Grips

Fixie grips: features, specifications, and top brands

The fixie grips on a fixed-gear bike play a crucial role in comfort, control, and style. Whether you're a city commuter, a track racer, or a freestyle rider, choosing the right fixie grips can significantly enhance your riding experience. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of fixie handlebar grips, their key features, and the top brands offering high-quality options.

What are fixie grips ?

Fixie grips, or fixed-gear bike grips, are the hand grips attached to the handlebars of a fixed-gear bicycle. They provide better control, absorb vibrations, and improve comfort, especially on long rides or aggressive urban cycling.

Since fixie riders often use different handlebar styles—like bullhorn bars, drop bars, riser bars, or straight bars—grip selection varies based on personal preference and riding style. Some riders prioritize comfort, while others focus on performance and aesthetics.

Key features and specifications of fixie grips

When choosing the right fixie grips, consider the following factors:

1. Grip type

• Rubber Grips: Soft, shock-absorbing, and ideal for comfort. Common on riser bars and straight bars.
• Foam Grips: Lightweight and comfortable but wear out faster than rubber grips. Popular among minimalist fixie riders.
• Lock-On Grips: Feature a locking mechanism to prevent slipping, perfect for aggressive riding and tricks.
• Leather or Synthetic Wraps: Classic and stylish, often used on bullhorn bars or drop bars for a vintage look.

2. Material and durability

Most fixie grips are made from rubber, foam, silicone, leather, or synthetic materials. The choice of material impacts durability, grip feel, and weather resistance.

• Rubber and silicone grips: Offer excellent grip and durability, even in wet conditions.
• Foam grips: Ultra-lightweight but can degrade quickly.
• Leather grips or wraps: Provide a premium feel and timeless look but require maintenance.

3. Grip texture

• Smooth Grips: Offer a clean, stylish look but can become slippery with sweat.
• Knurled or Patterned Grips: Provide better traction, especially in wet conditions or during intense rides.
• Ergonomic Grips: Feature a contoured shape to reduce hand fatigue on long rides.

4. Handlebar compatibility

Different fixie handlebars require different grip styles:

• Straight bars & riser bars: Standard rubber or lock-on grips work best.
• Drop bars & bullhorn bars: Bar tape is the preferred choice.
• Pursuit bars: A combination of bar tape and foam grips may be used.

5. Length and thickness

• Standard length (130-140mm) fits most handlebars.
• Short grips (90-100mm) are ideal for setups with bar-end shifters or brake levers.
• Thicker grips provide extra cushioning, while thin grips offer more direct road feedback.

Top brands offering high-quality fixie grips

Several brands specialize in fixie grips, offering a variety of styles to match different riding preferences.

1. Oury grips

A favorite among fixie riders, Oury Grips provide thick, cushioned rubber grips with excellent shock absorption. They are known for their durability and comfort, making them ideal for urban riding.

2. ESI grips

Famous for their silicone foam grips, ESI Grips offer a lightweight yet comfortable option for riders who prefer minimalist, high-performance grips.

3. Brooks England

For a classic fixie aesthetic, Brooks England produces leather bar grips and wraps, perfect for vintage and commuter fixie bikes. These grips provide premium comfort and style, but they require maintenance.

4. Lizard Skins

Lizard Skins offers high-performance rubber grips and bar tape, designed for durability and maximum grip, even in wet conditions. Their DSP bar tape is a top choice for drop-bar and bullhorn fixie setups.

5. Vans x Cult grips

A stylish collaboration between Vans and Cult, these grips mimic the texture of Vans’ classic waffle sole, offering excellent grip and a unique design. They’re popular among urban fixie riders.

6. Cinelli

Cinelli is well-known for its high-quality bar tape, ideal for bullhorn and drop bar fixie setups. Their tape provides a mix of comfort, grip, and vintage aesthetics.

7. ODI grips

ODI specializes in lock-on grips, ensuring a secure fit with no slipping. These grips are great for aggressive riding and trick-oriented fixie setups.

Conclusion

Choosing the right fixie grips is essential for comfort, control, and performance. Whether you prefer soft rubber grips for shock absorption, minimalist foam grips for a lightweight feel, or stylish leather wraps for a vintage touch, the right grips can enhance your overall riding experience.

For urban riding, brands like Oury, ESI, and Vans x Cult offer great comfort and durability. If you're looking for a premium touch, Brooks England and Cinelli provide high-quality leather grips and bar tape. For riders needing a secure, non-slip grip, ODI and Lizard Skins are excellent choices.

Ultimately, the best fixie grips depend on your riding style, handlebar choice, and personal preference. Whatever you choose, investing in high-quality grips will ensure a more comfortable and stylish ride.

Handlebar tape