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Grips are small parts of your motorcycle but have big impacts on your overall riding comfort and control.
Finding a pair that ticks all the boxes for you might be tricky, but this guide solves that problem. Read on to discover the best picks and how to choose one for your motorbike.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Motorcycle Grips
- OUR TOP PICK: Oxford Heaterz Premium Adventure Heated Grips
- RUNNER-UP: HIAORS 7/8" Motorcycle Hand Grips
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Oxford Heaterz Premium Touring Heated Grips
Comparison of the Best Motorcycle Grips
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When is it Time to Replace My Motorcycle Grips?
It is time to replace your handle grips as soon as you notice tears or marks on them. While grips can last long, changing them periodically is a good practice.
It is risky to use worn-out grips because they can slip off and make you lose control of your motorcycle.
Are Motorcycle Grips Universal?
While there are many standard grips with a universal fit, some options are specific to certain motorcycle models or make.
Universal grips might require some adjustments to work for your motorcycle. For this reason, it is usually best to buy bike-specific grips because you won’t have to make any adjustments.
How to Choose Motorcycle Grips
The following are vital considerations when choosing to handle grips for your motorcycle.
Material
A grip is only as good as the construction material. Consider options with durable and non-slip materials. These will last for several years and won’t be slippery with or without gloves on.
Thickness
No matter the style or material used in a grip’s construction, it is useless to you if you can’t firmly wrap your hands around it.
A grip’s thickness doesn’t make it a good or bad option for all riders. Instead, it is about whether it works for you or not. Consider the size of your hands and choose grips that will feel very comfortable.
Thinner grips are ideal for riders with smaller hands, while thicker options are naturally more suitable for bikers with larger hands.
Ergonomics
Motorcycle grips come in different shapes, with some having even thickness from start to finish, while others have contours somewhere in the middle.
Grip shapes provide different levels of ergonomic comfort. Whether you buy one with grooves for resting your fingers or an option with a bulge in the middle, it is important to choose handle grips that allow your hand and wrist to stay comfortable, even on long rides.
Review of the Best Motorcycle Grips
There is an overabundance of motorcycle grips from different brands. While this gives you plenty of choices, it can be daunting to pick just one. Thankfully, we’ve selected some of the very best options available and present them below.
Best Overall:
Oxford Heaterz Premium Adventure Heated Grips
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Generally, buyers rate this product very high. Lots of online customer reviews indicate that these grips provide effective warmth and fit bars nicely. Many buyers find it easy to install and use them. There are hardly any complaints about them, except that they might need some modifications to fit some motorcycles.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Oxford’s Adventure heated grips are fitted with lots of notable features that make them worth every penny.
The heat grips can be set to five different temperature levels, depending on the rider’s preference.
A built-in intelligent heat controller detects when your bike is in motion, so you don’t have to worry about tapping into a switched circuit. Simply install the grips, set your preferred temperature level, and concentrate on the road ahead.
It is safe to use these grips, whether it is snowing or you need to ride through chilly water. The waterproof feature protects the switch and connectors from possible damage.
Bottom Line
We highly recommend this option for adventure riders, especially those in colder climates. The features, performance, build quality, and durability are very impressive. You can easily find replacement grips when they eventually wear out, which won’t be anytime soon, though.
Runner-up:
HIAORS 7/8" Motorcycle Hand Grips
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
These basic grips work well for their price, according to buyers. Users find them soft to the touch and very affordable, too. However, the general complaints center on the product’s durability. Some buyers say the material is too soft to withstand harsh conditions and is likely to wear off quickly.
Why it Stands Out to Us
HIAORS designed these grips with a universal 7/8-inch fit, making them suitable for many different two-wheeled vehicles, including Honda, motocross bikes, and other long-distance race motorcycles.
The rubber construction allows for a soft and comfortable feel. These might not be expensive grips, but they go through a rigorous inspection process to eliminate quality control issues during production.
They adhere well to handlebars because of the soft rubber material. They are not likely to slip off easily unless you intentionally want to remove them.
They are very affordable, so you can buy more than a pair and change them as you wish.
Bottom Line
These are nice alternatives if you like to frequently change your motorcycle grips to different colors. They are soft and gummy, making them comfortable. However, you may want to consider another option if you want something that will last very long.
