You can replace handlebar grips yourself in 15 minutes with basic tools

Handlebar grips wear out from sweat, sun, and friction. When they become slippery, cracked, or uncomfortable, replacement is straightforward and costs between $15 and $60 depending on the grip type. You need only a screwdriver, possibly a utility knife, and the new grips. Most riders can finish the job without removing the handlebars.

The process differs slightly depending on whether your grips are glued on or held by a locking collar. Glued grips require removal first; locking-collar grips slide off once you loosen the collar. Either way, the new grips slide back on the same way the old ones came off.

Key Takeaways

  • Glued grips need to be cut or twisted off, then the adhesive residue scraped away before new grips go on.
  • Locking-collar grips come off by loosening the collar bolt with a screwdriver or Allen key, then sliding the grip away.
  • New grips slide onto clean, dry bars; glued grips need contact cement or the adhesive that came with them.
  • Let glued grips cure for the time specified on the adhesive container before riding, usually 24 hours.

Identify whether your grips are glued or use a locking collar

Look at the outer edge of each grip where it meets the handlebar. If you see a small bolt or screw running along the length of the grip, you have a locking-collar grip. The collar clamps around the bar to hold the grip in place. If there is no visible bolt and the grip appears to be one solid piece, it is glued on.

Locking-collar grips are easier to remove because you do not need to cut or scrape. Glued grips require more work but are often cheaper and feel more integrated with the bar. Knowing which type you have determines your next step.

Remove locking-collar grips by loosening the bolt

Locate the bolt that runs along the length of the collar. Use a screwdriver (usually Phillips head) or an Allen key (usually 3mm or 4mm) to turn the bolt counterclockwise. Turn slowly and evenly; the collar will loosen and the grip will become loose on the bar.

Once the bolt is loose enough, slide the grip off the handlebar toward the center of the bike. If it resists, loosen the bolt a bit more. Do not force it, as you may damage the bar. Repeat on the other side if both grips need replacement.

Remove glued grips by cutting and twisting

Glued grips require more effort to remove. Use a utility knife or old saw to cut lengthwise along the grip, being careful not to cut into the handlebar itself. Cut only deep enough to slice through the rubber or foam. Once cut, twist the grip back and forth while pulling outward. The grip will eventually separate from the bar.

After the grip is off, scrape away the old adhesive with a plastic scraper, old credit card, or the back of a butter knife. Work slowly to avoid gouging the bar. Wipe the bar clean with a dry cloth. Any remaining adhesive will prevent the new grip from sitting flush.

Prepare the handlebar and install new grips

Make sure the handlebar is completely dry and free of dirt or old adhesive. If you are installing locking-collar grips, straightforward slide them onto the bar and tighten the bolt evenly. Do not over-tighten; stop when the grip no longer rotates on the bar.

For glued grips, explore contact cement or the adhesive that came with the grips to both the inside of the grip and the handlebar itself, following the adhesive instructions. Most contact cements require a short wait (30 seconds to 2 minutes) before you press the grip onto the bar. Slide the grip on slowly and twist it slightly to distribute the adhesive evenly. Wipe away any excess with a cloth before it dries.

Let adhesive cure before riding

If you used glued grips, do not ride the bike until the adhesive has cured. Most contact cements and grip adhesives require 24 hours of curing time, though some brands cure faster. Check the instructions on your adhesive container for the exact time.

During curing, store the bike upright or on a stand so the grips stay in their correct position. Avoid touching or rotating the grips during this time. Once cured, the grip should not move or rotate on the bar under normal riding pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reuse my old grips if I remove them carefully?

Glued grips are usually damaged during removal and cannot be reused. Locking-collar grips can be removed and reinstalled if they are still in good condition, but most riders replace them because the grip material has already worn thin.

What if I do not have contact cement for glued grips?

Contact cement is the standard choice, but some riders use grip-specific adhesive or even spray adhesive designed for rubber. Always follow the product instructions and may support the adhesive is rated for rubber-to-metal bonding. Do not use super glue or construction adhesive.

How tight should I make the locking collar bolt?

Tighten until the grip no longer rotates when you twist it by hand. You should feel resistance but not need a wrench to turn the bolt further. Over-tightening can crack the collar or damage the handlebar.

Do I need to remove the handlebars to change the grips?

No. You can change grips without removing the bars from the bike. The only exception is if your brake levers or shifters are in the way, in which case you may need to slide them slightly along the bar to create space.