Best Motorcycle Grips 2025 – Better Comfort & Control
Evan Rally
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A set of grips is one of the cheapest upgrades on a motorcycle, but it’s also one of the most important. Your hands are the only connection to the bars, so the way those grips absorb vibration, transmit feedback and keep you warm (or cool) has a direct effect on fatigue and control.
Riders in our community often spend big on suspension or tires yet ignore the worn‑out stock grips that came with the bike; that oversight can lead to tingling hands, sore wrists and missed shifts on long rides.
As a rider who has logged thousands of miles through tropical rain and frozen passes, I’ve learned that the right grip changes everything. Comfortable grips reduce fatigue more than fancy bar‐end weights ever will.
Heated grips aren’t just for snow — they keep you alert when that chilly mountain road sucks the life out of your fingers. Some stock grips are so thin that your hands ache after an hour; others are so hard they feel like holding a broomstick.
Below I’ll unpack the best motorcycle grips available in the U.S. right now and help you pick the perfect set for your style of riding.
Which Grip Fits Your Riding Style?
Before jumping into specific products, think about how you ride:
- All‑season touring or commuting: If you ride year‑round or leave before dawn, a heated grip is a game‑changer. Being able to cycle through multiple heat settings protects your fingers and improves concentration on cold mornings.
- Long‑distance cruising: Vibration from big twin‑cylinder engines can turn your palms numb. Look for grips with thick rubber pads or air‑cushion technology that isolate the bars from your hands.
- Off‑road, dual‑sport and adventure: Frequent hits and constant repositioning call for a grip with a tacky surface and a bit more diameter. Soft “pillow” designs absorb vibration but still deliver precise control when you need it.
- Trackdays and sport riding: A smooth, slender grip that transmits feedback is crucial when you need to feel what the front tire is doing. A dual‑compound racing grip offers a firm inner core for stability and a soft outer layer for comfort.
- Style‑driven custom bikes: Sometimes you just want your bike to look cool. Retro‑inspired waffle patterns and billet end caps deliver style with enough comfort for Sunday rides.
With those scenarios in mind, let’s dig into the grips that impressed us for 2025 — starting with our top three picks that deliver the best mix of comfort, control, and durability.
Best for All-Season Touring 
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Best for Everyday Street Riders 
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Best for Off-Road and Dual-Sport Riders 
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Reliable heat, plush feel, and year-round ride comfort in one easy upgrade. | Smooths out road buzz while keeping throttle feel crisp and natural. | Plush, grippy, and built to tackle trails without wrecking your hands. |
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Reliable heat, plush feel, and year-round ride comfort in one easy upgrade.
- Even heat with dual sensors
- Auto-off prevents battery drain
- Thick, comfy vibration-damping rubber
- Weatherproof and easy to use
- Slightly weak heat at high speeds
- Left grip may need extra adhesive
Smooths out road buzz while keeping throttle feel crisp and natural.
- Soft gel layer eases vibration fatigue
- Firm inner core prevents grip twist
- Deep grooves channel moisture away
- Standard diameter feels natural, not bulky
- Gel may wear faster under hard use
- Some say grip feels a bit “sticky” to gloves
Plush, grippy, and built to tackle trails without wrecking your hands.
- Soaks up vibration and jolts
- Tacky surface reduces grip fatigue
- Slimmer than some pillow grips (good for smaller hands)
- Clamp-on design resists slipping
- Soft feel may mute bar feedback
- May wear out faster under heavy use
Oxford Heaterz EVO Touring Heated Grips – Best For Year‑Round Touring
Why you might want them: If you commute through winter or ride in the mountains, cold hands are more than discomfort — they’re a safety issue. Oxford’s Heaterz EVO grips are the most refined heated grips we’ve tested. Each grip has its own thermistor (temperature sensor) so the controller regulates them individually, preventing one grip from running cooler than the other. The weather‑proof controller offers five heat settings, and the included mounting bracket positions it within easy reach.
Features that matter:
- Even heat distribution: Integrated temperature gauges inside each grip ensure consistent warmth across the surface. In practice this means the right‑side throttle tube doesn’t hog all the heat while your clutch hand freezes.
- Thick rubber with rhombus tread: The rhombus pattern absorbs vibration and provides a secure hold even with rain‑soaked gloves.
- Auto‑off and battery‑saver: The controller senses when the bike’s engine isn’t running and shuts off automatically to prevent draining the battery. Riders on the Honda Rebel forum appreciated that the battery‑saver mode shut the grips down after five minutes, then restarted the bike without issues .
