Finding the right XC mountain bike grips can boost control, reduce fatigue, and improve ride confidence on rough trails. This guide highlights top grips available in the UK market, focusing on knurl, lock-on, and ergonomic designs. Each product includes grip feel, sizing, and fit notes to help riders choose the best option for XC, trail, and enduro riding.
| Product | Brand | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Peaty’s Monarch Grips – Black | Peaty’s | 32-34 mm thick, 20A rubber, ergonomic thumb pad |
| Peaty’s Monarch Grips – Red | Peaty’s | 32-34 mm thick, 20A rubber, ergonomic thumb pad |
| PLATT Bike Handlebar Grips | PLATT | Rubber with aluminium lock, 128 mm length, non-slip |
| DMR Brendog DeathGrip No Flange | DMR | Thin profile, soft Kraton compound, no flange |
| Funn Holeshot Grips | Funn | Lock-on, 22 mm inner diameter, durable and grippy |
Note: The table above identifies five standout choices for XC and trail riding across varying budgets and preferences. Each product page below provides a detailed look at fit, feel, and suitability for different trail conditions and hand sizes.
Peaty’s Monarch Grips Black
These knurl bike grips deliver positive feedback and a more aggressive feel, helping riders gain precision control on technical XC sections. The 20A rubber compound offers a soft, tacky grip while remaining durable for long rides. A notable feature is the 32 mm inside diameter and 34 mm outside diameter, providing an extra 2 mm of damping to absorb small impacts from roots, rocks, and drops. An ergonomic comfort thumb pad adds cushioning and improved grip during minor impacts, helping lessen blister risk on rough descents and rocky sections.
Peaty’s Monarch Grips Red
Red variant offers the same knurl advantages and 20A rubber feel for precise control, with a thick 32-34 mm grip profile that provides enhanced impact damping. The ergonomic thumb pad supports comfort on long sections of trail and reduces hand fatigue caused by vibrations from uneven terrain. The design aims to balance aggressive control with long-ride comfort, making it suitable for XC racers and endurance riders who push on longer climbs and rough descents.
PLATT Bike Handlebar Grips
PLATT grips blend rubber comfort with an aluminium lock-on system and a solid end cap to reduce slipping and end-cap damage. At 128 mm length, they suit 22.2 mm bars commonly used on MTB and BMX setups. The non-slip design and easy install feature help riders quickly dial in grip feel for XC rides, while maintaining a reliable lock to prevent unwanted rotation during aggressive climbs and fast downhill sections.
DMR Brendog DeathGrip No Flange
The DeathGrip No Flange is a collaboration between DMR and Brendog, designed to be a versatile option for AM to DH riding. It features an internally tapered single-lock core and a soft Kraton compound for tactile feedback and grip durability. The lack of a flange allows more bar control in aggressive riding and reduces grip interference on turns and drops. Riders seeking a lightweight, precise grip with a premium feel may prefer this option for XC and trail riding as well as more demanding courses.
Funn Holeshot Grips
The Holeshot grips are built for rugged XC and trail riding, offering a durable yet lightweight profile with a single lock-on clamp for secure mounting. An extra-durable end section helps protect against damage on rougher sections, while a reinforced palm area provides improved traction. The 22 mm inner diameter supports common mountain bike handlebars, ensuring a snug fit for most XC setups. Riders can expect steady control and reliable grip through challenging corners and choppy terrain.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when choosing XC mountain bike grips include:
- Grip material and feel: Knurl, Kraton, or rubber compounds influence feedback, damping, and durability. A softer compound improves tackiness but may wear faster.
- Diameter and fit: Inside/outside diameter and overall grip thickness affect comfort and control. Larger diameters provide more damping and may reduce fatigue on long rides; smaller diameters offer quicker steering response for tight trails.
- Lock-on vs. slip-on: Lock-on grips prevent twisting under load and are easier to install with secure clamping systems. They’re typically preferred for XC and aggressive riding.
- End caps and durability: End caps protect both grip and bar end; look for reinforced ends if you ride rough terrain or drop often.
- Thumb pad and ergonomics: A supportive thumb pad helps reduce blisters on rocky descents and sharp lines, particularly on longer XC sessions.
- Weight and material: Aluminium components add lock strength and durability; consider weight if you’re optimizing for cross-country efficiency.
- Compatibility: Ensure the grip inner diameter matches your handlebar diameter (commonly 22.2 mm in XC setups).
Putting these factors into perspective helps riders select a grip that balances control, comfort, and durability for their preferred XC riding style. For racers, precision and feedback may take precedence, while endurance riders may prioritise damping and long-ride comfort. Lock-on systems generally offer the most reliable performance on aggressive terrains, though premium knurl and ergonomic designs can still deliver strong results on gentler XC trails.