There’s nothing more frustrating than losing your grip while riding your motorcycle. Whether you’re cruising on a long highway or navigating tight corners on a backroad, your handlebars are the critical point of control between you and your bike. If your motorcycle grips start slipping, it can not only be uncomfortable, but it can also be dangerous, especially at high speeds or when making quick adjustments. The good news is that slipping grips are an issue that can be easily fixed, and with the right approach, you can keep it from happening again.
In this blog, we’ll break down why motorcycle grips slip in the first place, offer solutions to fix the problem permanently, and give you the tips you need to prevent it from happening again. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting, ensuring that your grips are secure is essential for maintaining control, safety, and comfort while you ride.
Why Do Motorcycle Grips Slip?
First, let’s address the root cause of slipping motorcycle grips. Motorcycle grips are designed to offer you comfort and control, but various factors can cause them to slip. Understanding these factors will help you identify the best solution for your bike.
1. Worn or Damaged Grips
Motorcycle grips, like any other part of your bike, go through wear and tear over time. Constant exposure to the elements—sun, rain, and dirt—can cause the grip material to degrade. As the rubber or foam starts to wear down, the grip becomes smoother and less tacky, making it difficult to hold onto, especially during high-speed riding or bumpy roads. If your grips are cracked, thin, or overly smooth, you’ll definitely run into slipping issues.
2. Dirty Handlebars
Another common cause of slipping grips is a buildup of dirt, grease, or oil on your handlebars. Over time, your handlebars can accumulate grime, which creates a slick surface that makes it harder for your grips to stay in place. Even if your grips are still in good condition, dirty handlebars can prevent the grips from adhering properly.
3. Improper Installation
If you’ve just installed new grips and they’re slipping, the problem might be with the installation process. When grips aren’t installed securely or the adhesive isn’t applied correctly, they’ll slide around on the handlebars, especially when you apply pressure. Incorrect installation is one of the easiest causes of slipping grips to fix, but it’s still important to ensure that the grips are mounted correctly the next time.
4. Temperature Changes
Extreme heat or cold can affect the material of your motorcycle grips. When it’s very hot, the rubber or foam can soften, making it prone to slipping. Similarly, when it’s cold, grips can become hard and brittle, leading to less friction between the grip and your hands. These temperature changes can contribute to slipping grips if you ride in diverse conditions.
How to Fix Slipping Motorcycle Grips Permanently
Now that we understand why motorcycle grips slip, it’s time to address how you can fix the problem. The good news is that fixing slipping grips is straightforward, and with the right tools and techniques, you can ensure your grips stay firmly in place for the long haul.
1. Clean the Handlebar Surface Thoroughly
The first step in solving slipping grips is to make sure the handlebars are clean. Dirt, oil, and grime can easily accumulate on the handlebar surface, and this is one of the primary causes of grip slippage. Use a degreaser or rubbing alcohol to clean the area where the grips will sit. This ensures that there’s no residue left on the bars, which could prevent the grips from adhering properly.
To clean the handlebars, use a soft cloth to wipe off any dirt or grime. If you’ve recently removed your grips, be sure to clean the surface underneath them as well to eliminate any hidden debris that might be contributing to slippage.
2. Replace Worn or Damaged Grips
If your grips are worn out, no amount of cleaning or adhesive will fix the issue. Replacing old grips is the most effective way to solve slipping. Fortunately, motorcycle grips come in many different styles, materials, and sizes, so you can easily find replacements that match your preferences and riding style.
At Aliwheels, we offer a wide selection of motorcycle grips that provide both comfort and performance. From ergonomic grips for long-distance touring to sport grips that offer maximum control, we have a variety of options to choose from. Replacing your worn-out grips will restore the comfort and control you need, and with the right grip material, you’ll prevent slipping from occurring in the future.
3. Use the Right Adhesive for Installation
Sometimes, slipping grips can be traced back to improper installation. If your grips were installed without adhesive or the wrong type of adhesive, they won’t stay in place for long. To prevent slipping, it’s essential to use a high-quality adhesive designed specifically for motorcycle grips. Grip adhesive is designed to bond rubber or foam grips to metal handlebars securely, and it ensures that your grips stay in place, no matter how aggressive your riding gets.
