Ever felt your hands slip on your Harley’s handlebars, especially on a long ride? That feeling can really take away from the joy of cruising. Choosing the perfect grips for your Harley-Davidson isn’t just about looks; it’s about comfort, control, and safety. It can be tough because there are so many different styles, materials, and features out there. You want grips that feel good in your hands, give you a solid grip, and match your bike’s vibe, but knowing where to start can be confusing.
This guide is here to make that decision a whole lot easier. We’ll explore what makes a great Harley grip, from the materials they’re made of to the designs that offer the best feel. You’ll learn how to figure out what kind of grips will work best for your riding style and your specific Harley model. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of how to find grips that will make every ride more comfortable and enjoyable.
Let’s dive into the world of Harley grips and help you find the perfect pair to upgrade your ride.
Our Top 5 Harley Grips Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Harley Grips Detailed Reviews
1. Benlari Black Hand Grips 1 Inch Motorcycle Handlebar Grips Cable Throttle Compatible with Harley Davidson Sportster Touring Dyna Softail 883 1200
Rating: 8.8/10
Upgrade your ride with the Benlari Black Hand Grips. These grips are designed for comfort and control on your Harley Davidson. They fit most 1-inch handlebars and are compatible with cable throttles. The aluminum and rubber construction offers a secure, anti-skid grip for better handling.
What We Like:
- Great Fit for Many Harley Models: These grips work with a wide range of Harley Davidson bikes, including Sportster, Touring, Dyna, and Softail models from various years.
- Improved Handling: The anti-skid design on the surface gives you a firmer hold, making your motorcycle easier to control.
- Durable Materials: Made from tough aluminum and rubber, these grips are built to last.
- Easy to Install: Installation is straightforward, and all the necessary screws and a tool are included. No complicated modifications are needed.
- Good Value with Guarantee: You get a pair of grips and a 1-year guarantee, offering peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- Not for Electronic Throttle: These grips will not work if your motorcycle has an electronic throttle.
- Specific Harley Exclusions: A few specific Harley Davidson models are excluded, so double-check your bike’s compatibility.
- Handlebar Size Limitation: They are only compatible with 1-inch handlebars, not 1-1/4 inch ones.
Overall, the Benlari Black Hand Grips offer a significant upgrade in comfort and control for many Harley riders. They are a solid choice for anyone looking to improve their motorcycle’s feel.
2. ODI Vans Cult Street Motorcycle Hand Grips – Black / 1″
Rating: 8.9/10
The ODI Vans Cult Street Motorcycle Hand Grips in black are designed to upgrade your ride. These grips offer a classic look and feel that many riders love. They fit most standard 1-inch handlebars, making them a popular choice for many motorcycles.
What We Like:
- They provide a comfortable and secure grip.
- The black color looks sleek and matches many bikes.
- The Vans Cult design adds a cool, stylish touch.
- Installation is usually straightforward.
- They feel good in your hands during rides.
What Could Be Improved:
- The material might wear down over time with heavy use.
- Some users might find the grip pattern a little too basic.
- Grip longevity could be a concern for some riders.
These ODI Vans Cult grips are a solid upgrade for riders who want both style and comfort. They deliver a dependable feel for your motorcycle.
3. Benlari Chrome 1 Inch Motorcycle Hand Grips Handlebar Grips Cable Throttle Compatible for Harley Davidson Sportster Touring Dyna Softail Street Glide 883 1200
Rating: 9.1/10
Upgrade your ride with the Benlari Chrome 1 Inch Motorcycle Hand Grips. These grips are designed to give you a better feel and control of your motorcycle. They look great and are built to last. You can easily install them on many Harley Davidson models and other bikes with 1-inch handlebars.
What We Like:
- They fit most 1-inch handlebars and work with cable throttles. This means they are compatible with many Harley Davidson models like Sportster, Touring, Dyna, and Softail.
- The grips are made from strong aluminum and rubber. This combination provides a good, non-slip surface for better handling.
- Installation is straightforward. The package includes everything you need, like screws and a tool. No complex changes to your bike are needed.
- The chrome finish adds a stylish touch to your motorcycle’s handlebars.
What Could Be Improved:
- These grips are not compatible with 1-1/4 inch handlebars or electronic throttles. Make sure to check your bike’s handlebar size before buying.
- Some Harley Davidson models have specific exceptions, so it’s important to verify compatibility with your exact motorcycle model.
These Benlari grips offer a solid upgrade for riders seeking improved comfort and style. They are a good option for many Harley Davidson owners looking for an easy and effective handlebar enhancement.
4. 1 Inch/25mm Universal Handlebar Grips Motorcycle Throttle Grip Compatible for Harley Davidson Honda Yamaha Suzuki Kawasaki Dyna Sportster 883 1200 Road King Electra Glide Softail Touring
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your ride with these 1 Inch/25mm Universal Handlebar Grips! They are designed to fit most motorcycles with cable throttles and a 1-inch handlebar. Made from strong aluminum and comfy rubber, they help you grip better and feel less tired on long trips. They’re easy to put on, usually in just a few minutes. Remember, these grips only work with cable throttles, not electric ones. Always check your handlebar size before buying to make sure they fit your Harley Davidson, Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, or Kawasaki.
What We Like:
- Crafted from high-quality CNC machined aluminum and non-slip rubber for a comfortable and secure grip.
- Reduces hand fatigue, making long rides more enjoyable.
- Easy to install, enhancing your motorcycle’s handling quickly.
- Compatible with a wide range of popular motorcycle brands and models with cable throttles.
- Comes with a 180-day warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- Only compatible with cable throttle systems, not electric ones.
- Requires users to confirm handlebar size before purchase.
