Ergon’s winged handlebar grips were one of the original ergonomic grips that put Ergon on the map and were a worldwide success. For this review, we have the rare opportunity to compare the GP1 Evo, GS1 Evo and GT1 handlebar grip variations together which are all evolutions of Ergon’s original design. The GP1 follows the original design while the GS1 is more sporty and the GT1 offers even more hand positions options. Despite the differences in designs the retail prices are nearly the same at $37.95 for the GS1 Evo, $39.95 for the GP1 Evo and $44.95 for the GT1. All of the handlebars feature Ergon’s iconic ergonomic wind shape with side-specific designs and small and large variations. The grips also have aluminum lock rings for secure installation and easy adjustments.
The Ergon GP1 Evo, GS1 Evo and GT1 ergonomic handlebar grips combine wing shapes with high-quality materials and textures.
| Rating | 9.7 / 10 |
| Retail Price | $37.95 GS1 Evo / $39.95 GP1 Evo / $44.95 (GT1) |
| Measured Weight (in g) | 195 (GS1-L Evo), 178 (GS1-L Evo), 267 (GT1-L) |
| Likes | + Ergonomic designs + Wing profile and multiple hand positions + Multi-textured design with premium quality |
| Dislikes | – Limited colors and no customization options |
| Where to Buy (US) | Ergon (GP1 Evo), Ergon (GS1 Evo), Ergon (GT1) |
INSTALLATION
Ergon’s GP series of grips have a distinctive wing design that offers multiple materials and contours to optimize ergonomics. The three versions in this review offer subtle variations to the wing design that make them better suited for different riding styles. All of these grips are meant for more upright positions which makes them perfect for touring, hybrid, commuting, cargo bikes or anything else you could think of. Installation them is as simple as sliding off your old grips and sliding these new ones in their place. With the wing design, the Ergon grips may be wider than stock grips and require a slight adjustment of brake or shifter levers. We’d recommend adding some soapy water to make sliding it on easier and using a long Allen wrench to tighten the clamps once the angle has been adjusted.
GP1 EVO
The GP1 Evo is the closest to the popular GP1 model but has subtle improvements in the materials and shape. It’s only available in a single black color with gray accents and two size options. Compared to the GP1, the GP1 Evo has a flatter front curve and slightly wide design. Ergon has incorporated forged aluminum outer clamp to secure the grip onto the bike and ensure it remains secure.. This model is also fully made in Germany which is quite surprising given how much companies outsource today. The grip features different texture regions for your thumb, palm and fingers. A nice silver exterior accent along the clamp also gives the grip a premium look.
GS1 EVO
The GS1 Evo takes the best-selling GP1 and combines features of the off-road specific GA3 for a sleeker profile and more sporty appearance. Ergon offers the GS1 Evo in four color options: black, gray, night ride blue and chili red. We have the chili red version here which is a nice crimson color which looks similar to red leather car interiors. It’s a solid color scheme which gives it a sleeker appearance with a black inner grip ring for some contrast. Compared to the GP1, the GP1 Evo has a flatter front curve and slightly wide design. This model is also fully made in Germany which is always great to see. The grip features different texture regions for your thumb, palm and fingers to optimize comfort. Where the GP1 EVO feels thicker, the GS1 Evo has a slimmer wing that is flexible to accommodate different hand shapes.
GT1
The GT1 takes the wing profile of the GP1 and makes it even wider and offers four grip positions. Ergon only offers these handlebars in black color but has a 140mm small and a 148 large variation. The GT1 can be used in four different grip positions thanks to the molded design which features a thumb grip on the inside and a pronounced grip on the outside. That means you place your hand on the inside, center or outside to match different riding styles or relieve pressure on longer rides. All these features mean the GT1 is quite bulky though, with different textures and materials for each zone on the grips.
RIDING IMPRESSIONS
As most budget bikes come with basic rubber grips, we were eager to swap out the grips on our Priority Ace of Spades and State Bicycles Core-Line bikes. The hardest part about installing the grips was removing the older grips which refused to slide off without applying force and eventually some cutting. The winged ergonomic shape of the grips provide additional support and comfort that provides a wide support region. Compared to standard round grips, the GP1 Evo / GS1 Evo and GT1 all felt like a significant upgrade and made it more fun to ride longer distances. We liked the wide profile and special textured regions as they provide a non-slip surface that is tailored to each region on the grip. Where the GP1 Evo and GS1 Evo blend into handlebars, the GT1 is fairly bulky and stands out more. However, the larger size of the GT1 provides even more hand positions which made it easy to adjust our riding position for different scenarios.
THE VERDICT
Overall, we found the Ergon GP1 Evo, GS1 Evo and GT1 ergonomic handlebars to be well made and comfortable. Ergon has taken their iconic winged shape design and tailored it on each grip to provide slightly different experiences. The GP1 Evo retains the closest ties to the GP1 with a wide wing profile and textured palm region while the GS1 Evo is a bit sleeker and sportier with multiple color options. With the GT1, Ergon added even more options with bulges on end and at the thumb location to support more hand positions. All the grips are easy to install with secure clamps to lock them in place and premium feel. The only downside of the grips is that color options are limited with no customization or engraving features.
Disclaimer: The product for this review was provided by Ergon. The views expressed on this website are solely those of the authors and are here to help people make an informed choice before a purchase. The authors or the blog itself does not get any monetary compensation from the product manufacturer or third-party websites/vendor links that are posted here.