Best for the Money:
Oxford Heaterz Premium Touring Heated Grips
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
These are highly rated grips on nearly all online stores. Customers express satisfaction with excellent performance during cold nights and chilly winter days. The grips are easy to install, and many users can ride for longer periods and on more days with them. Overall, buyers say it works great.
Why it Stands Out to Us
There are hardly any perfect motorcycle heated grips, but Heaterz Premium Heated Grips comes close.
First, it offers riders five different heat settings. This lets you set it to your preferred warmth level and focus on the road without the constant distraction of monitoring the temperature.
No matter how cold the night gets, Heaterz is up to the task with up to 122oF (50oC) operating temperature.
Other features include waterproof connectors, rainproof switch, and low power consumption.
These grips are built to last, but just in case anything happens to the heated grips, Oxford got you covered with a two-year warranty.
Bottom Line
Like our overall best product, we won’t hesitate to recommend this option. It might not be the most affordable option out there, but it offers excellent quality, great features, and impressive performance at a reasonable price. It’s simply worth buying.
Best Motorcycle Grips For Vibration:
Odi Vans Cult Street Motorcycle Hand Grips
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Vans products are popular with bikers, and these handle grips from the brand are no different. Buyers rate them very highly, with many users recommending the attractive grips. Many people find them easy to install and very comfortable to use, even in wet conditions. Overall, customers seem satisfied with this option.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Engineered with first-rate vibration-dampen technology and proprietary grip compounds, these motorcycle grips with improved ergonomic design will greatly minimize hand fatigue during rides.
The design does not include a flange, but one thing you can count on with these grips is that your hands will not accidentally slip in or out. The grip’s texture simply won’t allow that to happen.
You can use these all year round, regardless of the weather. But keep in mind that these are best used with gloves. While the wave sole patterns provide excellent grip, they can also be tiring for barehanded use.
Bottom Line
Odi Vans did a great job of improving the shake-resistance construction of these motorcycle grips. The ergonomics and patterns make them firm and comfortable to handle. If your bike produces lots of vibrations, you may want to consider this option.
Best Motorcycle Heated Grips:
Oxford Hot Hands Heated Grips
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers seem to be okay with the heated grips for its price, although many buyers say the manufacturer could do better. Users point out that it feels too bulky unless used on bikes with thinner grips. Overall, the simple design, heating capability, and on/off switch makes it worth buying.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Simplicity is at the core of Oxford’s heated handle grips. You can attach them over your existing motorcycle grips in a matter of minutes during winter or colder days. Getting them off come summer is also easy-breezy.
Controlling the temperature is not complex. Simply turn on the switch to provide warmth to your hands, and switch off when it gets too hot for comfort. It’s as simple as that!
You can use the heated grips all winter without worrying about your battery. The grips are engineered to consume very minimal power, so your bike’s battery won’t run out of juice.
Bottom Line
These are fairly-priced heated motorcycle grips that will work well for riders in areas that can get extremely cold. They work fine for thin grips but can get pretty hot, so invest in winter-weight gloves if you choose Oxford’s heated grips.
Most Comfortable Motorcycle Grips:
Grip Puppy Comfort Grips
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers find these grips comfortable to use, even without gloves. The soft construction material makes it easy on the hand, and many users find it quick and hassle-free to install. People who want thicker or larger motorcycle grips without the stress of removing old ones find this option most suitable.
Why it Stands Out to Us
These handlebar grips from Grip Puppy are quite popular among riders for many reasons. First, it offers unmatched comfort due to the puffy material. You can squeeze them without your hands getting numb and fatigued.
Harsh elements won’t do these grips any damage because they are designed to resist UV, ozone, and oxidation.
In terms of performance, Grip Puppy engineered these puffy grips to reduce the vibrations coming from your bike’s engine. Their tactile design ensures you get a firm grip on your handlebars during rides.
On top of all this, the product comes at a very affordable price.
Bottom Line
These are your best bet if you want grips that will significantly reduce vibrations. They easily fit over OEM without needing to remove old ones, giving you extra thickness. But they are best suited for 1.25-inches to 1.45-inches diameter grips.
