Depends on the bike you are lifting. MX bikes can use a really small and simple stand as the cradle frame supports under the bike. Sportbikes would need a full lift, though you then can't take wheels off easy, and suspension can be harder to work on.

Have you seen the ABBA sky lift - it uses the swingarm pivot, and can be moved round the garage easy.

My mate had one for his R1, and I was very impressed.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7PExjCtC9Y