Why do people do this!!!!!

[FuZzBoM]

For what its worth I do agree the side stand is more stable, this creates a tripod effect. This was also backed up when I went round Ireland last year on the bike. when the bloke strapping my bike down on the ferry said its much less likely to fall over whilst on the side stand with it in gear, he also had a small strap to hold the front brake on.

And while I think about it I recently did a service on the bike. when I stood up from being sat on the ground my shoulder hit the bars. This knocked it off balance and it wobbled on the centre stand way more than I had ever expected.

Having said all that I can see why you think it is a tad suspect.... Hope it never happens again.