- Direct battery connection: Installation is straightforward; the kit wires directly to the battery and includes waterproof connectors. One forum member commented that the grips were “the easiest heated grips to install,” taking under an hour if you don’t dawdle.
Rider Feedback: Riders on the Honda Rebel forum loved how quickly the grips warmed up and how “toasty” they felt. They noted that the grips are larger in diameter than stock, which can feel bulky for riders with small hands. The included adhesive didn’t hold on the left side for one rider, but the grip stayed snug on the bar and didn’t slip during use — a minor downside with a silver lining.
These heated grips deliver consistent, controlled warmth via dual thermistor regulation, keeping your hands comfortable even in frigid rides—all while reducing vibration and conserving battery.
- Even heat with dual sensors
- Auto-off prevents battery drain
- Thick, comfy vibration-damping rubber
- Weatherproof and easy to use
- Slightly weak heat at high speeds
- Left grip may need extra adhesive
Silver lining & alternatives: The larger diameter provides a plush feel that many touring riders prefer; if you find them too big, Oxford’s Evo Adventure or Sport models offer slimmer profiles with the same heating technology. For riders who don’t need heat, the Pro Grip 719 (reviewed below) offers comfort at a fraction of the price.
Pro Taper Pillow Top Grips – Best For Off‑Road Comfort
Why you might want them: Dirt bikes and dual‑sport machines transmit constant vibration and impacts, so your hands need a cushion. Pro Taper’s Pillow Top grips use a “Vibrasonix” gel and a grid of soft pillows to soak up vibration and reduce blisters. They’re hugely popular in the off‑road world because they combine comfort, durability and affordability.
Features that matter:
- Vibrasonix gel and pillow top: The outer layer is made from a tacky, gel‑like compound that feels almost sticky, so you don’t need to death‑grip the bars. Inside, a harder compound keeps the grip from twisting on the bar.
- Anti‑rip tip: Pro Taper added a denser material at the ends of the grip to prevent the rubber from tearing if you crash or clip a tree.
- Self‑cleaning channels: Each row of pillows has grooves that clear away dirt and mud while you ride, making them ideal for trail work.
- Universal fit: They mount on standard 7/8‑inch bars and 1 1/8‑inch oversize bars with no special throttle tube required.
Rider Feedback: On ThumperTalk, riders praised the Pillow Tops for their comfort and vibration damping. One said he’d used them for years and “never had an issue with arm pump,” while another noted the Pillow Top Lite is “firmer, thinner, and still great at reducing vibration.” Some instructors cautioned that softer grips can encourage a tighter hold, though others found them the perfect balance between comfort and control.
Over on Vital MX, opinions were split — a few racers said they wear quickly or tear hands during long motos, while others praised the cushioned feel. The takeaway: grip comfort is personal — what feels perfect on one bike might not on another.
These grips cushion impacts while staying grippy, helping reduce hand fatigue over long or rugged rides.
- Soaks up vibration and jolts
- Tacky surface reduces grip fatigue
- Slimmer than some pillow grips (good for smaller hands)
- Clamp-on design resists slipping
- Soft feel may mute bar feedback
- May wear out faster under heavy use
Silver lining & alternatives: If durability is more important than cushiness, consider Pro Taper’s Pillow Top Lite or Race Cut grips, which use a firmer rubber and smaller pillows. Riders seeking a similar feel with even more grip might prefer the Pro Grip 790 or Tag Rebound grips, both of which were mentioned as alternatives on Vital MX.
Kuryakyn ISO Grips – Best For Cruiser Comfort And Style
Why you might want them: Cruisers vibrate at low frequencies that numb your hands over time. Kuryakyn’s ISO grips pair thick rubber pads with a chromed metal body to provide cushioning and custom looks. They’re available for Harley‑Davidson models, metric cruisers and bikes with throttle‑by‑wire systems.
Features that matter:
- Vibration‑absorbing rubber inserts: Multiple raised pads isolate your hands from engine buzz and give you a secure hold.
- Removable end caps: If your bike uses handlebars with air reservoirs (common on Harleys), you can remove the end caps and still install the grips.
- Throttle boss and accessories: Premium versions include a built‑in “throttle boss” — a small paddle that lets you rest the heel of your hand while maintaining throttle, reducing fatigue on long highway rides. Optional colored rings and spiked end caps let you customize the look.
