Choose the right handle Bike Grips
We would agree if you thought that the grips were not the most important part of your bicycle.
You can change them every day if you want to, but they don't affect your speed. Or, you can ride for the rest of your life with basic grips and not know why they are needed.
If you are looking to ride your bicycle in a variety of conditions, or with a high weight limit, you will need to consider the grips.
Even the toughest grips can become useless if you ride regularly.
Why Grip is Needed
The bike grips are the components of the bicycle that are responsible for the handlebar and that you hold in your hand. The grips were intended to provide the cyclist with the highest level of fixation of hands and touchpad.
The right grips will provide good stability in the rain and act as shock-absorbers. This is important, especially if you have off-road goals, but your bike's suspension does not match your expectations.
You may not even notice the grips if they are selected correctly. They are simply there. If you choose the wrong grips, it's the end of the world: your hands will slide off the handlebars, and the grips may even fall off. It's not even a ride. It's just a misunderstanding.
Types of Grips by Materials
Material and shape can conditionally divide all grips into different categories. Each grip has pros and cons. It all depends on the riding style, budget, and goals.
1) Rubber Grips
Positive:
- Rubber is durable and resilient.
- The thick models offer excellent shock absorption.
Negative:
- If this parameter is significant to you, give it a lot of weight.
2) Foam Grips
Positive:
- Weigh only a few grammes (compare: 20-30 grams to 70-80 grams for rubber grips);
- We recommend that you pay attention to the weight of your bicycle. This is the ideal solution for road or cross-country.
- Variety of shapes, colors and sizes;
- In bad weather, perform well: don't slip in the rain; the surface is pleasant to touch during the off-season.
Negative:
- Comparing all types, the shock absorption is very low;
- The handlebar can be rotated and not fixed.
- The shoes are extremely sensitive to mechanical impacts: if you fall a few times or drop the bike three time, it's probably time to get a new pair.
3) Leather Grips
Positive:
- They are the most stylish and transform the whole bicycle. Get a pair to boost your mood and enjoy hedonistic rides in the city.
Negative:
- The grips on these bikes are less fortunate: leather is easily scratched, and they require maintenance. Installing them on stunt bikes or off-road rides will damage these beautiful grips.
4) Cork Grips
Positive:
- It is pleasant to touch.
- You can work well during shoulder season and maintain the warmth of your hands.
- The bike is suitable for both city and sports models.
Negative:
- Cork darkens with use and dirt embeds into the porous material. This is important to know if you are an aesthete.
Types of grips by shape
1) Straight Grip without Lock-Ons (Slip on)
This is a simple tube mounted to the handlebar. It has no mechanical fixings and is held in place only by friction.
You are likely familiar with the classic grips, as they are usually installed by default on models in the economy segment.
Positive:
- inexpensive;
- All over the world;
- Choose from a variety of sizes and colors: change them weekly to suit your mood.
- The material is resistant to wear.
- They are a good value for the price.
Negative:
- When riding in rain, you may become slick.
- Cheap rubber grips will start to rotate and slide off the handlebar very quickly. This makes it impossible to ride.
Straight Grips with Lock on
The same grips are used as the classic ones but they have a lock-on hard fixation. Rubber tubes do not only stretch onto the handlebar but also include elements to attach it. This grip will not move, making grips that lock-ons much more convenient.
Positive:
- Securely fixed to the handlebar
- Also, there is a large selection of colors and materials.
Negative:
- Be careful not to damage the handlebar by over-tightening the fixator.
- The shock absorption is worse than the grip of classic grip.
- If you are concerned about every gram, it is better to pass. Grip with lock-ons weighs around 100g.
3) Ergonomic Grips
The grips are a highly refined design that offers a solid grip.
Positive:
- Ideal for off-road and long rides! Straight grips do not allow for a better connection to the bike. They are incredibly comfortable.
Negative:
- Usually cost more than straight models
- You need to choose the right size for your hand.
4) Soft Grips
This option is better suited for professionals or those who perform bike tricks. Remember that after a few active months, grips need to be changed. It's best if they can last this long. But grips are disposables.
How to choose bicycle grips?
There are several reasons why you may be concerned about the grips on your bike. It's important that you recognize these factors to determine which grips to choose and what option you should go with.
Your old grips are no longer usable
If you've ridden them before and found it comfortable, then choose the same style. You may want to change the material but that's not required. It's a good idea to not fix something that isn't broken.
It makes sense here to use grips that lock on at least if the problem is slipping.
Look for models with thicker rubber if you need better cushioning. Sometimes changing the grip is all that's needed to make riding more comfortable. For example, choose cork over rubber if you want your hands to stop sweating and sliding.
You plan to change your riding style
You used to ride in the city but now you prefer off-road. You used to ride 3 km each way, but now you are riding 20 km. You increased the strain on your legs, heart and wrists. Here, ergonomic grips are more desirable than classic grips.
