WTB released the “Original Trail Grip” in 1992 and they still making it ever since.

When it was first released, it was simply called the “Trail Grip”, but WTB now sells it under this name out of respect for the original.

Throwback Thursdays: 1992 WTB Trailgrips

This is an article about this grip on the blog of WTB.

WTB was not only made parts but also customized the existing parts that were not designed for mountain bikes to use as mountain bike parts around early 80s~90s.

They modified and used the grips that Magura had made for motorcycles as a mountainbaike grips, but they were so hard and the flange often hit with the shifter, so they decided to make their own original as their original. The result is this grip.

It is quite classic and simple compared to authentic mountain bike grips in these days, but the octagonal shape and slight flare on the inside make it easy to grip, and WTB’s proprietary “DNA rubber” makes it both durable and non-slip at a high level, making it simple yet functional. This grip has been loved by many riders as a classic from that time to the present.

With its simple looks and color, it is perfect for serious MTBs, as well as for ATBs of these days and also commuter bikes.

Ofcourse, the looks that not changed from 1992 is very helpful to build vintage MTBs with an atmosphere in the days. For sure.

The variation of color is only black, but there was a clear one once upon a time…very interesting. (I looked for a picture but couldn’t find one.)

I installed it on my RBW Joe Appaloosa. Because I wanted to put a simple grip on it, and I built this bike not only for daily commuting but also for trail riding.

I was so inspired from this bike, A. Homer Hilsen with this grip owned by Will Keating the general manager of RBW. That’s also why I installed it.

“They’re classic. Can’t mess with a classic, they’re still comfy and perfect.”

This is a quotation from the product page of this grip of WTB.

I’ll keep grip this grip with huge respect for this stance of WTB.