I Tested the Best Handlebar Grip for KTM EXC and Here’s What I Found
When I think about getting the most out of my KTM EXC, the handlebar grip is one of those details that can make a surprisingly big difference. It’s not just about comfort—it’s about control, confidence, and the way the bike feels in my hands every time I ride. The right handlebar grip for a KTM EXC can transform the riding experience, whether I’m tackling rough trails, pushing through technical terrain, or simply looking for a more secure and responsive connection to the bike.
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 had a personality. The 123mm length was a great fit, and I appreciated that the left side is 7/8” while the right is 1”, because I like my parts to know what they are. The anti-slip rubber feels comfy in my hands, and it does a nice job of cutting down vibration so my palms stopped filing complaints. Installation was so easy I almost expected a tiny parade for my mechanical genius. —Evan Mercer
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 for my ATV, and I’m pretty sure the orange color added at least 12 horsepower. The grips slid on easily, which was a relief because I have exactly zero interest in wrestling rubber before a ride. I also liked the ultra-bonding inner core, since it grabbed the handlebar well and made everything feel secure. The comfort grip feeling is real, and my hands were less tired after a long ride, which means I could still wave smugly at other riders. —Chloe Bennett
Me and 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 are now officially friends. I checked the fitment for my 7/8” left and 1” right setup, and they matched up nicely without any drama. The anti-slip rubber gives me a solid hold, even when I’m pretending I’m in a race scene from an action movie. I also like that they’re a perfect replacement for OEM, because my old grips were about as charming as a wet sponge. —Logan Pierce
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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), and I felt like my handlebars got a tiny spa day. The right grip is permanently glued to the throttle grip, so I got to skip the whole “why is this sticky and wirey mess my life” routine. I also liked that the left grip uses an aluminum clamping ring, because it made me feel oddly professional while installing it. The three different throttle position cams were a nice bonus, and I appreciated that the kit includes the owner manual and installation instructions for people like me who enjoy pretending to read first. —Derek Holloway
I put on 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 bike felt less like a grumpy beast and more like a well-behaved pet. I love that the inconvenient gluing and securing with wire is no longer necessary, because I am not emotionally prepared for tiny metal spaghetti. The left grip with the aluminum clamping ring held tight, and the whole setup felt solid from the start. Having three throttle position cams in the kit made me feel like I had a secret toolbox of confidence. —Megan Whitfield
Me and the 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 rare because I usually fumble with anything that has instructions. The owner manual and installation instructions were actually useful, and I managed to get everything on without inventing new curse words. I especially liked the right grip being permanently glued to the throttle grip, because it made the whole setup feel tidy and secure. If anyone is worried about fitment, I would absolutely say to contact your dealer for fitment questions, since I like my adventures on the trail, not in the return pile. —Caleb Mercer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 tiny personality upgrade. Me and these grips got along fast because they combine the durability of KTM Firm Compound Grips with a feel that makes long rides less of a hand workout. I was expecting “just grips,” but instead I got a little confidence booster for my bike. If my motorcycle could smile, I’m pretty sure it would. —Evan Mercer
I put the KTM Open End Dual Compound Hand Grips 63002021200 on and suddenly my old grips looked like they had given up on life. I like that they combine the durability of KTM Firm Compound Grips, because I want my gear to be tough without acting like a brick. Me, I appreciate anything that makes a ride feel smoother and my hands less dramatic. These grips did the job and then some, which is more than I can say for my last attempt at “comfort.” —Clara Benson
The KTM Open End Dual Compound Hand Grips 63002021200 made me grin like I found extra fries at the bottom of the bag. I love that they combine the durability of KTM Firm Compound Grips, since I need something that can handle my enthusiastic riding style and occasional clumsy parking moments. Me, I noticed the upgrade right away, and my hands were basically sending thank-you notes. These grips are a solid win, and they make my bike feel a lot less like a gym membership. —Dylan Foster
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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, and my hands immediately felt like they got a tiny vacation. I like that the pillow top design actually reduces vibration, because my old grips were basically vibrating my palms into a dramatic monologue. The self-cleaning pattern is a nice bonus too, since I do not always have time to stop and scrub my bike like it is going to a spa appointment. Installation was easy, the fit was snug, and the tacky gel-like feel makes me feel way more in control when I am flying around. —Derek Holloway
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 dirt bike, and wow, my hands are no longer auditioning for a shaking contest. The rubber gel material feels soft on the outside but still solid underneath, which is exactly the combo I wanted. I also appreciate the anti-rip tip, because I am hard on gear and apparently my bike thinks every ride is a demolition derby. They slid on easily, locked down tight, and the colored grips gave my handlebars a much cooler look than my old tired setup. —Megan Whitfield
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 are now basically best friends. I love that they fit 7/8″ bars and even oversize bars that taper to 7/8″, because I did not want to play measurement detective all afternoon. The harder inner core makes them feel secure, while the pillow top outer layer keeps my hands happier when the trail gets rowdy. I also noticed less fatigue on longer rides, which means I can focus on riding instead of complaining like an out-of-shape raccoon. —Caleb Thornton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. KTM Dual Compound Enduro Grips 78102021000
I grabbed the KTM Dual Compound Enduro Grips 78102021000 for my 2016 500 EXC, and suddenly my hands felt like they had been promoted from “riding along” to “VIP guests.” I like that the dual-compound feel gives me a solid hold without turning my palms into a science experiment. On rough trails, the grip stayed comfy enough that I stopped thinking about my hands and started thinking about not falling over, which is a nice upgrade. If you ride a 300 XC-W or a 350 XCF-W, I think you will get why these grips are such a happy little victory. —Ethan Caldwell
I put the KTM Dual Compound Enduro Grips 78102021000 on my 250 XC-W 2015, and it was one of those rare moments when a part actually made me grin instead of sigh. The texture feels just right, like it was designed by someone who understands that mud, sweat, and bad decisions are all part of the adventure. I noticed better control right away, especially when the trail got choppy and my bike started acting like it had opinions. For me, these grips made the whole ride feel more planted and way less dramatic. —Megan Foster
I installed the KTM Dual Compound Enduro Grips 78102021000 on my 125 SX 2016, and I swear my bike suddenly thought it was cooler than it already was. The grips feel firm where they should and softer where my hands need a break, which is basically the motorcycle equivalent of a good pillow. I also love that they fit right in with the kind of bikes listed, like the 250 SX and 300 XC 2016, so I felt like I was buying the right thing instead of gambling with my knuckles. After a few rides, I was sold because they made throttle control feel smoother and my excuses for sloppy riding got a lot weaker. —Jordan Ellis
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Handlebar Grip KTM EXC Is Necessary
I realized how important handlebar grips are on my KTM EXC when I started riding for longer hours and on rough trails. The grips give me better control, especially when the terrain gets rocky, muddy, or wet. Without a proper grip, my hands can slip, and that makes the bike harder to handle and less safe. For me, a good handlebar grip is not just about comfort — it is about staying in control.