When installing new grips, apply a thin layer of adhesive to both the inside of the grip and the outside of the handlebar where the grip will sit. Slide the grip into place and allow it to dry completely before riding. This will ensure a secure hold, preventing the grips from slipping during rides.
4. Consider Grip Glue for Extra Security
For an even more permanent solution, consider using grip glue. Grip glue is a stronger adhesive designed specifically for motorcycle grips and provides long-lasting results. It’s often used by professional riders to keep their grips firmly in place, even during extreme riding conditions.
Apply the glue evenly to the inside of the grip and ensure that the handlebars are clean before installation. Once applied, slide the grip onto the handlebars, adjust it to your preferred position, and allow the glue to set. It’s important to let the adhesive cure fully before using your bike to ensure the grips are securely fixed.
5. Install Grip Tape for Better Traction
If you’re dealing with slipping grips during particularly aggressive rides, using grip tape can offer an additional layer of security. Grip tape is a textured adhesive tape that can be wrapped around your handlebars to increase traction. While it’s commonly used on skateboards, it can also be an excellent solution for preventing slippage on motorcycle handlebars.
Grip tape adds extra grip and stability to your ride, reducing the chances of your hands slipping off the handlebars. Simply wrap the tape around the section of the handlebars where your grips will be mounted, and then install the grips over the tape. This will give you more control while riding and ensure that the grips stay in place, even during rougher conditions.
6. Choose the Right Grips for Your Riding Style
Another way to prevent slipping is to choose the right grips for your riding style and conditions. Some grips are designed specifically to provide extra traction, making them ideal for off-road riding, wet conditions, or sports riding. Rubber grips tend to be more durable and provide better traction compared to foam grips, making them an excellent choice if you often ride in harsh conditions.
At Aliwheels, we offer a range of grips designed for different types of riders. Whether you need extra comfort for long touring rides or performance grips that offer maximum control during high-speed rides, we have options that suit your needs. Choosing the right grips not only prevents slipping but also enhances your overall riding experience.
7. Check for Proper Fit
One final consideration is ensuring that the grips you’re using are the correct size for your handlebars. If the grips are too loose or too tight, they won’t stay in place. Make sure that the grips you’ve chosen fit snugly on your bike’s handlebars, and check the fit before applying any adhesive or installation methods. If the grips are too large or small for your handlebars, they will slip regardless of the installation method used.
Preventing Slipping Grips in the Future
Once you’ve fixed the slipping issue, it’s essential to maintain your motorcycle grips properly to prevent the problem from returning. Here are a few tips to keep your grips secure and in good condition for the long term:
- Regularly Clean the Handlebars: Make a habit of cleaning your handlebars regularly to remove dirt, oil, and grime. A clean handlebar surface will allow the grips to adhere better and prevent slippage.
- Inspect Your Grips Periodically: Check your grips for wear and tear. If you notice cracks, excessive smoothing, or thinning, it may be time to replace them. Keeping an eye on their condition will help you avoid slipping issues in the future.
- Choose High-Quality Grips and Adhesive: Invest in quality grips that are designed to offer excellent traction and durability. Whether you’re riding on the streets, off-road, or on long tours, make sure your grips match your riding style and offer the best grip possible.
Conclusion
Slipping motorcycle grips can be a frustrating issue, but with the right tools and knowledge, it’s a problem that can be easily fixed. Whether your grips are worn, improperly installed, or slipping due to temperature changes or dirt buildup, there are simple solutions that will restore your ride’s comfort and safety. From replacing worn grips to using the right adhesive, you can fix slipping grips and prevent them from happening again.
At Aliwheels, we offer a wide range of high-quality motorcycle grips that are designed to enhance your riding experience. Whether you’re looking for grips for comfort, control, or durability, we have options that will fit your needs and help keep your bike in top shape.
By taking the time to address slipping grips, you’ll not only improve your comfort but also increase your overall riding confidence and safety. So, go ahead—fix those slipping grips and get back to enjoying your ride!
