Road Racerz is proudly supported by our readers. Products purchased through links on our site may provide us a commission. Learn More
Motorcycle equipment is critical when it comes to overall comfort and safety. Everything has to be perfectly suited for your needs, but there are still many parts people don’t talk about.
Motorcycle grips often don’t get a lot of attention, although they’re quite important. These play a significant role in comfort, but also maneuverability of your bike.
A good set should be just that; easy and comfortable to hold on to. You don’t want them to be slippery or uncomfortable.
Take a moment to read the article below as we reviewed some of the top motorcycle grips. We’ve also included a small buyer’s guide with information that can help you choose the best pair.
Our 10 Top Rate Motorcycle Grips
| PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|
Scott Sports  | Scott Sports Item Weight: 4.8 ounces Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 6.4 x 1.5 inches | Check Price |
Avon Tyres  | Avon Tyres Item Weight: 9.6 ounces Product Dimensions: 10.5 x 7 x 2.5 inches | Check Price |
Protaper  | Protaper Item Weight: 4.8 ounces Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 6.4 x 2.6 inches | Check Price |
Surpassme  | Surpassme Item Weight: 5.6 ounces Product Dimensions: 48 x 12.5 x 9 | Check Price |
DKIIGAME  | DKIIGAME Item Weight: 7.2 ounces Product Dimensions: 7 x 3 x 1.8 inches | Check Price |
Kuryakyn  | Kuryakyn Item Weight: 16 ounces Product Dimensions: 1.5 x 7 x 10 inches | Check Price |
INNOGLOW  | INNOGLOW Item Weight: 16.8 ounces Product Dimensions: 4.3 x 3.7 x 1.8 inches | Check Price |
Jackey Awesome  | Jackey Awesome Item Weight: 15.2 ounces Product Dimensions: 7.3 x 4.3 x 1.7 inches | Check Price |
Krator  | Krator Item Weight: 15.2 ounces Product Dimensions: 4 x 2 x 2 inches | Check Price |
Nuoxinus  | Nuoxinus Item Weight: 3.52 ounces Product Dimensions: 6.8 x 3.1 x 1.6 inches | Check Price |
Scott Sports – Best Anti-Vibration
If you’re often riding in rough terrain, you might want to consider something that reduces the vibration. These are a good choice, designed to fit 7/8’’ handlebars. The set is entirely black with no other color options.
The great thing about these grips is the waffle design. This offers you a dependable feel, allowing you to enjoy riding for hours on end.
The key is in the soft, single-density material, which reduced vibration and fatigue. It’s non-slippery but still comfortable for long-distance travel. Its design has been around for ages, and it’s a well-tested concept racers love.
Another thing worth mentioning is the integrated safety wire channels as it’s made for twist throttles. These are a bit tricky to install and remove in case you need to replace them. Luckily, the material is quite durable, so it doesn’t show any signs of wear as quickly.
PROS
- Waffle design
- Comfortable, single-density material
- Reduces vibration
CONS
- Difficult to install
Avon Tyres – Best Customized
If you’re searching for soft models, made in the USA, you might want to check these Avon Tyres. These are soft and comfortable, but with a pattern that prevents slipping.
The pattern provides a good grip that’s still comfortable enough to use in long-distance travel. It’s a soft-serrated pattern keeping your hands firmly onto the handlebars, providing a good grip and overall comfort.
This brand features billet aluminum ends for better durability. There’s also the push-pull throttle sleeve that makes these easy to use. However, they only fit on 1’’ handlebars.
They come in black, which is the only color option. Nonetheless, they fit in any style and color combination of your bike and the rest of the equipment.
PROS
- Comfortable
- Durable, long-lasting material
- Non-slippery
CONS
- Not the best for big hands
Protaper – Perfect for Off-Road
This set is one of the best choices for off-road and riding in rough terrain. It offers versatility, comfort, and many other benefits, eliminating vibration and fatigue.
These feature a tacky material that reminds of gel. Such texture does a great job of offering a non-slippery option that’s always needed when doing moves on rough terrain.
Another thing worth noting is the inner core compound, which allows better bonding with the handlebars. This helps keep the grips in place so that they don’t slip off at any time.
Probably the best thing about these is that they’re designed to self-cleaning. In other words, the material allows the mud to fall off instead of sticking to it.
They are white with a little bit of black, and that’s the only color combination you can choose from.
PROS
- Gel-like material
- Self-cleaning
- Comfortable
CONS
- Might tear during installation
Surpassme – Best Non-Slip
These are one of the best non-slippery grips also available for ATV. They come in different colors, allowing you to choose between black, brown, red, and yellow.
