ESI Grips has released three new models of slide-on silicone grips, girthier than ever to deliver even more vibration damping under the palm of your hand. Designed to fit 22mm bars, the Ribbed Chunky, Ribbed Extra Chunky, and Fatty’s grips deliver shock absorption at diameters of 32mm, 34mm, and 35mm, respectively.
ESI Grips have filed a patent for the new design, consisting of eight “pillows”, optimized for maximum shock absorption, leading to reduced fatigue and thus, more control on long descents.
It has to be said, though, bigger isn’t always better. While chunky grips do have the potential to reduce arm pump for riders with large hands, others with smaller hands may not benefit so much; I personally don’t get on with a large diameter grip, feeling rather like I’m holding onto a pair of toilet rolls. I have fairly small hands, though (span of 18cm).
Like all ESI Grips, the new Ribbed Chunky, Ribbed Extra Chunky, and Fatty’s are made from latex-free, rubber-free silicone. Unlike the vast majority of mountain bike grips on the market, and those that’ll come stock on complete bikes, ESI Grips are of a slide-on design, lacking the plastic sleeve you’ll see on lock-on models. This is the primary reason why ESI Grips, and other slide-on silicone grips such as those from Wolf Tooth Components, have better vibration damping qualities than standard grips.
Pricing & Availability
The news ESI Grips retail at $19.99 USD for the Ribbed Chunky, $23.99 USD for the Ribbed Extra Chunky, and $24.99 USD for the Fatty’s. All come with black bar end plugs as standard, though you can purchase additional plugs in a multitude of colors for an extra $1.99 USD per pair.
