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I think the yellow craftsman is a good choice. I have the craftsman red jack, and I can't see any problem with it and I have used if for four years on two different bikes. Harbor Freight has one similar to the craftsman that looks pretty good also. I guess if you were using one eveyday, the more expensive ones might hold up better, but I am just guessing when I say that.
I had a craftsman for my last bike but bought a J&S when I got my RKC. there is NO comparision between the 2. I do not mean to put the craftsman down but you cant beat the J&S. It is more stable, easier to use, no straps required, and if I can pay so much more for the bike of my dreams, I couldn't not get the best jack. I cringed at the price at first but it beats risking it falling. I cannot say enough good about this jack and company. My daughter even bounced on the floorboard to test it, I tried to attach a photo of her testing it but it didnt work.
Not sure how you drop a bike off the Sears yellow jack. As you can see, I've torn my bike completely down with mine and it only takes a little precaution to make sure the bike remains steady as you take parts off and change the balance. You can pay more for one of the other jacks, just no reason that I can see to do so.
I have to agree with some of the other members. I have the sears red jack and recently picked up a J&S jack. There is no comparison, the J&S is more stable, rolls around the floor easier (much easier), goes higher, comes with an optional drain pan insert which is great for changing all 3 fluids at once. It funnels all the fluids into a drain pan with no mess. If you spent as much as I think you did for your bike, don't risk dropping it with a cheap jack. I have no regrets and would do it again in a heartbeat. Good luck with whatever jack you purchase.
Love those scare tactics. We get it, you got ripped off and now must justify it. Maybe the sellers of the J&S could use the same what if on there website to sell more. I figure I am smart enough to use the sears Jack and have not had a problem with it. So far so good. Before I Paid that much for a Jack think I would get a more useful lift.
Only time I had a problem with my red Sears jack during 7 years I used it was my own dunder-head move. Left it in Indiana for my son-in-law when I moved and it's still going strong.
However the J&S is better IMO when up high, during heavy torque or rolling around. I would use the red, yellow, Larin, Harbor, etc but much prefer the J&S.
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