose.

• Cons:

  • This is NOT a jack; it’s a handle for a small car scissor jack.
  • Absolutely unsuitable for lifting an HD Tri Glide.
  • Inadequate for heavy vehicle applications due to the underlying jack’s limitations.

• Best for:

  • Assisting with small car scissor jacks for tire changes on sedans, light trucks, or SUVs.
  • Definitely NOT for an HD Tri Glide.

User feedback summary: Users generally find this crank handle to be a sturdy and useful replacement or upgrade for the often flimsy handles that come with generic car scissor jacks. They appreciate the solid feel and improved leverage for changing passenger car tires. However, no feedback suggests its use for anything beyond lightweight passenger vehicles.

SHMZK Handle Keeper, Rubber Lift Jack Rust-Resistant Handle…

Next up, we have the SHMZK Handle Keeper. This product is designed for a very specific type of jack: the Hi-Lift style jack, often used by off-roaders. Its primary function is to securely keep the jack handle in place, preventing rattling and potential injury while the vehicle is in motion or when storing the jack. Crafted from premium, rust-resistant rubber, it’s built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions and sun exposure without degrading. It boasts precise dimensions to fit common Hi-Lift models, ensuring a snug fit. While valuable for its intended use, a Hi-Lift jack is fundamentally unsuitable for lifting an HD Tri Glide due to stability issues on paved surfaces and the specific lifting points required for a heavy, low-slung trike. This accessory, by extension, isn’t relevant for your Tri Glide needs.

• Key Features:

  • Made from premium, rust-resistant rubber for durability.
  • Keeps jack handle securely in place, reducing vibration and enhancing safety.
  • Precise dimensions (5.3″ L, 3.0″ W, 1.0″ T, with specific hole diameters) for snug fit.
  • Easy to install by sliding firmly into place.
  • Compatible with various HL485, HL484/HL364, EJ550, and UTV jacks.

• Pros:

  • Durable and weather-resistant rubber construction.
  • Effectively secures Hi-Lift style jack handles.
  • Easy to install.

• Cons:

  • Designed for Hi-Lift jacks, which are completely inappropriate for lifting an HD Tri Glide.
  • This is an accessory, not a jack itself.
  • Zero practical application for garage maintenance of a Tri Glide.

• Best for:

  • Securing handles on Hi-Lift style jacks for off-road vehicles.
  • Definitely NOT for an HD Tri Glide.

User feedback summary: Owners of Hi-Lift jacks praise this keeper for its sturdy construction and how effectively it stops their jack handles from rattling during off-road excursions or when mounted on their vehicle. They appreciate the durable rubber and the secure fit it provides, making their jacks safer and less noisy.

1500LB Hydraulic Motorcycle Lift Jack, Heavy Duty Scissor…

Now we’re talking! This 1500LB Hydraulic Motorcycle Lift Jack is exactly the kind of tool you should be looking at for your HD Tri Glide. With a robust lifting capacity of up to 1500 lbs, it’s perfectly suited for the weight of cruisers, touring bikes, and yes, your heavy Tri Glide. Constructed from heavy-gauge steel with a protective powder coat finish, this jack is built to resist oil, rust, and the general wear and tear of a busy garage. Its effortless hydraulic operation is a game-changer, allowing you to smoothly raise your Tri Glide from 4.5″ to 15″ with an extra-long handle and foot pedal. The enhanced safety features, including a triple-position safety pin and a textured rubber platform with included straps, are crucial for keeping your valuable Tri Glide stable and secure while you work. Plus, its four swivel casters make it a truly mobile workshop solution, letting you easily maneuver your Tri Glide around your garage. This is a strong contender for the best jack for lifting the HD Tri Glide.

• Key Features:

  • 1500 lb lifting capacity, ideal for heavy motorcycles and Tri Glides.
  • Durable heavy-gauge steel frame with protective powder coat finish.
  • Effortless hydraulic operation via extra-long handle and foot pedal.
  • Lifting range from 4.5″ to 15″ for versatile working heights.
  • Enhanced safety with triple-position safety pin, textured rubber platform, and tie-down straps.
  • Four swivel casters for easy mobility and positioning.

• Pros:

  • Excellent lifting capacity for HD Tri Glides.
  • Provides great stability and security with safety pins and straps.
  • Smooth and easy hydraulic lifting action.
  • Mobile design allows for easy positioning.
  • Durable construction ensures long-term use.

