What Are Good MTB Grips? (And How Do You Put Them On?)

Whether it’s a dirt bike, mountain bike, or BMX bike, good grip is of the utmost importance. With that, handle grips or MTB grips play critical roles in your comfort and performance altogether. 

But what exactly are good MTB grips?

Mountain bike (MTB) grips are the rubber material enclosing the handlebars you hold on to during the ride. Good MTB grips ensure that you continue clasping on the handles despite the vibrations caused by riding uneven terrain. They are defined by quality, durability, and longevity.

Moreover, installing MTB grips also protects your hands from sores and bumps. 

While MTB grips and other handle protectors may look the same to a beginner’s eyes, more advanced riders can tell the difference. Some MTB grips are simply better than the others in terms of quality and durability. 

So, which MTB grips are good for a long ride? 

If you want MTB grips that improve your performance and keep your hands safe from damage at the same time, then you better check out Risk Racing’s Fusion 2.0 MTB Grips with Fusion Bonding System. 

What Are MTB Grips? 

MTB grips are the rubber enclosure you find on the end of mountain bike handlebars. They are also found on ATV and dirt bike handlebars. 

Naturally, these grips protect your hands. Riding your mountain bike or dirt bike puts a lot of strain on your hands especially if the terrain is not leveled. This is because you are compelled to control the bike more in these areas. Also, you will have to tighten your grip. 

As a result of the strong and prolonged grips, your hands could blister and become sore.  Eventually, they form calluses which make the grip even more uncomfortable. 

Types of MTB Grips 

MTB grips come in different forms. With fresh eyes, they may seem similar, but there are important distinguishing features that you need to know. These features could determine the performance of your dirt bike or mountain bike as well as your comfort during the ride.

Based on Materials

One main reference for differentiating MTB grips is the material used. As dirt bike and mountain bike riding evolved, so has the accessories used for better race or ride. 

Here are the most common MTB grips based on their core materials. 

Rubber Grips

Rubber grips are perhaps the most common type of MTB grip in the market. It’s cheaper and more durable making it the ideal grip for your dirt bike or mountain bike. 

Moreover, rubber grips are not as vulnerable as other materials to damages caused by sunlight. Also, it’s low maintenance and quite comfortable to the touch. 

However, one downside of the rubber grips is that they can easily cause blistering considering they are hard and very grippy. 

Silicone Grips

Another pretty comfortable set of grips are silicone grips. Silicone is also resistant to UV damage caused by sun exposure. Likewise, it effectively absorbs shock and vibration while you’re riding your bike on various terrain. 

However, silicone can be too fragile and they tend to tear especially when you experience a fall on the ground.  

Leather Grips

Nothing looks more stylish than leather grips. Perhaps, that’s why their main appeal is their looks. They are also pretty comfortable. 

However, leather can be more expensive. Also, it becomes too slippery when you start to sweat. Hence, if you are adamant about still going for leather grips, find a set that contains better treads and patterns. 

Gel Grips

Gel grips are another alternative to rubber grips. They are both parallel in terms of cost but gel grips are deemed to be more comfortable. 

Nevertheless, many manufacturers tend to combine both rubber and gel considering their similar properties and very close price range. 

But just like rubber, the gel doesn’t provide any breathing necessary for the hands to remain blister-free. 

Cork Grips

Another sought-after type of MTB grip is the cork grip. 

Cork is a quick-drying material which means if you got your sweat all over it, it can easily dry. Hence, you don’t have to worry about young fingers slipping off the grip. 

Also, the same property is attributed to the added comfort provided by the grips. Since moisture does not stay long in cork, you can prevent soreness and blistering on your hands. 

Foam Grips

Foam grips sit on the traditional side of MTB grips. Before the likes of silicone grips emerged in the market, foam grips were very popular among riders. They absorb sweat so you can forget about the blisters. Likewise, they are pretty inexpensive. 

