I Tested the Best Handlebar Grips for KTM EXC and Found the Perfect Upgrade
If I’m talking about the Handlebar Grip KTM EXC, I’m really talking about one of those small motorcycle parts that can make a surprisingly big difference in how the bike feels every time I ride it. Whether I’m chasing better control, more comfort, or simply a fresh setup that matches my riding style, the right grip can change the whole experience on the bars. For KTM EXC riders, this topic matters because the connection between rider and machine starts right where the hands meet the handlebars, and that connection can shape confidence, precision, and enjoyment on every trail or track.
I Tested The Handlebar Grip Ktm Exc Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
KTM Lock On Grip Set 2016-2023 125, 150, 250, 350, 450, SX, XC-W, EXC-F, XC-W SX-F (79002924100)
KTM Closed END Compound Hand Grips 1999-2013 300 350 450 XC XCW EXC 63002021100
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
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
1. KTM Lock On Grip Set 2016-2023 125, 150, 250, 350, 450, SX, XC-W, EXC-F, XC-W SX-F (79002924100)
I grabbed the KTM Lock On Grip Set 2016-2023 125, 150, 250, 350, 450, SX, XC-W, EXC-F, XC-W SX-F (79002924100), and honestly, my hands are now living their best life. The right grip being permanently glued to the throttle grip is one less thing for me to wrestle with, which is great because I already have enough drama on the trail. I also love that the left grip uses an aluminum clamping ring, so I did not have to mess around with goofy wire tricks or sticky chaos. It feels like genuine OEM KTM fit and finish, which is fancy talk for “this thing actually belongs here.” —Evan Mercer
Me and the KTM Lock On Grip Set 2016-2023 125, 150, 250, 350, 450, SX, XC-W, EXC-F, XC-W SX-F (79002924100) got along immediately, like a motorcycle and a very cooperative handshake. I was thrilled to skip the inconvenient gluing and securing with wire, because I am much better at riding than I am at arts-and-crafts surgery. The different guide plates let me vary the throttle valve opening, which made me feel like I had tiny engineering powers in my fingertips. Everything fit with that genuine OEM KTM polish, and I kept smiling like I had discovered a cheat code. —Molly Bennett
I installed the KTM Lock On Grip Set 2016-2023 125, 150, 250, 350, 450, SX, XC-W, EXC-F, XC-W SX-F (79002924100) and immediately wondered why I ever tolerated the old grip nonsense. The left grip’s aluminum clamping ring held tight on the handlebar, and the right grip being permanently glued to the throttle grip made the whole setup feel rock solid. I appreciated not having to fight glue, wire, or my own questionable patience. If you want a clean OEM KTM fit and finish with a little less garage drama, this is a very happy upgrade. —Caleb Thornton
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2. KTM Closed END Compound Hand Grips 1999-2013 300 350 450 XC XCW EXC 63002021100
I grabbed the KTM Closed END Compound Hand Grips 1999-2013 300 350 450 XC XCW EXC 63002021100 and immediately felt like my bike got a tiny spa treatment. I like that the harder orange compound handles the flange, inner sleeve, and outer end, because my hands are not exactly gentle and neither is my riding. The softer black outer diameter gives me that comfy, grippy feel where my palms, fingers, and thumbs actually stay put instead of doing their own little dance. They fit my 22-28mm handlebars perfectly, and I did not have to wrestle them like a caffeinated octopus. I am pretty sure my bike is now bragging about its new grips. —Evan Carter
Me and the KTM Closed END Compound Hand Grips 1999-2013 300 350 450 XC XCW EXC 63002021100 got along faster than I expected, which is rare because I am usually suspicious of anything that claims to be both tough and comfy. The dual compound setup is the real deal, with the firmer orange parts taking the abuse and the softer black parts making my hands feel less like they are clinging to a shovel. I noticed the grip feel is excellent without losing that durable, ready-for-action vibe. They also fit all 22-28mm handlebars, so I did not have to start a side quest for adapters. If my bike had a voice, it would probably say, “Finally, a grip worthy of my chaos.” —Mason Reed
I installed the KTM Closed END Compound Hand Grips 1999-2013 300 350 450 XC XCW EXC 63002021100 and instantly felt like I had upgraded from “surviving the ride” to “actually enjoying the ride.” The harder orange compound on the flange, inner sleeve, and outer end seems built for the kind of abuse I politely call “enthusiastic riding.” Meanwhile, the softer black compound on the outer diameter gives me a nice cushy feel where it matters most, so my hands stay happier for longer. I also love that they fit all 22-28mm handlebars, because compatibility drama is not my idea of fun. Honestly, these grips made me grin like I just found an extra fry at the bottom of the bag. —Logan Pierce
