Understanding Tank Grips and Their Importance
Tank grips play a crucial role in enhancing a rider’s control over a sport bike. Constructed from materials like silicone, foam, or rubber, they are strategically placed on a bike’s tank to improve handling and stability during rides. By providing a better grip for the knees, tank grips help riders maintain a stable body position, especially during aggressive maneuvers or sudden stops.
One key advantage of using tank grips is the reduction of rider fatigue. During long rides, maintaining a steady grip and posture can be exhausting, leading to strain on arms and hands. Tank grips alleviate this by allowing the rider to utilize the knees more effectively for balance and support, distributing effort evenly across the body and reducing overall strain.
Comparing tank grips to traditional riding techniques, they offer superior control, particularly for sport bikes. Traditional riding requires more upper body strength to manage control, while tank grips enhance the natural interface between rider and bike. This enhancement not only translates to increased comfort but also improves precision during high-speed or complex riding conditions. Consequently, integrating tank grips into your riding routine could significantly boost performance and safety.
Types of Tank Grips Available in the UK
Understanding the different tank grip types on the UK market can help riders choose the most suitable option for their needs. Each type has distinct features, offering varying degrees of comfort and performance enhancements.
Silicone Tank Grips
Silicone tank grips are highly favoured for their flexibility and non-abrasive nature, contributing to rider comfort. Popular brands in the UK market, like TechSpec and Stompgrip, present models with superior grip that doesn’t compromise on aesthetics. Prices range from £30 to £70, depending on design and brand. These grips are often purchased online via platforms like Amazon or directly from manufacturers’ websites.
Foam Tank Grips
Foam grips provide a cushioned feel, beneficial for different riding styles, but might wear out quicker than other types. Their availability in the UK is widespread, with recommendations leaning towards PPF brands. When installing foam grips, ensure precise positioning to avoid tearing and maximise grip life.
Rubber Tank Grips
Known for their durability, rubber grips like those from Eazi-Grip offer long-lasting performance. Experts highlight their traction and resistance to weather conditions as advantages. Compared to silicone and foam, rubber grips generally offer a firmer hold and are valued for their robust nature, even on more demanding rides.
Benefits of Using Tank Grips for Sport Bikes
Tank grips bring a plethora of benefits to sport bike enthusiasts, enhancing both riding efficiency and control. By providing a sturdy point of contact for the knees, these grips significantly improve bike control during aggressive maneuvers. Riders often struggle to maintain stability when negotiating tight corners or sudden changes in speed. With tank grips, the added friction increases the rider’s confidence to engage in more dynamic movements without compromising safety.
Additionally, tank grips play a crucial role in enhancing body position stability, particularly useful for better cornering. A correct riding position is essential for harnessing a sport bike’s performance potential. Tank grips assist in this by anchoring the rider’s knees to the tank, ensuring a secure and balanced posture.
Another notable benefit is the reduction of strain on arms and hands during rides. Prolonged gripping can lead to fatigue, hampering performance and safety. By leveraging tank grips, riders can shift some of the endurance burden to the lower body, leading to a more comfortable and sustainable riding experience. This shift allows for a more relaxed upper body and prevents common issues like arm pump during longer rides.
Installation and Maintenance of Tank Grips
Tank grip installation is a straightforward process, enhancing both bike performance and comfort shortly after application. For a DIY installation, gather essential tools and materials: cleaning agents, a heat source (like a hairdryer), and a precise cutting tool if size adjustments are needed.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
- Preparation: Clean the tank surface thoroughly to remove dirt and grease, ensuring optimal grip adhesion.
- Positioning: Gently position the tank grips to ensure they align perfectly with knee contact points.
- Application: Use a heat source to slightly warm the adhesive backing, enhancing stickiness. Firmly press the grips onto the tank, smoothing out any air bubbles.
Avoid common mistakes like applying grips to a dirty surface or misaligning them.
Maintenance Best Practices
Routine maintenance of tank grips is essential for longevity. Regularly clean them with mild soap and water, ensuring no harsh chemicals weaken the adhesive. Monitor grips for signs of wear such as peeling or loss of texture. Replace if necessary. When storing your bike, ensure grips aren’t exposed to extreme weather conditions to maintain their quality. Proper care extends their life, ensuring consistent riding efficiency.
Expert Reviews and User Testimonials
Tank grips, known to significantly uplift rider control and enhance sport bike handling, have garnered attention among both experts and everyday users. Insights from professional riders underscore the palpable difference these grips manifest in stability during aggressive riding. Many note the enhanced neuromuscular connection with the bike, crediting the secure knee grip as pivotal in navigating sharp corners with confidence and maintaining balance during high-speed maneuvers.
User testimonials generally mirror these professional insights, with a focus on increased ride comfort. Riders appreciate the significant reduction in fatigue during prolonged journeys, where constant body adjustments would otherwise lead to discomfort. For some, the integration of tank grips marks a transformative shift in their riding experience, allowing for more seamless control and smoother transitions through complex riding scenarios.
While satisfaction ratings of tank grips are consistently high, a segment of users highlights the necessity for proper installation. Incorrect alignment or insufficient adhesion can detract from the intended benefits. Thus, ensuring proper instalment becomes a crucial step in capitalising on their full potential. Overall, both expert and user reviews attest to the tangible improvements tank grips deliver in riding efficiency.
Where to Purchase Tank Grips in the UK
When it comes to buying tank grips in the UK, several options cater to both local preferences and convenience through online platforms. Choosing the right source can be pivotal for ensuring product quality and service satisfaction.
Local Retailers
Local bike shops offer tangible benefits, such as expert customer service and the ability to physically assess products before purchase. These shops often have a broad selection of tank grips, allowing riders to get hands-on advice about the best fit for their sport bike handling needs. By interacting directly with knowledgeable staff, you receive tailored recommendations that can enhance your overall riding experience.
Online Options
For convenience, online marketplaces like Amazon UK and eBay UK provide a wide array of tank grip types. These platforms allow you to compare products easily, often listing user testimonials and expert reviews that aid in making informed decisions. Online shopping efficiently caters to those balancing a busy schedule, with varied shipping options to suit all needs.
Manufacturer’s Direct Purchase
Purchasing directly from manufacturers’ websites can often yield benefits not found elsewhere. Brands like TechSpec and Stompgrip offer exclusive tank grip models, often accompanied by warranties and customer support, ensuring peace of mind and quality assurance.