Ever felt your hands slipping on your Harley’s handlebars during a crucial moment? That feeling can take away from the pure joy of riding. Your grips are more than just something to hold onto; they’re your direct connection to your machine, and a bad set can turn a smooth cruise into a jarring experience.
Choosing the right grips for your Harley Davidson can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many styles, materials, and features out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. You want comfort for those long rides, a secure hold for confident control, and a look that matches your bike’s personality. But how do you find the perfect balance?
This post is here to cut through the confusion. We’ll explore the different types of grips available, what makes them unique, and how to pick the ones that will make every ride smoother and more enjoyable. Get ready to discover the secrets to finding grips that feel like an extension of your own hands.
Our Top 5 Grips For Harley Davidson Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Grips For Harley Davidson 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: 8.6/10
Upgrade your ride with the Benlari Black Hand Grips. These grips are designed for a comfortable and secure feel on your motorcycle. They offer a stylish black finish and are made with quality materials to enhance your riding experience. Get ready for better control and a smoother ride.
What We Like:
- Wide Compatibility: These grips fit many Harley Davidson models, including Sportster, Touring, Dyna, and Softail, as long as they have 1-inch handlebars and a cable throttle.
- Excellent Grip: Made from aluminum and rubber, they have special anti-skid slots that help you hold onto your handlebars better. This means improved handling for your motorcycle.
- Easy to Install: The package includes screws and a tool, making installation straightforward. No difficult modifications are needed.
- Good Value: The grips come as a pair (left and right) and include instructions. Plus, there’s a 1-year guarantee for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- Not for All Harleys: These grips do not fit motorcycles with 1-1/4 inch handlebars or electronic throttles. They also have specific exceptions for certain Harley models.
- Specific Sizes: While the right grip is 5 1/2 inches and the left is 5 inches, it’s important to double-check your handlebar size before purchasing.
These Benlari Black Hand Grips are a solid choice for many Harley Davidson riders looking for better grip and an easy upgrade. They offer good value and a reliable feel for your motorcycle.
2. ODI Vans Cult Street Motorcycle Hand Grips – Black / 1″
Rating: 8.8/10
Upgrade your ride with the ODI Vans Cult Street Motorcycle Hand Grips in classic black. These grips offer a comfortable and stylish way to connect with your motorcycle. They are designed for street riding and give you a good feel of your bike.
What We Like:
- They provide a secure and comfortable grip.
- The black color looks sharp on most motorcycles.
- They are built to last and handle regular use.
- Installation is usually straightforward.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “N/A” feature means we don’t have specific details on unique selling points beyond the basic function.
- More information about the material composition would be helpful.
These ODI Vans Cult grips are a solid choice for riders looking for a reliable and good-looking upgrade. They offer a dependable feel for your motorcycle.
3. Avon Grips Chrome Memory Foam Grips MF-63A-CH
Rating: 8.7/10
The Avon Grips Chrome Memory Foam Grips MF-63A-CH are designed to upgrade your ride with amazing comfort. These grips use special memory foam that molds to your hands. This means you get a super soft and supportive feel on your handlebars. The chrome finish also adds a cool, shiny look to your motorcycle.
What We Like:
- The memory foam feels incredibly soft and reduces hand fatigue on long rides.
- They offer a really good grip, so your hands won’t slip.
- The chrome finish looks sharp and makes your bike stand out.
- Installation is usually straightforward for most riders.
- They are made to last, so you get good value.
What Could Be Improved:
- The memory foam can be a bit bulky for some riders’ preferences.
- The chrome finish, while attractive, might show scratches more easily than other materials.
- Availability can sometimes be limited, making them harder to find.
Overall, if you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish upgrade for your motorcycle handlebars, the Avon Grips Chrome Memory Foam Grips MF-63A-CH are a solid choice.
4. NTHREEAUTO Handlebar Hand Grips Motorcycle Throttle Grip for 1″ / 25mm Handle Bars Universal Compatible with Harley Dyna Sportster 883 1200 Road Electra Glide Softail Touring
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your ride with the NTHREEAUTO Handlebar Hand Grips. These grips are designed for comfort and style, giving your motorcycle a fresh, custom look. They’re made from tough CNC billet aluminum, so they’ll last a long time. Plus, the special design helps you hold on better, making your rides safer and more enjoyable.
What We Like:
- The anti-slip design with crisp slots gives you a better grip, which is great for handling your motorcycle.
- The built-in throttle assist on the right grip makes controlling your throttle much easier and more comfortable.
- Made from durable CNC billet aluminum with black anodizing, these grips resist rust and corrosion and are easy to clean.
- Installation is super simple; you just swap out your old grips.
- They offer a stylish, modern look that can enhance your motorcycle’s appearance.
What Could Be Improved:
- These grips are only compatible with motorcycles that have a cable throttle, not electric throttles.
- You need to double-check your motorcycle model against the compatibility list before buying to make sure they fit.
These NTHREEAUTO grips are a fantastic way to improve both the look and feel of your motorcycle. They offer a great combination of style, comfort, and improved control for your riding experience.
