9 Best Mountain Bike Grips for Handlebars in 2024
Sooner or later, every mountain biker faces the prospect of replacing their grips.
Sometimes due to damage or everyday wear and tear, in other instances out of the simple desire to upgrade. At this point, there’s a good chance you’ll find yourself pretty overwhelmed by the extent of the options available. You need the best mountain bike grips!
Model:
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$11.85
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$12.99
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N/A
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Our Rating:
9.4
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Our Rating:
9.2
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Our Rating:
8.8
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Material:
Rubber + Aluminium Alloy
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Material:
TPR rubber with aluminum alloy lock-on
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Material:
Rubber
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Diametar:
Outer Diameter between 20-23 mm
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Diametar:
Outer Diameter between 20-23 mm
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Diametar:
21mm
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Length:
130 mm
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Length:
130mm
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Length:
125mm
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In fact, even knowing where to start in the first place can be tricky.
Making the right choice is important, as the grips you buy will have a significant long-term impact on the quality and even the safety of your ride.
Why Are Good Mountain Bike Grips Important?
Unless things go terribly wrong on the trail, there are only three points of contact between your body and your bike – the saddle, the grips, and the pedals.
If any one of these three points of contact is compromised, the entire thing comes (literally) to a crashing halt. Grips tend to be overlooked by many mountain bike riders, despite their capacity to influence so many aspects of each and every ride.
From comfort to endurance to overall control, quality grips really can make all the difference. As with most things, it’s really not until you try your hand (pun intended) with a seriously well-made pair of grips that you understand what all the fuss is about.
Particularly if you’re currently using generic grips of little to no practical value, stepping up to something superior comes highly recommended.
Making the right choice begins with a few key considerations, primarily concerning the different classifications of grips available and their individual properties.
Lock-On Grips
Perhaps the most popular type of grip for mountain biking is the lock-on grip. As the name suggests, lock-on grips feature a rubber grip in the center, accompanied by a grip fastener at one or both ends.
The grip is usually secured in place using a hex key, maximizing compatibility with the vast majority of bars. The idea behind lock-on grips is that along with exceptional grip and comfort, they also lock firmly in place and will not shift or slip in even the toughest conditions.
What’s more, most lock-on grips feature a hard-plastic core that simply slips over the handlebars, making them quick and easy to install and remove.
These tend to be the number one choice among many mountain bikers, though are not the only option available by far.
Push-on Grips
With push-on grips, the locking end (or ends) is removed from the equation entirely, replaced instead by a rubber grip that simply pushes onto the bar and sticks in place.
A liquid adhesive may be used to install push-on grips, helping slide them smoothly into place and keeping them fixed for the duration.
Manufactured from a wide variety of materials, push-on grips come in all sorts of shapes and sizes to suit all bars.
Some are more comfortable to hold onto than their lock-on counterparts, others are as basic as it gets. What’s important to remember is that the style of the grip alone doesn’t determine its viability or performance as a decent mountain bike grip.
Instead, it’s important to take into account the following considerations, prior to placing your order:
Comfort and Grip
Most mountain bike grips come in a somewhat unique shape and design, with the intention of providing a secure and comfortable grip. Some feature particularly deep and pronounced tread patterns, which can be great for maximizing grip and clearing sweat and moisture from the hands during heavier rides.
Others are smoother and more suitable for everyday riding, with or without gloves. You’ll therefore want to think carefully about how you primarily intend to use your mountain bike grips, so as to ensure maximum comfort throughout.
Material Quality
Unsurprisingly, material quality also varies significantly from one set of grips to the next. Some manufacturers use only the most durable and hardwearing materials, resulting in robust grips that perform indefinitely.
At the opposite end of the scale, low-end grips have a tendency to split, crack, wear, and become uncomfortable to use in no time.
It’s therefore worth noting the step to which the manufacturer prioritizes material quality, to ensure you take home a decent and long-term investment.
