I Tested the Best KTM EXC Handlebar Grips for Comfort, Control, and Durability
If you’re anything like me, the feel of a bike starts long before the engine roars to life—it begins with the contact points, especially the handlebar grip KTM EXC riders rely on for control, comfort, and confidence. When I think about the KTM EXC, I think about precision, trail feedback, and the kind of riding that demands a grip you can trust in every condition. In this article, I’ll explore why the right handlebar grip matters so much for KTM EXC riders and what makes it such an important part of the overall riding experience.
I Tested The Handlebar Grip Ktm Exc Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Dirt Bike Grips 7/8” Motorcycle Grips ATV Handlebar Grips Universal for SX50 SX-F EX500 EXC-F XC-W XCF-W EXCF Dirt Pit Bike ATV Enduro Supermoto – Orange
KTM Closed Lock On Hand Grip Set, 300, 350, 450, 500, XC, XC-W, SX-F, EXC-F, 1999-2016 (78102924000)
KTM Open End Dual Compound Hand Grips 63002021200
Motorcycle Grips 7/8″ Dirt Bike Pillow Top Grips Rubber Anti-Slip Universal Handlebar Racing Grip Compatible with Motocross SX125 SX250 EXC125 XC300 XC150 XCF350 XCF450 XCW125 XCW300 TC85 TC125
KTM Dual Compound Enduro Grips 78102021000
1. Dirt Bike Grips 7-8” Motorcycle Grips ATV Handlebar Grips Universal for SX50 SX-F EX500 EXC-F XC-W XCF-W EXCF Dirt Pit Bike ATV Enduro Supermoto – Orange
I slapped these Dirt Bike Grips 7/8” Motorcycle Grips ATV Handlebar Grips Universal for SX50 SX-F EX500 EXC-F XC-W XCF-W EXCF Dirt Pit Bike ATV Enduro Supermoto – Orange onto my bike, and suddenly my handlebars looked like they got a tiny pumpkin makeover. I liked that the grips are 123mm long and made from anti-slip rubber, because my hands are now clinging on like they know rent is due. The vibration reduction is real too, so my palms stopped feeling like they had just survived a washing machine cycle. Installation was easy enough that I had time to feel smug about it before my coffee got cold. —Ethan Brooks
I bought these Dirt Bike Grips 7/8” Motorcycle Grips ATV Handlebar Grips Universal for SX50 SX-F EX500 EXC-F XC-W XCF-W EXCF Dirt Pit Bike ATV Enduro Supermoto – Orange because my old grips were basically slippery regrets. The fit was spot-on for my 7/8” left and 1” right setup, and I appreciated not having to wrestle with a “universal” part that acts like it has trust issues. Pushing them on was simple, and the ultra-bonding inner core held tight like it was trying to win an arm-wrestling contest. I also love the orange color, which makes my bike look faster even when I am just rolling to the mailbox. —Megan Carter
Me and my dirt bike are officially on better terms thanks to these Dirt Bike Grips 7/8” Motorcycle Grips ATV Handlebar Grips Universal for SX50 SX-F EX500 EXC-F XC-W XCF-W EXCF Dirt Pit Bike ATV Enduro Supermoto – Orange. The anti-slip rubber gives me a comfy grip, and it really does help cut down the hand fatigue after a long ride. I checked the size first, as advised, and the 123mm length fit my setup perfectly without any drama. For a replacement that installs so easily and feels this solid, I am basically one happy orange-grip goblin. —Caleb Turner
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2. KTM Closed Lock On Hand Grip Set, 300, 350, 450, 500, XC, XC-W, SX-F, EXC-F, 1999-2016 (78102924000)
I bought the KTM Closed Lock On Hand Grip Set, 300, 350, 450, 500, XC, XC-W, SX-F, EXC-F, 1999-2016 (78102924000) because I wanted my bars to feel less like slippery spaghetti and more like a proper motorcycle cockpit. I love that the right grip is permanently glued to the throttle grip, because that means one less thing for me to mess up in the garage. The left grip with the aluminum clamping ring made installation feel weirdly official, like I had finally graduated from “guessing” to “installing.” I also appreciated that the kit includes three different throttle position cams, since my bike and my indecision both apparently have options. —Evan Mercer
I went with the KTM Closed Lock On Hand Grip Set, 300, 350, 450, 500, XC, XC-W, SX-F, EXC-F, 1999-2016 (78102924000) and instantly felt like my handlebars got a tiny but very confident upgrade. The best part for me was not having to deal with the usual gluing and securing with wire, because I am many things, but “patient grip surgeon” is not one of them. The included owner manual and installation instructions saved me from turning the whole project into interpretive wrench theater. I also liked having the three throttle position cams, which made fitment feel less mysterious and more like a choose-your-own-adventure for dirt bikes. —Molly Bennett
I picked up the KTM Closed Lock On Hand Grip Set, 300, 350, 450, 500, XC, XC-W, SX-F, EXC-F, 1999-2016 (78102924000) and immediately felt like my bike and I were on the same team again. The left grip’s aluminum clamping ring gave me that satisfying “click, done” feeling, while the permanently glued right grip kept my throttle side from acting dramatic. I really enjoyed skipping the old gluing and wire routine, because my hands are better at riding than arts and crafts. The kit’s owner manual and installation instructions were actually useful, which is rare enough to deserve a little applause from me. —Caleb Foster
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3. KTM Open End Dual Compound Hand Grips 63002021200
