Description
DMR Deathgrip2 Flange Grips – The Original, Just Better
The DMR Deathgrip inspired a generation of mountain bike grips. After years of refinement with world-class riders including Brendan Fairclough, Olly Wilkins, and the DMR team, the Deathgrip2 takes everything riders loved about the original and adds fundamental improvements. This is the grip that set the standard – now perfected.
The Winning Formula Refined
The Deathgrip2 retains the iconic three-zone grip pattern that made the original a legend. The layout combines comfort, control, and traction in a scientifically optimised design that works whether you ride with or without gloves.
Mushroom Section (Thumb Zone)
The grip begins with a soft mushroom-ribbed section positioned under your thumb and forefinger. This zone addresses a critical comfort issue – preventing blisters in soft-tissue areas. The mushroom ribs provide gentle texture without aggressive edges, creating secure grip without abrading skin during long rides or sweaty conditions.
The mushroom positioning is millimetre-perfect, placing the comfort zone exactly where your thumb naturally rests. This attention to anatomical detail makes extended rides more comfortable and prevents the hand fatigue that comes from gripping too hard to compensate for inadequate grip.
Diamond Knurl (Main Grip Zone)
The central section features diamond knurl patterning – aggressive enough for confident grip in all conditions yet refined enough to avoid excessive glove or hand wear. The diamond pattern works in wet, dry, muddy, or dusty conditions, maintaining consistent traction throughout ride variations.
The knurl depth balances grip performance with comfort. Too shallow and grips slip in challenging conditions; too deep and they become uncomfortable or damage gloves excessively. DMR’s years of development achieved the optimal balance.
Waffle Pattern (Finger Zone)
The underside features waffle patterning designed to hold your fingers in perfect position. The waffle layout creates defined channels where fingers naturally settle, improving control precision during technical riding. Your fingers stay positioned consistently rather than wandering across the grip surface.
This finger positioning becomes crucial during aggressive riding when bikes move dynamically beneath you. The waffle pattern maintains hand position without conscious effort, allowing you to focus on riding rather than grip adjustment.
What’s New on Deathgrip2
Exposed Core End
The biggest visual change – the tapered hard plastic core is now exposed at the outboard end. This provides significantly improved durability when grips contact the ground during falls or when leaning bikes against walls and rocks. The exposed core protects the rubber from damage, extending grip lifespan.
This practical improvement addresses real-world wear patterns. Original Deathgrips could tear at the bar end from repeated ground contact. The exposed core eliminates this wear point completely.
Injection-Moulded End Cap
The exposed core features a new injection-moulded DMR logo end cap. This branded element adds visual appeal whilst protecting the core end. The cap coordinates with grip colours, creating a cohesive aesthetic. It’s a small detail that elevates the overall appearance.
Refined Lock-Ring Collar
The new lock-ring collar is slimmer, more refined, and better integrated with the grip outer. The reduced profile creates a cleaner appearance whilst maintaining full security. The aluminium collar includes a stainless steel Allen bolt – simply torque to 2Nm for secure mounting.
The single-bolt design remains wonderfully simple. One collar per grip (inboard side only), one bolt to tighten. No fiddling with dual lock-rings or wire clamps. The tapered core design means the grip cannot slide off the bar end even without an outer collar.
Improved Flange Design
The flanges are now slimmer with a new relief design and fresh DMR logo. The reduced profile provides hand support without feeling bulky or restrictive. The relief design (cutouts in the flange) reduces weight slightly whilst creating visual interest.
Flanges prevent hands from sliding off bar ends during aggressive cornering or rough sections. They’re particularly valued by downhill and enduro riders who experience significant hand movement under hard braking and cornering forces.
Tapered Core Technology
The Deathgrip2 uses DMR’s proven tapered core system. The core diameter increases from bar diameter at the inboard end to larger diameter at the outboard end. This taper creates a wedge effect – as you push the grip onto the bar, it tightens progressively.
The taper means grips stay secure with just one inboard lock-ring. This reduces weight, complexity, and potential pressure points under your palm. The system has proven reliable through years of aggressive riding by professional and amateur riders worldwide.
Soft Krayton Rubber Compound
The rubber compound uses 20A durometer krayton – soft enough for excellent comfort and vibration damping yet durable enough for long service life. The compound remains grippy when wet and doesn’t harden in cold temperatures or soften excessively in heat.
Krayton offers superior characteristics compared to basic rubber compounds. It resists UV degradation, maintains elasticity through temperature variations, and provides consistent grip characteristics throughout its lifespan.
Six Colour Options
Available in Black, Blue Marble, Camo, Gum, Red, and Snow Camo. This variety allows aesthetic customisation matching your bike’s colour scheme. The colours are moulded throughout the compound rather than surface coatings, ensuring they won’t wear off.
The marble and camo patterns add visual interest beyond solid colours. The classic Gum option suits retro or natural-finish builds. Whatever your aesthetic preference, there’s a Deathgrip2 to match.