We understand that you want to love your bike. Choose models in bright colors, made from cork or leather. Match the frame color or the saddle. You are amazing!
How to remove the grips and install them?
You may already know that a grip must fit snugly on the handlebar to be effective. What do you do when it's time to replace the grips on your handlebar? This can be done with a few cycling life hacks.
1) How to remove grips:
Lift the edge with the screwdriver, and then drip some alcohol into the grip. The grip will begin to loosen as the friction decreases. It will eventually come off if you rotate it back and forward.
If your grip is made from soft rubber or foam you can inject alcohol using a medical needle.
Instead, you can also use soap solution, furniture polish, or glycerin.
If you don't need the grip anymore, simply cut it off with a knife.
Installing grips using
It is better to soak the grips for a couple of minutes in boiling water before applying them. Then, let them cool down and dry.
It is best to use grips made from other materials when the handlebars are wet.
Spraying hair spray inside the grip can help to restore it if the grip has become loose and is spinning. This method, according to craftsmen, is as old as the hills but still works.
Best Bike Grips Brands
Since we started selling bicycles, we have studied all manufacturers, tested their products, and communicated with them. We only offer the best to our customers. We can recommend the following:
Race Face
Race Face was founded by a group of mountain bikers who were determined to do things differently. We made our gear when the gear could not keep up with the riding. The mountains around Vancouver were the perfect place to test and create legendary parts.
2) ODI
They have spent the last 40 years ensuring that their products are the best. It includes their proprietary compounds, which have been thoroughly researched and tested by athletes from around the globe to ensure they offer the maximum level of comfort and durability. The Lock-On Grip System, invented by them, revolutionized the way grips were installed and secured on handlebars. It is still the global standard.
3) Ergon
This is a well-known English brand in the cycling world. It is known for its minimalistic design and high-quality products. They've made grips in a variety of colors. Choose the one you like.
We hope that we have helped you to navigate the world of bike grips. Soon, you will be able to give lectures about graphology. You can choose your favorites for now.
Additional Accessories Beyond Bike Grips
Beyond upgrading your bike grips, adding more accessories to your cycling setup can improve your ride's efficiency, comfort, and safety. Consider these essential accessories:
1. Cycling Computer and GPS Device
- Track your distance, speed, and route. Advanced models include heart rate monitoring and navigation.
2. Water Bottle and Cage
- Keep hydrated while on the move. Insulated bottles will keep your beverage cold or warm for several hours.
3. Saddle Bag
- You can carry essentials such as a spare tire, tire levers, and a multi-tool without needing to use a backpack.
4. Portable Bike Pump/CO2 Inflator
- It is essential for tire maintenance or unexpected flats. A CO2 inflator is a quick solution, while a miniature pump provides an unlimited supply of air.
5. Front Lights and Rear Lighting
- Consider models with multiple modes (steady, flash) for different conditions. Models with multiple modes are ideal for varying conditions (steady and flash).
6. Cycling Helmet
- Safety comes first. Select a helmet with a good fit and that meets safety standards. For added protection, consider features such as MIPS.
7. Locks
- Secure your bike during stops. Bicycle u lock offers robust protection while lock chainsoffer flexibility.
8. Fenders
- In wet weather, keep road spray and mud away from you and your bicycle. The essential for commuters.
9. Mirror
- Attach the device to your handlebars or helmet to improve visibility.
10. Bike Horn or Bell
- Alert pedestrians and cyclists, particularly on shared paths. Select a loud model.
11. Handlebar tape or Bar Ends
- Bar ends offer additional hand positions, particularly on long rides. The bar ends provide additional hand positions.
12. Puncture Repair Kit
- Included are tire levers, adhesive patches, and adhesives for quick repairs.
13. Chain Lubricant & Cleaning Supplies
- Regular cleaning and lubrication will help to maintain the performance and durability of your bike.
14. Cycling Gloves
- You can improve your grip, reduce vibrations, and protect your hands in the event of a fall.
15. Reflective Vests or Clothing
- Improve your visibility, especially in low-light conditions.
16. Clipless pedals and cycling shoes
- Shoes that clip into your pedals can improve the efficiency of your ride. The efficiency and comfort of your ride can be improved by using shoes that clip onto your pedals.
17. Seat Post Suspension
- Minimize oscillations and jolts to enhance the comfort of the journey more where roads are bumpy.
These accessories will enhance your cycling journeys towards work, on the roads, or on the trails with safety and fun. When it is about defining which accessories to include in the set-up, you should decide more about your needs, the type of cycling you are going to, and your budget.
Conclusion
We at ACCEBIKE are constantly experimenting with different brands of grips to find the best combination of quality and price. We've decided to use rubberized ergonomic grips.
If you are looking for other accessories for your bicycle, we have prepared a helpful guide.
Find the best products for a powerful bike that has soft and durable grips in our shop.