• Cons:

  • Takes up a bit more floor space when not in use compared to smaller jacks.
  • May require careful maneuvering to find the optimal balance points under a Tri Glide.

• Best for:

  • Safely lifting and supporting HD Tri Glides, heavy cruisers, and touring motorcycles for maintenance and repairs.

User feedback summary: Users rave about this hydraulic jack’s ability to easily lift their heavy motorcycles, often mentioning how stable their bikes feel once on the lift. The smooth hydraulic action and the convenience of the foot pedal are frequently highlighted. Many appreciate the added safety of the locking pins and the rubber platform, giving them confidence when working on their valuable machines.

Powerbuilt 2 Ton Triple Lift Floor Jack, Lifts Cars,…

The Powerbuilt 2 Ton Triple Lift Floor Jack is an incredibly versatile piece of equipment that truly replaces multiple jacks. What makes it stand out is its patented Triple Lift design, which includes both a removable lift saddle for car frames and padded lift rails for things like motorcycle frames or ATVs. With a hefty 4,000-pound lifting capacity (2 tons), it’s more than capable of handling your HD Tri Glide, cars, trucks, and even transmissions. It offers a wide lift range from 5-1/2 inches to 17-1/2 inches, giving you ample room to work. The wide wheelbase ensures ultra stability, and crucially, it features a locking safety bar that eliminates the need for separate jack stands once the vehicle is raised. This combination of capacity, versatility, and safety makes it a very strong contender if you’re looking for a single jack that can do it all in your garage, including being a reliable option for lifting the HD Tri Glide.

• Key Features:

  • 4,000 lb (2-ton) lifting capacity.
  • Patented Triple Lift design with removable lift saddle and padded lift rails.
  • Wide lift range from 5-1/2″ to 17-1/2″.
  • Wide wheelbase for exceptional stability.
  • Integrated locking safety bar eliminates the need for jack stands.
  • Strong and durable, meeting or exceeding ASME and PALD standards.
  • Flexible design adapts to various vehicle frames.

• Pros:

  • High capacity easily handles HD Tri Glides and other heavy vehicles.
  • Extremely versatile for multiple types of vehicles and tasks.
  • Superior stability and built-in safety bar for peace of mind.
  • Good lift height for comfortable working.
  • Durable construction.

• Cons:

  • Can be quite heavy and bulky to move around compared to a dedicated motorcycle lift (though casters help).
  • Requires careful positioning to ensure balanced lift points on a Tri Glide’s frame.

• Best for:

  • Garage owners who need a single, highly versatile, and safe jack for lifting HD Tri Glides, cars, trucks, and other recreational vehicles.

User feedback summary: Users consistently praise the Powerbuilt Triple Lift for its incredible versatility, often noting that it lives up to its claim of replacing several specialized jacks. The stability provided by its wide stance and the peace of mind offered by the integrated safety bar are frequently highlighted as major benefits. Many find it robust enough for various vehicles and appreciate its reliable performance.

Ohleats 4 PCS Lifting Jack Pads Compatible for Model…

Finally, we have the Ohleats 4 PCS Lifting Jack Pads. Let’s be very clear from the outset: these are specifically designed for Tesla Model 3/Y/X/S vehicles, and they are absolutely not suitable or necessary for an HD Tri Glide. Their purpose is to protect the specific battery and chassis components of Tesla vehicles when a standard jack is used, preventing damage to the battery and paint. They are made from a durable, one-piece rubber process with a non-slip texture, providing strong support and cushioning. While they are easy to use for their intended application and come with a handy storage box, their design directly addresses unique Tesla jack points that simply do not exist on a Harley-Davidson Tri Glide. Using these would be futile, and in fact, you would likely need to rely on the advice for proper jack points specific to your Tri Glide manual.

• Key Features:

  • Specifically designed for Tesla Model 3/Y/X/S jack points.
  • Made from strong, durable, one-piece rubber.
  • Protects vehicle battery and chassis from jack damage.
  • Non-slip texture for wear resistance.
  • Easy to insert and remove with O-ring design.
  • Comes with a storage box for convenience.

