Getting old and feeble is so frustrating. I’m 6ft and 16st and although I remain physically active and busy (can still – just - lift a hundredweight (50kg) movement is compromised. I always mount a bike before starting up, though nowadays swinging my leg over a modern bike is frequently impossible. My BSA’s are somewhat easier.
Regarding my GF, I simply cannot get it onto its centre stand. Tried again last night. Couldn’t do it for ten grand. Therefore it’s only used for maintenance – and then I have to get my son to lift it on for me. I realise there are various methods to assist – such as a wood block below the wheel etc, but that seems more trouble than it’s worth. Will have to try one of my paddock stands. Thanks BSA for such a crappy design.
When parking any bike I always use the side stand (most modern bikes don’t have a centre stand anyway). That includes my B31 and M21, though I can get both onto their centre stands if necessary as they are lifted from the rear (as opposed to the side as is the case with the GF). Apart from the GF, B31 and M21 my other bikes either have a side stand only or no stand at all.