Do your hands ache after a long ride on your ATV? Do your grips slip when you hit a rough patch? You’re not alone! Many ATV riders face the same frustrating problems. Your handlebars are your main connection to your machine. If your grips are old, hard, or don’t fit right, it makes every trail ride less fun and maybe even a little dangerous. Choosing the right set of grips seems simple, but the sheer number of materials, sizes, and features can quickly become overwhelming.
Don’t let poor grips ruin your next adventure. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about ATV handlebar grips. We will explain the different materials that keep your hands comfortable and secure, no matter the weather. By the end of this post, you will know exactly what features matter most for your riding style.
Ready to upgrade your control and comfort? Let’s dive in and find the perfect match for your ATV!
Top Atv Handlebar Grips Recommendations
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The Ultimate Buying Guide for ATV Handlebar Grips
New handlebar grips can make a huge difference in how your ATV feels. Good grips mean more control and less hand fatigue when you ride. This guide will help you pick the perfect set.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for ATV grips, focus on these important details:
Comfort and Vibration Dampening
- Cushioning: Thicker, softer grips absorb more bumps. This keeps your hands from getting tired on long rides.
- Vibration Control: The best grips reduce the buzzing feeling from the engine. This protects your hands from numbness.
Grip and Texture
- Traction Pattern: Look at the surface. Knurled patterns (like diamond shapes) offer excellent grip, especially when wet. Some grips have softer ribs that feel better in your palm.
- Flange Design: The small lip (flange) at the inner end keeps the grip from sliding toward the controls. Ensure this is present and solid.
Durability and Fit
- Length and Diameter: Measure your existing bars to ensure the new grips fit correctly. Most standard ATV bars use 7/8-inch clamps.
- Throttle Tube Compatibility: Make sure the grip meant for the throttle side is designed to slide easily over the plastic throttle tube.
Important Materials for Your Grips
The material used directly affects how the grips feel and how long they last.
Rubber Compounds
- Soft Rubber: These grips feel very comfortable right away. They offer great shock absorption. However, they sometimes wear out faster if you ride in very abrasive conditions.
- Medium-Density Compounds: These offer a good balance. They last longer than soft rubber but still provide excellent cushioning.
Foam Grips
- Foam grips are very lightweight and feel soft. They absorb vibration well. However, they often do not last as long as rubber, especially if exposed to constant sun or chemicals.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some features make a grip great, while others can make it fail quickly.
Quality Boosters:
- Lock-On Design: Higher-quality grips often use a clamping system (like a metal collar) at the inner end. This locks the grip onto the handlebar, preventing twisting—a major safety improvement.
- Reinforced Ends: Stronger ends resist tearing when you crash or lean the ATV against a wall.
Quality Reducers:
- Cheap Adhesives: If the grips are glued on instead of clamped, the glue can fail when it gets hot or wet. This causes the grip to spin under hard acceleration.
- UV Degradation: Low-quality plastics or rubbers break down in the sun. They become sticky or brittle over time.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you use your ATV when making your choice.
- Trail Riders: You need comfort and vibration dampening. Look for softer, thicker grips for all-day riding.
- Racers/Aggressive Riders: Control is key. You might prefer a slightly firmer grip with a very aggressive, high-traction pattern so your hands do not slip during hard braking or turning.
- Mud Riders: You need materials that shed mud easily. Grips with deep grooves help water and mud channel away, maintaining contact with your hand.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About ATV Handlebar Grips
Q: How often should I replace my ATV grips?
A: You should replace them when they start feeling hard, slippery, or show visible cracks. For heavy use, this might be once a year. For casual riding, they might last several seasons.
Q: Are foam grips better than rubber grips?
A: Foam grips feel softer and reduce vibration more, but rubber grips last much longer and offer better long-term durability.
Q: What does “lock-on” mean for grips?
A: A lock-on grip uses a metal or plastic clamp bolted to the handlebar. This prevents the grip from twisting or slipping off the bar, which is much safer than grips held on only by glue or friction.
Q: Can I use motorcycle grips on my ATV?
A: Most motorcycle grips work on ATVs because both often use the standard 7/8-inch handlebar diameter. However, ATV grips are usually designed to handle more continuous vibration.
Q: Does grip texture matter for safety?
A: Yes, texture matters a lot. A good texture gives you traction, especially if your hands get sweaty or wet. Slippery grips reduce your steering control.
Q: How do I remove the old grips?
A: Often, you cut the old grips off with a sharp razor blade. Be careful not to scratch the metal handlebar underneath.
Q: Should I use glue when installing new grips?
A: If you buy lock-on grips, you usually do not need glue. If you buy standard slip-on grips, a small amount of grip glue is recommended to keep them secure.
Q: Do thicker grips really reduce hand fatigue?
A: Yes, thicker grips fill your hand better and provide more material to absorb shock. This reduces the strain on your forearm muscles.
Q: Are expensive grips always better?
A: Not always, but better materials cost more. High-end grips usually feature superior rubber compounds and reliable lock-on systems that last longer.
Q: What is the “throttle tube” side?
A: The throttle tube is the plastic sleeve that rotates on the right handlebar when you twist the throttle. The grip for this side must be specifically designed to slide over this tube correctly.