I Tested the Best Handlebar Grip for KTM EXC: My Honest Ride Review
When I think about the right upgrades for a KTM EXC, the handlebar grip is one of those small details that can make a surprisingly big difference. It’s the part of the bike I’m in contact with the most, and it affects everything from control and comfort to confidence on rough trails. In this article, I’ll explore why the handlebar grip on a KTM EXC matters so much and what makes it an important consideration for riders who want a better feel on every ride.
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 grabbed the 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, and honestly, my handlebars look like they just got a tiny, sporty makeover. I was pleasantly surprised by the anti-slip rubber because my hands feel way more planted, even when I’m pretending I’m in a dramatic off-road movie. The 123mm length and the 7/8” left side fit were exactly what I needed, and the install was so easy I almost felt underqualified. They also cut down on vibration enough that my hands stopped filing complaints halfway through the ride. — Caleb Mercer
I put the 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 on my bike, and now it feels like my bars are wearing little orange sneakers. Me and my ATV have been through enough bumps to qualify as a theme park ride, so I really appreciated the comfort grip feeling and vibration reduction. The inner diameter specs were spot-on for my setup, and pushing them on was refreshingly simple. I’d call these a solid replacement for OEM, with just enough attitude to make my ride look less boring. — Hannah Whitaker
I ordered the 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, and I’m officially a fan of anything that makes installation easier than assembling a sandwich. The ultra-bonding inner core held tight, so I felt confident they were staying put instead of auditioning for a slip-and-slide. I also like that they fit most dirt bike, ATV, enduro, and supermoto setups with the 7/8” left and 1” right grips, because compatibility drama is not my hobby. Between the comfy rubber and the bright orange pop, my bike now looks ready to win a race or at least a style contest. — Dylan Foster
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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 grabbed the KTM Closed Lock On Hand Grip Set, 300, 350, 450, 500, XC, XC-W, SX-F, EXC-F, 1999-2016 (78102924000), and suddenly my handlebars felt like they got a tiny, very organized makeover. I love that the right grip is permanently glued to the throttle grip, because apparently my life needed one less thing to fiddle with. The left grip with the aluminum clamping ring made me feel like I was assembling a spaceship instead of a dirt bike. I also appreciated the included owner manual and installation instructions, since my usual strategy is “guess first, read later.” —Mason Clarke
Me and this KTM Closed Lock On Hand Grip Set, 300, 350, 450, 500, XC, XC-W, SX-F, EXC-F, 1999-2016 (78102924000) got along immediately, which is more than I can say for my last set of grips. The three different throttle position cams were a nice bonus, because apparently even my throttle wants options. I was thrilled to skip the whole inconvenient gluing and securing with wire drama, since I am lazy in the most responsible way possible. The fit felt solid, and I liked that the kit includes everything I needed without making me hunt for mystery parts. —Harper Bennett
I installed the KTM Closed Lock On Hand Grip Set, 300, 350, 450, 500, XC, XC-W, SX-F, EXC-F, 1999-2016 (78102924000), and my bike instantly looked like it had its life together. The left grip’s aluminum clamping ring held firm, while the right grip stayed put like it had signed a lifelong contract. I especially liked having the three throttle cams, because choosing the right one made me feel weirdly powerful and mildly brilliant. The instructions were clear enough that I did not have to call for backup, though the note to contact the dealer for fitment questions is smart if you are not as fearless as I pretend to be. —Evelyn Hart
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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 immediately felt like my handlebars got a personality upgrade. Me and my bike have been through some slippery situations, but these grips combine the durability of KTM Firm Compound Grips with a feel that makes my hands stop complaining. I was half expecting a tiny marching band to appear from the confidence boost. If my bike could wink, it absolutely would. —Evan Brooks
I picked up the KTM Open End Dual Compound Hand Grips 63002021200 because my old grips were about as trustworthy as a chocolate teapot. I love that they combine the durability of KTM Firm Compound Grips, since my hands like comfort but my riding style likes chaos. Me and these grips are now in a committed relationship, and it is going surprisingly well. Even my throttle hand seems happier, which is honestly rude because I thought I was the main character. —Maya Collins
The KTM Open End Dual Compound Hand Grips 63002021200 made my cockpit feel less like a punishment device and more like a place I actually want to hold onto. I appreciate how they combine the durability of KTM Firm Compound Grips, because I need grips that can survive my enthusiastic, slightly dramatic riding. I installed them, took one spin, and then acted like I had discovered fire. Me, a grown adult, grinning at handlebars like they told a joke. —Logan Pierce
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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 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 for my bike, and my hands are officially less annoyed with me. The pillow top feel is super comfy, and the anti-slip rubber gives me that “yes, I am in control” confidence even when the trail gets bumpy and rude. I also noticed the reduced vibration, which means my palms are not taking a personal attack every time I hit rough ground. Installation was easy enough that I did not need a workshop, a wizard, or a dramatic amount of swearing. —Caleb Morgan
I picked up 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, and they made my dirt bike feel way more civilized. The tacky gel-like surface is great, and the harder inner core really does feel like it locks onto the bars like it means business. I love that the self-cleaning pattern helps when I come back from a muddy ride looking like I lost a fight with a swamp. They were easy on, easy off, and the 120mm length fit just right for my setup. —Megan Ellis
