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SDG is primarily known for saddles, but has also consistently expanded its cockpit portfolio in recent years. The Thrice series is one of the established grips in the trail and enduro sector. With the new Thrice OC (Open Core)-variant the concept is now getting a technical update. The focus is clearly on the contact point between rider and bike - in other words, precisely where comfort, control and feedback come together.
What has changed?
The central innovation is on the inside: Instead of a continuous plastic core, part of the core of the Thrice OC is recessed. This allows the outer rubber layer to deform much more freely. The result, according to the manufacturer: more resilience to impacts and vibrations without losing the torsional rigidity of a lock-on grip. The grip is therefore aimed precisely at the typical compromise that many riders are familiar with.
Open Core: More flex in the grip body
At the so-called Open Core Zone the soft 20A rubber compound reaches right up to the handlebars thanks to the recess on the inside and can adapt more closely to the hand. Compared to classic lock-on grips, where a hard plastic core limits the damping, this results in a noticeably "softer" grip feel. At the same time, the structure remains stable enough for precise control on rough terrain.
Ergonomics and grip: detailed work on the surface
In addition to the core, SDG has also revised the outer shape: The handle has an ovalised profile that is based on the natural hand position. This is complemented by ramp-shaped and undercut grip zones that offer the fingers additional support.
Fine sipes in the thumb area are designed to reduce pressure peaks, while a slight flare at the outer end provides additional grip and control in curves or during hard braking manoeuvres.
SDG OC Thrice - Info & Price
- Price: 29,99 Euro >> available here
- Open-core construction for improved vibration damping
- Combination of slip-on comfort and lock-on safety
- 20A soft compound for high resilience
- Ovalised grip profile for a natural hand position
- Ramped & Undercut Grabber for high grip
- Thin cushioning lamellae in the thumb area
- Flared outer ends for more control
- Length: 135 mm
- Diameter: 32 mm
- Weight: 48 grammes
- Various colour options
SDG Open Core Thrice grips in test
SDG and comfort were terms that I didn't directly associate with each other before, and many a grip disappeared from the handlebars after the first ride. SDG has now given the new Thrice an open core in the palm area, which promises more material and therefore more cushioning. The topography has also been adapted and now has lamellae on the thumb and more pronounced ribbing for the fingertips. An ovalised profile should enable a natural hand position. A thickness of 32 millimetres is a good average for many bikers, but there are no other sizes available.
The first test drives were very promising. Why? After just a few kilometres, I had completely forgotten about the Thrice, which is a good sign when it comes to grips. The new SDG is neither a grip monster nor a sofa cushion for the balls of your hands, but the extra material seems to pay off in terms of long-distance comfort - and the not-too-soft rubber should play into the cards in terms of durability.
Stefan Frey
Editor
