Why not use just the mechanical bike jack that is shown under the mid point? You can get them for £30. They are strong enough to lift my Harley to about 450mm high - but really who wants both wheel off the ground at the same time? They are damn heavy too. He doesn't need to add a load of planking which also weighs more to the hydraulic ATV type, some which are known to suddenly leak and fail. I mean, what's wrong with laying on the floor like we used to? - Besides, its a lot easier to work on a bike from the top as well as the underside when you are on a solid surface and not clambering about on a wobbly table of sorts.
Here's my budget effort. Used only for tyre changes and things, when I need both wheels out. Thinking about one in the bedroom...
Here are mine for some Ducatis - someone can have them if they collect. Top photo shows the rear one on its own - but the front one could be added to have both wheels off the ground. Bottom photo uses a rear paddock stand as well, but probably doesn't need it.
You can't beat a bench. Even for storing a bike on it can be useful. Cleaning, maintenance, detailing, entirely stripping everything off, storing tools..you name it.
Putting the bike on a bench means I couldn't reach it if it was lifted by 300mm - besides, my tools are in their cabinet drawers or on the bench beside the bike - leaving tools near the bike is asking for trouble (now where did I put that spanner?)
