Why buy new MTB grips: 

When was the last time you thought about your mountain bike grips? You might be focused on your tyres, suspension, or that shiny new drivetrain, but let’s not forget about one of the most critical contact points between you and your bike: the grips. MTB grips don’t just serve as a place to hold on; they play a significant role in your overall ride performance, comfort, and control, especially on those long and technical trails.

Whether you’re riding aggressively down rocky descents, tackling challenging switchbacks, or hitting jumps, your grips are your first line of defence against hand fatigue, loss of control, and discomfort. With time, your grips will naturally wear out, losing their shape, traction, and cushioning. But there are also plenty of reasons beyond just wear and tear to consider upgrading. From experimenting with a different feel to improving your performance or addressing issues like arm pump or slippage, new grips can transform your ride. Here’s why it might be time to swap out your old grips for something better.

Wear and Tear: The Most Obvious Reason

After countless rides, dirt, sweat, and the occasional crash, your grips can lose their function. Once the rubber starts to degrade, you'll notice reduced grip, less cushioning, and more vibration transfer to your hands and arms. Not only does this make riding less comfortable, but it can also impact your ability to control your bike on technical terrain. If you’re experiencing more slippage, blisters, or hand fatigue than you used to, it might be time for a fresh pair of grips to get that like-new performance back.

A New Ride, A New Vibe

Did you just upgrade your bike, but the grips feel off? Sometimes, stock grips just don’t cut it. Whether they’re too thin, too thick, or not grippy enough, your new bike may come equipped with grips that don’t suit your riding style or preferences. Upgrading to a new set of grips tailored to your specific needs can make a world of difference. Whether you prefer the soft, cushiony feel of thicker grips or the tacky, performance-oriented rubber of a low-profile grip, this upgrade can give you better control and comfort. Plus, changing grips can be a simple and affordable way to personalize your bike, making it feel more “you.”

Addressing Comfort and Performance Issues

Ever experienced arm pump or hand numbness during long rides? Over-gripping your bars is a common issue that leads to both fatigue and discomfort. If you’re constantly squeezing too hard, your hands get tired, and you start to lose the ability to control your bike. A well-chosen grip can help alleviate this issue by providing better ergonomics, cushioning, and support, all while reducing vibration transfer. A set of grips with the right texture and density can help reduce hand fatigue, improve control, and even allow you to relax your grip, increasing your stamina on those long rides.

At Biketart, we understand the importance of every component in your MTB setup, which is why we offer a variety of grips suited to all riding styles and preferences. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, having the right grips can make your bike feel more dialled-in, comfortable, and responsive.

Why Your Grips Matter:

MTB grips are often overlooked, but they’re one of the most important contact points between you and your bike, affecting comfort, control, and overall ride performance. The right grips can make a huge difference, so let’s break down why they matter and how choosing the right pair can improve your riding experience.

Hand Fatigue: Getting the Right Feel
If you're gripping too tightly or experiencing arm pump, your grips could be the issue. Smaller grips with minimal padding can make trails feel harsh, while grips with more cushioning can reduce fatigue on rocky or root-filled terrain. Choosing the right balance of padding and firmness based on your riding style will help minimize hand fatigue, improve comfort, and enhance control.

Grip Size: One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Grip size is crucial for comfort and control. A grip that's too small or large can lead to discomfort and lack of control. For small to medium hands (S-M glove size), grips in the 30mm to 32mm range are ideal, while larger hands (L-XL glove size) benefit from grips in the 32mm to 34mm range. Larger grips typically offer better padding and vibration damping, which is useful for rough trails. Tapered grips can also improve comfort by allowing your hand to fit more naturally around the wider section.

Traction and Material: Grip Where It Counts
The compound of your grips affects traction and comfort. Softer compounds provide better grip in wet or sweaty conditions but wear out faster. Harder compounds are more durable and less grippy, making them suitable for dry conditions or XC bikes. For maximum grip and dampening, consider super tacky race compounds, though they tend to wear down quickly after intense use.