They are for 7/8’’ left handlebar and 1’’ right handlebar. They’re non-slippery and resistant to shock, so you can use them in different terrain.
The soft material is quite comfortable and does a great job of relieving hand fatigue. It’s ideal if you’re riding long-distance and for hours at the time.
These are easy to install and without any instructions. You won’t need any particular tools to get these on or even to remove them whenever you want.
The design allows you to ride for hours because it’s comfortable while remaining non-slippery in all weather conditions. You can freely use them in the rain and snow.
PROS
- Soft and comfortable
- For all weather conditions
- Reduces hand fatigue
CONS
- Two different sizes
DKIIGAME – Best Quality
If you’re looking for the best quality and value for your money, you might want to give these a chance. The set comes in black and silver allowing you to choose based on the rest of your equipment.
The grips do a great job of absorbing shock and vibrations, so you can use them on rough terrain as well. The high-quality rubber gel material is firm and durable, yet quite comfortable. They’re great for long-hour riding in different weather conditions.
These are universal with 7/8’’ standard hallow handlebars, which makes them compatible with different bikes. They’re a great combination of non-slippery gel rubber and machined aluminum for added style as well as durability.
It’s important to note that these are simple to install. You probably won’t need any additional tools to install or remove them regardless of your experience level.
PROS
- Combined with machined aluminum
- Non-slippery in all weather conditions
- Easy to install
CONS
- They’re a bit short
Kuryakyn – Best Heat Relief
These are one of the best options for heat relief and reduced vibration. It’s a non-slippery surface that provides a soft and comfortable experience while allowing total control.
The design has unique recessions between the pads, which allow the air to flow constantly. It’s ideal for relieving heat if your hands often sweat or you ride in hot weather.
One of the critical things to mention is the versatility. The grips have removable end-caps, which allow you to use them with stock air reservoir handlebars.
Keep in mind that you’ll need some tools for the installation, although they’re not included in the package.
These are compatible with Victory, Suzuki, Kawasaki, and Yamaha models though not all.
PROS
- Removable end-caps
- Constant airflow
- Non-slippery surface
CONS
- You’ll need some tools for installation
INNOGLOW – Best User-Friendly
Installing motorcycle grips can sometimes be a bit tricky, requiring different tools. If you’re looking for something a bit more user-friendly, you should try this Innoglow set.
These are comfortable, made with non-slip rubber that’s durable and long-lasting. The design features high-quality aluminum lining combined with the rubber. Such a pattern provides shock-resistance and helps with reducing vibration.
They are easy to install without any tools and instructions. You don’t need any previous experience to get these on, which is great if it’s your first time installing a pair.
Thanks to the design and comfort, the grips are great for different terrains. You can use them for commuting as well as off-road adventures.
They’re black, combined with chrome, which is the only combination you can choose from. However, the sleek and modern design matches well with most bikes.
PROS
- Sleek, chrome design
- Great airflow
- Easy to install
CONS
- Might widen if left in the sun
Jackey Awesome – Best Comfort
You need comfortable grips if you’re often riding across longer distances. These Jackey Awesome ones are ideal for those riding for hours on end.
It’s a customized design with a wider and larger throttle assistor. It makes it easier to use when you’re riding long-distance.
They are quite comfortable and soft, but non-slippery and easy to grip on. They feature a high-quality firm rubber gel that absorbs shock and eliminates vibrations. As a result, these provide a great feel all the time and in all weather conditions.
Such design and comfort reduce tendonitis, fatigue, and carpal tunnel because it reduces strain on your arm, wrist, and fingers.
Overall, they look sleek and modern, fitting most motorcycles and styles.
PROS
- Reducing the strain on your hands
- Larger throttle assistor
- Combined with chrome
CONS
- No instructions
Krator – Best Easy Installation
These 1’’ grips are among the best choices for those looking for easy-to-install options. Not only they look great, but these are easy to put on as well as remove once you want to replace them.
They’re completely black, enhancing the overall look of your motorcycle. Even the billet aluminum reservoir caps are black, matching the rest of the design.
These are ideal if you don’t have any previous experience with installing motorcycle grips. They’re easy to install with no additional tools or hardware needed. On top of that, they don’t come with any instructions, but you most likely won’t even need them.
Don’t let it fool you that they’re manufactured in China because both the materials and construction are durable.
As we said, these are entirely black, which is also the only option available.
PROS
- All-black, sleek design
- Constant airflow
- Tool-free installation
CONS
- Not universal
Nuoxinus – Best Universal
Do you have more than one bike? If you’re looking for grips you can use on different motorcycles, you might want to check these for the Nuoxinus.
These are 7/8’’ and fit most motorcycles with ease. However, the installation process might be a bit tricky for people who don’t have as much experience.