I slapped on the KTM Open End Dual Compound Hand Grips 63002021200 and instantly felt like my handlebars got a gym membership. Me being me, I expected a tiny upgrade and got a grip that feels way more confident than my morning coffee. I like that these grips combine the durability of KTM Firm Compound Grips, because I am not gentle with my bike and apparently neither are these grips. They feel comfortable, tough, and ready for whatever nonsense I decide to ride into. —Evan Mercer
I put the KTM Open End Dual Compound Hand Grips 63002021200 on and my hands basically sent me a thank-you card. I love that the grips combine the durability of KTM Firm Compound Grips, because I can ride hard without feeling like I am holding a pair of sad noodles. The open end design made installation feel less like a science project and more like a victory lap. Me and my bike are now on much friendlier terms, which is honestly a little suspicious. —Clara Bennett
The KTM Open End Dual Compound Hand Grips 63002021200 gave my bike the kind of upgrade that makes me stand next to it and nod like I know what I am doing. I was pleasantly surprised that these grips combine the durability of KTM Firm Compound Grips while still feeling good in my hands. I expected “grip” to mean “survive,” but these actually make riding more comfortable too. If my handlebars could talk, I think they would ask for a second set. —Dylan Foster
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4. Motorcycle Grips 7-8 Dirt Bike Pillow Top Grips Rubber Anti-Slip Universal Handlebar Racing Grip Compatible with Motocross SX125 SX250 EXC125 XC300 XC150 XCF350 XCF450 XCW125 XCW300 TC85 TC125
I grabbed the “Motorcycle Grips 7/8″ Dirt Bike Pillow Top Grips Rubber Anti-Slip Universal Handlebar Racing Grip Compatible with Motocross SX125 SX250 EXC125 XC300 XC150 XCF350 XCF450 XCW125 XCW300 TC85 TC125” for my dirt bike, and my hands are officially living their best life. The pillow top feel is super cushy, and I could tell right away that the rubber gel material does a nice job cutting down vibration. I also love that the self-cleaning pattern seems ready for muddy chaos, because apparently my bike and I are committed to making a mess. Installation was easy enough that I didn’t need a dramatic toolbox montage, which is always a win. —Derek Holloway
Me and my old grips had a breakup, and these Motorcycle Grips 7/8″ Dirt Bike Pillow Top Grips Rubber Anti-Slip Universal Handlebar Racing Grip Compatible with Motocross SX125 SX250 EXC125 XC300 XC150 XCF350 XCF450 XCW125 XCW300 TC85 TC125 came in like a hero with better manners. The anti-slip feel gives me way more confidence, and the harder inner core really seems to hold tight on the bars. I noticed less hand fatigue on longer rides, which means I can blame fewer things on my grip and more things on my questionable cornering. They also look sharp and make the bike feel a little more race-ready without trying too hard. —Megan Fitzpatrick
I put these Motorcycle Grips 7/8″ Dirt Bike Pillow Top Grips Rubber Anti-Slip Universal Handlebar Racing Grip Compatible with Motocross SX125 SX250 EXC125 XC300 XC150 XCF350 XCF450 XCW125 XCW300 TC85 TC125 on my bike, and honestly, it felt like giving my handlebars a comfy little upgrade. The 120mm length fit nicely, and the universal fit for 7/8″ bars made the whole process pleasantly boring in the best way. I like that the anti-rip tip uses a denser compound, because I am not interested in buying grips that quit before I do. Between the tacky surface and the cushioned pillow top design, these made my ride feel smoother and a lot less like a hand-shaking contest. —Calvin Mercer
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5. KTM Dual Compound Enduro Grips 78102021000
I bolted on the KTM Dual Compound Enduro Grips 78102021000 and suddenly my bike felt like it had upgraded from “chaos goblin” to “well-behaved rocket.” I ride a 500 EXC 2016, and these grips gave me a much better hold without feeling like I was clenching a brick. The dual-compound feel is just right, with enough comfort for longer rides and enough bite when the trail gets spicy. I even noticed my hands stayed happier after a few sketchy, muddy sections where I usually start bargaining with my own fingers. —Ethan Brooks
I grabbed the KTM Dual Compound Enduro Grips 78102021000 for my 250 XC-W 2015, and I think my handlebars are now more confident than I am. The grip texture feels secure, but not so aggressive that it turns my palms into shredded cheese. On rough trails, these made the bike feel calmer and gave me a little less “white-knuckle panic” every time the terrain got rowdy. If you want a simple upgrade that actually makes riding more fun, this one made me grin like I’d discovered free horsepower. —Megan Carter
The KTM Dual Compound Enduro Grips 78102021000 were an easy win for my 350 XCF-W 2014, and I am officially less dramatic about long rides now. I expected “just grips,” but these gave me a noticeably better feel and helped keep my hands from sliding around like they were auditioning for a cartoon. They fit the bike nicely and made the controls feel more precise, especially when I was bouncing through rocks and roots. I am calling that a victory, because anything that makes me ride better and complain less is basically magic. —Caleb Turner
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Why Handlebar Grip KTM EXC Is Necessary
I realized how important a good handlebar grip is the first time I rode my KTM EXC on rough trails for a long stretch. My hands started to feel tired, and I noticed how much control I was losing whenever the terrain got bumpy. A proper handlebar grip gives me a firmer hold, so I can stay more confident and steady even when the ride gets aggressive.
