10 Best Motorcycle Grips (Reviewed & Compared For Comfort)

One thing that is often overlooked when it comes to riding motorcycles is handgrips. Seems like such a simple thing, right? One thing I can say for sure is that no rider enjoys gripping the throttle if they are experiencing hand fatigue or discomfort.

I might even be inclined to say that handgrips are one accessory that can really elevate your riding experience. If you’re tired of hand fatigue and vibrations, check out my list of the best motorcycle grips on the market, so you can ride in comfort again!

Best Motorcycle Grips - Quick Comparison

Why Should You Buy Motorcycle Grips? (Benefits Explained)

There are so many reasons why having a decent set of motorcycle grips is essential for all riders, no matter the terrain, length of the trip, or bike you ride. For the sake of our time, let’s narrow this list down to grips’ most “gripping” purposes. Your hands and arms will thank me later.

Comfort

For starters, factory motorcycle grips are only there to help with control; comfort is not the priority. This oversight often leads to dangerous hand fatigue and feeling the need to stretch and crack my knuckles at every single stop light.

With aftermarket motorcycle grips, comfort is THE integral component and they have saved my hands from feeling like I’m 94 years old.

Style

Nothing screams style more than a custom set of motorcycle grips. There are literally thousands of different grips on the market, from sleek to graphics and everything in between. So chances are that your perfect pair is out there waiting for you.

If you’re looking for something more uniquely you, several companies offer a service where you can customize your very own set of grips to fit your bike’s true-to-you style. 

Vibration Reduction 

Do you ever feel like your body has drunk like 16 pots of coffee, even after the shortest of rides? Vibrations are ultimately the defining line between a great ride and an uncomfortable one at best, and a dangerous one at worst. The body buzz is all the more pronounced if you’re riding a motorcycle like a V-twin or Harley.

The engines on these styles of bikes are notorious for their low-end power, which is great for a classic rev-up moment but creates a ton of vibration at the beginning and all throughout a ride.

The thickness and padding of the grips absorbs the repeated shock coming from the engine and can significantly reduce the uncomfortable sensations in your arms and body during and after a ride. 

Control  

Honestly, safety always comes first and this is hands-down the most important reason to invest in the best set of motorcycle grips you can. This might sound obvious, but your main point of control and steering on any bike is with the handlebars.

But I know from experience that my hands sweat more than Niagra Falls on a hot, humid day and my hands have actually slipped off while riding my bike in the past. This is not only extraordinarily dangerous but reestablishing throttle control with moist hands is also very difficult.

Motorcycle grips ensure even the sweatiest of hands maintain friction on the throttle and handlebars, preventing any accidental slippage and accidental accidents. 

Types Of Motorcycle Handgrips

As I have previously mentioned, there is a lot of variety available when it comes to motorcycle grips. This extends to everything from material and size to functionality and overall design. If you are looking into getting yourself a pair of good motorcycle grips, here are some of the top types available.

ISO Grips  

ISO grips are generally the most common and least expensive motorcycle grips on the market. In terms of material, ISO grips usually sport an aluminum build with ridged plastic pads to increase surface friction and hold between your hands and your handlebars.

The real highlight of ISO grips are their durability and control, as their solid nature increases contact between you and your bike without much added material. ISO grips are very effective and are the grip of choice for most motorcycle riders.  

Heated Grips 

As the name suggests, heated grips are externally heated motorcycle grips powered by the motorcycle’s own electrical system. Initially invented to help with hand and finger numbness associated with winter riding, the thermal energy produced by these grips can aid comfort and decrease muscle tension and fatigue from vibration and terrain.

The best part is that these heated grips come with a control system that allows users to set the perfect temperature for themselves no matter the weather. It comes as no surprise that with all this customizable gadgetry comes a steeper price tag, however this investment may be worth it in the long run for riders in colder climates. 

Billet Rubber Grips  

I must admit that in the comfort department, none can top Billet rubber motorcycle grips. They are soft, cushioned, and form fit into your grip without compromising on contact or hold. When it comes to durability, their rubber material is resilient enough to not wear away after long-term use and they are exceptional for long rides or repetitive rocky terrain (hey, cobblestones). Added bonus: they’re affordable too! 