The left side is 7/8’’ while the right one is 1’’ for twist throttle gas. The two grips are the only things included in the package, meaning that you don’t get any additional tools or hardware.
They feature a non-slip design, providing smooth throttle tuning and overall much better control. Plus, these do a great job of reducing vibrations and shock during rides on rough terrain.
Keep in mind that though these are versatile, you’ll maybe have to adjust and modify them a little bin.
PROS
- Non-slippery
- Absorbing shock
- For all weather conditions
CONS
- Installation is a bit challenging
A Shopping Guide for Biker Grips
Material Used
Materials are critical to pay attention to when it comes to quality options. Frequent use has a significant impact on how long the product will last. However, if you opt for a quality material that’s also more durable, your grips are most likely to last a long time.
Rubber is usually the most common choice. It’s ideal for an off-road bike because you can grip it with power, even when it’s wet. In most cases, rubber is ideal for people with sweaty hands or those who often ride in the rain.
Leather is another choice, allowing somewhat better air circulation. You might also want to try foam if you’re riding in rough terrain and need grips to dampen the shock and vibrations. The foam also does a great job of absorbing sweat, which is great for long-hour rides in hot weather.
Compatibility with Your Handlebar
Before you go out to buy a pair, you have to make sure that they’re matching your bike. Unless they’re compatible, you won’t be able to install them; at least not without additional tools and some modification.
Keep in mind that not all motorcycle handlebars are the same. Some are universal, meaning that they fit any bike, while others are made specifically for the particular model.
Compatibility is critical, so make sure to give this some thought before purchasing. The most common handlebars are clubman, motocross, ape hanger bars, and beach.
However, there’s much more to look into. For example, you’ll need something a bit more cushioned if you have a Harley Davidson bike. Its twin-cylinder engine makes quite some vibration, so you want the cushioning on the model to dampen and minimize that.
Luckily, most manufacturers list which motorcycles you can use them on.
Hand Grip Shape
Choosing a particular shape comes down to your personal preference. In many cases, it’s best if you go for an ergonomic shape since that ensures the highest level of comfort.
Ergonomic grips are easy to handle and comfortable, which is especially critical if you’re often riding long-distance.
Keep in mind that shape has a lot to do with the overall comfort. However, it affects the general style of your bike, as well.
Check The Price Tag
Cost is probably one of the main reasons why people are often hesitant about replacing their current grips. Most grips are quite pricey, although some affordable models are available.
While price should be something you consider, it shouldn’t be the main selling point. In other words, you might not want to choose a pair just because it’s cheap. Cheapness isn’t necessarily good as it might backfire.
Replacing grips should be an investment for you, so you should see it as one. You don’t have to go for the most expensive model, but find the middle ground between that and cheap.
Read Previous Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are quite helpful to check out when deciding on a particular product. What better way than to hear what a previous customer has to say about the grips you’re interested in?
Take a moment to check these genuine reports by people who had a chance to try the grips. In most cases, these reviews are precise. You can find out all about the material, quality, and how the grips act during rides.
For this reason, you can also find some negative reviews. This helps paint a real picture of a product, allowing you to decide whether or not it’s worth buying.
An Overview of Motorcycle Grips
What is a Motorcycle Grip?
A handgrip is a part of your bike, which allows you to grip onto the handlebar properly. This makes it easier to steer the motorcycle, keeping balance and control.
Many different types are available, but you should always consider comfort over looks. The market is packed with different models, styles, and colors, allowing you to choose according to your preference and needs.
As we said, these can be made of different materials such as rubber, leather, and foam. Each material delivers different qualities, from enhanced comfort to non-slippery performance.
Grips are generally easy to install, although you might struggle with specific models. It all depends on the structure as well as materials. Some require a bit more work, additional tools, and experience.
Why do You Need to Use Them?
In many cases, the grips you got with your motorcycle are good enough for most people. However, you’ll probably notice quite quickly that these often lack comfort and overall quality.
Quality grips are essential for comfort, control, and balance. These are the reasons why you should consider getting a biker grip at some point.
Sometimes, you can achieve much more by just switching to new biker grips. A good pair enhances comfort and helps you gain better control of your motorcycle. Here’s a bit more detail on why you should consider using a biker grip:
It is Stylish
Motorcycle grips can significantly enhance the overall style and aesthetics of your bike. There are so many designs available, as well as plenty of different colors, allowing you to choose the one matching your style.
From all-black to chrome, motorcycle grips add character and style to all bikes and riders.
Comfort is KEY
As we mentioned, comfort is something you should always consider first. Replacing your existing grips is one of the best things you can do to achieve a higher level of comfort.
