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When I think of ergonomic grips, I automatically picture huge pads for the palms and handlebar horns like those on city bikes – which most people here probably don’t even recognise anymore. The fact is: ergonomic grips divide opinion. For some, they’re a lifesaver for aching wrists and numb fingers; for others, they’re as out of place on a mountain bike as a luggage rack is on a downhill bike.
Modern ergonomic grips are no longer confined to trekking or city bikes. There are now many ergonomically optimised models designed specifically for mountain bikers and e-MTB riders. They promise greater comfort, less pressure on the palms and a more relaxed riding position, without compromising control on the terrain.
Conclusion: Ergonomic handles are better than their reputation suggests
Ergonomic grips have long since shed the image of orthopaedic shoe insoles and have evolved into a genuine alternative to traditional mountain bike grips. Do you really not need ergonomic grips if you don’t suffer from numb fingers or sore wrists? That notion can safely be dismissed these days.
A good ergonomic grip can offer greater riding comfort than many a significantly more expensive upgrade. Unlike many traditional MTB grips, ergonomic grips come in a range of sizes – so you can always find one to suit your own body shape. Their cushioning, grip and durability have long been on a par with high-quality standard grips – and often at a similar price. My verdict: highly recommended. Stefan Frey, BIKE editor
What exactly are ergonomic handles?
Traditional mountain bike grips usually have a round cross-section. With a round grip, a large proportion of the load is concentrated on relatively small areas of the palm. This results in pressure peaks. However, if you look at the fingers, which are bent into the gripping position, from the side, you’ll notice that their shape is slightly angular and not really round. Ergonomic grips are designed to distribute the pressure on the hands more evenly and support the natural position of the wrist and forearm.
Typical characteristics include:
- Wider armrests
- Flattened grip areas
- Anatomically shaped contact surfaces
- Different material hardnesses
- Additional damping zones
The aim is to distribute the load over a larger area, thereby reducing pressure points. This is intended to ease the strain on individual nerve pathways, reduce pressure on the palms and result in a more relaxed hand position. Cyclists in particular, who frequently complain of numb fingers, often report a noticeable improvement.
Why trail riders are sceptical
Despite their advantages, ergonomic grips are still something of a rarity in the world of mountain biking. In particular, so-called wing grips have failed to gain widespread acceptance. There are reasons for this. Whilst a protruding wing does take the pressure off the hands, it creates problems elsewhere.
- Reduced range of motion in the hands
- Limited grip changes
- A reduced sense of safety on steep sections
- Partially bulky design
- More weight
Particularly on technical sections, many riders are constantly changing their hand position. A pronounced handrest can restrict this freedom of movement.
Modern MTB ergonomic grips: the new generation
However, manufacturers have long since recognised these criticisms. Whilst earlier ergonomic grips often looked like off-road-approved trekking components, modern models are much more closely tailored to the needs of trail riders.
They feature more compact hand rests, subtle ergonomic design rather than extreme styling, sportier grip profiles and soft cushioning zones. Many models are now only recognisable as ergonomic grips at second glance.
When ergonomic handles are particularly useful
Numb hands and tingling fingers are usually caused by excessive pressure on the nerves and blood vessels in the hand. If the hand is held in a strained position for a prolonged period, this can result in numbness or pain. Ergonomic grips distribute pressure more effectively, relieve pressure on sensitive areas and can thus significantly improve comfort on long rides.
Ring finger and little finger
With these symptoms, there is usually too much pressure on the outside of the hand, which causes the ulnar nerve to become pinched. This results in a tingling sensation in the ring finger and little finger. An ergonomic grip can increase the contact area and relieve the pressure on the nerves. A wide grip is not necessarily required to achieve this.
Tingling in the thumb, index finger or middle finger
The cause here is usually a wrist that is bent too sharply – particularly with modern handlebars, which are often up to 800 millimetres wide, the hand is forced out of its natural position and bent too sharply. This constricts the carpal tunnel, blocks the nerves and causes numbness in the fingers. In most cases, changing your grip won’t help; instead, you need to switch to handlebars with more backsweep, which bring the hand back closer to its natural position.
