The new Racefeel grips from Fizik are exactly what the name promises: uncompromisingly sporty, purist and direct. No gimmicks, no bells and whistles - just control. With a diameter of 29 millimetres, the screw grips are of the narrower variety. If you have paws like a bear, it's better to reach for the 32 millimetre thick Comfortfeel model, because the 135 millimetre long grips theoretically also offer wide hands enough room to unfold.
The feel? Outrageously good - if you like it hard. The finely ribbed rubber literally sucks itself into the glove, the sharply cut finger strips claw into the palms and ensure maximum grip - even if you only hold the handlebars loosely. The wide grip ends act like a safety net and reliably prevent the handlebars from slipping out of your hand when you are relaxed.
However, the aggressive, sharp-edged and extremely grippy design also has its downsides - especially in terms of comfort. Especially on long and rough descents, the thin grips offer little cushioning and absorb little to no vibrations. And this favours what gravity bikers fear the most: Arm pump!
Technical specifications
- Diameter: 29 mm
- Length: 135 mm
- Weight: 79 g (pair with clamping rings)
- Handle material: Soft 20A rubber composite
- Material clamps: Laser-cut black anodised 6061 aluminium clamps
- Compatibility: Handlebars with 22 mm diameter
- Special features: Core recess for palm cushioning, ergonomic grooves for increased control
Materials and fastening for durability
Fizik uses a rubber composite with a hardness of 20A for the Racefeel grips. This should ensure both durability and improved grip. They are attached to the handlebars using laser-cut, black anodised clamps made from 6061 aluminium. This single-clamp design enables a non-slip connection between the grips and handlebars and at the same time increases the usable surface area up to the outer edge of the grip. The grips are compatible with all handlebars with a diameter of 22 millimetres.
BIKE conclusion
Those who like minimalist design, brutal grip and direct feedback - and can sacrifice comfort for it - will be happy with the Racefeel. Everyone else is better off with something softer. Price: 29.50 euros.
Max Fuchs
Editor