Ergonomics
The actual shape of the grip you choose is more a case of personal preference than anything else. Some mountain bike grips are perfectly smooth and cylindrical, while others feature all manner of bumps, wings, and unique design features.
Ergonomic grips can be great for providing palm support and overall comfort, though aren’t suitable for more challenging trails and competition riding.
Again, it’s a case of considering where and when you intend to use your grips, in order to make the right choice.
Customer Feedback
Once you’ve narrowed down the available options, it can be as simple as using customer feedback to guide your decision.
Just as long as the general consensus seems to point to a quality pair of grips with a good reputation, it’s probably safe to order. By contrast, anything that doesn’t seem to have satisfied at least most buyers is probably best avoided.
Always base your decisions on real customer reviews and recommendations, rather than those of the manufacturers themselves.
The Best Mountain Bike Grips
With that out of the way, we’ll now be taking a look at some of the best mountain bike grips on the market right now.
Each of these has been tried, tested, and verified by combining superior quality with unbeatable value for money.
1. Muydz Bike Grips
Overview
First up, these Muydz Bike Grips have been engineered from top to bottom to deliver the utmost comfort and durability during longer rides.
Ergonomic in the extreme, the Muydz Bike Grips is designed with smoother trails and everyday commutes in mind, rather than ultra-hardcore off-road trails.
Features and Benefits
- Manufactured from the highest quality materials, comprising durable rubber construction with advanced aluminum alloy clamp bolts for a safe and secure fit.
- The unique ergonomic shape of the grip conforms beautifully to the natural contours of the hand, making for a fantastically comfortable and non-slip grip.
- Compatible with the vast majority of standard sized bars, with an internal diameter: 0.874in (22.2mm) and length of length: 5.5in (140mm).
- Supplied with a reassuring 30-day no questions asked guarantee from the manufacturer, along with a standard 12-month warranty for total peace of mind.
Verdict
By far and wide, these Muydz Bike Grips are among the most comfortable and pleasant holds you’re ever likely to experience.
No sliding, slipping, or wobbling – just the total grip and control you’d expect from such a renowned manufacturer. They may not be suitable for competition-level mountain biking but are simply unbeatable for all other everyday rides.
Pros:
- Excellent ergonomic design
- Very comfortable to hold
- Durable and hardwearing materials
- Compatible with most handlebars
- Extensive manufacturer’s warranty
- Impressive value for money
Cons:
- Not as easy to install as advertised
2. OUTERDO Mountain Bike Handlebar End Grips
Overview
A top-seller online with thousands of satisfied customers to date, the OUTERDO New Handlebar Grips are just about as simple as it gets.
Nevertheless, these durable and comfortable grips provide a clear illustration of how you don’t have to spend a fortune to take home a capable set of grips you can count on for just about anything.
Features and Benefits
- Manufactured from the highest quality TPR rubber, providing a safe and comfortable hold during even the most challenging rides.
- Available in an extensive range of colors to suit all tastes and preferences, from the understated to the extreme.
- The grips have been designed to minimize vibration and shock while in use, protecting the hands and wrists on tougher trails and surfaces.
- Designed to fit the vast majority of standard mountain bike handlebars, slipping into place with no specialist tools or equipment required.
- Guaranteed to provide a safe and enjoyable riding experience indefinitely, without having to overspend on a basic essential.
Verdict
Exactly as the manufacturer promises, the OUTERDO New Handlebar Grip represents a simple yet effective grip that gets the job done – nothing more, nothing less.
Sporting a tried and trusted design that’s been a firm favorite among mountain bikers for generations, these OUTERDO New Handlebar Grips are ideal for all types of everyday commutes and off-road trails alike.
They’re also cheap enough to pick up a few pairs at the same time, just in case they need replacing in the future.
