What Are Bike Grips?

Grips, also called handlebar grips, are rubber-like sleeves made from TPR (Thermoplastic Elastomer) – a flexible and durable material similar to rubber or silicone. They are designed to fit over your handlebars and provide a secure, comfortable hold while riding.

Depending on your bike type – MTB, trekking, or road – you may use grips made of silicone or foam. Either way, they play a key role in keeping your hands comfortable and in control during your rides.

Why Do You Need Grips?

Grips make your rides more comfortable, help you maintain control, and protect your hands from blisters. A well-designed grip has grooves that wick away sweat, so your hands don’t slip. They also reduce vibrations and give you better control of your bike – all essential for a safe and enjoyable ride. Wearing bike gloves helps even more.

Which Grips Should You Choose?

That depends on your preferences. Grips come in different colors, textures, profiles, and firmness levels. Most are sold in pairs and often come with bar ends included.

What Size Grips Should You Get?

Most grips have a universal diameter that fits standard handlebars, but they come in different lengths. Check the length of your current grips or measure your hand width and handlebar to choose the best fit. Some riders prefer wider or narrower grips, some like ones with flanges. There’s no single right answer – test a few and find what suits you best.

Grip lengths typically range from 130mm to 180mm, so you’ll definitely find the right match.

How to Change Your Bike Grips?

Here’s how to do it:

1. Get the right tools:

   • Scissors or a utility knife to remove old grips if necessary
   • A lubricant like dish soap, window cleaner, or WD-40 to loosen the old grips
   • A flat screwdriver or a thin wire to help lift the grips off
   • Your new grips, of course

2. Prepare the bike:

   • Stabilize your bike before starting
   • Remove old bar ends first. If you need help, read this guide

3. Remove the old grips:

   • Use a screwdriver or wire to lift one side of the grip and spray in some lubricant. Twist the grip back and forth and pull it off
   • If they’re too worn out, you can just cut them off

4. Clean the handlebar:

   • Remove any glue, dirt, or residue before fitting new grips

5. Install new grips:

   • Spray some lubricant inside the new grips
   • Squish them a bit to spread it around evenly
   • Slide the grips onto the handlebar, push out any trapped air, and make sure they’re snug
   • Install the barends. Here’s how
   • Make sure everything feels secure and doesn’t slip

How Often Should You Replace Grips?

Grips wear out like any other bike part. When they start to feel loose, slick, or torn – it’s time for new ones. Fresh grips improve your safety and comfort.

At RMDBike, we offer a wide range of bike grips for all types of bikes. Whether you’re into BMX, MTB, or city riding – we’ve got something for you.