Rider Feedback: Cruiser riders rave about how ISO grips elevate comfort and style. On the Suzuki Volusia forum, one rider said they “look great, feel great,” especially with add-ons like colored rings and throttle bosses. Another tried a cheap knockoff, couldn’t install it, and went back to genuine Kuryakyn — “way happy” with the quality.
On ST-Owners, riders shared installation notes: part #6341 fit better on the Honda ST1300 than the larger #6340. The right grip slid on easily, but the left needed tape and glue after the included adhesive dried out. Once installed, the grips cut down on numbness and cramping, though not completely.
The takeaway: installation can be fiddly, but comfort and build quality make it worth the effort.
These ISO grips damp engine buzz and deliver palm-support via rubber pads, helping reduce hand fatigue on long rides while adding cruiser style.
- Effective vibration absorption for smoother rides
- Comfortable rubber pads reduce hand strain
- Removable end caps preserve air-reservoir barrels
- Supports throttle bosses and customization
- Grip feels a bit spongy at high revs
- Left side may need extra tape or adhesive during install
Silver lining & alternatives: If you find the ISO grips too bulky, Kuryakyn’s smaller “Streamliner” grips use the same vibration‑damping rubber on a narrower body. For riders who want cushion without the chrome look, Avon’s Air Cushion grips (next section) provide a softer feel with billet end caps.
Avon Air Cushion Smooth Grips With Boss – Plush Comfort For Cruisers
Why you might want them: If you’ve ever squeezed a pillow and wished your grips felt the same, Avon’s Air Cushion series is for you. These grips use a three‑ring air‑cushion design inside a seamless rubber exterior to isolate your hands from vibration while remaining soft and forgiving. The billet end caps and rings give them a premium look, and the built‑in “Boss” throttle assist offers relief for long highway stretches.
Features that matter:
- Three‑ring air chamber: Unlike solid rubber grips, the Air Cushion has internal chambers that compress under pressure, like a mini airbag for your palms.
- Ergonomic, seamless rubber: The continuous rubber surface eliminates seams that can cause blisters, and the compound feels like a soft pillow according to the manufacturer.
- Built‑in throttle assist: The Avon Boss is a small paddle that lets you rest your palm while keeping the throttle open, easing wrist fatigue on long rides.
- Made in the USA: Avon manufactures these grips in the U.S. with billet aluminum end caps and rings that resist corrosion.
Rider Feedback: These grips don’t have as many forum posts as the Kuryakyn or Oxford options, but riders who prefer a softer feel often praise how plush the Avons are. The air chamber design creates a floating sensation at the bars, which many cruiser owners find reduces numbness on long rides. Because the rubber is seamless, the grip remains smooth under your gloves. The built‑in throttle boss is smaller than Kuryakyn’s but still allows you to relax your hand on highway runs. The billet end caps give a custom look without the gaudy spikes some riders dislike.
These grips use internal air pockets and seamless rubber to soften vibration and reduce numbness, while the built-in throttle assist helps ease hand fatigue on long highway runs.
- Vibration damping for smoother cruising
- Throttle assist reduces wrist strain
- Seamless surface avoids seam irritation
- Billet end caps resist corrosion
- Feel can be slightly squishy at higher revs
- Some report slight play on throttle side after install
Silver lining & alternatives: The only downside is that soft air‑cushion grips can feel vague for riders who prefer a direct connection to the bars. If you want more feedback, consider Avon’s “Velvet Air” grips or the Domino A450 (reviewed below), which balance comfort with control.
Domino A450 Road Racing Grips – Precision For Sport Riders
Why you might want them: Trackdays and aggressive street riding demand a direct connection to the front tire. Domino’s A450 racing grips are used by MotoGP and MotoAmerica teams because they balance feel and comfort. They’re made from dual thermoplastic compounds: a medium‑firm inner sleeve and a soft outer layer. The outer layer features a conical texture (Domino calls it “Multiconic”) for extra grip during braking and acceleration.
Features that matter:
- Dual‑compound construction: The firm inner core prevents the grip from twisting, while the softer exterior reduces vibration and improves feel.
- Adjustable length: A raised lip at the end of the grip can be cut off to shorten the length from 125 mm to 120 mm, accommodating different bar lengths.
- Multiconic texture: Alternating ridges and grooves give your fingertips constant feedback and reduce fatigue when hanging off the bike.