Pros:
- Simple yet exceptionally effective
- Safe and comfortable to hold
- Classic grip for all-weather use
- Suitable for use with or without gloves
- Available at an unbeatable price
- Compatible with most handlebars
- Decent overall manufacturing quality
Cons:
- Can be a little tricky to install
3. Vktech MTB Bike Handle Grips
Overview
Similar to its counterpart above, these Vktech Non-Slip Soft Rubber Mountain Bicycle Handlebar MTB Bike Handle Grips are all about simplicity and performance above everything else.
No fancy gimmicks or unique design tweaks, just the bare basics needed to guarantee solid and consistent performance in all weather conditions. All with simple installation and broad handlebar compatibility guaranteed by the manufacturer.
Features and Benefits
- These Vktech Non-Slip Soft Rubber Mountain Bicycle Handlebar MTB Bike Handle Grips are composed of the highest-quality antibacterial rubber for a safe and comfortable grip.
- The custom anatomic raised surface has been designed to maximize traction during all weather conditions, with or without mountain bike gloves.
- Each grip measures 120 millimeters in length with a diameter of 22.2 millimeters, ensuring maximum compatibility with most bars.
- Simple to install and remove, no additional tools or accessories are needed to get your Vktech Non-Slip Soft Rubber Grips where they need to be.
- All purchases come backed by a quality guarantee from the manufacturer, along with the reassurance of thousands of satisfied customer reviews.
Verdict
Despite being at the very bottom end of the price spectrum, these Vktech Non-Slip Soft Rubber Mountain Bicycle Handlebar MTB Bike Handle Grips deliver everything you’d expect from a premium pair of grips.
Easy to install, comfortable to hold, and surprisingly solid once set in place, they’re great for riding with bare hands and gloves alike. There’s also an extensive range of colors to choose from as an added bonus.
Pros:
- Durable and hardwearing materials
- Surprisingly comfortable grip
- Compatible with most standard bars
- Easy to install and remove
- Exceptional value for money
Cons:
- A little on the thin side
4. Oury MTN Grip
Overview
The Oury MTN Grip has an extensive following in professional and casual biking circles alike, which tells you something about its quality and performance.
It may have all the makings of a simple ‘bare bones’ grip but nonetheless takes comfort and practicality to an entirely new level. This a perfect illustration of how simplicity is sometimes the best option of all if all that matters is the thrill of the ride.
Features and Benefits
- Oury MTN Grips are used extensively in professional and competition circles, despite being available at a rock bottom price.
- Each grip is meticulously manufactured with extensive attention to detail, ensuring consistently superior quality with every product purchased.
- The manufacturer also comprehensively tests every product prior to shipping, in order to ensure nothing substandard ever leaves the factory.
- Compatible with the vast majority of standard handlebars, sliding into place with no additional tools or accessories required.
- Every purchase is covered by an extensive warranty for total peace of mind, along with the approval and recommendation of thousands of pro riders.
Verdict
Simplicity meets sophistication with the Oury MTN Grip, combining the most basic and practical of grip designs with exceptional manufacturing quality.
The materials are second to none and the comfort of the grip is superb, as is the value for money the spins represent.
The long and short of it is that if these Oury MTN Grips are good enough for such a huge contingency of pro riders worldwide, they’re probably good enough for anyone.
Pros:
- Outstanding manufacturing quality
- Secure and comfortable to hold
- Precision engineered inside and out
- Easy to fit and remove
- Very impressive value for money
- Recommended by pro riders
Cons:
- None
5. Odi Bike Grips Handle Rouge Bonus Pack
Overview
Unashamedly high-end and manufactured with the most extreme riding conditions in mind, these Odi Bike Grips are as practical as they are beautifully presented.
Available exclusively in an elegant black finish with a variety of different colored anodized clamps to choose from, these things are a picture of prestige for the discerning cyclist.
They’re also surprisingly affordable when you consider the quality and manufacturing standards of the grips you’re looking at.
