How to Replace Mountain Bike Grips: A Simple Guide

Last Updated on October 25, 2026 by Jaxon Mike

Replacing your mountain bike grips is a straightforward DIY task. You can easily remove old grips using compressed air or a specialized grip remover tool, and install new ones in under 30 minutes with simple supplies. It’s a great way to refresh your bike’s feel and improve your control on the trail.

Worn-out grips can lead to hand fatigue and loss of grip, especially on rough terrain. Upgrading your grips can make a huge difference in your riding comfort and confidence. We’ll show you the quickest and easiest methods for a perfect fit, ensuring your new grips stay put.

• Old grips can be removed with air or a tool.
• New grips can be installed quickly and easily.
• Proper installation ensures they stay secure.
• It’s a simple upgrade for better control.
• You’ll need minimal tools and supplies.

Ready to get your hands on some fresh rubber? Let’s walk through exactly how to replace your mountain bike grips step by step.

Replacing Your Mountain Bike Grips: A Step-by-Step Guide

So, your mountain bike grips have seen better days? Maybe they’re torn, slick, or just don’t feel right anymore. Replacing them is one of the easiest and most rewarding bike maintenance tasks you can do. It’s like giving your bike a new set of hands to hold onto. You’ll be back on the trail feeling more confident and comfortable in no time. Let’s get those old grips off and some fresh ones on.

Why It’s Time for New Mountain Bike Grips

Your grips are your primary point of contact with your bike. They absorb vibrations and give you traction and control, especially when things get bumpy. Over time, rubber degrades, especially when exposed to the elements and sweat. Worn grips can lead to:

• Hand fatigue: Less cushioning means more shock goes straight to your hands.
• Loss of grip: Slippery grips can cause your hands to slide, especially in wet conditions.
• Discomfort: Blisters or numbness can develop from poor grip feel.
• Reduced control: When your hands slip, you lose fine control over steering and braking.

Research shows that hand discomfort is a major reason riders cut their rides short (National Mountain Biking Association). New grips can literally change your riding experience for the better.

Choosing Your New Mountain Bike Grips

There are many types of grips out there, each with its own feel and features. Think about what you like in a grip.

Grip Material

Most grips are made of rubber or silicone. Rubber offers excellent grip and vibration damping. Silicone grips are often lighter and can provide a softer feel. Some riders prefer a tackier surface for maximum hold.

Grip Diameter and Shape

Grip diameter affects how your hand fits. Smaller hands might prefer thinner grips, while larger hands might feel better with thicker ones. Some grips have ergonomic shapes to support your palm. Others are more minimalist and round.

Lock-On vs. Slip-On Grips

This is a big decision. Lock-on grips have a clamp that tightens onto the handlebar. They are very secure and easy to install or remove. Slip-on grips slide directly onto the handlebar. They can be trickier to install and remove, often requiring special tools or lubricants.

Grip Type Comparison

Feature	Lock-On Grips	Slip-On Grips
Installation/Removal	Easy, secure with clamps	Can be difficult, may need tools/lube
Security	Very high, won’t twist	Can twist if not installed perfectly
Weight	Slightly heavier due to clamps	Generally lighter
Cost	Often a bit more expensive	Typically less expensive

Many experienced riders suggest lock-on grips for their reliability, especially on aggressive riding styles (Mountain Bike Action Magazine). But slip-ons can work perfectly well if you’re careful with installation.

Removing Your Old Mountain Bike Grips

This is where the magic starts. You’ve got a couple of main ways to get those old grips off. We found that patience is key here, especially with stubborn grips.

Method 1: Using Compressed Air (The Easy Way!)

This is by far the quickest and cleanest method if you have access to an air compressor. It works by creating a cushion of air between the grip and the handlebar. This is the preferred method for many bike shops.

1. Find the right nozzle: Use a thin, pointed nozzle for your air compressor.
2. Insert the nozzle: Gently slide the nozzle under the edge of the grip. You want to get it as far in as possible.
3. Apply air: Slowly and steadily introduce compressed air. You’ll hear a hissing sound.
4. Work it off: As you fill the grip with air, it will start to slide off the end of the handlebar. You might need to twist slightly.

This method is so clean because it uses no chemicals or force that could damage your bars. It’s like magic, and it usually takes less than a minute per grip.

Method 2: Using a Grip Remover Tool or Knife (Use Caution!)

If you don’t have compressed air, you might need to resort to other methods. Be very careful with any sharp tools to avoid damaging your handlebars or yourself. A specialized grip remover tool is designed for this and is safer than a knife.

Using a Grip Remover Tool

These tools are typically made of plastic and slide between the grip and the handlebar. They work by breaking the seal and creating space.

1. Insert the tool: Slide the tool under the edge of the grip.
2. Work it around: Move the tool along the length of the grip to loosen it.
3. Slide off: Once loosened, the grip should slide off.

Using a Knife (Last Resort)

If all else fails and you’re using a knife, do so with extreme care. You’re essentially cutting the grip off. This will destroy the old grip, but that’s usually okay.

1. Safety first: Wear gloves and eye protection.
2. Cut lengthwise: Carefully cut a single slit down the length of the grip. Don’t cut into the handlebar.
3. Pry it open: Once cut, you can often pry the grip open and peel it off.
4. Clean up: Remove any remaining grip material.

