As “the Original 100% Silicone Grip,” ESI grips have been a favorite of racers and mountain bikers for years. Excellent at absorbing vibrations transmitted through the bars, ESI’s grips are also pretty light coming in between 50-80g per set. While the silicone construction is designed to conform to your hand, the barrel shaped grips probably aren’t viewed as the most ergonomically correct design out there.
To help create an even more comfortable connection with your bike, ESI is introducing an all new grip. As their first shaped grip, the FIT XC. Using a patent pending design, the FIT XC grips feature three distinct grip zones. Designed to be run with the fattest section to the outside of the bar, the material of the grip is beveled from one thickness to the next for a comfortable purchase.
Slide on a new grip next…
On their Facebook page, ESI calls the new FIT XC a cross between a Chunky and an Extra Chunky grip. This should mean plenty of cushion where you need it. Divided into an inner, middle, and outer zone ESI describes the FIT as having an inner, natural place to rest your hand against for controlling turns. That transitions into the thinner middle section for generating torque for climbing, which then flows into the widest outer section for padding under the Ulnar nerve and artery for descending comfort.
The FIT XCs still have all the features you’ve come to love from ESI grips, just in a different design. If you’re new to silicone grips, they tend to offer great wet or dry grip, stay in place pretty well without the need for lock-ons or glue/hairspray, and hold up well to the elements and wear. Installed with rubbing alcohol or window cleaner, grips can be cleaned using the same or acetone and a rag.
Currently being offered in black only with limited quantities, the FIT XC grips retail for $32.92. Quite a bit more than their round grips, but ESI mentions the manufacturing process for the FIT involves extra steps, hence the increase in price.