Features and Benefits
- Each Odi Bike Grip features extra-large raised pads around its entire circumference, designed to maximize shock absorption and improve comfort.
- Dirt, debris, and moisture are channeled away in the deep grooves, helping maintain a safe and comfortable grip during all riding conditions.
- The superior lock-on grip System Works with the vast majority of handlebars, keeping the grips firmly in place with no slipping or sliding at all.
- Supplied complete with premium quality Snap Cap End Plugs to complete the package, these Odi Bike Grips are guaranteed to look the part on any premium mountain bike.
Verdict
What separates these Odi Bike Grips from the competition is the clear prioritization of attention to detail on the part of the manufacturer.
Gloriously chunky and an absolute joy to hold onto, they’re also as easy as it gets to install and maintain their position flawlessly. No slipping, no rattling, etc. – they simply won’t budge.
The only slight downside is that the replacement lock-on rings are slightly expensive, should you need to pick up a second pair in the future.
Pros:
- Unrivaled manufacturing quality
- Superior attention to detail
- Prestigious and exclusive look
- Exceptionally comfortable to hold
- Rock-solid lock-on system
- Recommended by professionals
- Outstanding value for money
Cons:
- Replacement rings are a bit pricey
6. FIFTY-FIFTY Bicycle Handlebar Grips
Overview
Representing almost impossible value for money, this neat little kit comes with everything you need to upgrade your handlebars with an ultra-premium grip.
Designed to fit the vast majority of standard sized bars, these Fifty-Fifty Bicycle Grips combine the manufacturing quality and visual prestige of a top-shelf grip with the price of a bare-bones rubber sheath.
All of this initially seems too good to be true but is exactly what’s on the cards with these top-selling Fifty-Fifty Bicycle Grips.
Features and Benefits
- Suitable for the vast majority of mountain bikes, road bikes, and electric bikes, these Fifty-Fifty Bicycle Grips will fit any handlebars with a 22-23mm diameter.
- The textured grip has been meticulously engineered to maximize traction, irrespective of whether the rider uses gloves or rides with bare hands.
- All Fifty-Fifty Bicycle Grips have also been extensively tested in all weather conditions, ensuring a safe and comfortable grip when tackling tougher rides.
- The lock-on system features the highest quality components and comes complete with the wrench needed to fit and adjust the grips in seconds.
- For added reassurance, every set of Fifty-Fifty Bicycle Grips ships completes with a 12-month manufacturer’s warranty for total peace of mind.
Verdict
Again, the thing that immediately stands out about these Fifty-Fifty Bicycle Grips is their exceptionally low price.
They look the part, perform like a dream and enhance the visual appeal of any bike – all for the kind of price you’d expect to pay for something generic at best. Even the bar end plugs are impressive and easy to fit, which is a rarity with a kit for this kind of money.
If there’s one downside, the grips can be a little tricky to remove once fitted in place, but this is hardly the end of the world.
Pros:
- Outstanding manufacturing quality
- Surprisingly comfortable grip
- Compatible with most standard handlebars
- Ideal for all types of cycling
- Exceptional value for money
- Long term manufacturer’s warranty
Cons:
- Tricky to remove once installed
7. Platt Bike Handlebar Grips
Overview
Also well worth checking out by anyone looking to pair premium quality with exceptional value for money, these Platt Bike Handlebar Grips are designed for all types of bikes.
Precision-engineered to minimize fatigue and reduce vibration, the comfort grip also provides plenty of purchase during adverse weather conditions and challenging off-road rides.
The clamp-lock system is also practically unbeatable for this kind of money.
Features and Benefits
- The latest version of the Platt Bike Handlebar Grips features the manufacturer’s highest quality materials to date, with advanced non-slip rubber for a comfortable grip.
- Each grip also features a single aluminum alloy lock-on system, holding it firmly in place during even the toughest rides.
- Economically designed with maximum comfort in mind, each group also features an extra gel layer for outstanding protection and vibration reduction.