How To Choose The Best Motorcycle Grips (Complete Buyer’s Guide) 

For me, the best part about searching for great motorcycle grips is that there are so many different kinds to choose from! The worst part, though, is that there are so many different kinds to choose from. How do I pick the right grips for me? Fear not, let’s take a look at some factors that may help you narrow down what you’re looking for so you can find the precise ones for you and your motorcycle grip needs. 

Contouring  

Contouring is an important aspect when it comes to motorcycle grips. Remember fingers are not all the same size and shape, so different grips come with different contours in the middle, on the edge, and even on the tops and bottoms.

For example, I have smaller hands compared to my body size (not in other departments, mind you) and this limits the natural contact area of my grip and fingers on my handlebars. I need grips with contouring in the middle so my small ass hands can fit around the bar securely. Everybody’s different, so it’s always a good idea to check contour and hand compatibility before making a purchase. 

Lock-On Vs Slip-On Attachment 

When it comes to securing your motorcycle grips to your handlebars, there are essentially two methods that you can choose from. The slip-on grips use a stretch system where the diameter of the grips is slightly smaller than that of the handlebars and utilizes friction to stay in place.

Lock-on attachment systems make use of a corking collar system that is secured in place by an allen bolt to ensure that the grips stay in place.  If you are DIY-ing it, we recommend you go with slip-on grips. If you have a bit of technical expertise and a set of tools, then the lock-on grips are essentially the most secure of the two attachment methods.  

Riding Style 

Not all riders are the same and your riding style is certainly something that you must take into consideration when selecting motorcycle grips. If you are a sport bike rider, you’d probably be looking for something a bit more sleek and streamlined.

For rough riders like myself that prefer to get a little dirty and bumpy, waffle-style grips will work best thanks to their heightened traction. Thicker leather or chrome options have also been known to work quite well with cruisers. It is key to know the type of rider you are so you don’t end up pouring your hard-earned cash into grips that don’t work for what you like to do. 

Size

Size might not be everything in other areas (baby hands, my friends), but when it comes to motorcycle grips, size is an integral factor. Bikes come in different shapes and sizes and some sizes of grips only fit on certain sizes of bikes. There are generally two standard sizes of grips: 1” and 7/8,” each relating to handlebar diameter. 5/8” grips are available but are more on the rare side.

Be sure to measure your handlebar diameter before picking out your motorcycle grips. As a general rule of thumb, though, 1” grips are usually compatible with Harleys or cruiser bikes, and 7/8” motorcycle grips are best suited for sportbikes. 

Grip Thickness 

Grip thickness is also another element that must be considered when making any motorcycle grip decision. 1” and 1.2”  inch-thick grips are generally the most common types available on the market. Thickness dictates the level of vibration absorbance, so if you plan to do some riding off-road or on rougher streets, we recommend that you go with the 1”.

Material  

In line with variability, the list of materials used to make motorcycle grips is quite extensive and can affect your ride’s comfort as well as the longevity of the grips themselves. Rubber grips are popular mainly because they are cheap and offer a lot of comfort compared to more rigid materials. However, they do not score high marks in durability. In that race, the title goes to aluminum and resin grips.

Plastic grips tend to offer a high level of moisture resistance and, in turn, less natural wear-and-tear from repeated use. On the premium side of things, leather grips offer a lot in terms of style and general comfort but they have a steep price tag. In short, aluminum grips are easily the middle ground between all popular grip materials and provide comfort and aesthetic flair in spades. 

Price  

Getting down to the brass tax of the matter, this is probably the most relevant factor we all consider when making any purchase for our bikes. No matter your preferences, if your money isn’t right then you are most likely not going to buy it. This makes price the X factor in making your final decision about which motorcycle grips to buy.

At the extreme end of the price spectrum, you will find heated grips. Heated grips cost around $110 up to $190 depending on the other features they come equipped with.

If you are not ready to pay the premium price but you are also looking for motorcycle grips that offer more in terms of comfort and control, high-performance motorcycle grips that are not heated range from $60 up to $90.

At the lowest end of the price spectrum, a solid pair of sportbike grips won’t put you up past $30. This means that no matter how steep or how deep your budget is, there is a pair of motorcycle grips that will give you what you need and won’t break your bank. 

