So today I finally tackled that wobbly grip on my bike – been sliding around like it’s on butter for weeks. Grabbed those new rubber grips I ordered online and got my hands dirty right in the garage. Here’s exactly how it went down:
Gathering My Battle Gear
- New grips (obviously)
- Screwdriver – the flathead kind
- Rubbing alcohol – had to dig under bathroom sink
- Spray bottle with water (last minute kitchen grab)
- Paper towels – already half soaked with oil
Ripping Off the Old Hot Garbage
First, wedged that screwdriver under the crusty old grip. Pried it up slowly like opening a paint can – heard nasty sticky peeling sounds. Whole grip was sweaty and slimy inside, kinda gross. Wiped down the metal bar with alcohol-soaked paper towel. Brown gunk kept coming off till it finally felt clean and dry.
The Soapy Wrestling Match
Spritzed water inside the NEW grip like I was seasoning a pan. Shoved one end onto the handlebar and started twisting hard. Felt like arm-wrestling myself! Halfway through, it got stuck. Cussed a bit, pulled it off, sprayed more water, tried again with violent twisting. Finally jammed it fully home with this gross squelching noise.
Repeated the soapy struggle on the other side. Sweat dripping off my nose now. Pro tip: twist DON’T push straight – learned that the hard way when alignment went sideways at 75%.
Panic Adjustments
Left grip looked crooked after wrestling it on. Grabbed grip top and bottom, put knee against it like I’m doing CPR, and whacked it sideways with my palm. Surprised it actually moved straight without tearing. Wiped off all the nasty soap bubbles oozing out the ends.
Saw online later that hairdryer helps water dry faster. Too late – mine are air-drying near radiator while I type this. If they slide off overnight, you’ll hear me yell across town.