- Tested in all weather conditions, these GPMTER Bike Handlebar Grips are suitable for the vast majority of standard handlebars and slide into place with ease.
- As with all quality grips, an extended warranty covers every purchase as standard for total peace of mind.
Verdict
The general consensus among buyers points to a pair of premium-quality mountain bike grips at a price that’s almost too good to be true.
From top to bottom, everything about these Platt Bike Handlebar Grips is way ahead of what you would normally expect for this kind of money. Some have pointed out that the color of the grip doesn’t always exactly match its on-screen depiction, but this is hardly a deal-breaker.
Especially when you think about the kind of punishment you’ll be subjecting them to, once you’ve secured them in place!
Pros:
- Excellent vibration and shock reduction
- Comfortable to grip in all conditions
- Surprisingly high manufacturing quality
- Ideal for most types of bikes
- Superior materials used throughout
- Very capable Lock-on system
- Outstanding overall value for money
Cons:
- Slight color variation (reported by some)
8. MARQUE Grapple Mountain Bike Handlebar Grips
Overview
Firm contenders for the most attractive and eye-catching grips money can buy right now, these MARQUE Grapple Mountain Bike Handlebar Grips F are guaranteed showstoppers.
Comfortable to hold, easy to install, and fantastic to look at, these TPR rubber grips with aluminum locking rings can withstand even the heaviest punishment.
They’ve also been designed with an exceptionally comfortable and practical low slim profile, with precision microcavities to maximize grip.
Features and Benefits
- Manufactured from the highest quality anti-slip textured rubber, measuring in at 130mm in length with a 31mm outer diameter and inner diameter of 22.8mm.
- Available in an extensive range of unique colors and design configurations to suit all tastes and preferences.
- The low-profile textured surface provides a surprising amount of grip in all weather conditions while supporting riders with bare hands or gloves.
- Each grip features an advanced aluminium locking system of the highest quality, ensuring the whole thing stays firmly in place during even the toughest rides.
- Practical, durable, and designed to go the distance, with an extensive manufacturer’s warranty for unbeatable long-term value for money.
Verdict
Inside and out, these MARQUE Grapple Mountain Bike Handlebar Grips represent the perfect replacement for almost any uninspiring stock offering.
Exquisitely manufactured and up for grabs at a comprehensively affordable price, you can’t help but be impressed by the visual appeal of these well-designed grips.
Despite being so slim and low-profile, the way these MARQUE Grapple Mountain Bike Handlebar Grips reduce vibrations and shock really is something else.
Pros:
- Unique visual design
- Comfortable slim profile
- Outstanding grip in all weather conditions
- Suitable for most standard bars
- Easy to fit and adjust
- Very secure locking system
- Outstanding value for money
Cons:
- None
9. Lizard Skins Northshore Lock-On Grip
Overview
Last in our listing comes this fantastic Lizard Skins Northshore Lock-On Grip, which is also (arguably) the most premium component in our rankings.
Designed for those who prefer thicker and chunkier grips to the usual low-profile offerings, these things have been designed to deliver total control at a competition level.
Particularly when paired with a decent set of riding gloves, there’s nothing out there right now that rivals the all-around grip of these things.
Features and Benefits
- Thick and chunky with oversized contours, these Lizard Skins Northshore Lock-On Grip are ideal for competition-level trails and challenging rides.
- The robust materials have been designed to maximize comfort and minimize hand strain while delivering the ultimate in all-weather grip.
- Suitable for most standard handlebars, with premium quality lock-on grips to ensure a stable and secure hold at all times.
- Available in a handful of colors to suit most tastes and preferences.
- Durable enough to withstand the heaviest punishment, while still comfortable enough to be used on off-road terrain without mountain biking gloves.
Verdict
In casual and competition-level riding circles alike, these things have a reputation that speaks for itself.