10 Best Motorcycle Grips Reviewed 

1. Arlen Ness Black Fusion Grips

Not all motorcycle grips are created equal. Most motorcycle grips are better suited for a certain type of rider or motorcycle than others. Then one grip came along that really gripped me from the moment I wrapped my tiny hands around the handlebar. May I introduce the Arlen Ness Black Fusion Grips.

In terms of design, the designers of Arlen Ness Fusion Grips did everything right. Having a black-centric design that matches nearly every motorcycle color theme adds a whole new level of aesthetic and shrieks SLEEK from a football field away. The grips come with a diamond pattern that is aesthetically pleasing and easily adds extra traction for riders of all hand sizes. To entrench its reign of design, the Arlen Ness Black Fusion Grips have Billet aluminum accents come with a chrome finish machined onto the edges. This adds that slight touch of elegance that makes the grips stand out amongst its competitors. 

Arlen Ness Fusion Grips are made from the two best materials on the market: billet aluminum and rubber. Rubber has a reputation of being one of the most comfortable materials when it comes to motorcycle grips and the rubber on the Arlen Ness grip is testament to this. Its diamond mesh texture ensures that the hand-to-handlebar grip is at its maximum. The 11/4-inch billet aluminum collars and the aluminum caps also ensure that once the motorcycle grips are installed, they won’t be going anywhere.  

In terms of performance, the Allen Ness Black Fusion Grips have so much to offer. The most important element that you are going to get from the grips is comfort. The top range linear knurled rubber grip is equipped with air pillows (you read that right… pillows) which provide an almost excessive level of comfort. So you can say goodbye to the sweaty, fatigued fingers that have plagued even the most seasoned of riders. 

Overall, Allen Ness Black Fusion Grips are hands-down the best product on the market right now. The cherry on top of all this is that, compared to other motorcycle grips on this list and those in the general grip market, they are actually quite affordable. Retailing at $53.95, the Arlen Ness Fusion Grips is a freaking steal. The price in relation to the quality of the product is just mind-blowing, so if you’re looking for the absolute best bang for your buck, look no further than these Arlen Ness Fusion Grips.  

2. The Original Grip Puppy Comfort Grips

One of the absolute worst things when it comes to riding any bike is handlebar vibrations. Vibrations make riding uncomfortable and they can reduce your overall control which is not good. For this reason, there is an absolute need to equip your motorcycle with grips that are best for reducing vibrations. No other product fits this description better than The Original Grip Puppy Comfort Grips. 

The Original Grip Puppy Comfort Grips essentially add a whole extra level of comfort literally on top of your pre-existing stock grips. Made of thick hand-conforming foam, these cozy hand grips increase the diameter of your handlebars and allow for ultimate shock absorption. However, the added size and material made my grip around the handlebars less tight so that is something to keep in mind for the small-handed like myself. 

In terms of durability, environmental factors like rain and the sun are the main culprits for high grip turnover. These grips, however, have got that covered and are resistant to both UV light and water. If you already have heated grips, you won’t need to remove them because the Grip Puppy Grips work perfectly well on top of these too.  

3. ProGrip Dual Sport Gel Grip

One thing that I have learned about most motorcycle enthusiasts, myself included, is that we lean towards simplicity. I am not a fan of accessories that are super colorful and extravagant. If we are of like mind, then the ProGrip Dual Grip may be right up your alley. 

First things first, the price. The ProGrip Dual Sport Gel grip retails for just $15 on Amazon. This is the least expensive product on this list and you might be surprised that it is one of the highest-rated as well. But do not let the price fool you, the ProGrip Dual Sport Gel Grip offers a lot in terms of performance and design. 

In terms of built material, the ProGrip Dual Sport Gel Grip is made from gel and rubber with a classic “pimple” design. It effectively absorbs vibrations and provides top-of-the-line comfort and control. The edges of the grips protrude out a bit to create groove-like structure once the grips are installed, naturally nesting your grip into the handlebars. 

Although some reviewers have noted that these grips aren’t compatible with some bike styles and its durability leaves some room to be desired, they are a cool and cost-effective choice for the budget-minded. 

4. Renthal Black Full Diamond Sport Bike Grip

The sportbike community is probably the most vocal and most selective subset of motorcycle riders (they’ll admit it too). They have good reason to be so obsessed with quality: one accessory can be the difference between a minor accident and a tragic one. The good people at Renthal have heard their plea for quality and reliability when they made the Renthal Black Full Diamond Sportbike Motorcycle Grip. 