Colour and Design: Ride in Style
Grips aren’t just functional—they can also enhance your bike’s look. Available in a variety of colours and designs, you can choose grips that match your bike’s style and your personal taste. Beyond aesthetics, the design also affects grip and control, with patterns and textures playing a role in traction.

Choosing the right grips isn’t just about comfort; it’s about performance and style. Whether you need more grip, less hand fatigue, or just a new look, upgrading your grips is one change that can have a big impact. At Biketart, we offer a wide range of grips suited for all riders—because the right grip truly makes all the difference.

Our most recommended grips for Mountain Bikes and EMTBs.

Peaty’s Monarch Grips

Why we love them: These grips are designed with input from downhill legend Steve Peat, combining a slim profile with an ultra-tacky rubber compound. They offer incredible bar feedback and maximum grip in wet or dry conditions. Available in two sizes (Thin (30mm inside, 32mm outside) and thick (32mm inside, 34mm outside) diameter. Trail Comfort Mushroom Texture and Race Control Knurl Texture.

What Makes Them Special: The texture is inspired by motocross grips, ensuring control and durability for aggressive trail riding. Great feel, the grips feel precise but well damped owing to the tapered rubber. They work well in mud and rainy conditions.

Best For: Riders who demand grip and precision in all conditions.

Shop Peaty’s Monarch Grips here.

Burgtec The Bartender Pro - Josh Bryceland Signature Grips

Why we love them: Co-developed with pro rider Josh Bryceland, these grips balance comfort and control with a single lock-ring design for secure installation. The ultra-soft rubber feels amazing under your hands, even after hours on the trail.

What Makes Them Special: A single-sided clamp keeps things lightweight and provides more space for your hands. Simple yet effective pattern with deep grooves for better grip in most conditions but give a precise and direct feel without any vagueness.

Best For: Enduro and trail riders who value style and comfort.

Check out the Bartender Pro grips here. and the Super Soft versions here.

Ergon GDH Team Grips

Why we love them: The GDH Team grips are built for the rigours of downhill racing, offering exceptional vibration damping and support for aggressive riding. The unique shape reduces strain on your hands and arms during intense runs.

What Makes Them Special: Designed with input from pro downhill racers, these grips provide optimal cushioning and control for high-speed descents.

Best For: Riders who thrive on fast, technical downhill trails.

Explore the Ergon GDH Team Grips here.

ODI Reflex XL MTB Lock-On Grips

Why we love them: These grips are built with shock absorption in mind, featuring soft rubber that reduces hand fatigue. The lock-on system ensures they stay in place no matter how rough the trail gets.

What Makes Them Special: An Extra-long design for riders who need more grip surface or frequently reposition their hands. Larger 34.5mm diameter for bigger hands.

Best For: Riders looking for comfort on long, bumpy trails.

Grab your ODI Reflex XL Grips here

PNW Components Loam Grips

Why we love them: These grips combine comfort, control, and style in one package. The tapered inner diameter locks the grip into place, while the soft compound reduces fatigue on long rides. Plus, the colour options let you customise your ride. 

What Makes Them Special: An ergonomic design that provides comfort without sacrificing bar feel. Two sizes to get the right fit for your hands and they come in a huge array of bright colours.

Best For: Riders who want both performance and a pop of personality.

Check out the PNW Loam Grips here.

DMR DeathGrip 2 Lock-On Grips

Why I Love It: A favourite for aggressive trail and downhill riders, these grips feature a combination of knurled, waffle, and mushroom patterns for unbeatable traction and comfort.

Why we love them: Designed with input from pro rider Brendan Fairclough, these grips are built to handle anything. An absolute classic tweaked and improved.

Best For: Riders who want a versatile grip that excels in muddy, wet conditions.

Snag a pair of DeathGrip 2 grips here. and the Race Version here.

Ready to Ride?

Your grips might seem small, but they have a huge impact on your performance. Whether you’re chasing podiums, exploring new trails, or just out for the love of the ride, upgrading your grips will allow you to customise the feel of your bike and optimise your setup.