Beat the Benchmark: Handlebar Grips Put to the Test
Learn more about the new "Beat the Benchmark" test format: Link
How the test was conducted
To get a first impression and make a direct comparison, a total of ten pairs of grips were ridden over a 3-minute lap at the Thusis Trail Center. Thanks to the varied terrain, tight turns, and kickers, it quickly became clear which products stood out. The four favorites then had to prove themselves individually on a longer single-track tour.
The Benchmark – Sqlab 711 Tech & Trail 2.0
While most grips are round, this one stands out with a highly ergonomic shape. It feels a bit strange at first, but after just the second ride, you won’t want to be without it. The pronounced side ridges provide excellent support when turning into corners. The rubber compound offers high damping and optimal grip.
Strengths
- Available in 3 sizes
- Different shapes for left and right
- Markings for precise alignment on the handlebars
- Exemplary ergonomics
- Very high damping
- Grippy rubber compound
- Good support during sharp steering maneuvers
Weaknesses
- Weighs 136 grams
- If you use handlebar tools, you’ll need to cut open the grip ends
Price: CHF 39.90 / EUR 34.95
PNW Loam
The grips feature two distinct zones. The thin lamellae provide good grip, but make the feel slightly “spongy.” Where the thicker “prongs” are located, there is more cushioning. The rubber compound is slightly tacky and offers maximum grip. Although the grips are only slightly ergonomically shaped, the Loams feel comfortable in the hand. The ring-shaped raised section on the inside offers no noticeable advantages. The grips are asymmetrically designed for left and right, but the orientation is not marked.
Strengths
- 2 versions: 30 and 34 millimeters in diameter
- Available in 10 colors
- Different shapes for left and right
- Non-slip rubber compound
- High vibration damping
- Comfortable grip
- Weighs only 94 grams
Weaknesses
- No left-right marking
- No outer end stop
- Not compatible with handlebar tools
Price: CHF 31.95 / EUR 24.99
www.pnwcomponents.com
Ergon GE1 Evo
This grip was developed for Ergon team riders competing in the Enduro World Series. Its highly ergonomic shape, combined with the different grip zones, fits perfectly in the hand and provides excellent grip and steering feel. The GE1 Evo absorbs hard impacts more comfortably than on gravel trails.
Strengths
- Available in 7 colors
- 2 versions: slim and regular
- Different shapes for left and right
- Indexing for grip alignment
- Ergonomic fit
- Smooth and soft area where the thumbs rest
- Comfortable grip
Weaknesses
- Beveled handlebar ends make it difficult to lean the bike against walls
- Screw opening faces upward: Risk of corrosion, as water can accumulate
- Not compatible with handlebar tools
- Indexing is barely legible
Price: CHF 36.90 / EUR 34.95
Race Face Chester
The basic shape is slightly raised on the outside and more pronounced on the inside. The thin lamellae provide good damping without a spongy feel. The grooves on the underside provide additional grip. Installation is somewhat tricky, as the clamps tend to slip off and the inner diameter is a bit tight.
Strengths
- Available in 14 color combinations (6 different rubber colors, 9 clamp versions)
- 2 versions: 31 and 34 millimeters in diameter
- High damping properties
- Comfortable grip
Weaknesses
- Tight inner diameter
- Clamps fall off quickly when screws are loosened
- Not compatible with handlebar tools
Price: CHF 29.90 / EUR 29.99
Peaty’s Monarch Mushroom
The “mushroom structure” gets its name from the classic gills found on the underside of a mushroom. It has been used for BMX grips for decades because it offers excellent shock-absorbing properties. Combined with the slightly more open structure on the underside of the grip, this results in optimal grip. The ring-shaped raised section on the inside does not provide any benefit. The outer edge could be slightly higher.
Strengths
- Available in 5 colors
- 2 versions: 30-32 millimeters and 32-34 millimeters
- Different shapes for left and right
- Good grip
- Optimal damping
Weaknesses
- Outer stop could be set slightly higher
- Not compatible with handlebar tools
Price: CHF 27.90 / EUR 29.99
Conclusion
All four models perform very well, and in the end, the right choice comes down to personal preference. Only the “Race Face Chester” shows some weaknesses during assembly, but that’s just a minor annoyance that takes a few seconds to resolve. The “711 Tech & Trail 2.0,” however, remains the undisputed benchmark. Its extremely ergonomic shape uniquely improves a bike’s handling in corners.
Note: This content has been automatically translated from German. Please report any incorrect translations.