5. 1 Inch Chrome Motorcycle Hand Grips Handlebar Grips Cable Throttle
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your ride with these sleek 1 Inch Chrome Motorcycle Hand Grips. They fit many Harley Davidson models, including Sportster, Touring, Dyna, and Softail. These grips offer a stylish look and a comfortable feel for your handlebars.
What We Like:
- Stylish Chrome Finish: The chrome looks great on any bike.
- Durable Construction: They are made from strong aluminum and rubber.
- Improved Grip: The anti-skid slots help you hold on better.
- Wide Compatibility: They fit many Harley Davidson models from 1996 to 2021.
- Easy Installation: You can install them yourself.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific Model Exclusions: Some specific Harley Davidson models are not compatible.
- Throttle Cable Compatibility: While designed for cable throttle, always double-check for your specific bike.
These hand grips are a solid choice for improving your motorcycle’s comfort and style. They provide a good grip and a sharp look for your handlebars.
Grip It and Rip It: Your Guide to Harley Davidson Grips
Choosing the right grips for your Harley Davidson is a big deal. They’re your main connection to your ride. Good grips make your hands happy, even on long trips. Bad grips can make your hands tired and sore. This guide will help you find the perfect pair.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for Harley grips, keep these things in mind:
- Comfort: This is number one. Do they feel good in your hands? Are they too thick or too thin?
- Grip Material: What’s the surface like? Does it feel secure, especially when your hands are sweaty?
- Style: Grips come in tons of designs. Do they match your bike’s look?
- Ease of Installation: Can you put them on yourself, or will you need a mechanic?
- Durability: Will they last for many miles and seasons?
Important Materials
The materials used in grips really change how they feel and how long they last.
- Rubber: This is the most common material. Good quality rubber is soft and grippy. It absorbs vibrations well. Cheaper rubber can get sticky or crack over time.
- GEL: Gel inserts add extra cushioning. They are great for long rides and help reduce hand fatigue.
- Leather: Leather grips look classic and can feel very soft. They offer a good grip but might need more care than rubber.
- Aluminum/Metal: These grips are tough and look sharp. They often have rubber inserts for comfort. They might not absorb vibrations as well as pure rubber.
- Foam: Some grips use foam for a very light and soft feel. They can be good for absorbing shock but might wear out faster.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes Harley grips great or not so great?
What Makes Them Better:
- Thick, Soft Rubber: This gives great cushioning and vibration dampening.
- Textured Surfaces: Patterns like diamond or knurling give you a better hold.
- Ergonomic Shapes: Grips designed to fit the natural curve of your hand are more comfortable.
- High-Quality Materials: Durable rubber or well-made metal parts last longer.
- Good Brand Reputation: Established brands often make reliable products.
What Makes Them Worse:
- Hard, Slick Surfaces: These offer little grip and can be slippery.
- Thin, Cheap Rubber: This can wear out quickly and feel uncomfortable.
- Poor Fit: Grips that don’t fit your handlebars snugly can be dangerous.
- Materials That Degrade: Some plastics or rubbers can break down in the sun or with age.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do people use these grips, and what’s their experience like?
- Cruising: For riders who take long, relaxed trips, comfort is key. Soft, cushioned grips are a favorite. They help prevent hand numbness on the highway.
- Daily Commuting: Riders who use their Harley every day need grips that offer a secure hold in all weather. Good grip texture is important here.
- Customizing: Many Harley owners want their bike to look unique. Grips are an easy way to add personal style. Chrome, black, or custom designs are popular.
- Performance Riding: While not as common for Harleys, some riders might want grips that offer maximum control and feedback.
Your grips are your direct link to your Harley. Pick a pair that feels good, looks good, and keeps you comfortable mile after mile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in Harley Davidson grips?
A: The main features are comfort, the type of grip material, the style, how easy they are to install, and how durable they are.
Q: What are the most common materials used for Harley Davidson grips?
A: The most common materials are rubber, gel, leather, aluminum, and foam.
Q: Does the material of the grip affect comfort?
A: Yes, softer materials like thick rubber or gel usually offer more comfort and vibration absorption.
Q: How important is the texture of the grip?
A: Texture is very important. It helps you hold on securely, especially if your hands get sweaty or wet.
Q: Can I install Harley Davidson grips myself?
A: Often, yes. Many grips are designed for easy DIY installation, but some might require specific tools or knowledge.
Q: What makes Harley Davidson grips high quality?
A: High quality comes from using durable materials, having a comfortable and ergonomic shape, and a good textured grip.
Q: What are some common problems with cheap Harley Davidson grips?
A: Cheap grips can be hard, slippery, wear out quickly, or become sticky in the sun.
Q: Are gel grips good for long rides?
A: Yes, gel grips are often very good for long rides because they add extra cushioning and help reduce hand fatigue.
Q: How do I choose grips that match my Harley’s style?
A: Consider the overall look of your bike. Think about chrome accents, blacked-out parts, or a vintage style, and choose grips that complement those.
Q: Will different grips change how my Harley feels to ride?
A: Yes, grips can change how your Harley feels. Softer grips can absorb more vibration, making the ride smoother.
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!