Best 7/8 Motorcycle Grips:
AnXin Universal Motorcycle Hand Bar Grips
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Many buyers love this product not just for its low price but also for its decent comfort level. Users who have tested the grips without gloves say it doesn’t cause fatigue. However, the material tends to be very soft, making it difficult for some buyers to install them.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This unassuming pair of handle grips have a tacky gel-like surface compound and inner cores that bond well with handlebars.
In terms of performance, the special vibrasonix pillow outer helps to cushion the impacts of engine vibrations.
Tears often start from the tips in many cases. But that’s not likely to happen with AnXin’s Universal grips because they are built to have anti-rip tips to prevent tears. This means you can expect them to last for quite a while before thinking of replacements.
To crown it all, AnXin’s product is one of the most affordable options you can find with superb performance.
Bottom Line
Consider this option if you are on a budget or don’t want to spend too much on handle grips. You can tell from the price that they are probably not top-of-the-line grips with a stellar performance, but they are okay and work well.
Best 1 Inch Motorcycle Grips:
HTTMT Black Rubber Hand Grips
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers tend to be divided on these grips, particularly in terms of fitment and quality. They look great, but some users say even though they are for 1-inch diameter handlebars, they don’t fit quite well without some modifications. However, many customers enjoy the comfort and feel it provides for its price.
Why it Stands Out to Us
HTTMT may not be the overall best brand when it comes to motorcycle parts, but its custom hand grips stand out as one of the most stylish options on the market. The sleek, modern design sets it apart from the rest and can give your motorcycle a complete makeover.
The universal grip has a hole diameter of 1-inch (25 mm) and works well for most motorcycle makes, although it might take some slight modifications for some handlebars.
You can expect the product to last for a long time because of its construction material. It is fashioned from billet aluminum for long-lasting performance.
Bottom Line
If you want to up your bike’s look to something more modern and stylish, the HTTM Black Rubber Hand Grips might fit the bill. Aside from aesthetics, the decent performance of these 1-inch aftermarket hand grips makes them worth checking out.
Best Leather Motorcycle Grips:
Mark's Custom Designs Heavy Duty Grip Covers
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Many buyers love the quality of this leather cover. They rate the product high for comfort and overall control. A lot of people find them easy to install. While the covering makes grips significantly thicker, users say it is not without some hitches. Pulling the laces can be a bit tricky.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This grip cover might just be what you’re looking for if your factory grips leave your hand dirty or colored. It is constructed from heavy-duty 7-ounce oil-tanned leather, making it a durable product and excellent for covering heated grips.
Your grips will be substantially thicker with these coverings, which is a plus if you have larger hands and want something that makes you feel more in control of your motorcycle.
The manufacturer included laces and metal beads to prevent the covers from shifting out of place. These come at an affordable price but are by no means cheap when it comes to performance.
Bottom Line
Riders with a thing for leather might want to take a look at Mark’s grip covers. The oil-tanned leather fits nicely overgrips for a considerably thicker and comfortable feel. It might be uncomfortable if you have smaller hands, though.
Types of Motorcycle Grips
Motorcycle grips are available in a few different categories. While all bike grips provide more control, each type works best for certain weather conditions, riding adventures, and bike models. Give some thoughts to your particular situation before choosing one.
The variations include:
Billet Rubber Grips
Billet rubber grips are the most popular types of aftermarket handlebar grips available. These combine style and functionality to give riders increased comfort.
They come in a wide range of color schemes, with some featuring rubber and coated aluminum finish. Billet rubber grips can work with nearly all motorcycle types.
ISO Grips
These grips are best suited for motorcycles with lots of vibrations in the handlebars. They are fitted with shake-resistant features that absorb excessive quivering and relieve any tremors coming from the bike’s engine.
These grips are ideal for motorcycle riders who do a lot of long-distance riding.
Heated Grips
These are special motorcycle grips that let you adjust the temperature of your grip. The grips have wiring that connects to the bike’s battery, allowing you to change the handlebar’s temperature, depending on the time of the year.
Riders in cold climates can give their hands extra warmth with these special motorcycle grips.
