Bicycle Grips and Ergonomic Handles: Buying Guide and Maintenance

Introduction: How Are Your Hands Doing?

Numb hands, sore hands, tingling fingers while riding—many people think, “That’s normal, you’ll get used to it after riding for a while.” But the truth is—numb hands mean your grips have a problem, or at least they don’t suit you.

Prolonged pressure on the ulnar nerve and median nerve can lead to “Handlebar Palsy,” which in severe cases can even affect grip strength in daily life. So stop ignoring your grips.

Types of Grips

By Bike Type

Bike Type	Grip Type	Features
Mountain bike/Flat-bar bike	Cylindrical grips	Most common, slipped over the handlebar
Road bike	Bar tape	Wrapped around drop bars
Commuter/Touring bike	Ergonomic grips	Feature wing-shaped support surfaces
Folding bike	Short grips	Matches shorter handlebars

By Material

Silicone

• Pros: Soft, good shock absorption, resistant to hardening
• Cons: Attracts dust easily, higher price
• Best for: Long-distance riding, riders whose hands tire easily

Rubber

• Pros: Durable, inexpensive, good grip
• Cons: Hardens over time, poor feel in winter
• Best for: Everyday commuting, budget-conscious riders

Foam

• Pros: Ultra-light, absorbs sweat, nice feel
• Cons: Not durable, prone to damage, afraid of water
• Best for: Racing, weight weenies

Cork

• Pros: Natural feel, absorbs sweat, eco-friendly
• Cons: Moderate durability, requires regular maintenance
• Best for: Vintage style, recreational riding

Leather

• Pros: Premium feel, improves with use, breathable
• Cons: Expensive, requires maintenance, afraid of water
• Best for: Riders who value quality and aesthetics

Ergonomic Grips: In-Depth Analysis

Why Do You Need Ergonomic Grips?

Traditional cylindrical grips offer only a small contact area, concentrating all pressure on a small region of the palm. Ergonomic grips increase the contact area, distributing pressure across the entire palm and significantly reducing nerve compression.

Key Design Elements of Ergonomic Grips

1. Palm Rest: A flat support surface that lets your palm rest naturally
2. Finger Grip: Contoured grooves that match the curve of your fingers
3. Bar End: Some models feature small bar ends for additional hand positions
4. Angle Adjustment: Rotatable to find the most comfortable angle

Recommended Brands

Brand	Model	Price Range	Highlights
Ergon	GP1/GP3/GP5	NT$800-2,500	Pioneer of ergonomic grips
Ritchey	WCS Ergo	NT$600-1,200	Lightweight and comfortable
Specialized	Body Geometry	NT$500-1,000	Gel shock absorption
SQ Lab	711	NT$1,500-2,500	German design
GIANT	Connect	NT$400-800	Affordable and reliable

Taiwan rider recommendation: The Ergon GP3 is the most widely recommended ergonomic grip. The GP1 suits riders who don’t need bar ends, and the GP5 is ideal for long-distance touring.

Choosing Road Bike Bar Tape

Thickness Options

• Thin (under 2mm): Direct road feel, ideal for racing
• Standard (2-3mm): Balanced comfort and control
• Thick (over 3mm): Maximum shock absorption, top choice for long-distance riding

Material Options

• Synthetic leather: Most common, durable and waterproof
• Cork: Absorbs sweat well, natural feel
• Gel: Extra cushioning, ideal for long distances
• Silicone: Best grip, stable even in the rain

Wrapping Tips

1. Start from the end and wrap upward
2. Overlap each wrap by about 1/3
3. Extra care is needed around the brake/shift levers
4. Secure the finish with electrical tape
5. Keep tension even—don’t alternate between loose and tight

Grip Maintenance

Daily Maintenance

1. Wipe down: Use a damp cloth to remove sweat residue after every ride
2. Check security: Look for signs of grips rotating or loosening
3. Check wear: Inspect the surface for damage or thinning

Deep Cleaning (Monthly)

Silicone/Rubber grips:

1. Wash with mild soapy water
2. Use a soft brush to clean surface texture
3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water
4. Air dry naturally (avoid direct sunlight)

Leather grips/Bar tape:

1. Use a dedicated leather cleaner
2. Wipe gently—do not soak in water
3. Apply leather conditioner
4. Dry in the shade

Foam grips:

1. Wipe gently with a slightly damp cloth
2. Do not soak in water
3. Allow to dry completely before use

When to Replace?

• Visible cracks or damage on the surface
• Hardened or lost elasticity
• Persistent odor no matter how much you clean
• Surface has become smooth and lost its grip
• Increased hand discomfort while riding

Grip Installation Tips

Removing Old Grips

If the grips refuse to come off:

1. Water injection method: Use a syringe to inject a small amount of water or alcohol between the grip and handlebar
2. Air compressor method: Blow air in from the end of the handlebar
3. Twist method: Twist while pulling
4. Last resort: Slice lengthwise with a blade (you’re replacing them anyway)

Installing New Grips

1. Clean the handlebar surface
2. Spray a small amount of alcohol on the handlebar (acts as a lubricant and locks in place once dry)
3. Slide the grip on quickly
4. Adjust to the correct angle
5. Wait for the alcohol to fully evaporate (about 30 minutes)
6. Tighten the locking screw (if equipped)

Note: Do not use oil or soapy water as a lubricant! These never fully dry out, and the grips will keep spinning.

Special Considerations for Taiwan

1. Heavy hand sweat in Taiwan summers: Choose sweat-absorbing materials or wear gloves
2. Afternoon thunderstorms: Grip is crucial—silicone performs best
3. Strong UV exposure: Avoid prolonged sun exposure for your bike, as grips will age faster
4. Humid environment: Leather materials require more frequent maintenance

Conclusion

Grips are one of the most important contact points between you and your bike—don’t settle for grips that don’t suit you. Take the time to try different models and find the grips that best match your hand shape and riding style. Your hands will thank you.

And yes, wearing gloves really matters. The best grips combined with gloves deliver the most complete results.

Related Reading

• Wrist and Forearm Stretches: Hand Health Guidelines for Cyclists
• Choosing Protective Gear for Cyclists: How to Protect Your Wrists and Knees
• Numb Hands and Feet While Riding: Causes of Nerve Compression and Saddle Position Adjustment
• Numb Wrists and Elbows in Cyclists: Causes of Nerve Compression and Handlebar Height Adjustment