Thanks for the responses guys. I use centre stands a lot when out touring, both for tyre repairs / chain adjustments etc but also you can usually squeeze some more fuel in the tank when its up on the stand. I don't there's anyone does a better stand than BMW, they must have a whole department specifically to design them, they're that good. But some bikes are that bad you may as well not even have it. Glad to here that a stand on the 14 will be useable, now I just have to find one at a reasonable price!
Thanks again
Bill