Choosing Mountain Bike Grip Diameter Guide

Choosing your mountain bike grip diameter is one of the most important things to consider when looking for the perfect mountain bike grip. You want to choose a bike handlebar grip diameter that is comfortable for your hand size; this will drastically impact your control and handling, and it will help you avoid pain and discomfort over long rides. Besides diameter, there are a few other things to keep in mind when doing your mtb grip diameter choice.

These include different textures, profiles, thicknesses, and others that provide optimum grip and performance. AMS offers different grip options to suit most hand sizes; our bike grips features’ combination has been tested by experience riders and will significantly improve your riding experience. 


What diameter should my mountain bike grips be?

To get the grip diameter right measures the distance from the base of your palm to the tip of your middle finger; this measurement would be the circumference of your hand around the grip. The diameter of the grips should be slightly smaller than the circumference of the hand. This way, the hands will fit more comfortably within the grips.

As a general rule when choosing your mountain bike grip diameter, smaller hands require a smaller grip diameter to get a good grip on the handlebars. This will avoid putting too much pressure on the grip or feeling like you're going to slip off the handlebar. On the contrary, bigger hands, require a bigger grip diameter.

Larger diameter mountain bike grips have a larger surface area to grip onto and makes it easier to control your bike.


How do I know what size bike grips to get? 

The best way to figure out what size bike grips you need is to measure the circumference of your hand. Once you have that measurement, you can consult a sizing chart to find the right size or perform a few basic calculations to turn your measurement into diameter. Getting the right diameter is critical as it directly affects your comfort and grip.


Are thin or thick bike grips better?

There's no definitive answer to this question; ultimately, it is up to personal preference. Some riders will prefer thicker grips for more padding and comfort, while others prefer thinner grips for better control. Get on trails and start testing and experimenting with the different grip thicknesses. The AMS bike grips should be able to provide the perfect balance of comfort and control you are looking for. Also check our content on grips for sweaty hands. 

grip diameter for mtb

What is the difference between thick and thin MTB grips?

Thick grips are usually made of soft rubber and provide more cushioning and shock absorption. These grips are better suited for people with larger hands and can help reduce hand fatigue and numbness on long rides. However, thick grips can make it more difficult to control the bike and can add weight.

On the contrary, thin grips provide less cushioning and can be less comfortable on long rides; however, they offer better control and are lighter in weight.  Thin grips tend to be a better choice for people with smaller hands.

Ergonomics and Health Considerations

When selecting the right mountain bike grip diameter, it's essential to consider the ergonomics and how it impacts your overall riding experience. Different grip materials, such as foam, silicone, and rubber, provide varying levels of comfort and shock absorption, which can significantly affect hand fatigue during long rides.

Additionally, riders with specific health issues, like arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome, may benefit from thicker mtb grips or mtb grips for small hands designed to alleviate pressure points.

Ensuring you choose a grip that matches your hand size and riding style can prevent discomfort and potential injury, making your mountain biking experience more enjoyable.

Comprehensive Grip Selection Guide

For a more tailored approach, consider using an mtb grip size chart to find the best fit for your hands. This chart can help you compare different grip diameters and lengths, ensuring you select the perfect match for your bike and riding style. It's also crucial to take into account the mtb handlebar grip diameter, as this varies between bikes and can influence your overall control and comfort. For those with larger hands, the best mtb grips for big hands or large diameter mtb grips offer a more secure and comfortable grip.

Conversely, if you have smaller hands, mtb grips for small hands provide better handling and control. Including these considerations will give you a comprehensive understanding and enhance your mountain biking experience.

MTB Grip Size Chart

Hand Size Grip Diameter (mm) Recommended Grips
Small <30 Slim grips
Medium 30-32 Standard grips
Large >32 Thick grips

 

Visit the All Mountain Style web store! By now you should be able to correctly choose your mountain bike grip diameter. Get ready to improve your riding experience with AMS bike grips

Carles Carrera

Co-Founder, Product&Marketing

Carles' passion for Enduro MTB ignited the creation of AMS. Nowadays, you're more likely to find him speeding along scenic gravel paths, enjoying the thrill of his gravel bike.

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