Thorn Cycles Forum

Technical => General Technical => Topic started by: geocycle on July 10, 2017, 07:36:50 pm

Title: Ergon biokork grips
Post by: geocycle on July 10, 2017, 07:36:50 pm
My grips have worn through and I'm contemplating another set of Ergon GP5s. This time I might try the biokork version as they look great.  Has anyone tried these? How do they compare in terms of comfort? Are they very slippy in the wet? What about longevity? Thanks.

Here's the link https://www.sjscycles.co.uk/handlebar-tape-grips/large-ergon-gp5-biokork-handlebar-grips/
Title: Re: Ergon biokork grips
Post by: julk on July 10, 2017, 09:21:17 pm
I changed to the biokork version when my original rubber GP1s wore down.

I like them for comfort and feel, but I have not done an extended milage with them yet.

I try to ride in the dry or use a cape so cannot comment on how they perform exposed to heavy rain.
Title: Re: Ergon biokork grips
Post by: lewis noble on July 10, 2017, 11:20:47 pm
Hello geo - I have had biocork GP3s for some time, they seem to last well in my relatively moderate use, v comfortable. Very occasionally I clean them with a wetwipe. I like them, and they seem less sticky than others. Lewis
Title: Re: Ergon biokork grips
Post by: geocycle on July 11, 2017, 09:05:36 am
Thanks guys, I like the look but didn't want to compromise function.
Title: Re: Ergon biokork grips
Post by: StuntPilot on July 12, 2017, 02:49:19 pm
I have used the BioKork GP1 grips on two three month tours. Much less 'sticky' or 'tacky' in summer heat than the original rubber versions. I have about 12500km with them so far and probably good for the same distance again.

They are not too slippy in the wet but may be better to use gloves in wet conditions.

Someone suggested that when they wear down you can swap them over to use the undersides of the grips on top (though they are slightly different shape underneath to it would be stretching the word 'ergonomic'!)

I am very happy with the BioKorks.
Title: Re: Ergon biokork grips
Post by: onebikeoneworld on July 31, 2017, 03:58:49 pm
When I asked SJS about this they said...

"Cork is antibacterial and hypoallergenic. It’s a bit lighter than rubber too."

The one downside to cork (other than being more expensive) is that you can't cut it down. I find that with my handlebars I buy the regular version of the GP5s which are 15cm each (instead of 15/10 for the Rohloff version) and then cut about 3cm off the right hand one. That means that my right-hand grip is about 2-3cm longer than the Rohloff version would have been.
Title: Re: Ergon biokork grips
Post by: Danneaux on July 31, 2017, 04:25:46 pm
Quote
The one downside to cork (other than being more expensive) is that you can't cut it down.
Would it be possible to progressively sand off the excess grip material
using, say, a disc or belt sander?

Best,

Dan.
Title: Re: Ergon biokork grips
Post by: onebikeoneworld on July 31, 2017, 06:55:13 pm
Quote
The one downside to cork (other than being more expensive) is that you can't cut it down.
Would it be possible to progressively sand off the excess grip material
using, say, a disc or belt sander?

Best,

Dan.

When I asked SJS they said it got very messy when they tried it.
Title: Re: Ergon biokork grips
Post by: julk on August 01, 2017, 01:43:22 pm
I have cut my right hand biocork GP1 down by 2 cm.
I used a small (junior) hacksaw with a fine blade.
The 2cm offcut is now on the left side spacing the brake lever out to match the right side brake lever for position along the bar.

I will post photos today for the unbelieving, sorry can’t do it just now as I have to get in the garden and work with Deirdre - (Mrs julk).

Back from gardening - phew just as the rain is starting.
Here are the photos...
Title: Re: Ergon biokork grips
Post by: Thomas777 on September 18, 2017, 01:31:23 pm
Just saw this post.
I installed these grips on my wife's bike before our cross Canada tour this summer. About 1 month into the tour the rubber portion of the grip started delaminating from the cork. I contacted Ergon USA and they will replace them . BUT they are not available until February 2018!
I have emailed Ergon Germany and am getting no responses.
Very poor CS!