• Pros:

  • Excellent protection for Tesla vehicles at their specific jack points.
  • Durable rubber construction.
  • Easy to use for their intended purpose.

• Cons:

  • Completely irrelevant and unsuitable for lifting an HD Tri Glide.
  • Addresses a problem that doesn’t exist for Tri Glides in the same way.
  • Not a jack, but an accessory for a specific type of car.

• Best for:

  • Owners of Tesla Model 3/Y/X/S who need to protect their vehicle’s battery and chassis when using a standard jack.
  • Definitely NOT for an HD Tri Glide.

User feedback summary: Tesla owners consistently praise these jack pads for their perfect fit and the peace of mind they provide when lifting their cars. Many highlight the robust rubber construction and the effective protection they offer against chassis or battery damage, making DIY tire rotations or service much safer. The included storage case is also a popular feature.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When you’re looking for the best jacks for lifting the HD Tri Glide, it’s clear that not all “jacks” or “lifting accessories” are created equal, or even suitable. We looked at five different products, and it’s essential to understand their specific applications.

First off, the ZNDAW Car Scissor Lift Jack Crank Handle and the SHMZK Handle Keeper are accessories, not full lifting jacks. The ZNDAW is a handle for a car scissor jack, and the SHMZK is for a Hi-Lift style jack. Neither of these types of jacks, nor their accessories, are appropriate for the significant weight and unique frame of an HD Tri Glide. Using a small car scissor jack for a Tri Glide would be incredibly unstable and dangerous due to insufficient capacity and an inability to safely engage the frame. Similarly, a Hi-Lift jack is designed for off-road recovery, not stable garage lifting of road vehicles.

Then we have the Ohleats 4 PCS Lifting Jack Pads. While useful, these are highly specialized protective pads designed specifically for Tesla vehicles’ unique jack points. An HD Tri Glide does not have these specific requirements or jack point designs, making these pads completely irrelevant for our purpose.

This leaves us with two excellent and appropriate options for lifting an HD Tri Glide: the 1500LB Hydraulic Motorcycle Lift Jack and the Powerbuilt 2 Ton Triple Lift Floor Jack.

The 1500LB Hydraulic Motorcycle Lift Jack is a specialized tool. Its 1500 lb capacity is perfectly matched for the weight of most Tri Glides, and its design is inherently made for two-wheeled (or three-wheeled, in this case) vehicles. You get a wide, stable platform with rubber padding and tie-down straps which are critical for securing your Tri Glide. The foot-pedal hydraulic operation is smooth and effortless, and the swivel casters mean you can easily position your Tri Glide once it’s lifted. If you primarily work on motorcycles and Tri Glides, this is a dedicated, purpose-built solution that offers incredible stability and peace of mind.

On the other hand, the Powerbuilt 2 Ton Triple Lift Floor Jack offers incredible versatility. With a 4,000 lb capacity, it can handle not just your Tri Glide but also your car, truck, ATV, and more. Its unique Triple Lift design allows it to adapt to various frame types using either a traditional saddle or padded rails. A significant advantage is its integrated locking safety bar, which effectively replaces jack stands, making it extremely secure once raised. While it might be a bit bulkier than the dedicated motorcycle lift, its ability to serve multiple purposes in your garage, combined with its superior stability and safety features, makes it an outstanding choice for someone needing a do-it-all jack.

In summary: for a dedicated, specialized lift specifically for your Tri Glide, the 1500LB Hydraulic Motorcycle Lift Jack is hard to beat. For a highly versatile, robust, and safe jack that can handle your Tri Glide AND other vehicles, the Powerbuilt 2 Ton Triple Lift Floor Jack is an exceptional investment. Both offer the necessary capacity, stability, and safety features you absolutely need when lifting such a substantial machine.

Final Verdict

When it comes down to selecting the best jack for lifting the HD Tri Glide, it’s clear we have two standout contenders that truly fit the bill.

If you’re looking for a specialized, purpose-built solution that lives in your garage primarily for your Tri Glide and other heavy motorcycles, the 1500LB Hydraulic Motorcycle Lift Jack is my top recommendation. It brings together ideal capacity, smooth hydraulic operation, and fantastic safety features like the rubberized platform and tie-down straps, all designed to give you maximum confidence when working on your prized possession. It’s stable, easy to use, and made for the job.

