Your motorcycle grips are what you touch all the time. Poor material, wrong diameter, poor installation: you pay the price in comfort, grip, and sometimes safety. The good news is, choosing 1-inch (25,4 mm) grips for your Harley or American custom is easy when you know the three key criteria. This guide explains them, along with the complete KustomTech range available at Holdfast.
What is a 1-inch motorcycle grip?
The 1-inch (25,4 mm) is the standard inner diameter of grips mounted on Harley-Davidson handlebars and most American custom motorcycles. This measurement refers to the inner hole of the grip: it corresponds to the outer diameter of the handlebar onto which it slides. If you ride a Harley, Indian, Victory, or a custom chopper/bobber built on a Harley chassis, you're using 1-inch grips. European and Japanese sport bikes, on the other hand, use 22 mm (7/8 inch) grips — but that's not the point here.
A 1-inch grip serves several functions: absorbing engine vibrations, ensuring a secure grip (even with wet gloves), and visually integrating the cockpit with the rest of the design. A good grip is also a style statement: the material, finish, and design speak volumes about the machine's personality.
The 3 technical criteria to check
1. The type of throttle cable (external or internal)
This is the number one criterion, the one you can't go wrong with. On some motorcycles, the throttle cable exits the grip housing from the side ( external cable , modern Harley standard). On others, it runs inside the handlebar before exiting back into the housing ( internal cable , Harley standard from the 80s and 90s and some custom bikes). Your right grip must match the type of housing you're using. At KustomTech, each part number specifies compatibility:
- External cable: Vintage Polished Aluminum, Vintage Black Aluminum, Nastro Telato
- Internal cable: Vintage Polished Aluminum, Vintage Black Aluminum, Nastro Telato
- Inverted controls (clip-ons): Vintage Polished Aluminum, Vintage Black Aluminum, Nastro Telato
Kustom rubber grips (blue, red, green) work in a universal configuration (external or simple cable).
2. Matter
At KustomTech, there are four families of materials:
- Mirror polished aluminum + brass The classic heritage option. Polished aluminum, brass ring that develops a patina over time. Ideal for a customized chopper, bobber, or café racer. View Polished Aluminum Handles ›
- Black anodized aluminum + brass Same handle but with a deep black finish. Perfect for a monochrome build with just a touch of brass on the ring. View the Black Aluminum Handles ›
- Nastro telato (woven band) Polished aluminum block covered with technical fabric. Unique textile grip; won't burn in summer and won't slip in the rain. A vintage chopper classic. View Nastro Telato handles ›
- Kustom Colored Rubber : dense, durable, applies in 2 minutes. Available in blue, Red, shiso, white flask. For a pop touch that's easy to change.
3. Handlebar compatibility
All the KustomTech grips listed here are designed for 25,4 mm (1 inch) handlebars . Before purchasing, measure the outside diameter of your handlebars with calipers if you're unsure. These grips are not compatible with 22 mm (7/8 inch) handlebars without an adapter ring—it's best to look for grips specifically designed for 22 mm handlebars.
Which style for which motorcycle?
For a heritage chopper or bobber
Opt for the Vintage Deluxe Polished Aluminum + Brass or the Nastro Telato . These finishes complement the chrome and brass components found on other custom parts (levers, risers, fuel caps). Pair them with Deluxe Polished Brass risers or Raw Brass risers for a complete set.
For an all-black monochrome build
The Vintage Black Aluminum + Brass risers maintain the subtle contrast of brass without disrupting the dominant black. Perfect with chrome risers for a subtle touch or satin chrome risers for a more discreet look.
To add a touch of color
The rubber Kustom grips (blue, red, green) can be installed and removed in 2 minutes. Perfect if you want to try out a color without commitment, or change your mood with the seasons. These grips cost only a fraction of the machined versions.
Don't forget the finishing touch: the handle ring
Between the grip and the switch housing, you can slide in a finishing ring (also called a "ring" or "grip ring"). It's a small machined piece with an outer diameter of 36 mm that adds a visual accent. Four finishes are available:
- Polished Aluminum Ring — to be paired with the polished aluminum handles
- Black Aluminum Ring — to be used in conjunction with the Black Aluminum handles
- Polished Brass Ring — to be combined with the Nastro Telato
- Chrome Ring — the versatile one, a superb contrast with black
Installation time: 5 to 15 minutes depending on the type of handle
- Kustom rubber : a spray of detergent on the handlebars, put it on, attach the white flask. 2-5 minutes.
- Vintage Deluxe or Nastro Telato Remove the old grips, clean the handlebars, slide on the new grip, tighten the brass ring, and check the orientation of the control box. 10-15 minutes.
- Internal cable : Pass the throttle cable inside the handlebar before threading the grip. 15 minutes.
In all cases, start with the left grip (easier, no cable), then the right with the throttle body. Always test the full opening/closing of the throttle after installation, before going for a ride.
FAQ
Are KustomTech grips sold in pairs?
Yes, unless otherwise stated. You receive the left handle and the right handle.
Do these grips fit on a 22mm handlebar?
No, not without an adapter ring. The grips listed here are specifically for 25,4 mm grips.
Are Kustom rubber products durable?
Yes, high density rubber, withstands 3-5 years of daily use without deforming.
Can an external cable handle be mounted on an internal cable housing?
No. The cable routing is physically different. Always check your housing before buying.
Is there a stock in France?
Yes. All the listed handles are in stock at Holdfast in Marseille. Shipping within 48 hours, with no customs fees or surprises.
Explore the full range
All throttle grips › — 12 references + 4 finishing rings.
Matching Deluxe risers › — 5 finishes in 22 mm and 25,4 mm for a consistent cockpit.