ODI Vans V2.1 Lock-On Grips review

ODI Vans V2.1 Lock-On Grips review

Stylish sole-inspired grips with tacky texture

Our rating

3.5

33.00
30.00

Andy Lloyd / Our Media

Published: June 6, 2024 at 9:00 am

Our review
The Vans V2.1 grips provide impressive dry-weather traction and cushioning in all but the worst weather

Pros:

Tacky texture; good cushioning; easy to install

Cons:

Lose grip in the thick mud

ODI’s Vans V2.1 Lock-On Grips provide a tacky and responsive feel that gives plenty of traction as you quickly link through successive turns or blast through gnarly rock gardens.

The distinctive tread pattern brings style to bland cockpits, though wet-weather traction is limited.

The Vans V2.1 Lock-On Grips are ODI’s second attempt at replicating the classic waffle pattern for your hands.

This version sees ODI’s thin single-clamp design instead of the dual clamp found on the previous model. It features a checkerboard pattern that's individual to each of the six colourways.

Next to the clamp is a mini flange designed to increase comfort without interfering with the shifting or braking.

The grip is split into two patterns, with the hexagon-shaped waffle featuring along the top and the diamond shape everywhere else.

This is said to improve padding when compared to the previous version by adding density around the palm area.

While the grips share a resemblance to the soles of Vans shoes, ODI says they use a proprietary rubber compound.

Measuring 135mm in length with a diameter of 31mm, the grips weigh in at 101g on our scales.

ODI Vans V2.1 Lock-On Grips performance

ODI Vans V2.1 Lock-on Grips for mountain bikes
The single-clamp design has a checkerboard appearance, which is individual to the six available colours. Andy Lloyd / Our Media

ODI’s Vans V2.1 Lock-on Grips are easy to install, with the single clamp easy to tighten using a 3mm Allen key, giving the grip a confidence-inspiring connection to the handlebar.

The slim clamp allows for good compatibility with shifters and levers too, with controls able to nestle up close to the grip.

While I’m not usually a fan of flanges on grips, the mini flanges on the Vans V2.1 aren’t intrusive and don’t impede my thumb when shifting gears or activating the dropper post.

The diamond-shaped waffle pattern that covers most of the grip has a subtle squish and the underside gives a good purchase for digging in your fingers.

I found the dual pattern to be effective, with the hexagons providing more support on the top of the grip and helping to dampen small vibrations.

On cold days with wet, muddy mountain bike gloves, the grip from the Vans V2.1s is limited and I found my hand crabbing towards the outward flange on a couple of occasions.

Throughout my testing, the grips suffered very little wear and even after ploughing them through the gravel topside of a berm they still look untouched.

ODI Vans V2.1 Lock-on Grips bottom line

ODI Vans V2.1 Lock-on Grips for mountain bikes
ODI’s Vans V2.1 Lock-On Grips provide a tacky and responsive feel that gives plenty of traction. Andy Lloyd / Our Media

Depending on your taste, the ODI Vans V2.1 Lock-on Grips are a stylish and tacky pair of grips that provide good traction.

However, they don't perform as well as the best mountain bike grips in the most challenging conditions.

Product

Brand odi
Price 30.00 GBP,33.00 USD
Weight 101.0000, GRAM () - for pair

Features