Upgrading your Bike Grips is a common customization for cyclists looking for better comfort and control. Many e-bike riders, especially those coming from a motocross background, often consider swapping out the stock grips for motocross-style grips. However, when it comes to e-bike twist throttles, you might encounter unexpected bike grip compatibility issues. This article dives into why standard bike grips, particularly motocross grips, often don’t fit directly onto many e-bike throttles, saving you potential frustration and wasted money.
Many assume that a throttle is universally designed, and replacing the factory grip should be straightforward. This assumption leads some to purchase aftermarket throttles, intending to install their preferred motocross bike grips. Typically, motocross grips are designed with an inner diameter (ID) of 22 mm (approximately 0.87 inches) for the non-throttle side to fit directly onto handlebars, and 28.5 mm (approximately 1.12 inches) for the throttle side, made to slide over a standard throttle tube.
However, the reality with many e-bike twist throttles is quite different. Upon removing the original grip from a budget-friendly e-bike throttle, it becomes apparent that the throttle tube isn’t designed for standard bike grip sizes.
E-bike throttle with removed grip showing non-standard diameter
As illustrated, the throttle tube’s end is often even larger than 28.5 mm. This design prevents standard motocross bike grips, designed for a 28.5mm opening, from being installed. The fluted sections further complicate matters, making it impossible to simply force a standard grip over the tube.
While one might consider modifying the throttle tube by removing the fins to achieve a consistent 28.5 mm diameter, this approach is risky. The fins are often integral to the retainer clips that secure the Hall sensor internals, essential for throttle function. Attempting to dremel these fins can easily damage these fragile components, rendering the throttle useless. This modification attempt can quickly turn a new throttle into scrap.
Furthermore, the length of some e-bike specific throttles can also be problematic. Many cheaper models are around 4 inches long, which is too short to accommodate the length of standard motocross grips. While longer e-bike throttles are available, experimenting with different models can become costly and time-consuming, with no guarantee of bike grip compatibility. It’s generally safer to assume that most affordable twist throttles are designed with these non-standard dimensions and are not compatible with typical aftermarket bike grips. Regular bicycle grips, designed for standard handlebar diameters, are even less likely to fit due to the significantly larger diameter of the throttle tube.
So, what are the options if you desire a full-grip twist throttle for your e-bike that accepts standard motocross bike grips? The market offers solutions, but they come at a higher price. Options like Magura or Domino throttles are designed to be compatible with standard grips, but they can cost three to four times more than common, budget-friendly e-bike throttles.
Another alternative involves using a traditional, cable-actuated motorcycle throttle in conjunction with a cable-to-electronic signal adapter. This allows the use of any standard motorcycle or motocross bike grip with your e-bike. Adapters like this example can bridge the gap, but they add complexity and potentially more cost to the setup.
Currently, a plug-and-play, budget-friendly solution that allows for easy bike grip replacement with standard motocross grips remains elusive. For those seeking the simple customization of replaceable motocross bike grips on their e-bikes, be prepared for either increased expense or a more involved, adapter-based approach. Understanding these compatibility issues upfront can save e-bike enthusiasts time, money, and frustration when aiming to personalize their ride with preferred bike grips.
