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.


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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