But the main issue with foam grips is that they get damaged easily and not just physically but chemically as well. Exposure to UV light eventually degrades the materials so you will have to change the grips more often than when you use other grips.

Based on Installation

You can also identify MTB grips based on how they are installed. 

Lock-on Grips

The lock-on grips are placed by simply pushing in the grips and locking them at the base by tightening the bolt. 

You don’t have to apply any adhesive solvent and the attachment is founded in screwing an Allen bolt through the collars. Once the locks are firmly placed, they are bound not to move. 

The main benefit of the lock-on grips is that they are incredibly easy and symmetrical to install. However, they tend to be heavier and can be more expensive than your traditional slip-on grips. You will need to take time adjusting to the weight of the grips. 

Slip-on Grips 

The slip-on grips are exactly what they sound like. You simply slip the grips through the handlebars and keep them in place using glue, wire, or other types of adhesives. 

These grips are smaller in diameter so they fit tight onto the handlebars. They are also lightweight and inexpensive. 

However, slip-on grips can be tricky sometimes. They have the tendency to slip off especially with the use of ordinary glue. Hence, some riders put a wire at the base just to keep them from slipping off. And sometimes this sacrifices the look of the MTB grips. 

Do MTB Grips Make a Difference? 

Yes, MTB grips make a huge difference in terms of performance and comfort. 

For one, MTB grips enhance control, especially on uneven offroad terrains. Also, they protect the hands from damages caused by prolonged rides. 

Of course, this would still boil down to the type of MTB grips including the materials used. 

In addition to your grip choice, wearing gloves or palm protectors can enhance your ride and keep your hands from getting blisters and calluses.  

What Is the Best Handle Grip for your Mountain Bike? 

There is no doubt, the best handle grip you can use for your mountain bike or BMX bike is the Fusion 2.0 MTB grips. These MTB grips are designed with efficiency and comfort in mind. 

You can expect ease of installation and long-term attachment especially with the use of the Fusion bonding system. 

Check out these key features to find out why the Fusion 2.0 ATV/MTB grips are simply the best. 

• They are nonslip.

These MTB grips are incredibly nonslip considering the strength of the Fusion bonding system. 

One of the main problems of many slip-on grips is that they tend to slip completely off the handles due to constant vibrations. This could also be attributed to inadequate adhesion considering many slip-on grips use glue and wire. 

To deal with this problem, Risk Racing came up with their very own Fusion bonding system that combines strong bonding strips and Fusion bonding spray. 

Both the strips and the solution guarantee better adhesion that almost make it impossible for the grips to move out of place. 

• They have a dual-compound microtexture. 

Each grip is made of dual compound microtexture designed to last for a very long time. They are highly durable and works pretty well with vibration dumping. 

The dual-compound is essentially made of two different materials. One sturdier material makes up the base of the grip and the other one is found on the gripping surface. The latter is typically softer. 

This way, despite riding over challenging terrain, you can expect to absorb less of the detrimental effects of the vibration such as leaving your hands sore. 

Likewise, the microtexture seals the comfort you need when you’re on your bike.

• They have double-walled grip end protection.

The double-walled grip end protection is an excellent safety feature that protects both you and your bike. 

The grip end protection is sturdy and durable. This additional element keeps your bike protected from damage in the event of a crash. 

So, simply put, installing the Fusion 2.0 ATV/MTB grips will add another layer of protection to your bike. 

• Their design employs a two-finger gripping rib.

If there’s one feature that proves the ability of Fusion 2.0 ATV/MTB grips to enhance performance, that would have to be their two-finger gripping rib. 

These ribs are found on the outside edge of the grips and they interact with your last two fingers, the ring and pinky finger. This interaction enables a tighter grip as you use these two fingers the most for gripping leaving your first and middle finger loose to grab the brakes as needed. 

As a result, you maintain the necessary control of your grip and your braking throughout your ride. 

How To Install MTB Grips? 

Installing MTB Grips is simple. But you have to be very careful with the process to ensure that everything gets in place. 

