Test / Grips for mountain bikers: The Ergon GA2 Fat is the more voluminous sibling of the popular all-rounder. With its extra rubber, it aims to not only please riders with large hands but also deliver solid damping. We tested how the increased circumference feels in practice and whether it lives up to its promise on the trail.
Dimensions and shape: Ergon GA2 Fat
Diameter: 33,5 mm (Extra Thick)
L: 136 mm
Weight: 135 g
Available colors: various (including black, red, blue)
With the GA2 Fat, Ergon delivers essentially the "XL" version of a true classic. While the standard GA2 is rather slim, the Fat version, with a diameter of 33,5 mm, is significantly thicker. The target group is clearly pilots with glove sizes XL or XXL, who often experience hand cramps with thin grips. The shape isn't strictly cylindrical, but rather tapers slightly outwards, which is intended to accommodate the natural hand position.
Technically, Ergon uses a soft, UV-stable rubber compound "Made in Germany." Since the clamping ring isn't on the outside, the grip surface can be used across its full 136 mm width without any hard metal edges pressing against the palm of the hand. The end of the grip is securely closed and reinforced with plastic – however, you won't find separate bar end plugs. At 135 g, the pair weighs in the middle range, which is perfectly acceptable considering the materials used.
On the trail: Our test impressions
In practice, the GA2 Fat quickly proves to be the comfort-providing grip we expected. Anyone familiar with the classic GA2 will feel right at home, but will notice the significantly increased volume. The grip feels substantial in the hand and is truly a versatile all-rounder that can be confidently fitted to almost any bike. The rubber compound offers a perfect balance: the texture is subtle enough not to cut uncomfortably into the palms, even without gloves, yet still provides more than enough grip to ensure a secure hold on the handlebars, even in wet conditions.
The real highlight, however, is the damping. Thanks to the thicker rubber layer, the grip absorbs vibrations and small impacts with exceptional ease. This is particularly noticeable on long descents or rooty sections – your hands tire less quickly, and the dreaded "clawing" of your fingers is effectively prevented. However, this plush feel comes at a slight compromise: the feedback from the ground is noticeably more muted and less direct than with thinner race grips. If you want to feel every pebble on your handlebars, these might not be for you. But for everyone else looking for a worry-free companion, the concept works perfectly. In testing, the integrated plastic end caps also proved robust enough to withstand occasional contact with the ground or leaning against rough walls.