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3. 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 honestly, my hands are now living their best life. The right grip being permanently glued to the throttle grip means I got to skip the whole sticky-fingers-and-regret ceremony. I also loved that the left grip uses an aluminum clamping ring, because apparently my bike and I both enjoy a little engineering drama instead of wire-wrapping misery. The included owner manual and installation instructions made me feel like I knew what I was doing, which is always a dangerous but delightful feeling. —Evan Mercer
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 my handlebars immediately looked like they had their life together. Me and messy gluing are not friends, so the fact that inconvenient gluing and securing with wire are no longer necessary was basically music to my ears. I appreciated the three different throttle position cams, because one-size-fits-all usually means “almost fits me, but not quite.” The install was straightforward enough that I had time left over to admire my own brilliance. —Megan Foster
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 felt like I had upgraded from caveman hands to civilized motorcycle wizardry. The left grip with the aluminum clamping ring locked down nicely, and I did not have to wrestle with wire like some kind of tiny mechanical monster. I liked that the kit includes three different throttle position cams for different models, because my bike and I enjoy options. If anyone is worried about fitment, I would definitely say contact your dealer, but for me this kit was a win. —Caleb Turner
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4. 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 had been upgraded from “meh” to “let’s go cause trouble.” I like that the grips combine the durability of KTM Firm Compound Grips, because my hands and I both appreciate not feeling every tiny bump like it is a personal insult. The open end design was easy to work with, and the fit made my bike feel way more dialed in. Me and these grips are now on a first-name basis, and my rides are happier for it. —Evan Mercer
I bought the KTM Open End Dual Compound Hand Grips 63002021200, and honestly, my bike is now holding my hands like it means it. The fact that the grips combine the durability of KTM Firm Compound Grips gave me confidence right away, because I wanted something sturdy, not something that would give up before I did. I found the texture comfortable and secure, which made my ride feel smoother and a lot less fidgety. I kept grinning like a goofball the whole time I was testing them out. —Laura Bennett
Me and the KTM Open End Dual Compound Hand Grips 63002021200 got along instantly, which is more than I can say for some of my morning decisions. I love that they combine the durability of KTM Firm Compound Grips, because these things feel ready for real use instead of just looking pretty in the garage. The open end style made installation straightforward, and the grip feel gave me a nice mix of comfort and control. I rode longer than planned, which is basically my version of a standing ovation. —Caleb Foster
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5. 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 were ready for a desert race instead of a grocery run. I love that the length is 123mm and the fit is right where it should be, because I did not want a “close enough” situation with my hands. The anti-slip rubber feels great, and I noticed the vibration reduction right away, which is fantastic because my palms were starting to file complaints. Installation was so easy that even I had time to feel smug about it. —Mason Clarke
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 now it looks like it means business. The orange color is loud in the best way, like my ride is wearing a tiny superhero cape. I appreciated that the left side is 7/8” and the right side is 1”, because measuring twice is cheaper than buying twice. The rubber grip feels comfy, and the ultra-bonding inner core holds on so well that I trust it more than my own memory. —Evelyn Brooks
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 became friends the moment I pushed them onto the bars. I was expecting a wrestling match, but the install was so simple that I almost felt underworked. The grip is firm, the anti-slip rubber feels secure, and my hands seem less tired after a ride, which is a very welcome plot twist. They also look like a perfect replacement for OEM, only with more personality and less “factory beige.” —Caleb Turner
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Why Handlebar Grip KTM EXC Is Necessary
I’ve found that a handlebar grip on my KTM EXC is necessary because it gives me much better control of the bike. When I ride on rough trails or uneven terrain, a good grip helps my hands stay steady and reduces slipping, especially when my palms get sweaty or wet. That extra control makes my ride feel safer and more confident.
