Many riders overlook the importance of choosing the right grips for their bike. As one of only two contact points with the bike – and the more sensitive one in terms of fit, comfort, and fatigue – grips play a crucial role in overall ride quality. Factors like ergonomic shape, lock ring placement, rubber density, length, and tread pattern all contribute to performance and comfort. The Leatt ReaFlex grip range introduces a unique design aimed at reducing arm pump and hand fatigue.
Sizes: Regular Ø31mm (tested), Thin Ø29mm
Colours: Black, Lava, Peanut (tested), Granite
RRP: $59
Available Through: mtb.leatt.com.au
Out of the box
As we’ve come to expect from Leatt products, the design of the Leatt ReaFlex 6.0 has unique ergonomic features designed to better allow the product to interact with the rider. The regular sized grip I have on test has a varied diameter, starting at 31mm from the lock ring and growing to 33mm at the outer edge. A raised pad through the mid section of the grip is designed to fill the concave area your palm creates when in a grip holding position. To increase comfort and the grip’s ability to micro-adjust within your grasp, there is also a half-waffle to the underside, and circumferential ribs internally where your pointer finger and thumb rest. In all, this grip has a lot going on all in the name of comfort!
The rubber durometer is definitely on the softer side, and is noticeably softer than the ODI grips I typically run. Lying beneath the outer layers of this grip is a layer of Leatt’s own RealFlex gel. Similar to D30, this non-newtonian gel is designed to absorb vibrations and impacts as it changes its hardness under load. The grip itself is fixed to your bar with a single internal lock ring which uses a 3mm allen bolt.
Leatt ReaFlex on the trail
The intricate pattern and extensive features of these grips come together to deliver one standout benefit – comfort. Designed to fit naturally in your hands, the Leatt ReaFlex 6.0 grips use soft rubber to enhance their ergonomic feel. Notably, the varied cross-section increases the external diameter, reducing pressure on the outer hand during long rides. A raised palm pad further improves comfort, a feature I’ve come to consider essential in any grip I use. I found that these grips effectively dampen micro-vibrations and chatter that can contribute to discomfort. Riders who love the ESI Chunky slip-on grips but prefer a lock-on option should definitely give the Leatt ReaFlex 6.0 a try. Though the soft rubber and Leatt ReaFlex core slightly reduce precision and ground feel, the added comfort is well worth the trade-off.
Our take on Leatt ReaFlex
Aside from a laundry list of features, the new 6.0 ReaFlex grips from Leatt deliver a comfortable fit and soft ride character. For those riders who prefer an ergonomically designed grip these should be on your radar.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Soft, comfortable compound
- Ergonomic profile that fits the hand well
- Various colour and diameter options
Cons
- Soft and varied rubber may lack precision for some
