Stands......What and Why?

[Quick281]

Looking around on motorcycle superstore, I was thinking about ordering a Vortex rear stand for my bike. Figure it would make servicing a lot easier and I can order the front stand down the road when I decide I need it.

How do I know if this will fit and do I need anything else for this to work?

I have seen "spools" advertised before but I never really stopped to identify their purpose. Based of very little information I got the impression that they were used on bike, so that the stands have something from which they can pick up the bike.

Is this even close to right or am I up to squidlyness again?

As for the stands? Anything else I need to know?

Thanks!