Putting on the MTB grips will mainly depend on the type of grips you have. 

For example, if you have lock-on grips, you simply slide the grips in and tighten the bolt so a small collar clamps onto the handlebars. The bolts will secure the grips then you can simply unscrew them if you’re planning to replace them. 

On the other hand, when using slip-on grips, you will have to coat the bars with an adhesive solvent or glue. Then put on the grips like a glove. Slip -n grips are usually made of softer materials compared to lock-on grips. 

To give you an example, check out how the Fusion 2.0 MTB Grips are installed.

• Remove the existing grips.

Using a utility knife, cut the grips off both handlebars. Depending on the grips you got, the materials should be taken off easily.  

• Clean the bar thoroughly. 

Once you removed the old grips, make sure to properly clean the handles to ensure that the adhesive sticks with no problems. Remove any glue or residue left behind. You can wipe the handles repeatedly to get rid of impurities.

• Apply the Fusion bonding strip. 

The Fusion bonding strip is a double sided peal and stick material. First, peel off the front of the bonding strip and wrap it around the handlebar. Leave a little overhang on the edge then peel the second cover to complete the full wrap.

• Spray the Fusion Spray to the bonding strips.

Using the Fusion Spray that comes with your purchase, cover the bonding strips by spraying them with the solution. Then, spray a couple of squirts in the opening of the grips. 

• Slide the grips into place.

Easily slide the grips to their proper positions. You can adjust and readjust the grips turning the logo outwardly. After 10 to 15 minutes, you can expect both grips to be completely bonded. 

What To Look For When Buying MTB Grips? 

Choosing MTB grips is pretty much simple but not simple enough that you can just grab the first pair you can find. 

If you wish to have the best MTB grips that will secure better performance and unparalleled comfort, you have to check on several standards based on the following criteria. 

Length

MTB grips come in different lengths considering handlebars also differ in the same measurement parameter. 

So, it only makes sense to get the length of your mountain bike or BMX bike handlebars before you purchase your MTB grips. You can use a ruler or a tape measure to be more precise. 

Pattern

You may observe different patterns with MTB grips. The patterns are not just for aesthetic purposes, they are designed to enhance grip. 

Patterns provide a tread and improve traction between your hand and the grip. They make sure you don’t slip while holding on to the grips. 

However, you may have a personal preference when it comes to this criterion. You can base your judgment on comfort. 

Durability

Durable MTB grips are non-negotiable. You have to make sure to get MTB grips that can last the pressure of the ride. Otherwise, you might find yourself buying new grips way sooner than expected. 

Therefore, it’s imperative to try the grips and feel the material so you can judge yourself if they are indeed durable. Likewise, it would help to check on reviews about the brand.  

Thickness

When trying MTB grips, it’s crucial to check if the thickness hits the spot wherein it’s comfortable but you can still efficiently grab the handles and brakes. 

As a rule of thumb, if you have smaller hands, you can go for thinner gips. But if you have larger hands, go for thicker grips. This way, you can wrap your hands around the grip with your thumbs and index fingers still making contact. 

Style

Comfort and efficiency are your top priority when choosing MTB grips. But you shouldn’t neglect your preference. It feels good to ride a mountain bike when everything is in tune with your preferences dialed in. 

So, with that, go for MTB grips that complement your style. Fortunately, if you go for Fusion 2.0 ATV/MTB Grips, you can choose from different colors that go with your bikes overall theme as they are available in Green, Blue, Orange, Yellow, and Red. 

Final Thoughts 

Good MTB grips are incredibly effective in enhancing performance and making sure your hands are protected during the ride. 

Choose the grips that complement your skills and style. Also, consider the option that is absolutely easy to install and will remain in place for the longest time possible.

With all this being said, the best choice for your next MTB grip is the Fusion 2.0 MTB grips. So, don’t hesitate to check them out and see for yourself why many riders these days are drawn to these grips.