How to Replace Motorcycle Grips
For riders who want to completely replace their worn-out handlebar grips, it is necessary to carefully remove them, clean the handlebar, and install them. While there are a couple of ways to do this, the following sections will show you simple methods of changing out bike grips.
How to Remove Motorcycle Grips
Here are two ways to remove the grips from your motorcycle:
Method One
If you plan to reuse your old grips because they are still in good shape, you need to be careful not to damage them during the removal process.
First, pop out or unscrew the bar ends on the handlebars if you have them. Now, break the adhesive bond between the grip and the handlebar. To do this, use a long flat-head screwdriver to poke between the grip and the metal bar, and spray an alcohol-based solvent in the small gaps you created with the screwdriver.
Carefully but firmly work the grip out of the handlebar. Spray more solvent if necessary until the grips slide off.
Method Two
If your grips are all worn out and no longer have any use, you don’t need to be extra careful about not damaging them.
Take out the bar ends if applicable, and cut the length of the grip using a knife or blaze. Be mindful of any wires underneath the grip, and be careful not to scratch your handlebars, especially if they are chrome. Now, peel off the old grips.
We’ve included a video below to help you understand the steps better.
How to Install Motorcycle Grips
With the grips removed, thoroughly clean the handlebars with an alcohol-based cleaner to remove residue and dirt.
Note that it is not safe to use lubricants or oil-based cleaners to remove any adhesive residue. These can make the new grips slip off, and that is potentially disastrous during rides. Allow the bars to be completely dry before installing the new grips.
The two grips have slightly different sizes. The throttle side is usually slightly bigger, so that’s whether the larger grip should go.
In any case, you are probably using the smaller-sized grip if you are having a difficult time fitting one of the grips into the throttle side. On the flip side, you’re likely using the bigger grip for the other handle if it fits too loosely.
When you have determined the right grip for the handles, apply grip glue inside the handle grip opening and on the handlebar.
Slide on the grip and keep pushing until it fits nicely. Replace the bar end, give the grip a firm squeeze, and you’re good to go. You want to be quick with this step before the glue starts to dry up.
Be sure to watch this video for a demonstration.
Conclusion
A grip is a simple tool, yet it gives you great control over your motorcycle. Investing in good-quality grips is crucial if you must enjoy your rides. Remember the signs that say it is time for a replacement and follow the recommendations for choosing your bike's best option.
People Also Ask
Hopefully, this guide has helped you to understand everything you need to know about motorcycle grips.
But if you still have unanswered questions about your new purchase, this section provides answers to some of the common questions riders have as it relates to handlebar grips. We’re sure you’ll find them helpful.
How Do I Stop My Motorcycle Grips From Slipping?
The most popular method is to apply grip glue to keep the grips in place on the handlebars. An alternative home remedy is to spray a thin layer of aerosol hairspray on the handlebars and work the grips over it. However, this method doesn’t last as long as using grip glue.
Can You Reuse Motorcycle Grips?
Yes, you can reuse old grips provided they are still in good condition. Take care when removing them from the handle so that they don’t get damaged. Ensure to apply the solvent and use a long tool to pry them off the bar. Clean and safely store them when needed.
Are All Motorcycle Grips The Same Size?
Motorcycle grips are not all of the same sizes and certainly not the same length. Standard sizes are either 7/8-inch or 1-inch in diameter. Be sure to measure your bike’s handlebar before making a purchase. Typically, 1-inch grips will fit cruiser bikes or Harleys, while 7/8-inch works well for metric/street motorcycles.
How Do You Clean Motorcycle Hand Grips?
A simple method is to use cleaning wipes, such as the Armor All cleaning wipes. Take out one of the disposable wipes and give the grips a thorough scrub. These work well for all types of grips, including colored ones. However, avoid cleaning wipes that will leave slippery residue behind.
What Kind of Glue Do You Use For Motorcycle Grips?
You can use grip-specific glue such as Renthal or Three Bond. These are excellent options and have good quality, reasonable price, and are found in many hardware stores or online. Alternatively, high-quality multi-purpose glue can provide a good adhesive for your motorcycle grips. Gorilla glue is a popular multi-use option among riders.
Other Motorcycle Buyer Guides
Below are some other guides related to motorcycles:
