Team Tested: Ergon GA1 EVO Grips “Hands-on” review
Grips are one of those bike parts that perhaps don’t seem to be so important, they are just there, but maybe their impact is underestimated; providing the main contact point on your handlebars. Ergon offers a wide range of grips including the GA1 EVO. We literally got our hands on a pair and used them for about 800 kilometers of proper enduro riding.
Most of the grips on the market feature simple round profiles. The ergonomically shaped Ergon grips are different from the other brands, putting them in a very risky position. In general these ‘pre-shaped’ profiles don’t guarantee a good fit, they can easily make the comfort worse.
The first impression of the Ergons is good, on the very first grip they fit well and after the first ride we were quiet amazed. The shape of the GA1 EVO isn’t overdone like on other ergonomically shaped grips, but it simply fits, and after approximately 800 kilometers the shape really convinced. The good thing about the shape is that it works like a reference point for your hands; you don’t just grab your bars somewhere. You get feedback from the grips as soon as you’re on them and it gives confidence.
The material and the structure on the surface are perfect when it’s dry, both with gloves as also without. When it gets wet the surface of the grips gets a bit slippery, but is still acceptable. The outer layer of the Ergon grips is made of a soft material, molded on the hard plastic that’s mounted on the handlebars. The soft material tends to loosen up a bit after a while, so when it comes to the durability it’s not the best.
Summary
The Ergon grips aren’t the lightest, weighing 115 grams, but that would be our last reason not to buy a pair. The Ergon grips are great for enduro riding, the ergonomic shape works and provides confidence.
Text: Ruben Torenbeek Photos: Robin Schmitt
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