Iconic supplier of MTB-specific parts, tires, and accessories, Wilderness Trail Bikes (WTB) releases four new grips for 2024. The new models include the Trace, Wavelength, CZ Control, and the Burr. These new grips are also divided into three major categories of cushiness:
Cushion – which focuses on the damping qualities, in hopes of helping smooth out the bumps and trail chatter.
Minimal – which maximizes bar feel and control, in hopes of giving the rider a more direct connection to the bike.
Balanced – these grips will blend the features of both the Cushion and Minimal grips.
WTB built on “35 years of grip expertise with one of the top cycling biomechanics experts to define an entirely innovative approach to grips.” The results were the development of four grips for four different types of riders. They rigorously tested and fine-tuned using feedback from athletes worldwide.
All four of the grips feature soft, anti-slip rubber, a single inward clamp with an easy-to-access 3mm hex key adjustment, and a tapered inner sleeve. The tapered inner sleeve will help to eliminate rotation or twisting at the outward end of the grip.
Grip Types
Cushion Category:
For the riders that are looking for comfy softness and good vibration-damping.
The Trace grip has a plush and soft feel while you shralp the rough and choppy terrain due to the unique pattern that’s on top. This is accomplished by the ample space between the trapezoidal blocks giving them room to squish and conform to your hand.
The Trace’s soft compound has a slow rebound to provide additional damping and increased comfort between the rider and their handlebar. These grips are good for those riders who like soft grips that absorb the trail chatter and reduce numbness.
Features
- Tall and flexible cushioning blocks over 3/4 of the grip surface
- Light fingertip knurling and large ribs on the underside increase bar feel.
- 32mm diameter offers more rubber to absorb vibration
Balanced Category:
For riders looking for a blend of comfort, vibration damping, and control.
The Wavelength features multi-directional fins that not only improve handlebar control but also provide comfort on rough trails. Utilizing pressure mapping technology, WTB could precisely angle the direction of the fins to counter the forces acting on them.
There is a waffle pattern located underneath the grip to increase bite where the fingers naturally wrap around the bar. The tapered 30/32mm grip diameter will help increase control in technical terrain.
Features
- The Fins style design provides both cushioning and grip
- Fingertip waffles for an increased bar feel
- Tapered 30/32mm diameter improves handling response
The CZ Control is a unique grip with a semi-ergonomic shape. Again, WTB used pressure mapping to determine where pressure is distributed on the grips. They increased support in those areas to improve comfort and reduce numbness while still conforming to the hand’s natural shape.
The result is a grip that provides greater control over your bike, in turn giving you more confidence in technical terrain. Plus it will reduce hand numbness.
Features
- Semi-ergonomic shape that enhances while distributing pressure.
Minimal Category:
For riders who are looking to maximize bar feel and control with a more direct connection to the bike.
The Burr is a low-profile grip that will provide the most direct connection to the riders’s handlebar. The bi-directional texture provides the grip you need to keep the situation under control, whether it’s hanging on under full compression, or pulling upward to clear a root.
Features:
- Low profile burr grinder style teeth pointing bi-directionally to provide grip for either pushing or pulling.
- A thin 30mm diameter enhances trail feedback.
All of the below grips are available in two colors, Black or Tan, will retail for $29.99, and are available at your local WTB Dealer or online at the link below.