However, if your garage tasks extend beyond just your Tri Glide, and you want a single, incredibly versatile workhorse that can safely handle nearly anything with wheels – from your Tri Glide to your family sedan or even your truck – then the Powerbuilt 2 Ton Triple Lift Floor Jack is the smart choice. Its massive 4,000 lb capacity, adaptable lifting points, and brilliant integrated safety bar make it an all-in-one solution that delivers on both functionality and peace of mind. It’s a bit of an investment, but the sheer utility and robust safety it provides are unparalleled for a multi-vehicle garage.

Ultimately, both of these are excellent, safe choices. Your decision really comes down to whether you prefer a dedicated motorcycle lift or a universal jack that can tackle more tasks around the garage. Either way, you’ll be well-equipped to lift your HD Tri Glide safely and efficiently.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: Why can’t I use a standard car jack to lift my HD Tri Glide?
A: Standard car jacks, especially scissor jacks, typically have insufficient weight capacity and lack the stability required for a heavy, wide vehicle like the HD Tri Glide. Tri Glides weigh over 1,000 pounds, and a car jack might not have the capacity, and even if it did, the narrow base and design are not suited for the Tri Glide’s frame, making it very dangerous and unstable. You need a jack specifically designed for heavy motorcycles or a heavy-duty, wide-base floor jack.

Q2: What’s the minimum weight capacity a jack should have for an HD Tri Glide?
A: An HD Tri Glide can weigh anywhere from 1,100 to 1,300+ pounds, depending on the model and accessories. Therefore, you should look for a jack with a minimum lifting capacity of 1,200 to 1,500 pounds to ensure a safe working margin. The 1500LB Hydraulic Motorcycle Lift Jack reviewed here meets this, as does the 2-ton (4000lb) Powerbuilt Triple Lift.

Q3: Where are the best lifting points on an HD Tri Glide?
A: Always refer to your HD Tri Glide’s owner’s manual for the precise, manufacturer-recommended lifting points. Generally, you’ll want to lift from the main frame rails or specific points designed to support the vehicle’s weight, often under the engine or transmission area, ensuring the jack’s pads contact solid metal to prevent damage and maintain stability. Avoid lifting from exhaust pipes, engine casings, or plastic components.

Q4: Is a hydraulic motorcycle lift better than a floor jack for an HD Tri Glide?
A: It depends on your needs. A hydraulic motorcycle lift (like the 1500LB model reviewed) is purpose-built, offering excellent stability with wide platforms, rubber padding, and tie-down points specifically for bikes and trikes. A heavy-duty floor jack (like the Powerbuilt Triple Lift) is more versatile for various vehicles but requires careful positioning and may benefit from additional frame adaptors or padding to protect your Tri Glide. Both can be excellent choices if they meet the capacity and stability requirements.

Q5: What safety features should I look for in the best jacks for lifting the HD Tri Glide?
A: Crucial safety features include:
– Adequate weight capacity for your Tri Glide.
– Locking safety pins or bars to prevent accidental lowering (e.g., the Powerbuilt’s integrated safety bar).
– Wide, stable base to prevent tipping.
– Rubber padding on the lifting surfaces to protect the frame and prevent slipping.
– Tie-down straps (often included with motorcycle lifts) to secure the Tri Glide to the jack.
– Smooth, controlled lowering mechanism.

Q6: Can I leave my HD Tri Glide on a jack for extended periods?
A: While some heavy-duty jacks with locking mechanisms (like the Powerbuilt with its safety bar) are designed for extended support, it’s generally recommended to use dedicated jack stands for long-term storage if possible, especially with a floor jack. For a hydraulic motorcycle lift, once the safety pins are engaged, it’s usually safe for extended periods, but always double-check the manufacturer’s recommendations and ensure the Tri Glide is securely strapped down.

Q7: The article mentions some products are “not for Tri Glide.” Why include them?
A: We included them because these types of products (like crank handles for car jacks, Hi-Lift accessories, or Tesla-specific jack pads) often appear in general searches for “jacks” or “lifting tools.” It’s important to explicitly state why they are not suitable for lifting an HD Tri Glide to prevent confusion, ensure safety, and guide readers towards the correct, safe, and effective solutions for their heavy trike. This helps reinforce the comprehensive and helpful nature of this guide on the best jacks for lifting the HD Tri Glide.