- Open ends with safety‑wire grooves: The open design accepts bar‑end sliders or weights, and there are grooves to run safety wire for extra security.
Rider Feedback: These grips are common in the paddock but rarely discussed on forums. Riders who switch from stock sportbike grips often notice that the A450s provide more feedback and feel narrower, which makes throttle modulation easier. The ability to trim the length is helpful if you use aftermarket quick‑turn throttles or short bar ends. The only downside is that the outer rubber is medium‑firm, so it isn’t as cushy as a touring grip; if you spend most of your time on the street and want more comfort, the Pro Grip 719 may suit you better.
These dual-compound grips blend a firm inner core with a softer outer layer and feature a multiconic texture to deliver precise feedback without sacrificing comfort.
- Excellent feedback through firm core
- Soft outer compound smooths vibration
- Open ends allow bar-end sliders or weights
- Trim-to-fit length for different handlebar setups
- Thinner profile may transmit more buzz
- Some users report minor wear under heavy use
Silver lining & alternatives: Domino also offers softer “Touring” versions of these grips, and other brands such as Renthal provide dual‑compound sport grips. For track riders who ride in cold climates, pairing the A450 with a set of heated glove liners can keep your fingers warm without compromising the slim feel of the grip.
Pair these grips with the Best Heated Motorcycle Gloves for the warmest, most ride-ready picks.
Pro Grip 719 RVGS Gel Grips – Best All‑Rounder For Street Bikes
Why you might want them: If you want a comfortable grip that doesn’t scream “touring,” Pro Grip’s 719 RVGS gels are a sweet spot. They use a two‑layer gel system: a hard inner sleeve to minimize movement and a softer outer layer to absorb vibration. Deep grooves around the grip improve traction and channel water away when riding in the rain.
Features that matter:
- Reduced Vibration Gel system: The soft gel exterior takes the edge off high‑frequency vibes without feeling mushy.
- Deep grooves and tacky texture: The grooves help channel water and provide extra grip for gloved hands.
- Open ends: They accept bar‑end weights or hand guards, and the 125 mm length fits most motorcycles.
- Value: They’re inexpensive compared with heated or chrome grips, making them a great upgrade for commuter bikes.
Rider Feedback: On a Yamaha MT-10 forum, one rider swapped his Grip Puppies for the 719s and said the slimmer, tackier feel eliminated his hand cramps and “zero numb hands.” He liked them enough to consider putting them on his next bike.
Another rider found them slightly thicker than stock, comfortable, and stylish—though he regretted choosing yellow over green. Others praised their comfort but warned the gel can soften or fade under harsh sunlight.
Overall, the 719s strike a solid balance between comfort and control — just keep them out of direct sun to extend their life.
These dual-compound gel grips deliver solid vibration damping while keeping bar feedback intact, helping reduce hand fatigue without losing control.
- Soft gel layer eases vibration fatigue
- Firm inner core prevents grip twist
- Deep grooves channel moisture away
- Standard diameter feels natural, not bulky
- Gel may wear faster under hard use
- Some say grip feels a bit “sticky” to gloves
Silver lining & alternatives: If you ride in cold climates, the Oxford Heaterz grips offer heat with similar diameter; if you have large hands or prefer even softer grips, Grip Puppies provide more cushion, though they reduce feel and can hinder throttle blips.
ODI Vans Grips – Classic Style With Modern Compound
Why you might want them: If you grew up skating or just love the Vans waffle sole pattern, ODI’s Vans grips bring that retro look to your handlebars. These grips are the result of a collaboration between ODI and Vans and are made from ODI’s proprietary rubber compound. They’re open‑ended and fit standard 7/8‑inch bars.
Features that matter:
- Waffle sole pattern: The famous Vans waffle sole provides consistent traction in all directions, similar to the grip on your favorite skate shoes.
- Proprietary compounds: ODI uses a blend of materials that balances comfort, durability and control.
- Limited‑edition colors: Some versions use a gum‑rubber finish that matches classic Vans sneakers.
- Simple installation: These slip‑on grips require no special throttle tube and include channels for safety wire.
Rider Feedback: Because these grips appeal to style-focused riders, they don’t show up often in technical forums. Those who’ve fitted them to café racers and retro-inspired builds praise their soft compound and the way the waffle pattern keeps hands secure in the rain. The rubber feels plusher than standard BMX grips, making them comfortable for daily street use. The only real complaint is that the gum-rubber versions attract dirt quickly, though a quick wash with mild soap keeps them looking fresh.
