What Are BMX Grips?

BMX grips are installed on your bike handlebars to provide control while riding. Typically made from rubber, the best grip will be comfortable, durable, and shock absorbent. Choosing your grip is a matter of personal preference, with various combinations of BMX bike grips available in different diameters, patterns, flanges, and designs.

BMX grips can be flanged or flangeless. The flange is a disk-like shape on the inside edge of the grip. Whether to have a flanged grip is up to you, but one advantage is that it can offer more control and additional protection for your handlebar. However, a flange may make performing tricks like bar spins more difficult.

What Size Are BMX Grips?

BMX grips come in various sizes and styles, generally ranging from 10-25 cm in length. Choosing the right one depends on the length of your handlebars and how much of the bar you want the grip to cover. Many BMX handlebar grips are designed to be universal, meaning nearly all models should fit snugly on your bar. However, it’s always wise to double-check that the grip is compatible with the material of your bar.

Another factor to consider is the hardness of the grips. Grips can range from “soft” to “hard”. Soft rubber grips offer a very grippy feel but may not last as long, while harder grips are more durable and likely to last longer.

How to Install and Remove BMX Grips

While a tightly fitting grip provides the best control, it can also make removal and installation challenging. There are several methods to do this. A quick method that won't damage your old grips involves using zip ties and window cleaner (or another similar fast-evaporating liquid).

First, insert a few zip ties into the grip to make removal easier. Then, spray the window cleaner on the grip and handlebar. Now, the old grip should slide off relatively easily. Finally, spray the cleaned handlebar area again and slide on your new grip until it fits snugly.

To help protect your grips and the ends of your handlebar, check out our selection of BMX Bar Ends.