26 Nov 2025 • 5m read
How to Choose the Best Motorcycle Heated Grip in 2026

If you're in the market for the best motorcycle heated grips in 2026, XLMoto is the perfect place to start. With all the top brands in stock and ready to ship, our range of motorcycle heated grips covers every kind of rider, from commuters and daily riders to seasoned long-distance tourers who aren't afraid to brave the coldest conditions.
To help you make the right choice, we’ve broken down the most important factors to consider when buying the best motorcycle heated grips in 2026:
Comfort and grip texture
Heat control levels
Weather protection and durability
Installation and handlebar compatibility
Vibration damping and materials
Style and aesthetics
We’ll also recommend our top heated grip picks available now at XLMoto, explain different grip types, and show you how to keep your grips in top condition all season long.
The Best Motorcycle Heated Grips
Before we dive into how to choose the right motorcycle heated grips and what to look out for, we know that many riders simply want to cut to the chase. At XLMoto, we understand that the best motorcycle heated grips for one rider may not be ideal for another. That said, the products below are all exceptional options—grips we confidently recommend for performance, comfort and reliability.
Daytona Heated Grips 4 Levels
These superbly crafted Daytona Heated Grips deliver true winter-ready functionality with a virtually fuss-free installation process designed for today’s riders. With four distinct heat levels and compact controls, these motorcycle heated grips are built for consistency and comfort without unnecessary complexity. Their slimline profile fits most standard handlebars, making them ideal for commuter and touring motorcycles alike. It's no surprise they rank among our top three best motorcycle heated grips for 2026. With our lowest price guarantee, XLMoto is the perfect place to pick up your pair.
Quick Specs:
Price – Affordably mid-range
Size – 22.2mm diameter
Colour – Black
Weight – Approx. 250 to 300g
Certification – CE certified
Material – Rubber compound with internal heating elements
Pros
Four-step heat settings offer flexibility for different temperatures
Compatible with the majority of 7/8” handlebars
Good grip texture for both bare hands and when wearing gloves
A discreet control unit is included
CE certification confirms their safety
Cons
Not quite as sleek or integrated as more premium heated grips
Requires clean wiring for a tidy install
Doesn't always heat as quickly as high-end competitor products
Limited styling options (black only) won't suit all riders
Twenty Heated Grips
If you're looking for excellent value without sacrificing features, Twenty Heated Grips are well worth considering. Despite their budget-friendly price, they offer multiple heat settings and an integrated bar-end design—features typically found in more expensive motorcycle heated grip kits. Built for universal fitment and hassle-free installation, they’re a smart choice for new riders or anyone upgrading from stock grips without breaking the bank. It's easy to see why they rank among the best heated motorcycle grips in their class.
Quick Specs:
Price – A budget-friendly choice
Size - Universal (grips that fit most 22mm handlebars)
Colour - Black
Weight - Approx. 250g
Certification - CE certified heated grips
Material - Textured rubber with a built-in heating coil
Pros
Affordable for bike owners on a budget or who only want occasional use
Integrated bar-end finish improves the look of these motorcycle grips
Straightforward installation process makes this a great choice for beginners
Five-stage heat control system for all riding conditions
Durable construction suitable for daily commuting or longer tours
Cons
Heat distribution can sometimes feel uneven now and again
Thicker grip design may not suit all preferences, especially riders with smaller hands
A simpler look compared to some premium grips
Function well but sometimes lack premium-level responsiveness in extremely cold temperatures
CustomAcces Heated Grips Chrome
Effortlessly blending classic cruiser styling with modern winter-ready performance, CustomAcces Heated Grips in chrome look right at home in any season. The polished chrome finish makes these motorcycle heated grips a perfect match for retro, cruiser and custom-built bikes. In short, they provide both flair and function in a single product that would suit many types of riders. With their built-in heating elements, we think they are among the best motorcycle heated grips for style-conscious riders who want winter comfort without compromising the look of their bike.
Quick Specs:
Price – Premium price range product
Size - 133mm length, 22mm diameter
Colour - Chrome with black grip surface
Weight - Approx. 300g
Certification - CE approved
Material - Chrome-plated alloy and rubber
Pros
Stylish chrome finish suited to customised or cruiser bikes
Strong heat output for all-weather riding and biking in extreme conditions
An exceptionally high build quality with durable materials
Comfortable grip length for larger handlebars
CE certified for complete peace of mind
Cons
As a premium set of grips, they're more expensive than other options
Heavier than plastic or rubber-only grips
Chrome styling may not suit all sport bikes and riders' aesthetic preferences
Require careful installation to match your bike's styling cleanly

How to Choose the Right Heated Grips for Your Ride
Now that you’ve seen three of the best motorcycle heated grips available at XLMoto, you might be wondering which one is right for you. That depends on a few key factors, from how they feel in your hands to how easily they fit your bike. Below, we break down the most important things to consider before making your choice.