Comfortable and practical right out of the box, many riders have commented that these Lizard Skins Northshore Lock-On Grip actually get more comfortable with prolonged use.
They’re perhaps better suited to riders with larger hands and those tackling the toughest off-road trails but are nonetheless a solid choice for pretty much any bike on any terrain.
All at a price that’s pretty astonishing, when considering what you get for your money.
Pros:
- Fantastically chunky design
- Great with or without gloves
- More comfortable with prolonged use
- Unbeatable grip and control
- Available in multiple colors
- Ultra-secure locking system
- Excellent value for money
Cons:
- Less comfortable for smaller hands
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best grips for mountain biking?
Lock-on grips are very popular with mountain bikers as the rubber grip stops the material from moving during the ride. This added security ensures that you can ride as energetically as you like without worrying that your hands will slip from the handlebars.
Push-on grips are less secured to the handlebar as they are simply slotted onto the bar. There should be an adhesive to keep it in place, but that does not always work as effectively as you might like. However, these tend to be more comfortable than lock-on grips.
Personally, we believe that lock-on grips are the best option for mountain biking, although you’ll need to make up your own decision. Many mountain bikers believe that lock-on grips are the best for this type of bike.
Are mountain bike grips universal?
Yes and no, mountain bike grips are both universal and not universal. Although the interior diameter for the majority of grips has been standardized to fit most types of mountain bike handlebars, they will differ in outer diameter.
The length and outer diameter should be determined due to your personal preferences and hand size.
Some people concern themselves with their grips more than others. So, some would consider mountain bike grips to be universal because they’re standardized to average handlebars without caring about the length and outer diameter.
As long as the interior diameter is 22 mm, the grips should fit your mountain bike. However, if you want to choose the length and outer diameter to enhance your ride further, you might consider the mountain bike grips to not be universal.
How long do mountain bike grips last?
Depending on the mountain bike grips you’re using, they should last between two and three years. After this amount of time, they should be replaced so that you remain safe during your rides. As mountain biking can be rather dangerous in some situations, it is better to keep up to date with your grips to ensure that you’re always cycling safely.
Many people consider their tires, brakes, and seat to be changed periodically to remain safe, but lots of people neglect to check their handlebar grips.
Why do you need mountain bike grips?
There are only three points of contact with your bike that you should have – your pedals, your saddle, and your handlebar. No other area of your body should be touching the bike while you’re riding.
Handlebars are your first line of controlling your bike, so your hands need to be secure and comfortable. Being able to slip off of your handlebars will put you in a compromised situation and could lead to some nasty injuries.
Your hands also need to be comfortable at all times on the bike. Some low-quality grips leave you with chafing and blisters, which can lead to a looser grip which can also make your hands slip as you hit a pothole or rock.
If your hands slip from the handlebars, you will have lost all control of your bike. So, choosing the right grip is very important.
In Summary
While shopping for the perfect pair of mountain bike grips can seem like something of a minefield, it can actually be comparatively simple.
As with most cycling accessories, all you need to do is pair your requirements, your preferences and your available budget with a set of grips you can afford.
Thankfully, the overwhelming majority of mountain bike grips on the market are comprehensively affordable. Even if planning on stepping up to something super-premium, you’re unlikely to pay a great deal for a competition-quality set of grips.
As always, it’s important to ensure that if you intend to shop online, you check the manufacturer’s warranty and the seller’s returns policy.
Just in case you end up with a set of grips that’s not compatible with your bike (or your requirements), it’s useful to know you can send them back for an exchange or refund.
Steve Beck is a passionate cyclist and experienced writer covering the cycling industry for over a decade. He has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in all bike-related things, from the latest products and technologies to the best routes and trails. His articles are well-researched, informative, and engaging, and he has a talent for explaining complex cycling concepts in a way that is easy to understand. Steve can be found on the road when he’s not writing about bikes, putting his knowledge and skills to the test.