Ergonomic handles do not solve every problem
A common misconception: new grips are supposed to eliminate all problems. In practice, the cause often lies elsewhere. The following factors also play a major role:
- Handlebar width
- The Rise of the Ruler
- Stem length
- Brake lever position
If, for example, you ride with your wrists bent at a sharp angle, even the most expensive ergonomic grips won’t work wonders. The grips are always part of the overall cockpit system.
What to look out for when buying
1. Handle size
The right handlebar size is key to comfort and control. Handlebars that are too small or too large can lead to a tense hand position, rapid fatigue and a lack of confidence whilst cycling. A correctly sized handlebar, on the other hand, ensures greater control and a more relaxed ride.
2. Handle shape
The shape of the handlebar should suit your hand and riding style. It affects grip, pressure distribution and vibration damping. A well-chosen handlebar increases comfort, reduces strain on the hands and ensures a safe riding experience, even on long rides.
3. Relief flaps
The pressure-relief wing relieves pressure on sensitive nerves and blood vessels in the hand. This depends on choosing the correct size: if it is the right size, it distributes pressure evenly, improves ergonomics and helps to prevent numbness and pressure sores.
Comfort versus control – do you have to choose?
A few years ago, the answer was often ‘yes’. Today, however, that is no longer necessarily the case. Modern ergonomic grips have come a long way. Many of the latest models combine excellent shock-absorbing properties with surprisingly precise handling. The days of clunky comfort grips on mountain bikes are largely over.
The top 5 ergonomic grips for mountain bikers
For serious trail, enduro and downhill riding, traditional ergonomic grips with large wings or bar ends are out of the question. What’s needed here are grips that offer ergonomic features without restricting active repositioning of the hands on the trail.
1. SQlab 711 Tech & Trail 2.0
Price: 34.95 euros >> available here
Highlights:
- Ergonomic design without the traditional wing
- Relief of pressure on the ulnar nerve and the palm of the hand
- A range of grip widths to suit different hand sizes
- An excellent blend of comfort and control
Ideal for: Trail, All-Mountain, Enduro
2. Ergon GE1 Evo Factory
Price: 34.95 euros >> available here
Highlights:
- Specially designed for modern trail and enduro bikes
- Promotes a natural hand position
- Reduces pressure on the wrists and forearms
- Excellent grip, even in wet conditions
Ideal for: Enduro, Trail, Bike Park
3. SQLab 7OX 2.0
Price: 29.99 euros >> available here
Highlights:
- Designed for gravity and e-enduro riding
- Thick vibration-damping zones
- A high level of comfort on rough trails
- Large handrest without a wing-shaped design
Ideal for: Enduro, Downhill, Bike Park
4. Reverse Seismic Ergo
Price: 34.90 euros >> available here
Highlights:
- Designed specifically for trail and enduro riders
- Ergonomically shaped palm rest without the traditional wings
- Additional vibration-damping zones
- Promotes a natural hand position
- Excellent control, even on technical terrain
Ideal for: Trail, Enduro, E-Enduro
5. ODI Elite Pro
Price: 29.95 euros >> available here
Highlights:
- Partially ergonomic design
- Well-defined padded areas in all the right places
- Very direct steering control
- High durability
Ideal for: Trail, Enduro and aggressive all-mountain bikes
Conclusion: Ergonomic handles are better than their reputation suggests
Ergonomic grips have long since shed the image of orthopaedic shoe insoles and have evolved into a genuine alternative to traditional mountain bike grips. Do you really not need ergonomic grips if you don’t suffer from numb fingers or sore wrists? That notion can safely be dismissed these days.
A good ergonomic grip can offer greater riding comfort than many a significantly more expensive upgrade. Unlike many traditional MTB grips, ergonomic grips come in a range of sizes – so you can always find one to suit your own body shape. Cushioning, grip and durability have long been on a par with high-quality standard grips – and often at a similar price. My verdict: highly recommended. Stefan Frey, BIKE editor
Stefan Frey
Editor