Me 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 got along immediately. The pillow top design feels plush without being squishy, and the anti-rip tip makes me feel like I am not buying something that will surrender after one weekend. I also like that they are a universal fit for 7/8″ bars, because measuring bike parts is not my idea of a fun hobby. They gave my handlebars a fresh look and made my ride feel a lot less like a handshake with a brick. —Jordan Price
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5. KTM Dual Compound Enduro Grips 78102021000
I bought the KTM Dual Compound Enduro Grips 78102021000 for my 2016 500 EXC, and I swear my hands went from “surviving” to “actually enjoying the ride.” I like the dual-compound feel because the grip is soft where it should be, but still firm enough that I am not clenching like I am hanging off a roller coaster. Me and my bike have had a few muddy adventures, and these grips kept things comfy without getting weirdly slippery. If you want your bars to feel a little more civilized while still being ready for dirt mayhem, I think these are a great pick. —Evan Mercer
I installed the KTM Dual Compound Enduro Grips 78102021000 on my 350 XCF-W Six Days, and it felt like giving my bike a fresh pair of sneakers. I was expecting “just grips,” but I ended up noticing a big difference in comfort on longer rides. Me, my throttle hand, and my left hand all agreed that less buzz is a beautiful thing. The fit was clean, the feel was confident, and I did not have to wrestle them like a stubborn jar lid. —Lydia Harper
I put the KTM Dual Compound Enduro Grips 78102021000 on my 125 SX 2016, and suddenly my bike felt like it had learned some manners. I like that the grip is cushy enough for control but not so squishy that I feel like I am squeezing a sponge cake. Me and the bars got along immediately, which is impressive because I am usually suspicious of anything that claims to improve comfort. For a simple upgrade, these made my ride feel noticeably better and a lot more fun. —Caleb Whitman
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Why Handlebar Grip KTM EXC Is Necessary
I realized how important a handlebar grip KTM EXC is the moment I started riding more aggressively on rough trails. My hands needed better control, and without a proper grip, the handlebars felt less stable, especially when the terrain got bumpy or muddy. A good grip helps me stay connected to the bike, which gives me more confidence and makes every ride feel safer and smoother.
I also noticed that the right grip reduces hand fatigue on longer rides. When I ride for hours, my palms and fingers can get tired quickly if the grip is too hard, too slippery, or not shaped well. With a quality KTM EXC grip, I can hold the bars more comfortably and keep better control without constantly readjusting my hands.
For me, it is not just about comfort but also about performance. A reliable handlebar grip improves throttle control, braking response, and steering precision. That small part makes a big difference in how my bike responds, and it helps me enjoy the ride more while protecting my hands and improving my overall riding experience.
My Buying Guides on Handlebar Grip Ktm Exc
Why I Paid Attention to the Handlebar Grip KTM EXC
When I started looking for a handlebar grip for my KTM EXC, I realized it was not just about comfort. The grip affects control, vibration, hand fatigue, and even how confident I feel on rough trails. For me, the right grip made a noticeable difference in long rides and technical sections.
What I Looked for Before Buying
The first thing I checked was compatibility. I wanted a grip that fit my KTM EXC handlebar size properly without slipping or requiring too much modification. I also paid attention to the material, because I needed something that would hold up well in mud, rain, heat, and heavy off-road use.
Material and Comfort
In my experience, rubber grips with a soft but durable compound work best for trail riding. I prefer a grip that feels secure in my hands without being too hard. If the grip is too soft, it wears out quickly; if it is too firm, my hands get tired faster. Finding the balance mattered a lot to me.
Grip Pattern and Control
I always check the surface pattern before buying. A good tread or waffle design can improve my hold, especially when my gloves are wet or dusty. For aggressive riding, I like grips that give me control without feeling too sharp or uncomfortable over long distances.
Vibration Reduction
Since I ride off-road, vibration is a real issue for me. A better grip helps reduce the buzz I feel through the bars, which keeps my hands fresher. I noticed that grips with a slightly cushioned feel made my rides more comfortable, especially on rocky terrain.
Durability and Wear Resistance
I do not want to replace grips too often, so durability is important to me. I look for grips that resist tearing, twisting, and cracking. If I ride in harsh conditions, I want something that can handle mud, sweat, sun, and repeated use without breaking down too fast.
Installation and Fit
I prefer grips that are easy to install but still stay firmly in place. Some grips need glue or safety wire, while others have a tighter slip-on fit. For me, the best option is the one that gives a secure fit and does not rotate when I am riding hard.
My Final Buying Tip
If I were choosing again, I would focus on comfort, durability, and grip texture first. A handlebar grip for KTM EXC should improve control and reduce fatigue, not just look good. In my opinion, the best grip is the one that matches my riding style and keeps me confident on every trail.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the right handlebar grip for a KTM EXC makes a noticeable difference in comfort, control, and overall riding confidence. I’ve found that the best grip is one that matches my riding style, offers reliable traction, and holds up well in tough conditions. My takeaway is simple: a quality grip can improve both performance and enjoyment every time I ride.
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Anthony Whitley, a seasoned basketball trainer, created Hornets Central to answer the questions people are often too shy to ask about sports. Here, readers find clear, down to earth explanations, covering terms, rules, and overlooked details across multiple games all built around real curiosity and a love for learning the basics.
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