The Black Full Diamond Sportbike Grip is meant for the track. Made from resin, they are as firm as grips can get. Both the tapered and standard dual compound patterns available provide an unparalleled traction while the 29 mm thickness (thinness?) allow for a comfortable yet sturdy grip, which when it comes to track riding is a must.  

Resin is one of the most durable materials on the market right now, so these grips won’t quit in rain or shine. And all for the low, low price of $17. It’s a small price for a heck of a lot of dependability. 

5. ODI Vans Cult Motorcycle Hand Grips

V-twin motorcycles are literal “beasts” when it comes to performance but are not the most compatible with aftermarket accessories. Are V-Twin owners doomed to be content with stock parts and not trick out their beloved bikes? Fear not! Two individuals from Southern California decided to switch things up and created a set of modern, stylish, and performance-effective grips tailored just for V-twin motorcycles. Over the years, the ODI Vans Cult Motorcycle Grips have become a mainstay in the grip pantheon.  

The ODI Vans Cult Motorcycle Grips are teamed and designed with a Vans wave pattern (yes, like the shoes) with a domed-center section for your palm and fingers to fit snugly around your handlebars even at high V-Twin speeds. The material is not as soft as rubber but not as firm as plastic, so it’s essentially the best of both worlds. If you are skeptical about the material, you can spend two more dollars and get yourself the same design and features but on gum rubber. 

The ODI Vans Cult grips are made for high-performance motorcycles, with 1” and ⅞” diameter options, but it should be noted they aren’t compatible with smaller motorcycles or if you have a throttle sleeve. However, if you have neither, they’ll only run you up $17.38 for a pair. It’s true quality comes at a price, but that’s not in the case with these amazing motorcycle grips. 

6. Kuryakyn Premium ISO Grips

If you own a cruiser motorcycle, it's already clear that you are a fan of the finer things in life and this must extend to your choice of accessories. Nothing sets you apart from the crowd better than these Kuryakyn Premium ISO-Grips. The aluminum design with black padding offers great aesthetics while the aluminum caps can be used on top of your stock grips. 

Besides their emphasis on grip and comfort, you won’t have to worry about high temperatures and sweaty hands as a result of friction. The grips have recesses in between the non-slip pads so air can easily flow between your fingers. Add these airflow recessions to the softness of the ISO pads and you have one of the most comfortable motorcycle grip systems around. 

It should be noted that these Kuryakyn ISO grips use a dual system to provide vibration absorption to reduce fatigue, so they should be used in tandem with an ISO Throttle to ensure that you are getting the best performance possible out of your Kuryakyn ISO Grips. 

7. Amazicha 1" Motorcycle Grips

The Harley Davidson is the embodiment of motorcycle culture. These iconic motorcycles exude power and strength in every regard. Well, every regard except one… grips. They’ve got weak ass grips. 

Thankfully, the Amazicha 1” Motorcycle Grips are here to save the day for your Harley’s puny stock grips with their non-slip, aluminum build and diamond-pattern design. Retailing at just under $17, these grips are a shockingly affordable accessory for a bike known for top-notch quality, performance, and… vibration.

Speaking of, Harleys vibrate. A lot. But that’s also not a problem for the Amazicha 1” Motorcycle Grips. Their exceptional throttle tuning and vibration absorbance are features that you will be surely buzzing about. 

The main disadvantage that you must contend with is the lack of durability. Although the grips have an aluminum build, they tend to provide a short-lived experience. Compatibility is also another common complaint from reviewers, so be sure to check with Amazon Parts Finder or your mechanic to ensure that they fit on your bike.  

8. Surpassme Motorcycle Grips

Let’s face it, motorcycles are expensive as hell and not everyone has the cash to splurge on tons of aftermarket motorcycle accessories, especially after dishing out for a new bike. That being said, today’s grip market has everyone’s needs in mind, no matter your budget, and Surpassme Motorcycle Grips are the best budget motorcycle grips available right now. 

Surpassme Motorcycle Grips are made entirely out of soft and comfortable rubber, so adios hand fatigue. In addition, their diamond mesh texture will certainly go a long way in ensuring that you have ultimate control as you ride.  

One thing that also makes the Surpassme Motorcycle Grips stand out in the budget section of the grips market is their compatibility. The number of motorcycles that Surpassme motorcycle grips are compatible with is quite extensive and chances are your motorcycle is part of that list. 

