The Oxford heated grips on the Connie are now 82,000km old and the left grip has kinda got worn out and often gets sticky in warm weather. In other words, it's pretty stuffed.
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| Icky! |
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| Grip what? |
Getting them on was a bit of a task. I removed the bar end weights and lubed up the grips and the puppies with soapy water. It still was a fairly difficult task - probably a bit like getting Fat Albert into Paris Hilton's wetsuit - but after doubling the grips over I got them onto the bars and then was able to pull them by their edges (they are very strongly made) until they were in position.
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| Installing |
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| Ta-da |
So on today's ride I left wearing my medium weight gloves (usually all I need throughout winter) and the grips definitely felt fatter in my hands. I ride covering my front brake with two fingers and this was slightly more difficult with the puppies on - I really only had one finger on the lever until I started braking. The clutch side was ok as I always use four fingers there.
As far as the effectiveness of the heated grips through the puppies - I had to have the temperature on the 2nd highest setting (75%) to feel anything and even on 100% the grips were not too hot. I usually only need the 1st or 2nd heat settings (50/60%). As it wasn't too cold today I'm not sure what they'll be like on a really cold day.
Anyway, they're still new and I've got to get used to them so I'll see how they go for a wee while. If I decide I don't like them then they'll come off and maybe I'll pick up some new grips - the puppies weren't that expensive so I won't have wasted a fortune...stay tuned...
I've tried such products before and as you mention...it makes thing feel "fatter" and the sense of loss of sensitivity/contact. I ended up ripping mine off almost immediately, will be interested in your long range usage/feedback.
ReplyDeletedom
Redleg's Rides
Colorado Motorcycle Travel Examiner
I have seen grip puppies but never used them. I have heard that they help riders with arthritis in their hands that can't close their hands to grip a smaller hand grip.
ReplyDeleteHopefully they will work out oaky for you and enough heat will come through. It would be easier if you were heading into summer but Murphy's Law said they'd wear out when you were heading into winter. Isn't that always the way?
I can't get that picture of Fat Albert getting into Paris Hilton's wet suit out of my head... lol.
ReplyDeleteThe increased diameter of the grips would certainly become an issue for me. Most stock handlebars are already too big, and like you I prefer thin gloves to keep the best possible dexterity.
Andrew:
ReplyDeleteI also have the Oxford Heated Grips but they are hot in the middle, but cold on the outside of your hands, even with the handguards. The Oxfords are larger diameter than most handbar grips. I can't imagine something on top making them even larger (diameter).
I also have a set of heated gloves. They are much warmer, as there are elements in each finger, but the wires are a nuisance and they get in the way, esp when you forget to unplug when you dismount
bob
Riding the Wet Coast
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