Other Steering Wheels, Handlebars & Grips
About Other Steering Wheels, Handlebars & Grips
Grips are the part of the machine your hands never leave, so worn, torn or slick ones cost you control and comfort. Riders replace them when the rubber wears smooth or splits, or to change the thickness, pattern or color. The samples are grips in a range of styles, from lock-on and waffle to donut and dual-compound, along with bar end plugs.
Grips fit on the bar in one of two ways. Lock-on grips clamp to the bar and need no adhesive, which makes them easy to remove later. Push-on grips are held with grip adhesive or wire. Listings marked ATV are made for quads with a thumb throttle, so check that yours matches your controls. Pattern and compound change the feel: waffle, half waffle and radial patterns grip differently, and dual-compound grips use two firmnesses. Sizes such as medium appear, and some give the bar diameter, such as 7/8 inch. Bar end plugs close the open end of the bar to keep dirt out.
Brands in this category include Scott, Zeta, ODI, Renthal and Fire Power. The matching bars are in Handlebars, and clamps are in Risers, Clamps & Brackets. See also Buttons & Switches. The group is in Steering Wheels, Handlebars & Grips.
FAQs on handlebar grips
What is a lock-on grip?
A lock-on grip has a clamp at one or both ends that tightens onto the handlebar, so it needs no glue and can be removed and refitted. Tighten the clamps to the maker's instructions, because overtightening can damage the grip or clamp, and a loose clamp lets the grip spin.
How do I install push-on grips?
Clean the bar, then follow the grip maker's instructions, which usually call for grip adhesive on the bar and inside the grip. Slide the grip on, line it up, and let the adhesive cure before riding. Some riders also secure the end with wire if the maker allows it.
Do ATV grips differ from motorcycle grips?
Some do. Grips listed for ATVs are made for quads that use a thumb throttle, where the right grip does not twist. A grip made for a twist throttle is different. Check that the listing matches your controls and the bar diameter.
What do waffle patterns and dual-compound mean on grips?
A waffle pattern is a raised texture on the grip surface for traction, and half waffle covers part of it. Dual-compound means the grip uses two firmness levels in one piece. The choice is mostly about feel, so pick by the surface and thickness you prefer.
What do bar end plugs do?
Bar end plugs close the open end of the handlebar. That keeps mud, water and debris out of the bar and covers the sharp edge of the tube. Make sure the plug fits the inside diameter of your bar and is seated firmly.
