What MTB handles do I need?.

[oneguyonebike]

This is a pair of handles from a 98-01 Norco VPS-1 (from my research so far, that’s not 100% accurate but it must be a VPS), and it came with weird handles that I want to replace. What new ones will replace these old ones?. There’s a short one and a small one. I have no idea. Thanks in advance.

[Jeff Barber]

Interesting. The one on the left looks like a pretty basic foam grip. Not exactly like this, but close: http://ritcheylogic.com/wcs-ergo-true-grip

The one on the right is a lock-on grip but I’m not sure why it would be so short. Do you have a grip shifter on the bike?  Never seen a stubby lock-on grip like that before…

[oneguyonebike]

I guess it must be for the shifter. I mean it has screws meant for tightening it to the handle. I havent ridden this bike yet so I didn’t know before.

 

 

[Jeff Barber]

Right, that’s called a lock-on grip. Lock-on grips are an upgrade over traditional friction grips like the one on the left. Lock-ons are easier to install and remove plus they prevent the grip from twisting when you ride.

[oneguyonebike]

Oh cool. What kind of lock-on grips should I look for? are they all universal?.

[Jeff Barber]

Yep, they’re universal. Choosing the best one depends on personal preference–some people like a more cushy grip while others want one that’s really solid and tacky. Aaron actually featured a pair from Nashbar (I didn’t even know they had their own branded grips) that’s worth a try. At $12, you really won’t find a less expensive set of lock-ons.

http://bit.ly/1UbKcb4

[Chris Daniels]

Some things to think about (other than price):

Many lock ons use a 2-2.5 allen head which is fine, but increases the chance of rounding out the head. I really like those that use a 3mm. Race Face uses a 3mm. This would probably be more important if switching grips to different bikes or bars which, for me, happens to be the case a lot.

Some are chunky and some are more minimalistic in feel. This is total preference. I used to run thinner grips and then switched to TLD ODIs which are very overbuilt, moto-style lock on grips. I’ll probably go back to thinner IF the Troy Lee Designs ever wear out.

Some come with nice alloy or plastic end caps. These are great especially when putting the bike down, leaning it against stuff, and crashing. Rubber ends will tear and look like garbage.

Some vary the thickness throughout the grip so you can adjust the position of the most padding to where you prefer.

Good luck!

[oneguyonebike]

Alright, great to know. Can you guys link me to a Canadian website with some good lock on grips?. As for the second handle, can you find lock on grips that are the same length of that longer one shown in the picture?. It’s not a lock-on and is longer than the actual lock-on grip that I have. It was only able to fit the handle bar with electrical tape underneath with some weird glue, that wasn’t me.

Thank you all for the great suggestions and info.

[Chris Daniels]

Try any of these from Chromag. They’re based out of BC

http://www.chromagbikes.com/grips

Race Face is also Canadian:

http://raceface.com/components/grips/grips/

If you’re looking for a particular length, measure out what you need/want and the lengths might be listed with the respective company.

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