We recommend avoiding the knife if at all possible. It’s easy to scratch your handlebars or accidentally cut yourself. If the grip is really stuck, a bit of soapy water or isopropyl alcohol might help break the seal before you try cutting.

Method 3: Soapy Water or Alcohol (For Slip-Ons)

For slip-on grips, a little lubricant can help them slide off. Isopropyl alcohol evaporates quickly and leaves less residue than soapy water.

1. Apply lubricant: Squirt some soapy water or alcohol under the edge of the grip.
2. Work it in: Gently work the liquid around the handlebar inside the grip.
3. Twist and pull: Try twisting and pulling the grip off. It should feel much slicker now.

This method is less effective for grips that have been on for a long time and bonded to the bar, but it’s worth a shot!

Installing Your New Mountain Bike Grips

Now for the fun part! Installing new grips is generally much easier than removing old ones, especially lock-on grips.

Installing Lock-On Grips

These are the simplest to install. You’ll usually have two clamps per grip.

1. Check alignment: Slide the grip onto the handlebar. Ensure it’s straight and you have the desired amount of space at the end for your hand.
2. Tighten the clamps: Use the correct size Allen wrench (often 3mm or 4mm) to tighten the clamp bolts. Tighten them evenly on both sides.
3. Test for security: Give the grip a good tug. It shouldn’t twist or move at all.

It’s a good idea to tighten the clamps to the manufacturer’s recommended torque, often printed on the grip or clamp. Overtightening can strip the bolts or crack the clamp. Many manufacturers recommend around 2-4 Nm of torque.

Installing Slip-On Grips

This requires a bit more effort. You need to get the grip to slide over the handlebar smoothly.

1. Clean the handlebar: Make sure the handlebar is clean and dry.
2. Apply lubricant: Use one of these:
• Isopropyl alcohol: This is the best choice. It acts as a lubricant and then evaporates, helping the grip bond slightly.
• Glass cleaner: Similar to alcohol, it’s a good temporary lubricant.
• Soapy water: Works, but can take longer to dry and might make the grip feel too slippery if not fully dry.
3. Slide it on: Push the grip onto the handlebar, twisting as you go. You want to get it on as far as it will go, ideally flush with the end of the handlebar or any stops.
4. Seat it properly: Once on, you may need to wiggle and push to make sure it’s fully seated and straight.

If they’re really tough to get on, you can sometimes use a rubber mallet to *gently* tap the end of the grip. Just be sure you’re not hitting the handlebar itself. For a stubborn slip-on grip, consider using something to *gently* pry the opening wider as you push it on.

Post-Installation Checks

Before you ride, always perform a quick check. Tug on each grip firmly. Make sure they are secure and don’t rotate. If you installed slip-on grips, give them a few hours (or overnight if you used soapy water) to fully dry and set before your first ride.

Quick Checklist for Grip Replacement

Here’s a quick rundown to ensure you’re ready:

• Gather your supplies: New grips, your chosen removal method (air, tool, knife), and installation lubricant (alcohol for slip-ons).
• Have the right tools: Allen wrench for lock-ons, possibly a screwdriver for prying.
• Prepare your workspace: A clean area where you can work on your bike.
• Remove old grips carefully: Prioritize protecting your handlebars and hands.
• Install new grips securely: Ensure they won’t slip on the trail.
• Test for tightness: A final tug confirms they’re ready for action.

Replacing your mountain bike grips is a small job that makes a big difference in your comfort and confidence. You’ve got this!

Conclusion

You’ve now seen how simple it is to swap out your mountain bike grips. Whether you opt for the speed of compressed air or the careful approach with a tool, getting new grips on is a quick win. Remember, your grips are your connection to the bike, so fresh ones mean better comfort and control on every ride. Don’t let worn grips hold you back. Your next step is to grab those new grips and get them installed so you can hit the trails with confidence!

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace my mountain bike grips?

It’s a good idea to inspect your grips regularly. If you notice they’re becoming slick, torn, or feel overly soft and worn down, it’s likely time for a replacement. Many riders find they need new grips every season or two, depending on how much they ride and the conditions.

Can I use hairspray or WD-40 to install slip-on grips?

While some people try these methods, we generally don’t recommend them. Hairspray can leave a sticky residue, and WD-40 might make the grips too slippery long-term. Isopropyl alcohol or a dedicated grip-installation solvent is a much better choice because they lubricate well and then evaporate, helping the grip stay put.

What happens if my lock-on grips keep slipping even after tightening?

If your lock-on grips are still slipping, check that you’re tightening the clamp bolts evenly and to the recommended torque specification (usually around 2-4 Nm). Ensure there isn’t any dirt or debris on the handlebar where the clamp sits. If they still slip, the inner diameter of the grip might be too large for your handlebar diameter, or the clamp itself might be damaged.

Do I need to grease the inside of new grips before installing them?

For lock-on grips, you do not need any grease or lubricant. For slip-on grips, you’ll want to use a lubricant like isopropyl alcohol or glass cleaner on the handlebar, not inside the grip itself. This helps the grip slide on easily and then helps it adhere once the alcohol evaporates.

Can I reuse my old lock-on grip clamps if I buy new grips?

In most cases, it’s best to use the clamps that come with your new grips. While old clamps might look fine, they can become worn or slightly deformed, which could affect their clamping force. Using new grips with their matching hardware ensures the best and most secure fit.