Weird Gear 4: my bike looks like bullwinkle

May 21st, 2008 BlowSnow

Ergon Bike Grips and Bullwinkle Bike

You may have seen these already, they aren’t exactly breaking news. I had seen them in some shops and ads, even a few on the trail, but I had never heard any kind of feedback. I was pretty anxious to try them out. I had been thinking about some bar ends for my single speed anyway, so this seemed like a great time to try the Ergon GC2’s.

No Hairspray needed here. These go on easy and lock tight with a clamp. I was pretty happy with them as I headed out on the first long climb of the day. The bar ends were nice, and the odd “ear” shape gave me lots of hand placement options. They are comfortable for resting your palms on, fingers relaxed, while you grind up, up, and away.

All in all, I like them. I like them enough to keep them on my SS. The hand positions and leverage make up for what I don’t like about them. 

The only thing I really didn’t like them is how they feel on technical / fast descents. With your hands being so flat and open, it is hard to relax your hands. I kept feeling as if my hands were going to slide off the front. You can either hang on and give your forearms a pump, or relax and risk being jarred over the front.

Their other major shortcoming is cost. The pair I tested retail for about $40, and their lighter models go up from there. Something to consider.

Entry Filed under: Blow Snow Commentary, Cycling, Gear, General