These grips offer a significant comfort and control upgrade for many riders. They are a solid choice for anyone looking to personalize their motorcycle’s feel.
5. Avon Grips Chrome Memory Foam Grips MF-63A-CH
Rating: 8.8/10
Upgrade your ride with the Avon Grips Chrome Memory Foam Grips MF-63A-CH. These grips offer a comfortable and stylish touch for your motorcycle.
What We Like:
- The memory foam is super soft. It makes long rides much more comfortable.
- The chrome finish looks really cool and shiny. It adds a bit of flair to your bike.
- They are easy to install. You won’t spend a lot of time fiddling with them.
- The grips provide a good hold. Your hands won’t slip, even in wet weather.
What Could Be Improved:
- The memory foam might wear down over time with heavy use.
- The chrome can scratch if you’re not careful.
If comfort and style are important for your motorcycle, these Avon grips are a solid choice. They offer a noticeable improvement in ride quality.
Choosing the Right Harley Grips: A Rider’s Guide
Your Harley-Davidson is more than just a motorcycle; it’s an extension of yourself. And what you hold onto, your grips, plays a huge role in how you connect with your ride. Picking the perfect grips can make a world of difference in comfort, control, and style. This guide will help you find the best Harley grips for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for new grips, keep these important things in mind:
- Comfort: This is the most important. You want grips that feel good in your hands, especially on long rides. Some grips are softer, while others are firmer.
- Grip Material: The material affects how well you can hold on and how they feel.
- Diameter: Grips come in different sizes. A thicker grip might feel better for bigger hands, while a slimmer one works for smaller hands.
- Style: Grips come in many designs, from classic to modern. They can really change the look of your handlebars.
- Ease of Installation: Some grips are easier to put on than others.
Important Materials
The materials used in grips are crucial for both feel and durability.
- Rubber: This is the most common material. Good quality rubber offers excellent grip and vibration absorption.
- Silicone: Silicone grips are known for their softness and good grip, even in wet conditions. They are also very durable.
- Leather: Leather grips offer a classic look and a comfortable feel. They can mold to your hands over time.
- Kraton: This is a synthetic rubber that provides a good balance of softness, durability, and grip.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes some grips better than others?
- Build Quality: Well-made grips have even stitching (if applicable), no loose parts, and a consistent texture.
- Vibration Dampening: High-quality grips absorb engine vibrations. This reduces hand fatigue and makes your ride smoother.
- Durability: Grips that resist wear and tear from the sun, rain, and constant use will last longer.
- Adhesion: The material should provide a secure grip without your hands slipping, even when sweaty.
- Cheap Materials: Using low-quality rubber or plastics can lead to grips that crack, fade, or become sticky over time. Poorly made grips might also vibrate more.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do different grips feel and work in real life?
- Long Rides: For touring or long days on the road, comfort is key. Grips with good vibration dampening and a comfortable diameter will prevent hand numbness and soreness.
- Cruising: If you enjoy relaxed rides, you might prefer softer, more cushioned grips for a plush feel.
- Performance Riding: Riders who push their bikes might want a firmer grip with a textured surface for maximum control and feedback.
- Customization: Grips are an easy way to personalize your Harley. Whether you want a vintage look with leather or a sleek, modern style, there are options for everyone.
- Weather Conditions: Some materials, like silicone, offer better grip in wet weather than others.
By considering these points, you can confidently choose Harley grips that will enhance your riding experience for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions about Harley Grips
Q: What are the main benefits of upgrading my Harley grips?
A: Upgrading your Harley grips can improve comfort, reduce hand fatigue on long rides, give you better control, and change the overall look of your motorcycle.
Q: How do I know what size grips I need?
A: Measure the diameter of your current handlebars. Most Harley handlebars are 1 inch in diameter, but it’s always good to check. Also, consider the diameter of the grip itself – thicker grips are often more comfortable for larger hands.
Q: Are rubber grips better than silicone grips?
A: Both have pros and cons. Rubber offers good all-around grip and vibration dampening. Silicone is often softer, provides excellent grip even when wet, and is very durable.
Q: Can I install Harley grips myself?
A: Yes, most grips are designed for easy DIY installation. You might need some basic tools like a screwdriver, glue, and possibly a heat gun or compressed air.
Q: How often should I replace my Harley grips?
A: You should replace grips when they show signs of wear, like cracking, tearing, becoming sticky, or losing their grip. This can happen after a few years, depending on how much you ride and the quality of the grips.
Q: Will different grip materials affect how much vibration I feel?
A: Yes, softer materials like thick rubber or silicone tend to absorb more vibration, making your ride feel smoother. Firmer materials might transmit more vibration.
Q: Do custom Harley grips offer better performance?
A: Some custom grips are designed with specific textures or shapes to improve rider control and feedback, which can be beneficial for performance riding.
Q: What does “throttle sleeve” mean when buying grips?
A: The throttle sleeve is the part of the grip that slides over the throttle tube. Some grips come with a pre-installed throttle sleeve, while others are designed to fit over your existing one.
Q: Are there grips that are good for all weather conditions?
A: Grips made from silicone or those with deep, aggressive textures often perform well in both wet and dry conditions, providing reliable grip.
Q: Where is the best place to buy Harley grips?
A: You can find Harley grips at dealerships, motorcycle parts stores, and online retailers specializing in motorcycle accessories.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Hector Quintanilla, the creator of helmetslab.com.. As a passionate enthusiast and experienced expert in helmets, I’ve dedicated this platform to sharing my insights, knowledge, and hands-on experiences. Whether you’re seeking the best helmet for safety, comfort, or performance, my goal is to guide you with detailed reviews, tips, and advice. Ride safe, and let’s explore the world of helmets together!