BMX Grips Black Friday: lock-on on sale

Race or freestyle : what grip to aim for?

In racing, the grip must keep the hand in place during the starts and on bumps: the flange, this lip on the stem side, prevents the fingers from slipping, and the federal regulations require a closed handlebar at its ends, fitted with grips in perfect condition. In freestyle, flange-free grips allow the hand to move freely during a barspin or any handlebar rotation, and a softer rubber absorbs landings.

One ring, two rings or slip-on: the setups

• Lock-on with one ring: a single ring tightened on the inside; the grip keeps a soft outer end, nice under the palm.
• Lock-on with two rings: one ring at each end, for maximum hold; these are often indicated by the labels one lock or two lock.
• Slip-on: a single piece of rubber, lighter and softer, that holds by friction and requires a bit of technique for installation.

A lock-on model can be installed and removed in a few minutes with an Allen key: it's the most practical choice if you change grips often.

Length, version and discounts: comparing two pairs

A grip that is too long or too thick prevents a small hand from closing properly: for a child, prefer a short model, like the Position One grips of 115 or 130 mm. When faced with two promotions, check the exact version, as the same model often exists with or without a flange, like the Longneck from Odi, available in SLX and Flangeless. The product sheet finally says what the pair contains: rings and end caps come with most lock-ons, not always with slip-ons, and a crossed-out price only compares to equal contents.

Which BMX grip brands during Black Friday?

Odi, a Californian manufacturer that claims to have invented the Lock-On setup, offers its Longneck with or without a flange, the Hucker Flangeless, the Mushroom, and grips branded with Vans and Cult.

Position One caters to young racing pilots with short grips of 115 and 130 mm and a knurled model.

Forward, a French brand focused on racing, offers its one-ring lock-on grips, like the Paragon, or two-ring grips, like the Strives, alongside the Loko and MX1.

Sensus, founded by freeride rider Cam Zink around his Swayze grip, offers it here without a flange, alongside the Emil J, signature of slopestyle rider Emil Johansson.

The other pages of the cockpit

The permanent page for BMX grips details rubber types, setups, and maintenance all year round. Grips are often changed with BMX handlebars during the Black Friday or the stem, and all parts can be found in BMX parts. Outside of the operation, keep an eye on discontinued colors from clearance and the arrivals of new products.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need end caps with BMX grips?

Yes. An open handlebar end can cause injury in the event of a fall, and in racing, the regulations require a closed handlebar. Closed-ended grips or end caps screwed into the handlebar meet this requirement.

What does flangeless mean?

It’s the English name for flange-free grips: nothing separates the hand from the stem. The hand can move freely, which is what freestyle riders look for in tricks where the handlebar turns.

When should you replace BMX grips?

As soon as the rubber is smooth, cracked or pierced at the end, or if a grip spins on the handlebar. A damaged grip reduces grip and, in racing, is not accepted by the regulations.

Should you tighten lock-on grips?

Check the screws of the rings from time to time, especially after a fall, and tighten them without forcing. A grip that rotates despite proper tightening often indicates a worn ring.

When can you find discounted BMX grips?

Around Black Friday, the Friday after Thanksgiving, and throughout November: Vélo-Store does not limit its Black Friday discounts to just that day. A pair of grips wears out over sessions, so it’s a good opportunity to plan for a spare.