We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Automotive

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

How do I Choose the Best Motorcycle Grip?

By Lori Kilchermann
Updated: May 23, 2024
Views: 10,155
Share

When choosing the best motorcycle grip, it is important to understand the type of riding the motorcycle grip will be subjected to. Comfort is typically the most important factor when choosing a motorcycle grip; however, durability and practicality also have to be factored into the equation. The same motorcycle grip will not transfer from one type of riding condition to another. The same rider may have different grips on different types of motorcycles.

For an off-road type motorcycle, a soft foam or rubber grip may be preferred for its ability to remain easily gripped when wet. Off-road motorcyclists generally become very sweaty when competing or even playing hard. They will typically choose a motorcycle grip for its ability to be held even when wet. In this situation, a smooth, slick grip would tend to slip from the rider's hands when he encounters bumps. A foam or rubber grip with many raised ridges and holes will allow the rider's wet skin to remain in contact by channeling the sweat and wetness away from the rider's hands.

For highway riders and long-range touring motorcyclists, a motorcycle grip that allows air to circulate around the rider's hand may be preferred. Even with the use of cruise control, a long motorcycle ride can become weary to a rider's hands. A soft leather grip will often include leather strips wrapped around it.

These strips are for additional gripping, though they also allow air to circulate around the motorcycle grip. This flow of air aids the rider in keeping his hands cool and stimulated. An unpopular side effect of long-range riding is "sleepy" or numb hands. By having air circulating beneath the hands, they remain "awake."

Vibration is also a side effect of many road-ridden motorcycles. Bikes such as the twin-cylinder Harley-Davidson type often experience tremendous vibration. This motorcycle's owner may choose a motorcycle grip that is very cushioned. The cushioned grip is able to fight off the vibration that can force the rider to lose touch with his hands. Sleepy or numb hands can lead to accidents due to the rider's inability to properly feel what the motorcycle is doing as it is being ridden.

The only surefire way to choose the right grips is to decide which type of riding the motorcycle will be subjected to and then experiment. Pick out a couple of sets of grips and ride a while with each type of grip on the handlebars. Once you've discovered a favorite, stick to that type of grip. It often helps to ride a friend's bike with a particular type of grip and see how it feels to you.

Share
WikiMotors is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
By anon340276 — On Jul 01, 2013

The article didn't even mention sports bike riders - arguably the most popular type of motorcycle rider.

By anon340275 — On Jul 01, 2013

Skin contact with grips is irrelevant as only idiots ride without gloves.

Share
https://www.wikimotors.org/how-do-i-choose-the-best-motorcycle-grip.htm
Copy this link
WikiMotors, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WikiMotors, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.