These ODI Vans grips bring the iconic waffle-sole pattern and a soft rubber blend to deliver grip and style—great for everyday riding with flair.
- Distinctive waffle texture boosts grip and control
- Lock-on design prevents slippage during use
- Slim profile retains bar feel and feedback
- Easy clamp install, no messy adhesives
- Grip can lose traction in heavy mud or wet
- Rubber may get tacky or “gummy” in heat/humidity
Silver Lining & Alternatives: The dirt issue is mostly cosmetic — the comfort and control easily outweigh it. If you like the Vans aesthetic but want more vibration damping for longer rides, consider pairing them with Grip Puppies sleeves or another soft over-grip.
Comparison Table
| Product | Type & Key Features | Who It’s Best For |
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| Oxford Heaterz EVO Touring | Heated grip with five settings, individual thermistors, rhombus tread and auto‑off | Year‑round commuters and touring riders who ride in cold or wet conditions |
| Pro Taper Pillow Top | Vibrasonix gel “pillow” design reduces vibration; self‑cleaning channels; anti‑rip ends | Off‑road or dual‑sport riders who want a cushy grip; riders with small hands prone to blisters |
| Kuryakyn ISO | Thick rubber pads on a chrome body, removable end caps, optional throttle boss | Cruiser riders wanting vibration damping and customizable style |
| Avon Air Cushion with Boss | Three‑ring air‑chamber design, seamless rubber, billet end caps, built‑in throttle assist | Riders seeking plush, pillow‑like grips with a throttle rest for long miles |
| Domino A450 | Dual‑compound racing grip with adjustable length, Multiconic texture, open ends | Sportbike and trackday riders who want direct feel and control |
| Pro Grip 719 RVGS Gel | Hard inner core with soft gel exterior, deep grooves, open ends | Street riders needing comfort without bulk; commuters who want an affordable upgrade |
| ODI Vans | Vans waffle pattern, proprietary rubber, open ends | Custom and retro‑build riders looking for classic style and secure grip |
Buying Guide – How To Choose The Right Motorcycle Grip
Selecting a grip isn’t just about looks; it’s about ergonomics, control and safety. Here’s what to consider when shopping for your next set:
- Diameter and hand size: Thin grips transmit more feedback but can cause fatigue if you have large hands. Larger grips — like the Oxford Heaterz or Kuryakyn ISO — provide more support but may feel cumbersome for riders with small hands. Try wrapping your fingers around the stock grips; if your thumb and fingers barely touch, look for a smaller diameter grip.
- Compound and cushioning: Soft compounds (gel or pillow tops) absorb vibration and reduce blisters but may wear faster and provide less feedback. Firm compounds (Domino A450) last longer and deliver precise feel but transmit more vibration. Dual‑compound grips aim for a balance.
- Heating: Heated grips add cost and complexity but greatly improve comfort and safety in cold or wet conditions. Ensure the kit has an automatic battery saver and multiple heat settings like the Oxford Heaterz. If you ride only in warm climates, skip the heater and invest in gel grips or better gloves.
- Installation: Some grips simply slide on, while others require adhesives, wiring or even new throttle tubes. The ST‑Owners forum notes that the left Kuryakyn grip needed extra tape and glue to fit snugly. Heated grips require routing wires and possibly tapping into a switched power source. If you’re not comfortable working with bike electrics, have a shop do the install.
- Compatibility: Make sure the grip fits your handlebar diameter (most sportbikes use 7/8‑inch bars; Harleys often use 1‑inch bars). Some grips include specific throttle tubes for ride‑by‑wire models; check your bike’s fitment before ordering.
- Style vs. function: Chrome and billet accents add flair but rarely improve performance. Conversely, a plain black grip might look boring but feel amazing after six hours in the saddle. Decide whether aesthetics or comfort is more important, or find a grip that balances both (e.g., Kuryakyn ISO with colored rings).
- Maintenance and durability: Soft gel and gum‑rubber grips can fade or degrade when exposed to sunlight. Clean them with mild soap and water, and park in the shade or cover your bike. Harder compounds and chrome will last longer but may need polishing.
Final Thoughts
Swapping out your grips might not sound like a big deal, but once you do, you’ll feel it every mile. The right set keeps your hands fresh, your control sharp, and your rides way smoother.
Think about how you ride — long tours, city commutes, or weekend blasts — and match your grips to that. Get it right, and you’ll wonder how you ever rode with the old ones.
