Grips

MTB Grip Buying Guide

Grips are a cheap component that directly affects comfort and control. The right grip reduces hand fatigue, absorbs vibration and gives you confident purchase on the bar in wet conditions. Getting grip choice right matters more than most riders realise.

Lock-on vs Slip-on

Lock-on grips have an aluminium collar at each end that clamps onto the handlebar with a small bolt. They're easy to install, never rotate on the bar, and can be removed without damage. Slip-on grips are thinner, lighter, and have better vibration damping because there's no hard collar between your hand and the bar. Most MTB riders run lock-ons for the security and easy installation. Racers and riders who want maximum comfort sometimes prefer slip-ons for the softer feel.

Compound and Hardness

Grip compound hardness is measured in Shore A durometer — lower numbers are softer. Soft compounds (around 20A) absorb vibration and feel comfortable but wear faster and can feel vague in hard corners. Hard compounds (30A+) last longer and give more precise feel but transmit more trail buzz. Most MTB grips sit in the 25-30A range as a compromise. If you get hand numbness or fatigue, try a softer compound before adding gel padding — gel padding tends to reduce control.

Diameter and Shape

Standard MTB grips are 30-32mm outer diameter. Thicker grips (33-34mm) like Ergon GA2 Fat reduce the grip force needed to hold on, which helps with arm pump and fatigue. Thinner grips give more precise bar feel. Some grips have a slightly flared outer end (mushroom shape) that supports the heel of your hand and reduces ulnar nerve pressure — Ergon and Race Face Half Nelson use this design. If you get tingling in your ring and little fingers, try a grip with an ergonomic flare.

Single Clamp vs Dual Clamp

Most lock-on grips use a single clamp on the inner end, leaving the outer end free — this gives a cleaner feel at the bar end and allows the grip to flex slightly under your hand. Dual-clamp grips (clamp at both ends) are more secure but stiffer and heavier. For trail and enduro, single-clamp is standard. DH riders sometimes prefer dual-clamp for the extra security at speed.