MotoOnline.com.au puts the Tag Metals Slim Grip to the test, read on to see what we thought.
Grips are a very personal choice on any motorcycle, something that for most will have to be spot on in order to perform at the highest level possible.
C&R Imports provided us here at MotoOnline.com.au with a set of the Tag Metals Slim Grips for our Suzuki RM-Z250, so we quickly fitted them to our ride and the track to see how well they worked.
Technical Information
The Tag Metals Slim Grip has been developed and tested with factory team riders. The Slim Grip features leading edge technology, using a half waffle/half raised diamond pattern for optimum traction.
The grip utilizes advance rubber material giving you the best combination of strength, durability, shock absorption and tackiness to suit your individual preference.
The slim design also offers the ability to get maximum feel and maximum control, while also allowing excellent shock absorption, low mud retention and an overall improved riding experience.
Positive
Throughout the years I have always been a very picky rider when it came to my grips, needing a slim design, half waffle and definitely a nice soft compound – and the Tag Metals Slim Grip provides all of that, plus more. The grip has been constructed very well, with the thought of durability and performance in mind.
Durability wise, the grip has been built with a much more substantial end compared to some of its competitors. Now this is a small detail, but it sure does come in handy when you have a small tip over and you are able to remount without having torn the end of your grip to pieces.
The grip was a breeze to fit to my Tag Metals handlebars, and the recessed area for wiring of your grips is always a handy feature to have. Just makes life easier in the shed and it also looks a whole lot cleaner at the same time.
Out on the track I was very impressed with the grip, I usually always opt for a soft compound grip at all times – and as expected, the soft compound Slim Grip ended up being the perfect setup for me. It provided great shock absorption, while still allowing the correct amount of feel.
Possibly the most impressive feature of the Slim Grip is the amount of traction your hand receives from the grip. I have never used a grip that felt this tacky, and I can assure you this would come in handy after taking a fall during a slick early morning moto.
Negative
Now for the negatives, every great product has to have one right? The only issue I have with my Tag Metals Slim Grips is the colour choice. Such a small detail, but it must be mentioned.
We were provided with the white coloured Slim Grip, which looks very cool and stands out against our black handlebars very well. But before we even got to the track they started to look used and marked up. Although you do have options when it comes to this.
The Tag Metals Slim Grips are available in a soft compound, light grey in colour or a medium compound in a dark grey colour and obviously the soft compound which we are running in the white colour.
If you are a soft compound rider like myself, but you are worried about your grips looking old too fast – you may want to take the soft option in the light grey colour. This will still provide you with that feel and performance you need, but at the same time your ride will look fresh for longer.
Verdict
Overall the Tag Metals Slim Grip is a great product and I myself will be switching over to these on my personal bike as soon as possible. Which says a lot after using the exact same grip religiously for quite some time now.
If you are looking for a grip that offers a very comfortable feel, great performance and durability, then this is the perfect product for you. As I mentioned above, the Slim Grip is available in a range of compounds and colours, something for everyone.
For the riders out there who steer away from a slimmer and softer grip because of wear issues, the very affordable recommended retail price of $14.95 makes it possible for you to grab an extra set to allow for that quicker wear time.
Head to your local bike shop and ask for the Tag Metals Slim Grip, or head to over to www.candr.com.au to find your nearest Tag Metals stockist.