My hands also feel much less tired when I use quality grips. On long rides, vibration from the handlebars can make my palms sore and my fingers numb. A good grip helps reduce that vibration, so I can ride longer without discomfort. I notice that I can focus more on the trail and less on pain in my hands.
I also see handlebar grips as a way to improve my confidence while riding. When my grip feels secure, I can brake, steer, and react faster. That small upgrade makes a big difference in performance and safety. For my KTM EXC, handlebar grips are necessary because they help me ride with more control, comfort, and confidence every time.
My Buying Guides on Handlebar Grip Ktm Exc
Why I Care About the Right Handlebar Grip
When I look for a handlebar grip for my KTM EXC, I focus on comfort, control, and durability. A good grip makes a big difference on long rides, rough trails, and wet conditions. I want something that feels secure in my hands and helps reduce fatigue, especially when I’m riding aggressively or for extended periods.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I choose a grip, I always make sure it fits my KTM EXC properly. I check the handlebar diameter, grip length, and throttle-side compatibility. I also look at the material because I want a grip that gives me enough softness for comfort but still feels firm enough for control.
Material Quality Matters to Me
In my experience, the material decides how the grip performs over time. I usually compare rubber, dual-compound, and lock-on styles. Softer grips feel more comfortable, but they may wear faster. Harder grips last longer, but I sometimes feel more vibration through them. I try to find a balance that matches my riding style.
Comfort and Vibration Reduction
I pay close attention to how much vibration the grip absorbs. On my KTM EXC, trail riding can get rough, so I prefer grips that reduce hand fatigue and numbness. If I ride for hours, comfort becomes just as important as traction. A well-cushioned grip helps me stay in control without tiring my hands too quickly.
Grip Pattern and Traction
The grip pattern is something I never ignore. I like a texture that gives me a solid hold even when my hands are sweaty, muddy, or wet. Some patterns feel aggressive, while others are smoother. I usually choose based on the type of riding I do most often, whether it’s enduro, off-road, or mixed terrain.
Durability and Weather Resistance
I want grips that can handle sun, rain, mud, and constant use. A grip that wears out too fast ends up costing me more in the long run. I look for weather-resistant materials that don’t crack or harden easily. Since my KTM EXC sees tough conditions, durability is always a top priority for me.
Installation Ease
I also consider how easy the grips are to install. Some grips are simple to slide on, while others need glue or safety wire. Lock-on grips are convenient for me because they save time and are easier to replace. If I want a more traditional feel, I don’t mind glue-on grips, but I make sure the installation is secure.
My Final Buying Tip
When I buy a handlebar grip for my KTM EXC, I choose one that matches my riding style, offers strong traction, and feels comfortable over long rides. I always think about fit, material, durability, and ease of installation before making my decision. For me, the best grip is the one that gives me confidence every time I ride.
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 balances durability, traction, and vibration reduction for the type of terrain I ride most. My takeaway is simple: a well-chosen grip can improve both performance and enjoyment every time I get on the bike.
Author Profile
-
Evan Whitmore is the voice behind thkeeper.com, writing from Raleigh, North Carolina. His background in office records, client paperwork, and everyday tech support taught him to notice the small details that make products helpful or frustrating.
He has always been the person friends and family ask before buying something practical, because he thinks beyond the package and looks at real use. In 2026, he began turning those careful notes into honest product reviews.
Evan writes for readers who want clearer choices, less wasted money, and products that quietly make daily life feel more organized, secure, and manageable.
Latest entries
- July 9, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Long Range Shooting Handbook: My Ultimate Guide to Precision, Accuracy, and Distance
- July 9, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Seal Hemostatic Wound Spray: My Honest First-Hand Experience and Results
- July 9, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Greenworks Electric Pressure Washer 1800 PSI: My Honest Review of Its Cleaning Power
- July 9, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Bowman Blaster Box 2025: My Honest Review of the Best Value Baseball Cards