Renthal Push-On Grip Ultra Tacky – Review
The latest Ultra Tacky version of Renthal's Push-On grip uses rubber that is, well, ultra tacky. This non-lock-on style grip may seem old-fashioned, but with a new quick drying glue and the fact that most modern handlebar controls are removable without taking off the grips, they really are a fit and forget solution. They are also cheaper than nearly any lock-on grip at $15.95 USD / €13.99 EUR.
Push-On Grip Ultra Tacky Details
• Ultra Tacky compound
• Knurled grip section
• Block pattern outer edge
• Medium flange
• 135mm length
• Expander end-plugs
• Double grooved for grip-wire
• Made in the UK
• Weight: 108 grams (pair inc. bar end plugs)
• Price: $15.95 USD / €13.99 EUR
• cycling.renthal.com
• Ultra Tacky compound
• Knurled grip section
• Block pattern outer edge
• Medium flange
• 135mm length
• Expander end-plugs
• Double grooved for grip-wire
• Made in the UK
• Weight: 108 grams (pair inc. bar end plugs)
• Price: $15.95 USD / €13.99 EUR
• cycling.renthal.com
Installation
Gluing and wiring may seem like a hassle compared to sliding on a lock-on grip and turning a 3mm Allen key, but thanks to Renthal's quick drying grip glue (the previous glue needed hours to cure) your grips can be on and ready to use within minutes. Simply put some glue inside the grip and on the bar, then slide it on, wipe off the excess and install the expander plug. The glue bonds best to shot-peened alloy handlebars, but I also had good success with carbon bars.
The new version of the expanding bar plugs have a smaller outside diameter than the original versions, and are more comfortable for riders who like the palm of their hand overlapping the end of the bar. To remove, simply slide a narrow Allen key or screwdriver under the grip and pour in some isopropyl alcohol; this will remove the grip in seconds.
The newer version of the end plugs have a smaller diameter to prevent them from digging into your hands.
Wiring? Adding wire to the grips motocross style is an option, but I found the new glue works so well I never had problems with water getting under the grips and loosening them. If I lived in a wetter climate, I would do this as a belt and braces approach.
The piéce de la resistance of the Push-On grips is customization – with a lock-on grip you have essentially no way to change the feel; the Push-On grips can easily be cut to shorter length, and more recently I have been experimenting with the shape. Some riders have wrapped tape around their bar first and then stretched the grip over for a thicker grip. I like the slim grip overall, but it never feels like there is enough material for my little fingers to clamp on to – enter Sugru. This moldable rubber is great to adjust the shape of the grip. I added some to the bar, then glued the grip over the top for a custom shape. Yes, it's super geeky, but I think it's worth it.
Playing around with Sugru to adjust the shape and feel of the grips.
When they're brand new, the Puch On grips' Ultra-Tacky rubber actually sticks to clean gloves. After some use, this effect wears off, but a wash with some simple detergent will bring them back to life. This is a reassuring feeling in rough sections and at high speeds.
The damping from the Push-On's is second to none, which makes them a good solution for hand or arm pump, as well as general comfort. I almost never get any arm pump or hand soreness with these grips.
The Ultra Tacky doesn't last as long as the original Kevlar Push On grip from Renthal, but they still seem to last for ages, wearing to the shape of your hands, with plenty of material compared to a lock-on of the same outer diameter, which would wear down to the plastic sheath more quickly.
Could they be any better in my eyes? Maybe if Renthal made a Push-On version of their Traction Grips, then yes. Until then, I think these are the best grips available.
Pinkbike's Take:
 | There are only a handful, or fewer, products that I would choose for every ride on any kind of bike, and the Ultra Tacky Push-On grips are one of them. Great damping, grip, and price. |
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I have never had a renthal grip move though, even without ever using glue, just a double wrap of wire. I hate those crappy plastic end plugs on the push ons.
Renthal if you're reading this, can I suggest you move to a Brendog style integrated end cap with interference fit on the bar, and closed end on your grips. It would definitely improve the design.
@jaame I think those Brendogs are made in the same factory as the Burgtec (and a few others) that I’m using. Really like em and haven’t experienced any issues yet, touch wood. I ride with my hands almost hanging off the bar so an outboard lock just doesn’t work at all, which is the reason I was using the Renthals previously. Still got em on the bmx but I just don’t fancy riding to the top of a mountain only for it to piss it down and both my grips come off again!
The Renthal caps are garbage imo, always just use a classic plug style end cap but much prefer the full wrap of the Brendog style ones
"This non-lock-on style grip may seem old-fashioned, but with a new quick drying glue and the fact that most modern handlebar controls are removable without taking off the grips, they really are a fit and forget solution."
Right beside that grip, in that very first picture, is a Revive lever that requires you to take the grip off to remove....
What sort of residue is left after removing the grip and does isopropyl easily remove that as well or just get the grip loose to take off?
Push on grips are better than lock ons
These are some of the best push ons you can buy
to get rid of sugru, use these
www.fouriers-bike.com/en/pro.php?m=d&pid=357&cid=14&f=3
original is from Powerlite (back in the days)
www.google.ch/search?q=powerlite+bmx+handlebar&rlz=1C1GCEA_enCH792CH792&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjzhMWeyNXaAhWIalAKHQlsB2AQsAQIJw&biw=1920&bih=949#imgrc=rn6FQGHtyZeCRM:
bmx grips? (these dont need glue...)
This nsmb.com/articles/ditch-your-lock-grips is where I initially read about the benefits of Pushon grips. They are relatively cheap so it's a no lose situation. It's a bit of a faff but I think worth it for the benefits.
Will give these a go I think, as you say for the price why not.
Arm pump can also relate to brake lever angle. I have read / heard flatter is better. Also deadlifts are supposed to be good for grip strength.
Interested to hear how you get on.
Best things for me were raise front end a little, get rid of ruffian grips and decent brake lever position but its harder to get rid of potentially crap genetics / riding style......
Also have you tried bigger brakes / rotors?
I ride DH. I also do a lot of climbing (as in climbing rock faces with my arms and legs, not climbing hills on mountainbikes. f*ck riding up hills on a bike
Climbing is an absolute beast for the forearms. Riding DH is nothing in comparison. I often find if I don't warm up properly, I get mega arm pump from climbing. It comes on after a few minutes and in bad cases makes my hands completely un-useable. There is some scientific name for it that I can't remember, but basically its the result of going full on without warming up. If it happens to me the only solution is to stop climbing for about 20 minutes. My arms sort themselves out and I can then climb for hours with no more pump. So I'd suggest you try that. If you notice arm pump starting, AS SOON AS YOU NOTICE, stop riding. Sit down, have a drink, eat a little snack, check your facebook, chat with your mates, whatever. After about 10/20 mins try riding again. Hopefully you will find you can now ride for a few hours with no trouble at all.
Maybe not though, I'm not a doctor.
to get rid of the Sugru, use these
www.fouriers-bike.com/en/pro.php?m=d&pid=357&cid=14&f=3