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To save you from aching hands on the tour, we tested twenty grips in the Race, Trail and Ergo categories. We not only measured the shore hardness of the rubber, but also analysed the grip and comfort in practice. For the ergonomic MTB grips, we also determined the pressure distribution using a pressure measurement film provided by SQlab. These measurements were carried out independently in our own laboratory. An important finding from previous tests was confirmed: Although grips with wings noticeably reduce the pressure peaks on the hands, they are only suitable for technical terrain to a limited extent and are therefore an exception in the test field.
You can find these 6 ergonomic MTB grips in the test:
Ergon GE1 Evo
- Price: 34,95 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
- Length: 120 mm
- Weight in M: 109 grammes
- Diameter: S/M ; L/XL
- Special features: 7 colours; 2 sizes; internal clamping
Bike rating
- Comfort: 8/10
- Grip: 8/10
- Trail suitability: 10/10
Conclusion: Slightly tapered grip that directs the pressure towards the outer ball of the foot and can improve the hand position on wide handlebars. Hand and fingers find a good grip on the terrain thanks to the texture and slightly angular shape. The GE1 still damps well and feels pleasantly direct.
ESI Grips Fit CR / Fit XC
- Price: 34,90 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
- Length: 130 mm
- Weight in M: 64 grammes
- Diameter: 28; 31 mm
- Special features: 6 colours; incl. handlebar plugs; 2 thicknesses
Bike rating
- Comfort: 7/10
- Grip: 7/10
- Trail suitability: 10/10
Conclusion: Thanks to its porous structure, the ESI is very comfortable to grip for a silicone grip and also offers good grip. It goes tightly onto the handlebars, but then sits securely. The conical shape distributes the pressure a little further towards the outer ball of the foot. The ride is still well cushioned.
Reverse Seismic-Ergo
- Price: 34,90 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
- Length: 129 mm
- Weight in M: 121 grammes
- Diameter: 32; 34 mm
- Special features: Double clamping; integrated handlebar cover; 2 thicknesses
Bike rating
- Comfort: 8/10
- Grip: 7/10
- Trail suitability: 9/10
Conclusion: The foam of the Seismic reliably filters small impacts and distributes the pressure widely across the grip. The surface is grippy even without structure, but the pad can slip on the sleeve. The external clamp can pinch when overgripping. Well suited for large hands.
Ritchey WCS Python Trail
- Price: 19,95 Euro >> available here
- Length: 182 mm
- Weight in M: 139 grammes
- Diameter: 34,9 mm
- Special features: Internal clamping; anatomically shaped; very thick
Bike rating
- Comfort: 8/10
- Grip: 6/10
- Trail suitability: 8/10
Conclusion: Flattened sections, cushioning elements and edges for the fingers ensure a high level of comfort and a reasonable grip. Unfortunately, the WCS is very bulky and unusually thick, even for large hands. Clever details are the anti-twist sleeve and the Torx screw on the clamp.
SQlab 711 MTB Tech & Trail
- Price: 34,95 Euro >> available here
- Length: 126 mm
- Weight in M: 135 grammes
- Diameter: S; M; L
- Special features: Internal clamp; anatomically flattened shape
Bike rating
- Comfort: 9/10
- Grip: 8/10
- Trail suitability: 10/10
Conclusion: The 711 is modelled down to the last detail and follows the shape of the fingers. It maximises the contact surface of the ball of the foot without any annoying wings and remains fully suitable for off-road use, with a very secure grip and noticeable damping. The 7OX takes less getting used to, but is ergonomically excellent.
XLC Ergonomic GR-S30
- Price: 25 Euro >> available here
- Length: 122 mm
- Weight in M: 137 grammes
- Diameter: 30 mm
- Special features: External clamping; flexible sash
Bike rating
- Comfort: 5/10
- Grip: 4/10
- Trail suitability: 6/10
Conclusion: The external clamp limits the grip surface, grip and damping are behind the competition. Although the wing supports the wrists, it impairs the grip in off-road terrain. Large hands find little grip on the thin handle.
Stefan Frey
Editor
