Mountain Bike Grips Buying Guide

At Westbrook Cycles, we place massive importance on the contact points that a mountain bike has with it’s rider - mainly the handlebars, bike grips, saddle, as well as pedals. Getting these components right for your riding style and requirements, can pay massive dividends when it comes to both riding performance, and ride comfort. Investing in a high quality set of mountain bike grips adds comfort to your ride, and prevents many of the problems associated with old, worn out or inferior grips, including hand discomfort and pain.

The best grips for you, will depend upon your exact requirements and preferences, and in this post we run through some of the most popular mountain bike grip styles and designs - as well as covering which grips may be best for you, although in the case of grips - it’s well worth trying a few different designs and styles to find what works best for you.

Although mountain bike grips can be classified as rubber tubes that slide onto the end of your handlebars, there are in fact many different versions and differences to consider.

Grip Thickness

One of the biggest variables in mountain bike grips, is the thickness available. Typically, riders with smaller hands will benefit from a thinner mountain bike grip, whilst riders with bigger hands will find more comfort in thicker mountain bike grips. Alongside hand size, those heading downhill quickly (downhill, enduro, freeride etc) tend to favour chunkier larger grips for increased grip in the most demanding conditions. Although there are recommendations and norms, grip thickness really is down to personal preference.

Grip Compounds

Advanced grips use two different rubber compounds to provide maximum grip and comfort. The bottom layer of rubber is incredibly tough and hard, with a softer rubber layer on top. Working together, these two compounds provide a secure hold, whilst providing the most comfortable possible feel. Although it’s an excellent theory, it’s worth noting that these grips are naturally thicker than single compound grips.

Grip Shape & Ergonomic Grips

Whilst many mountain bike grips are flat, with a pattern - there are many grips available which have been designed to provide a more comfortable fit. Opinions are divided on these, with some claiming that ergonomically designed grips can reduce grip levels across difficult terrain. Grips with bulges on the palms are a popular choice.

Grip Pattern

Grip patterns of mountain bike grips from manufacturer to manufacturer, and most grips provide the same levels of performance. The grip you prefer is largely down to personal preference, and chosen brands - as many brands choose to make their logo a key part of their grip pattern.

Flange or Flangeless

A Flange is a piece of raised rubber on the inside of the grip, which is designed to prevent the hands from slipping off the handlebars. Again, whether you choose flanged or flangeless is down to personal preferences.

Locking Options

Traditional grips slide onto handlebars, with some gentle persuasion! Newer grips however are increasingly using a simple locking system, which ensures that the grip stays fixed properly onto the handlebar of the bike. These work by each grip featuring two metal collars at each end of the grip, which are tightened using a small allen bolt. Benefits of these locking grips include: ease of fitting, and a much more secure fit in adverse weather conditions.

Mountain Bike Grips Online

At Westbrook, we stock and supply a massive array of mountain bike grips, encompassing different brands, colours, styles as well as types - meaning you can find the perfect grip for your bike. Ordering online could not be easier, and your goods are dispatched quickly and efficiently.