Comfort and Grip Texture
Heated grips should feel natural and supportive in your hands. Look for textured surfaces or ergonomic contours that help maintain control, even in wet or gloved conditions. Comfort reduces fatigue and improves responsiveness on long rides.
Heat Control Levels
Choose grips with adjustable temperature settings. Basic grips may have two levels, while premium options offer up to five or even automatic temperature regulation. Integrated thumb controls let you adjust heat on the move without taking your hands off the bars.
Weather Protection and Durability
Since heated grips include electronic components, they must be resistant to water and road grime. Look for CE certification, sealed connectors, and rugged materials that won’t crack or degrade over time.
Installation and Handlebar Compatibility
Always check grip sizing: most are designed for 22mm (7/8") bars, but cruiser models may require 1" grips. Consider how the grips mount: lock-on collars are more secure, while slip-on types are easier to fit but may loosen over time. Confirm if wiring and controllers are included.
Vibration Damping and Materials
Heated grips can help reduce handlebar vibrations, which is especially important for touring or off-road riding. Look for dual-compound rubber or grips with integrated foam or gel that absorb road buzz while maintaining grip strength.
Style and Aesthetics
Function aside, your grips should look right on your bike. If you ride a retro or cruiser-style machine, chrome or bar-end grips may suit you best. Sport and adventure riders often prefer low-profile, blacked-out grips with compact control units for a cleaner look.
Types of Heated Motorcycle Grips
Choosing the right type of motorcycle heated grip depends on several factors, including your preferred riding style, comfort preferences and budget. As with selecting a motorcycle intercom, the price range will also be a big purchasing factor for some riders. Below, we’ve outlined the main categories of heated motorcycle grips and highlighted the key features that make each one suitable for different types of riders.
Standard Heated Grips (Add-On Kits)
Among the most common motorcycle heated grips available today, standard add-on kits can be retrofitted in place of the original rubber grips found on most bikes. They’re often the best motorcycle heated grips for general riders looking to extend their season into colder months without breaking the bank. Installation is usually straightforward, with no major modifications required.
Most standard heated grip add-on kits include a separate control unit that mounts either on the handlebars or fairing. With this, riders can select from two to five heat settings depending on the model. Once activated, the after-market grips warm up relatively quickly to provide comfort in typical winter conditions. On the downside, they can sometimes feel cluttered and provide an uneven distribution of heat. What's more, they are not always the easiest motorcycle heated grips to install.
Integrated Heated Grips (OEM and Premium Options)
Unlike standard motorcycle heated grips, fully integrated ones are designed to function seamlessly with the motorcycle's control systems. As such, you won't get a separate control box to install. Typically produced by manufacturers as a high-specification option for new bikes, these premium motorcycle heated grips are also sometimes made as high-end after-market kits.
You can expect to benefit from seamless integrated heat controls. Since there are no external controls or switches, these are the best motorcycle heated grips to choose for those wanting to maintain the bike's clean look. As premium products, many riders would agree that they provide greater reliability in cold conditions and precise temperature settings. On the other hand, professional installation is often required. They're more expensive and often model-specific in many cases.
Heated Grips With Integrated Thumb Controls
This type of motorcycle heated grip comes with a small button or switch embedded directly into the grip itself. Usually operated with a thumb, this design approach removes the need for a separate controller box to be installed. It also allows for heating level adjustments to be made on the go without having to remove your hand from the grip. Many riders prefer these motorcycle heated grips because they offer a sleeker look than standard add-ons, but they're not as costly as OEM and other premium options.
Since there is also a reduced risk of snagging cables or external switches, they are among the best motorcycle heated grips for adventure riders. Despite these plus points, such grips are limited to certain models and aren't always suited for riders who wear thick gloves, limiting their appeal in very cold riding conditions. Some heated grips with thumb controls have only a few different heat settings, so you need to shop around to get the right type for your riding preferences.
Battery or USB-Powered Heated Grips (Slip-On Sleeves)
If you don't want to modify your motorbike but still want to keep your hands warm in cold weather, then slip-on motorcycle heated grips are worth looking into. These require no wiring since they are powered either by batteries, which you can replace, or a rechargeable pack, which you can replenish via any USB port. They simply slide over your bike's current handlebar grips and generate heat, making them the best motorcycle heated grips for riders who want something simple that just works.
Taking seconds to fit and without any specialist skills to operate, battery or USB-powered motorcycle heated grips are just as easy to take off when the spring weather returns. However, there are some disadvantages: Firstly, they will only keep your hands warm while power in their batteries remains, making certain models only suitable for shorter journeys. In addition, some riders find that they can feel a bit bulky.
You might also discover that battery-powered motorcycle heated grips produce lower temperatures than other options. As a result, they can't always help in the depths of winter, depending on your location and exposure to sub-zero conditions. Finally, hard-wired motorcycle heated grips tend to be more durable than slip-on grips. That said, for occasional use, they suit many types of riders.
