​Ergon GMA: New all-mountain grip aims to better combine comfort and control

The new centrepiece of the Ergon range

With the GMA, Ergon is expanding its range of MTB grips to include a model designed to combine the comfort of a touring grip with the control of a gravity grip. According to the manufacturer, the design is based on extensive ergonomic research, more than 10,000 dynamic pressure measurements and numerous practical tests with professional athletes.

The aim: a grip for riders who don’t like to be pigeonholed into a specific MTB category. Whether for marathon riding or technical trails, the GMA is designed to cover the widest range of uses within the Ergon MTB range and is likely to replace the GA2 series in future.

​Conclusion from the editor’s perspective

Ergonomic grips have long since shed their image as products for medical supply shops. Even cyclists without specific grip-related problems benefit from improved anatomical hand positioning, greater shock absorption and reduced strain on the handlebars. With the GMA, Ergon is taking an interesting new direction. Rather than developing yet another highly specialised grip, the Koblenz-based company is attempting to combine the requirements of different disciplines into a single model. In particular, the combination of ergonomic pressure relief and the control elements adopted from the Gravity range sounds promising. The new thumb recess, the outer stop and the varied texture show that this is not simply a further development of an existing grip, but rather a concept in its own right. Stefan Frey, BIKE editor

A new format for greater control

At the heart of the design is a new grip geometry. Instead of a uniformly round profile, Ergon has opted for a conical cylinder, which is slimmer on the inside and offers more volume towards the outside. This is designed to provide the rider with precise feedback from the ground, whilst also offering greater cushioning in the area of the outer hand. This ergonomic design addresses typical problems such as pressure peaks in the palm area, numbness in the fingers or arm pump on long descents, and is specifically designed to provide relief.

Gravity technologies for all-mountain riding

It is striking just how much Ergon has adopted from its Gravity grips. The underside of the GMA features pronounced grip zones with ridges and finger guides, designed to improve grip whilst promoting correct hand positioning. The upper side, on the other hand, takes a different approach: here, strategic breaks in the texture allow for greater material flexibility, thereby providing additional cushioning.

New thumb recess and outer stop

One of the most significant new features is the newly developed thumb recess, which is designed to fulfil four specific functions:

• improve hand mobility
• Simplifying switching and remote control
• Reducing pressure on the base of the thumb joint
• improve control on technical terrain

An integrated outer stop also prevents the hand from slipping sideways on rough trails.

GMA FAT for greater damping

In addition to the standard version, Ergon is launching, for the first time, a GMA FAT. This has a larger diameter and is aimed in particular at riders with large hands, as well as cyclists who prefer a firmer grip. At the same time, the damping effect is noticeably enhanced. According to Ergon, the FAT is particularly well suited to long tours, extended e-MTB rides and riders seeking maximum comfort.

New Gravity Control Rubber

Ergon is developing a special model for the GMA Gravity Control Rubber Compound, which is also used on the GMS and GDH grips. The compound is designed to offer high damping, provide a direct steering feel and be wear-resistant. Furthermore, the new GMA is said to deliver good grip even in wet conditions without feeling sticky. Interestingly, the material is developed and produced in Germany. Ergon also avoids the use of PAHs, latex and phthalates.

Ergon GMA – Information & Price

• Intended use: All-mountain, trail, e-MTB
• New ergonomic handle design
• Tapered design for control and comfort
• Integrated Gravity technologies and grip zones
• New thumb recess and outer stop
• Gravity Control Rubber Compound
• CNC-machined aluminium clamp
• GMA FAT: Larger diameter for greater cushioning; particularly suitable for long rides and large hands
• Weight: 110 g
• Price: 29.95 euros

Conclusion from the editor’s perspective

Ergonomic grips have long since shed their image as products for medical supply shops. Even cyclists without specific grip-related problems benefit from improved anatomical hand positioning, greater shock absorption and reduced strain on the handlebars. With the GMA, Ergon is taking an interesting new direction. Rather than developing yet another highly specialised grip, the Koblenz-based company is attempting to combine the requirements of different disciplines into a single model. In particular, the combination of ergonomic pressure relief and the control elements adopted from the Gravity range sounds promising. The new thumb recess, the outer stop and the varied texture show that this is not simply a further development of an existing grip, but rather the creation of a concept in its own right. Stefan Frey, BIKE editor