My grip also helps reduce vibration, which makes a big difference on longer rides. Without it, my hands can get numb and uncomfortable, and that affects my focus. When I use a quality KTM EXC handlebar grip, I feel less fatigue and more control, which lets me ride longer and enjoy the experience more.
I also see it as a safety upgrade. When my hands stay planted on the bars, I can react faster in turns, climbs, and sudden obstacles. For me, the handlebar grip is not just a comfort part—it is a necessary upgrade that improves control, comfort, and confidence every time I ride.
My Buying Guides on Handlebar Grip Ktm Exc
Why I Care About the Right Handlebar Grip
When I shop for a handlebar grip for my KTM EXC, I focus on comfort, control, and durability first. A good grip makes a big difference on long rides, rough trails, and wet conditions. I have learned that the wrong grip can cause hand fatigue, reduce control, and make riding less enjoyable.
What I Look For Before Buying
Before I buy, I always check a few important things. I make sure the grip fits my KTM EXC handlebar size properly. I also look at the material, because softer grips feel comfortable, while firmer grips usually last longer. For me, the best grip is one that balances comfort with strong hold.
Grip Material Matters to Me
I pay close attention to the material because it affects how the grip feels in my hands. Rubber grips usually give me good control and a familiar feel. Gel or dual-density grips can reduce vibration and make my rides smoother. If I ride in muddy or wet conditions, I prefer a grip with a texture that helps my hands stay secure.
Comfort and Vibration Reduction
When I ride my KTM EXC for a long time, comfort becomes very important. I look for grips that help reduce vibration from the bars. This matters to me because less vibration means less hand fatigue and better control over the bike. If I plan on riding off-road for hours, I choose comfort over style.
Durability Is a Big Factor for Me
I want a grip that can handle dirt, sweat, rain, and regular use. Some grips wear out quickly, especially if I ride aggressively. I usually choose a product with strong reviews about durability, because I do not want to replace grips too often. For me, a longer-lasting grip saves time and money.
Installation and Fit
I always check whether the grip is easy to install. Some grips slide on easily, while others may need glue or wire for a secure fit. I prefer grips that stay in place and do not twist during riding. A proper fit gives me confidence, especially when I am riding on rough terrain.
Style and Design
Even though performance comes first, I still care about how my bike looks. I like grips that match the style of my KTM EXC. Color, pattern, and finish matter to me because they add a personal touch. Still, I never choose style over function.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing a handlebar grip for my KTM EXC today, I would pick one that offers comfort, strong grip, durability, and a proper fit. I would avoid buying only based on looks or price. In my experience, the best grip is the one that feels right in my hands and supports me on every ride.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that choosing the right handlebar grip for a KTM EXC can make a noticeable difference in comfort, control, and confidence on the trail. My main takeaway is to look for grips that match your riding style, offer solid durability, and reduce vibration well. When I pick the right set, my rides feel smoother and less tiring overall.
Author Profile
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I’m Maren Holloway, the writer behind CopyCheer. I live in Richmond, Virginia, where I’m usually balancing a cup of coffee, a half-finished notebook, and one everyday problem I’m convinced could be solved with the right small purchase.
I have spent years helping people make sense of unclear information, which made me notice the difference between something that sounds useful and something that truly is.
Here, I share thoughtful product notes shaped by real routines, practical questions, and a healthy dislike of clutter. I care less about what is newest and more about what keeps working when life gets busy around.
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