Lock-On Heated Grips
Typically made with clamping collars that help to keep them in place, lock-on grips are often preferred by riders who head off-road. This is because they tend to maintain their position on the handlebars, even when they're exposed to bumps and vibrations—something that isn't always the case with other motorcycle heated grips. Consequently, they're considered the best motorcycle heated grips for enduro or dirt bike owners, providing heat and rider peace of mind.
What's more, most lock-on heated grips are relatively easy to remove when needed. Simply unclamp their collars to release them for maintenance or to clean your bike. In terms of temperature settings, lock-on heated grips vary greatly. Some offer precise controls, while others may have just one or two heat settings you can use. They are also a bit more expensive than standard motorcycle heated grips. Keep in mind that lock-on grips of this type won’t fit all handlebar sizes, so you need to confirm motorcycle compatibility before purchasing a set.

What to Look for When Choosing Heated Motorcycle Grips
If you're planning to ride through winter, having the right gear is essential. Our guide on how to choose your motorcycle pants can help you gear up for cold-weather riding, while our article on riding a motorcycle in winter offers additional tips for staying safe and comfortable in harsh conditions.
One of the most important elements to get right is warmth—and that starts with your hands. Choosing the best motorcycle heated grips isn’t just about comfort—it’s also about maintaining responsive control on the handlebars. In that sense, heated grips are an important safety upgrade for any winter rider. So, what are the most important factors to weigh up when choosing a set?
Rider Comfort
All handlebar grips, whether heated or not, need to feel comfortable in your hand when you are riding. This is especially so when you are riding in cold weather, which is often tougher than at other times. The thickness of the best motorcycle heated grips should feel natural in your gloved hand. Ideally, they will possess a textured grip, which means you feel confident that your hand won't slide off even when it is wet. Contoured shapes can also benefit some riders, giving them a degree of support for their palms.
Heat Control
Unlike standard motorcycle grips, heated ones need to provide thermal energy. Motorcycle heated grips do this by creating resistance for an electrical current. However, not all grips provide the same heat distribution throughout the entire surface area. Some have limited temperature controls, and others can only be operated through control units which aren't mounted within the grips themselves.
Check whether the grips you are considering buying adjust automatically with ambient temperature changes since only premium products tend to offer this. Confirm the number of heat levels that are on offer, too, which is important if you want to ride throughout the winter months, including very cold days.
Ingress Protection
Due to the electronics that go into motorcycle heated grips, you need to be confident that the products you choose are able to withstand wet weather as well as cold riding conditions. Look for a strong IP rating and relevant safety standards, such as CE certification. This is just as important for wires, connectors and control units as it is for the grips themselves.
Installation Type
There are various installation types for motorcycle heated grips, including lock-on types, grips that you glue into position, and others that you slip on and remain in place through friction. All have pros and cons. Lock-on grips can be heavier but more reliable, for example. Always check the internal diameter of the grips to make sure you purchase a set that will suit your motorcycle's handlebars. Typically, they are sized at 7/8-inch (22mm) or 1-inch thick.
Exposure to Vibration
Grips don't just help you to keep hold of your handlebars when riding—they also help to dampen road vibrations. Heated grips are just the same, and you should expect at least a degree of dampening to reduce your exposure to vibration. When selecting a set of motorcycle heated grips, look for the use of materials like foam and gel. Premium models may be made from dual-compounds, and these can be the best options for touring bikes, where long-term exposure to vibrations can be expected to be more of an issue.
Style Considerations
Finally, for all their practicality, the best motorcycle heated grips should also fit in with your bike's aesthetics and design. For example, many riders want matching bar ends or throttle sleeves to maintain the look of their bike in winter. Check the available colour options, too, since many motorcycle heated grips only come in one colour: black. In addition, heated grips that have separate control units might not suit all bike owners, given that they need to be mounted somewhere within reach, which isn't ideal for all types of motorcycles.
Maintaining Motorcycle Grips for a Sustained Lifespan
Whether you want to learn how to choose your motorcycle lock or a new set of motorcycle heated grips, maintaining biker accessories properly is key to ensuring they last a long time. Even the best motorcycle heated grips need to be looked after. Here are some important tips to bear in mind when maintaining yours:
Avoid harsh chemical cleaners since these can cause problems with electrics and the adhesives used for glued grips.
If the grips are cracking or start to shift when riding, consider replacing them.
Uneven heating might mean a coil needs to be replaced, which is straightforward with standard heated grips.
After cleaning with a sponge, use a microfibre towel to prevent water from coming into contact with switches and other controls.
Use an old toothbrush to get trapped dirt out of the rubberised sections, which will help prevent long-term build-up.
Ready to Warm Up Your Ride?
Explore the full range of winter-ready upgrades at XLMoto. Whether you're looking for motorcycle gear to stay warm or essential motorcycle parts to enhance your setup, we’ve got you covered. The perfect pair of motorcycle heated grips is only a click away.



