Technical Detail

Renthal Grips have been developed and tested using the input and assistance of top factory race teams from Europe and the USA. The result is a grip that is available in a choice of three advanced synthetic rubber compounds, specially formulated to achieve the optimum combination of strength, tackiness and shock absorption to suit every riding condition and individual style. Special technology ensures maximum retention of tackiness under exposure to sunlight and weather. Each of the three compounds all use a ’Raised Diamond Surface’ This surface gives excellent feel, shock absorption, and allows the use of the lowest possible grip diameter.

Detailed explanation of grip compounds

We are going into considerable detail on this subject as compound choice is a new concept for grips and we find that customers have considerable difficulty choosing the correct compound for their needs.

The following table shows the patterns and compound combinations for Renthal grips. It also lists the amount of tackiness, absorption and strength associated with each compound type. The scale is five stars for the best and one star for the worst. Please note that you have to choose the compound qualities which you feel are the most desirable for you. However, you cannot have all the best qualities in one compound. For instance the soft compound has the best tackiness and absorption but has low strength, is difficult to install and is easily damaged in an accident. Conversely the firm is very strong and is difficult to damage but is low on shock absorption. As a control the firm grip is similar to a stock grip with both medium and soft feeling softer than stock.

Please also note that Renthal Grip Glue is essential when fitting soft grips. This is because the soft compound is so elastic and soft that without glue it impossible to stop the grip from turning on the handlebar. The soft grip is a ’throw away’ professional item. It will give you a blister free and very comfortable ride but at a price. Unfortunately that price is longevity.

Again, please remember that firm grip is not hard but is similar to stock feel.

Soft Grips too Soft?

Its true! Some customers say that the soft grips are too fragile. It is true! They are! Under the ’detailed explanation of grip compunds’ section we draw attention to the advantages and disadvantages of the different compounds, Soft, Medium and Firm. We wish to reiterate that the soft grip is really, really, soft, it gives you a wonderfully comfortable ride and greatly reduces the chance of blisters. However, because the grip is so soft it wears quickly and tears easily. The firm grip is the same firmness as a stock grip, gives nearly the same bonding between your hand and grip as does the soft compound but is very strong and has very good resistance to tearing and abrasion. Medium, of course, is a compromise. Please remember that soft is like a qualifying tyre for road racing. Great traction but……….