I HAVE to start the GF on the centrestand, just can't get enough weight through the kickstarter to turn her over, especially if I have to hold the bike at the same time. Maybe if I were taller, heavier, stronger, etc, it'd work, but I ain't.
I did try once to start on the sidestand (being lazy). The top of the stand crumbled like aged Cheshire cheese and I ended up leaning against Sue's car with the bike pinning me there. Never trusted side stands again (except on the Kwaka which is solid as you like).