Bicycle grips

Bike grips: how to choose the right handlebar grips for comfort and control

Bike grips, also known as handlebar grips, are often overlooked when it comes to bike setup or maintenance. Yet, these small accessories play a crucial role in riding comfort, bike control, and vibration reduction. Whether you ride MTB, urban bikes, gravel bikes, or even e-bikes, choosing the right grips can transform your riding experience.

What are bike grips ?

Bike grips are coverings that fit onto both ends of your handlebars. They provide a surface for your hands to hold onto and ensure a secure and comfortable grip. Their texture, shape, and material have a direct impact on comfort, bike handling, and shock absorption on rough terrain.

Key features of bike grips

When selecting your handlebar grips, here are the main characteristics to consider:

Materials

• Rubber: The most common material, offering good grip and effective cushioning.

• EVA Foam: Lightweight and shock-absorbing, ideal for reducing vibrations on long rides.

• Silicone: Comfortable and highly weather-resistant, perfect for MTB or gravel riding.

• Cork: Less common but appreciated for its natural feel and excellent shock absorption.

Texture and grip

Grip surfaces can be:

• Smooth, for riders who prefer freedom of hand movement.

• Ribbed or waffled, for maximum grip and to prevent slipping in wet or sweaty conditions.

• With ergonomic inserts, designed to relieve pressure points in the palms.

Mounting system

There are two main types of bike grips:

• Slip-on grips: These slide directly onto the handlebar. They’re affordable but can be tricky to install or remove.

• Lock-on grips (with locking collars): Featuring metal clamps at each end for a secure hold, even on rough trails.

Length and diameter

The size of your bike grips should match the width of your handlebars and the size of your hands:

• Standard length: Between 120 and 140 mm.

• Diameter: Usually between 30 and 35 mm, to suit your grip size and comfort preferences.

Some models also come in short/long versions to fit bikes with twist shifters.

Which bike grips for which type of riding?

For MTB (enduro, cross-country, downhill):

• Opt for lock-on grips with an aggressive texture for maximum control.

• Silicone or multi-density rubber grips help reduce vibrations on technical trails.

For city bikes or E-Bikes:

• Choose ergonomic grips with palm supports to minimize wrist pain.

• Foam or cork grips can add extra comfort.

For Gravel or bikepacking:

• Go for longer grips, with medium diameter and good shock absorption.

• Silicone or EVA foam models are perfect for long rides with minimal hand fatigue.

When should you replace your bike grips ?

Here are some signs it’s time to change your bike grips:

• Loss of grip or traction.

• Visible tears or damage.

• Slippery feeling, even with gloves.

• New or increased hand discomfort after rides.

Conclusion: small grips, big difference

Don’t underestimate the importance of bike grips! The right choice of handlebar grips will provide better comfort, more precise handling, and significantly reduce fatigue on long rides. Whether you’re a mountain biker, city commuter, or gravel enthusiast, there’s a set of grips suited to your riding style.

Remember: Comfort starts with a good handlebar grip !