Ergon GDH Team Grips

Review by Will Trail

Initial Impressions

The Ergon GDH Team grips are designed with gravity focused mountain bike riders in mind, but they’re equally compelling for any trail rider seeking comfort and control. From the moment you pick them up, they feel purpose-built: soft, tacky rubber, generous ergonomic shaping, and solid hardware all signal a nicely engineered product.

I’ve struggled with hand numbness and arm pump on long descents and bike park laps, so I was eager to see if the Ergon GDH Team grips could help reduce those issues.

Design & Ergonomics

Developed with input from top downhill athletes, the Ergon GDH Team grips aim to minimize hand fatigue and arm pump in rough terrain. The design includes:

• Weight: ~115 g (pair)
• Material: GravityControl rubber (extra soft)
• Clamp: CNC-machined aluminum, inner lock-on (compatible with aluminum and carbon bars)
• Use: Downhill · Enduro · Trail

Key design features:

• Multi-level cushioning on the top for palm support without bulk
• Left/Right hand specific fitment
• Replaceable end plugs
• Finger grip zones on bottom for precise control
• Inner and outer hand stops for secure positioning
• Extra-soft rubber absorbs vibration, reducing fatigue

This combination of material, shape, and hardware results in a grip that feels both comfortable and confidence inspiring from the first touch.

Fit, Feel, and Performance

Installation is simple: slide the grips onto the bar, align your hands naturally with the inner and outer stops, and tighten the clamp to spec. Ergon thoughtfully includes alignment marks on the clamp to ensure consistent rotation on both sides. I installed these grips on an aftermarket aluminum handlebar with no issues.

Once on the trail, the grip design really shines. The soft GravityControl rubber, combined with its multi-level texture, soaks up chatter and vibration on rough terrain, reducing hand fatigue and arm pump on long descents. Finger zones provide good grip when braking hard or leaning into corners. Subtle changes in diameter (roughly 29.5–32 mm) offer more padding where needed without sacrificing precision or leverage.

Even on extended technical rides, my hands stayed fresh – less numbness, fewer grip adjustments, and no outer clamp digging into my palm. The single inner lock-on collar kept everything secure, with zero twisting or slippage. Despite the soft rubber feel, the grips never felt “spongy” or vague.

Durability has been strong so far. The GravityControl rubber shows minimal wear after multiple rides, and the clamp remains tight. While the soft outer edge may scuff if the bike takes frequent impacts, overall, these grips feel built to last.

Closing Thoughts

If you’re after a high-quality grip that blends comfort, control, and durability, the Ergon GDH Team grips are a standout. Riders accustomed to low-profile grips may notice the extra bulk, but for most, it’s a welcome boost in comfort and control.

Bottom line: If you want grips that keep your hands fresh and connected on long, rough rides, the Ergon GDH Team grips deliver.

Will Trail

Will grew up in Idaho (fifth generation!) where he enjoyed the outdoors, riding his bike, participated in multiple sports, and working on the family ranch from time to time.

During college at Montana Tech, he played football for a few years and worked as a wildland firefighter during the summers.  He met his future wife, Erin Trail, there and after graduating with a degree in Geophysical Engineering, they moved to Texas where he was involved with racing his Subaru WRX, camping and powerlifting.