Cycling is always about feeling comfortable on the bike. Whether this is the case depends decisively on the contact points on the bike, i.e. pedals, saddle and grips. Companies like Ergon and SQLab understood this years ago and have since put an enormous amount of medical, sports science and material expertise into their products. The latest result of these efforts is a new grip from Ergon, which aims to provide a permanently comfortable grip feeling and save unnecessary weight at the same time.
Hands and wrists have to withstand a lot while riding. Vibrations caused by uneven ground are constantly transmitted to them via wheels, fork and rear triangle. Our body tries to compensate for these vibrations accordingly. Over time, our hands get tired. Imperceptibly at first, then often noticeably through a numbness that sets in. At this point, at the latest, the fun of cycling is over.
Special air cushion
If bicycle grips are effectively cushioned, this fatigue process slows down. With the new GXR from Ergon, a rubber granulate called AirCell Rubber is supposed to do this. The manufacturer already uses the basis of this, the Ergon Rubber Compound, in many of its products. To create AirCell Rubber, the Ergon Rubber Compound is expanded. In the end, it is interspersed with countless micro air bubbles that lead to the increased riding comfort.
According to Ergon, the self-developed manufacturing process differs fundamentally from other methods. More widespread is probably the pressing of conventionally foamed grips in the strand. However, this sets much stricter limits on shaping and differentiated surface design.
The production of AirCell Rubber for the Ergon GXR has no such restrictions. In addition, the material is said to be soft to the touch and has been certified “free of harmful substances” by the TÜV.
Combination of lines and textures
No matter how good a material may be, it will not be able to demonstrate its advantages if it is put into the wrong shape. Fortunately, Ergon’s brand name is not the only indication that ergonomics are of paramount importance here. Accordingly, the shape of the GXR grip skilfully tries to follow the anatomy of our hand. At first glance, its diameter seems to know only one dimension. A closer look reveals that it tapers towards the inside of the handlebar. In the middle, on the other hand, there is a bulge that matches the centre of our palm.
At least four different structures can be seen on the surface – from completely smooth to a more ribbed pattern with small holes incorporated. Each of these zones serves a specific purpose, depending on which area of the hands rests there, with what pressure, and how much grip it needs to have. Where the fingertips rest, for example, the grip is very high.
Slightly different lightweight design
Ergon has aimed the GXR at a sporty target group that has to cope with sweat and dirt while riding and at the same time wants to save every unnecessary gram of weight on the bike. The 90 grams that Ergon weighed for the grips in size S, including the end plugs, will probably be the decisive reason for a purchase for very few ebike riders. Such a low weight is only feasible since the GXR has neither an inner core nor a clamp.
Nevertheless, with the sophisticated ergonomics, the resulting great grip feeling and its lack of harmful substances, three powerful arguments remain. If you are not a fan of screw grips but still value safety even on more demanding rides, you could definitely make a note of the GXR. Especially as it has already proven its abilities under the most adverse conditions. At the Cape Epic, one of the toughest mountain bike stage races in the world, world-class athletes have already ridden it this year. And anything that can survive eight days in the sweltering heat of South Africa can’t be all that wrong.
Ergon’s prices are also perfectly acceptable. At 20 euros, you’re in. There are four colours to choose from: Risky Red, Black, Midsummer Blue and Juicy Orange – in both sizes S and L.
Pictures: RTI Sports GmbH
