The Counterpunch makes clipping trees less problematic by protecting the 5th digit and metacarpal (ie. your pinky!) from impact, greatly reducing the chance of a broken bone. The curved surface slides rather than grabs, making it less likely the bar will hang up and throw the rider.

As soon as testing began, several riders reported improved control and declared it the top reason to run them, which is something that typical MTB handguards don't offer.

During a full-on tree strike, on chunky bark, the Counterpunch slides and doesn't grab. Saving a potential crash, saving your hand, and maybe saving your season.

Why they don’t curve over your pinky more? Because they don’t need to. Less is more.

Wanna see the Counterpunch in action? Check out the video under the Links & More Info tab

Hand Position: Like to run the meat of your palm off the end of the bar? You know it puts you more at risk but control is more important than safety, right? The Counterpunch still allows you to do this comfortably and safely, even if you really like to hang it out.

Who's this item for: The Counterpunch is for anyone who's ever mashed their pinky on a tree and wants a low profile solution to help them slip past other trees that try to get in their way.

Mounting style: These are dual-clamp lock-on grips with the Counterpunch functioning as the outer lockring.

Material: Rubber, 6061-T6 Aluminium, Stainless Steel Hardware

Pattern: Diamond pattern chequering where it's needed for grip, smooth rubber where it's beneficial for comfort.

Features:

• Grip: Cutaway core provides more rubber where you need it under the outer palm and under the thumb to relieve pressure points and create a thin grip with the comfort of a thicker grip.
• Counterpunch: Curved surface protects the pinky and slides on glancing impact with trees to help you stay upright and keep you out of the emergency ward.

Soft / firm: These are soft grips with extra rubber where you need it most for extra comfort and vibration damping capabilities.

End caps: The Counterpunch performs dual duties as the outer lockring and end cap.

Diameter: Quite thin at 29mm but the cutouts in the inner core provide more rubber under the outer palm and the thumb so they perform like thicker grips, just without the extra bulk.

Length: 115mm - a little shorter than most grips to provide greater freedom for brake lever setup while keeping you in the sweet spot of the grips with both inboard and outboard hand positions.

Weight: Counterpunch with grips: 164g per pair

What's in the box: Grips, Inner Lockring, Counterpunch