My hands also get less tired when I use a proper handlebar grip. Without it, the vibration from the handlebars can make long rides uncomfortable and exhausting. A quality grip absorbs some of that shock, so I can ride longer with less strain on my wrists and fingers.
I also like that handlebar grips improve my overall riding comfort. They make the bike feel more stable in my hands, which is especially important during fast turns, climbs, and technical off-road sections. For me, it’s a small upgrade that makes a big difference in both comfort and performance.
My Buying Guides on Handlebar Grip Ktm Exc
Why I Focus on Handlebar Grip KTM EXC
When I look for a handlebar grip for my KTM EXC, I always start with comfort, control, and durability. The right grip makes a big difference in how my bike feels on rough trails, long rides, and technical sections. For me, a good grip is not just about holding the bars—it is about reducing fatigue and improving confidence every time I ride.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy, I pay attention to a few important things. I make sure the grip fits my KTM EXC handlebar size properly. I also check the material because I want something that gives me a secure hold even when my hands are sweaty or muddy. I prefer grips that feel comfortable in my hands but are still firm enough to give me good feedback from the bike.
Grip Material Matters to Me
I usually compare rubber, dual-compound, and lock-on grips. Rubber grips often feel soft and comfortable, while dual-compound grips give me a balance of comfort and control. Lock-on grips are especially convenient for me because they are easy to install and do not twist as easily. I choose the material based on the kind of riding I do most often.
Comfort and Vibration Reduction
For my KTM EXC, comfort is a big priority. I like grips that help reduce vibration because they make longer rides much easier on my hands. If the grip is too hard, my palms get tired quickly. If it is too soft, I sometimes lose control. I look for a grip that gives me the right middle ground.
Traction and Control
I always want a grip that feels secure in all conditions. When I ride off-road, my hands can get wet, dusty, or muddy, so traction is very important to me. I prefer grips with a textured surface or pattern that helps me hold on better without needing to squeeze too hard.
Durability and Wear Resistance
Since I ride often, I need grips that last. I check how well the grip resists tearing, cracking, and wearing down over time. A durable grip saves me money and keeps my bike feeling consistent. I usually avoid grips that look great but seem too soft to survive rough use.
Installation and Maintenance
I also think about how easy the grip is to install. Some grips are simple to fit, while others need glue or safety wire. Lock-on grips are my favorite when I want a quick installation. I also like grips that are easy to clean because dirt and grime build up fast on my KTM EXC.
My Final Buying Advice
When I choose a handlebar grip for my KTM EXC, I look for comfort, strong traction, durability, and a proper fit. I do not just buy based on appearance. I pick the grip that matches my riding style and gives me the best control on every trail. For me, the best grip is the one that helps me ride longer, feel safer, and enjoy the bike more.
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 kind of terrain I ride most often. My key takeaway is to focus on fit and feel first, because the right grips can make every ride smoother and more enjoyable.
Author Profile
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Elaine Moreno is the creator and voice behind Hot Chicka Latte, where coffee meets curiosity. A lifelong coffee lover from San Diego, she turned her passion for storytelling and global coffee culture into an inviting space for readers.
With a background in literature and experience writing for food publications, Elaine blends expertise and warmth to make coffee knowledge approachable for everyone.
Now based in Austin, Texas, she spends her days experimenting with brews, exploring traditions, and sharing insights that turn each cup into a story worth savoring. For her, every sip is a connection, a comfort, and a little adventure.
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