Stylish grips made in the USA: The Wolf Tooth Echo Lock On put to the test

The Echo Lock On is Wolf Tooth’s A single grip made from rubber. Whilst the Americans offer grips made from silicone foam in all manner of thicknesses and shapes, the Echo is their premium lock-on model. It features a round shape with a diameter of 32 millimetres. For a personalised touch, there are five colours to choose from for the rubber grip and a full nine for the clamping rings. We’ve already had the chance to test the Wolf Tooth Echo Lock On.

Conclusion

I’ve added the Wolf Tooth Echo Lock On to my list of favourite grips. It has a very comfortable thickness – not just for large hands, but for all hand sizes – as well as good cushioning and the right level of control. I’m a big fan of the neatly machined and anodised lock ring anyway. - Jan Timmermann, BIKE editor

The Wolf Tooth Echo Lock-On Grips in detail

• Intended use: Mountain biking
• Handle surface material: 20A durometer rubber
• Lock ring material: 6061 aluminium
• Diameter: 32 mm
• Length: 132 mm
• Weight: 120 g (BIKE measurement, including bar plugs)
• Price: 36 euros >> Available here at a reduced price
• Special features: Made in the USA

Comfort and control, made in the USA

Wolf Tooth grew from a garage project into an internationally recognised manufacturer that continues to design and manufacture its products exclusively in Minnesota to this day. At the heart of the company’s philosophy is a commitment to solving the real-world problems faced by mountain and gravel cyclists with well-thought-out, durable solutions, alongside a high degree of vertical integration featuring precision CNC manufacturing, strict quality control and repair-friendly design. The company deliberately opts for local manufacturing rather than mass production in Asia, in order to bring innovations to market more quickly and ensure the highest quality. It goes without saying that the Wolf Tooth Echo therefore costs a few euros more than other lock-on grips on the market.

The Wolf Tooth grips are easy to fit using a size 3 Allen key and instantly enhance the bike’s appearance. They’re extremely comfortable to grip. The diameter works wonderfully even for large hands, and the rubber is neither too soft nor too hard. The ridges provide good damping for both minor vibrations and larger impacts. At the same time, they are closely spaced, slightly offset across the grip, and do not bend out of shape, ensuring you maintain control of the handlebars at all times.

Strengths and weaknesses

Pro

• comfortable grip with good shock absorption
• high-quality workmanship
• stylish range of colours

Cons

• neither particularly cheap nor light

What do you think: which are your current favourite grips for mountain biking? Let us know in the comments!