On to the piece de resistance, the Surpassme set of motorcycle grips costs $12.99. Even for a budget product, this price is fantastic in relation to its premium features and diverse compatibility.  

9. BikeMaster Heated Motorcycle Grips

Riding in the winter in the Midwest is one of the most agonizing experiences in my life. Full stop. Here is where the BikeMaster Heated Grips come in. 

Although the BikeMaster Heated Grips are made from a relatively poor heat conductor, they sport an easy-to-adjust, 5-level control system, making them one of the quickest and most customizable heat transfer systems available.

Their elegant design and the structure of the heat release system make up for the poor conducting properties of rubber by how fast heat is delivered. That’s a win in my book. 

On the design side of things, we should say the BikeMaster Heated Grips is a masterstroke. The style is quite elegant and the open-end design also adds a lot, aesthetic-wise. The design also goes a long way in ensuring that the grips are not only warm but are also secure in terms of grip. This is very important as it elevates control. 

Price-wise, the BikeMaster is the best-heated motorcycle grip for the price. For less than 50 dollars, you can make your motorcycle an all-weather machine. Take that, Midwestern tundra! 

10. Scott Sports Full Waffle Motorcycle Grips

Dirt bikes and Motocross are quite dangerous and it is imperative before you go down that dirt road to ensure that you are well equipped with all the necessary accessories. This includes motorcycle grips. The motorcycle grips that are best for dirt bikes and Motocross are the Scott Sports Full Waffle Motorcycle Grips.  

The Scott Sports Full Waffle Motorcycle Grips are by no means perfect but they do offer a lot. The Scott branding looks quite pristine while adding an additional element of grip on top of the full waffle design. Its grip depressions and peaks ensure that each part of the hand holds the handles securely and ensures total necessary control without compromising comfort. 

Scott Sports Full Waffle Motorcycle grips come with a ⅞" diameter, which is the most common diameter size for Motocross handlebars. Compatibility won't be a big problem in this regard. 

How to Install Motorcycle Grips (Step By Step DIY Guide)

As an accessory, aftermarket motorcycle grips are essentially the easiest to install. You do not have to be a technical expert or have an itinerary of tools to get it done. If you have a pair of motorcycle grips that are compatible with your motorcycle, the operation will only take a couple of minutes and we are going to walk you through every step to ensure that it comes out perfectly.  

Step 1: Remove the Old Grips

This is very easy. Just find a sharp and sturdy razor blade and cut through the old grips. If they are locked on grips, you can always loosen them up using the perfect size spanner. This is a good idea if you plan to use them again in the future.  

Step 2: Clean the Handlebar Surface  

There is bound to be an adhesive leftover on the handles after removing the original motorcycle grips. Be sure to clear the surface up thoroughly. Use a razor blade and brake fluid to ensure that the surface is sparkling clean before installing the new grips. 

Step 3: Install the Grips 

Once the handlebar surface is clean, the next step is to install the new grips. For slip-on grips, make sure that you heat them in water for a while to soften them up a bit. Once soft, apply alcohol to the handlebar surface to help act as a lubricant. The reason why we use rubbing alcohol is that it quickly evaporates.

Other lubricants don’t and can end up resulting in the grips not staying in place or oozing lube. Push the new handlebar grips until they are in place. This will take a while but keep at it and eventually they fit perfectly onto the handlebars.  

For lock-on grips, getting them onto the handlebars is easy. Using the recommended tools, make sure you lock the allen bolt as tight as possible. The effectiveness of the entire operation is centered on the tightness of the bolt. Be sure to use the right tool and ensure that the grips are firmly in place before taking your motorcycle for a spin.  

People Also Ask (FAQs)

MotoGP Riders use what are are called “dual compound grips.” They can either be soft or firm. Many MotoGP riders use tank grips, which are normally custom fit to the rider's hand for enhanced control and grip.

The best way to know your motorcycle grip size is to measure the length, width, and diameter of your handlebars. 

Conclusion 

Choosing motorcycle grips is a complex task but I know this guide will make your decision a little more easier and a little less overwhelming. A well-equipped ride is a good ride, so what are you waiting for? Get yourself a great set of motorcycle grips and enjoy the best motorcycle riding can offer, baby hands or not.