Plenty of models deliver different levels of comfort in several ways. Some are more cushioned than others, while certain models have a better airflow, suitable for hot summer days.
It comes down to your needs and preferences, especially if you’re riding in rough terrain. Shock absorption is critical to dampen the vibrations. As a result, you won’t feel as much fatigue, especially during long-distance travel.
Customizable
Another thing worth mentioning is that motorcycle grips can be customized according to your preference. You can tweak each model to suit your needs, helping you achieve better control.
However, keep in mind that some models are more customizable than others.
What are the Different Types of Motorcycle Grips?
Grip Thickness
One of the most important things to consider is the overall grip thickness of the particular model. Choosing among several thickness options usually comes down to your preference and need.
People with small hands usually prefer thinner grips, which are more comfortable in the long run. However, riders with big hands usually prefer bigger grips.
There’s no way of telling which would work the best for you. In most cases, the best way to figure this out is by trying several different models to see which one suits you the best.
Plain-Gauge
These grips have the same thickness all over the length of the model. However, some have a palm bulge in the middle, while others have inter-finger bulges that you may find a bit more comfortable.
It might be a good thing to try if you’re often experiencing hand fatigue or some kind of pain. This type of construction can help you reduce some of that discomfort, which is great if you’re often riding across long distances.
Dual Compound
These are made of two different types of rubber. There’s a harder foundation layer on the inner part and a softer-compound layer on the surface.
It’s a unique manufacturing process that brings two major benefits. Probably the most important thing about these grips is their stability and comfort. The inner sleeve secures the hold on the bars, ensuring that the grips don’t slip off or move at any point.
The softer layer has a significant role as well and is to deliver more comfort during long-hour rides and in rough terrain.
Traditional vs. Lock-on
Once you start searching for new grips, you’ll notice the many different types and styles. One of the biggest choices you’ll have to make is between a lock-on and traditional set.
Traditional grips are often considered tricky to install since you have to slip them onto the ends of the bars. In some cases, you’ll need more strength to get them in place. Also, these can rotate or slip when the weather is warm, and they become sweaty.
If that sounds like too much hassle, then you might want to consider a more modern option of lock-on grips. These are easier to put on and take off, especially if you don’t have as much experience with installing grips.
Lock-on models clamp to the bars, meaning they’re secured into place. These don’t rotate or slip, which makes them a better option for those riding on rough terrain.
However, there’s a downside to these as well. In other words, lock-on grips are somewhat more expensive than traditional ones. They’re also a bit heavier, which can be a bit uncomfortable depending on your riding style.
Maintenance
Maintenance isn’t too complicated, but you must do it every day. Grips tend to get quite dirty, although you might not notice it. It really depends on how often you ride as well as the terrain you’re usually on.
Dirt will accumulate quite quickly if you don’t clean the grips regularly. To avoid this, use a soft brush to clean both sides, trying to get to all the areas. Some are trickier to clean, though, and require a bit more effort.
Once you’re done brushing, you can go over the grips with a regular cleaning cloth. Give them time to dry if there’s water remaining. Also, try not to leave your bike outside in bad weather because that might affect the durability of the grips.
Simple Tips on How to Install Yours
Maintenance isn’t too complicated, but you must do it every day. Grips tend to get quite dirty, although you might not notice it. It really depends on how often you ride as well as the terrain you’re usually on.
Dirt will accumulate quite quickly if you don’t clean the grips regularly. To avoid this, use a soft brush to clean both sides, trying to get to all the areas. Some are trickier to clean, though, and require a bit more effort.
Once you’re done brushing, you can go over the grips with a regular cleaning cloth. Give them time to dry if there’s water remaining. Also, try not to leave your bike outside in bad weather because that might affect the durability of the grips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are rubber biker grips better?
It mostly comes down to your preference. However, rubber biker grips usually grip better onto the handlebar. These are almost always non-slippery and weather-resistant, which allows you to use them in different weather.
What is the best oversized motorcycle grip?
People with larger hands might appreciate oversized motorcycle grips since others probably wouldn’t be as comfortable.
Anything above 1.6’’ in diameter is considered large and might fit you better. However, the best way to figure this out is by trying a few sizes to see which suits you the best.
Conclusion
As we’ve mentioned, you must choose grips that fit you in every way. While a quality set is essential for comfort, it also plays a massive role in overall and control.
For this reason, you should consider several models, their specifications, and the pros and cons before opting for one. This is especially critical if you’re looking for grips to use on rough terrain.
Use the information from our buyer’s guide to figure out which grips would be the best for your motorcycle. If you need to, you can go back to our list of reviewed grips to opt for a durable pair that’s comfortable and reliable.
