Mountain Bike Grips
Grips are the cheapest change that alters how a bike feels. Lock-on collars, diameter and compound do most of the work.
The buying advice on this page is retained from the original article. Its 2018 product picks have been removed — the links were dead and the models discontinued. Current model tables live on the brand pages.
Whether you’ve had enough of the standard grip that came with your mountain bike, or you’ve worn through it after years of use, we’ve created this helpful guide to get you through the hassle of picking the best mountain bike grips. We’ve spent hours pouring through articles, customer reviews, and stats, so you don’t have to. Read on to see our top picks!
Product FAQs
What is a bike grip?
A bike grip is usually made from plastic, rubber, leather or foam and covers the handlebar of your bicycle.
What does a bike grip do?
A bike grip can be basic, just a simple covering so your hands aren’t resting on the metal of your bike. They can also be quite customizable, padded and grooved for long rides or rides in wet conditions. The grip is designed to keep your hands from slipping off the handlebars.
How does it work?
The grips work by either sliding or locking on to the handlebars of your bike.
Where can you buy this type of product?
You can buy bike grips at any sports or bike shop, or easily purchase on Amazon.
How much does it cost?
You can spend anywhere from $6 – $35 on a bike grip, the more you spend, the better quality product you will be receiving. Although it’s possible to get a great grip for less, the fact is that most of them will wear out quickly, forcing you to buy another set faster.
What are lock jaws?
Lockjaws can be added after the installation of your new grip, and are a ring that clamps around the ends of the grip, thus preventing any slip. You could also use a zip tie for a similar effect.
What is carbon friendly?
“Carbon friendly” refers to the type of bike you might be using. Most bicycles are made from aluminum alloy; however, some use carbon. Every grip mentioned here will be safe for any bike.
What are snap caps?
Snap caps are used on some types of grips. Usually, they snap in at the end of the grip and can be changed or customized to fit your bike’s color scheme.
What is TPR?
TPR refers to the material used to make some bike grips. TPR stands for Thermoplastic Rubber.
How do I install the grips?
How to Install:
- Remove old grips
- Slip on the new grips. If you are having a hard time, try spraying the handlebars with hairspray or applying rubbing alcohol.
- Depending on the style of grip you get, it may have a locking collar, at which point you will want to use the provided hex key to tighten it around the grip.
- Take your hex key with you on your first ride out with your new grips; you may want to adjust as you get used to it.
How we Reviewed
To write this article, we poured over countless reviews from real customers; we scoured some great blog posts, articles, and Wikipedia entries. We wanted to provide you with a real, unbiased opinion on what will work for your bike and your pocketbook. In the end, the choice is yours to make, but hopefully, you’ll be just a little more informed before your purchase.
Overall Price Range Of This Product
Warranty
Unknown/Contact Seller
Coupons/deals
None at this time.
9.) Soft Rubber Handlebar Lock-On Mushroom Grips by OUTERDO
Warranty
None/Please Contact Seller for more information.
Coupons/deals
None at this time.
8.) Bike Handlebar Grips by LYCAON
Warranty
15 months
Coupons/deals
None at this time.
7.) Bike Hand Grips by Onedayshop
Warranty
None/Contact seller for details.
Coupons/deals
None at this time.
6.)Bike Handlebar Grips Double Locking by BV
Warranty
Limited one year warranty
Coupons/deals
None at this time.
5.) Dual Lock on Grips by FIFTY-FIFTY
Warranty
Unknown/Contact seller
Coupons/deals
None at this time.
4.) Half Nelson Locking Grips by RaceFace
Warranty
2 year – $ / 3 year – $
Coupons/deals
None at this time.
3.) GA3 Gravity All Mountain Grips by Ergon
Warranty
2 year – $ / 3 year – $
Coupons/deals
There are none at this time.
2.) GA 2 Grips by Ergon
Warranty
None/Contact seller for more info.
Coupons/deals
There are no coupons at this time.
1.) Rogue Bicycle Lock-On Grips by ODI
Warranty
2 year – $/ 3 year – $
Coupons/deals
Not at this time.
What decides the choice
| Specification | What it changes | Options in use |
|---|---|---|
| Attachment | How the grip is held on the bar | Lock-on single collar · lock-on double · slide-on |
| Diameter | Thicker damps vibration, thinner suits small hands | 30–34 mm |
| Pattern | Where the traction comes from | Knurled · ribbed · waffle · half-waffle |
| Compound | Softer grips better and wears faster | 15–30 Shore A |
| Profile | Round or a wing that supports the palm | Round · ergonomic wing |
| Flange | A lip that stops the hand sliding inboard | Flanged · flangeless |