New downhill specific grips and saddles from Ergon – masters of ergonomically designed bike components. We check out what they have to offer.

Words: Sean White  Photos: Ben Winder and Ergon

First, a bit of history…

Ergon have been pioneering ergonomically designed hardware for the bike for years and in a typically Germanic manner have a very thorough approach to everything they develop. However, it was only with the introduction of the GE1 series grips, designed with input from Fabien Barel that sparked an interest in this brand.

Ergon say that their GE1 was the first ergonomic rider-oriented grip designed specifically for use with wide handlebars – 750mm or more, the widths most of us are now running. By rotating the grip 8% on the handlebar axis, the rider automatically bends the elbow outwards for technical riding and the GE1’s unique shape reduces pressure on the sensitive ulna nerve and arm pump is effectively reduced.

Maximum hand grip is from the use of silicone-based rubber compounds – a texture orientation which is opposite the rotation of the hand, and a damping inner core construction.

With a saddle to match this type of riding and bike set-up, Ergon’s SME3 range shows a similar attention to design detail. Ergon factory rider Richie Schley got involved with the testing of Ergon’s ‘all-mountain’ saddle, the SMA3. Worth checking out if you’re looking for a saddle upgrade.

For 2017 (and first spotted by us at Dirt on the race circuit here in Europe) is a range of grips and saddles with a focus on the DH and gravity rider.