Gusset Matt Jones S2 Lock-On Grips review

Gusset’s S2 Lock-On Grips provide secure and positive feedback through rough terrain, while remaining comfortable on longer rides.

The grips perform well, with nicely positioned grip zones and a tacky yet forgiving compound, making them an option that should be on your shortlist.

With a single inside collar clamp lock-on design, the grips are easy to install, using a 3mm Allen key to tighten the clamp.

This version of the S2 features Gusset’s standard ‘soft’ 30A VEXK rubber compound.

The rubber is 32mm in diameter and 131mm long, which covers the entirety of the grip, including the built-in bar end.

The grip features an eccentric off-centre core design, which Gusset says adds more cushioning to the palm of your hand.

A gnurled diamond pattern is moulded into the rubber, with horizontal ribbing on the underside that enables you to dig your digits deep into the soft compound and prevent them rotating when pulling hard on the bar.

The outer end of the grip features two radial ribs to stop your hand from slipping off the bar sideways.

These Gusset Matt Jones S2 Lock-On Grips weigh 108g for a pair and at £22.99 / $29.99 they’re competitively priced.

The Matt Jones grips on test feature a signature Grey Marble colourway chosen by the pro rider, while the standard version can be had even cheaper, at £17.99.

Gusset Matt Jones S2 Lock-On Grips performance

Once fitted to the bars, the S2s showed no signs of twisting, even on the consistent wet days while testing around North Wales.

The locking mechanism inspires confidence, ensuring the grips don’t replicate twist throttles on heavy landings.

I much prefer single-clamp grips because I often find the outer clamp of dual-clamps restricting, not allowing my hands to overhang the bar.

The two radial ribs provide extra security, while enabling you to overhang your hands off the side of the bars.

The inside of the grip features similar horizontal ribbing to prevent hand twisting.

This gives the Gusset S2 loads of traction when really pulling back on the bars or holding on for grim death on heavy landings, which is a real boost for confidence.

The diamond grip pattern on the top digs into meaty paws and mountain bike gloves alike, keeping your hands planted in the centre of the grip and rarely requiring assistance from the other ribbed sections that keep your hands in place.

Gusset’s S2 grips do a good job of cushioning, with the off-centre core design placing padding underneath the palm while avoiding an overly bulky feel elsewhere.

My only small gripe with these grips is the white paint on the end-cap design – this cracks easily when resting the bike against a wall or laying it flat on the ground.

Gusset Matt Jones S2 Lock-On Grips bottom line

Gusset has produced one of the best mountain bike grips with the S2 Lock-On, balancing high levels of grip and cushioning without sacrificing a sleek design – all at a really decent price.

With well-placed cushioning and a functional design, you should definitely consider the S2s when picking your next grips.