Finding the best motorcycle heated grips kit means balancing warmth, durability, and ease of installation. The Heat Demon External Grip Warmer Kit stands out as the overall top choice for reliable heating and straightforward setup. For riders seeking wireless convenience, the Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds offer an unrelated but popular tech option, though they aren’t suited for heating. The Kimpex 30W Handlebar Grip Heater Kit provides a solid middle ground with good power and compatibility. Many options trade off between heat levels, install complexity, and price, making it essential to pick one aligned with your riding needs. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of the best kits for every rider profile.
Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked kit balances consistent heat with simple installation, making it suitable for most riders.
- Higher wattage kits tend to provide faster, more uniform warmth but may be harder to install or more expensive.
- Waterproof design is a common feature that extends the lifespan of heated grips in all weather conditions.
- Multiple heat settings add versatility but can increase complexity and cost—consider your comfort needs.
- Compatibility with different handlebar sizes and easy wiring are often overlooked but critical for a smooth installation experience.
| Heat Demon External Grip Warmer Kit for Motorcycle (210019RR), Black |  | Best Overall Motorcycle Heated Grip Kit | Compatibility: All metric motorcycle makes and models | Switch Type: 3-position rocker switch | Power Draw: 36W (3 amps) on high | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 12V Heated Grip Wraps for Motorcycle, ATV, Snowmobile – Waterproof, 3 Heat Levels, Fits 1.2″–1.5″ Handles |  | Best for Harsh Weather and Durability | Voltage: 12V | Heat Levels: 3 (Low/Medium/High) | Material: Kevlar and silicone | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Heated Grip Wraps for Motorcycle, ATV, Bike, Snowmobile – USB Powered, 6 Temperature Settings, Waterproof |  | Best for Versatile, Portable Heating on the Go | Power Source: 5V USB-A | Temperature Settings: 6 | Waterproof Rating: IP67 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Kimpex 30W Handlebar Grip Heater Kit 12-170 |  | Best Value for ATV and Snowmobile Riders | Heat levels: Hi and low | Mounting type: Adhesive | Included: No thumb warmer | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Oxford Heaterz Premium Sports Temperature Controlled Motorcycle Grips |  | Best for Advanced Riders Seeking Customizable Comfort | Heat Settings: 9 | Handlebar Diameter: 22mm (0.86 inches) | Adjustable Length: 114mm to 123mm (4.48 to 4.84 inches) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Heat Demon External Grip Warmer Kit for Motorcycle (210019RR), Black
This universal external grip warmer stands out for its straightforward installation across all metric makes and models, making it an excellent choice for riders seeking hassle-free setup. Its 3-position rocker switch provides intuitive control, and since it requires no external resistors or additional parts, it simplifies the process further. Compared with the 12V heated grip wraps, it lacks waterproofing and adjustable heat levels but compensates with broad compatibility and ease of use. The main tradeoff is its limited included mounting accessories, which might require extra effort or parts for a secure fit. This pick makes the most sense for riders who prioritize simplicity and universal fit over advanced features or weatherproofing.
Pros:- Universal fit for all metric motorcycles
- Simple 3-position switch for quick control
- Easy installation without external parts
Cons:- Does not include mounting plate or connectors
- Limited to basic control without advanced features
Best for: Motorcycle riders who want a reliable, simple-to-install heated grip solution without fuss or customization.
Not ideal for: Riders needing waterproof, high-precision heat control, or those with non-metric handlebars, as it lacks waterproof features and specific sizing options.
- Compatibility:All metric motorcycle makes and models
- Switch Type:3-position rocker switch
- Power Draw:36W (3 amps) on high
- Installation:No external resistor needed
- Color:Black
Bottom line: Best suited for riders seeking a straightforward, universal heated grip solution that’s easy to install and operate.
12V Heated Grip Wraps for Motorcycle, ATV, Snowmobile – Waterproof, 3 Heat Levels, Fits 1.2″–1.5″ Handles
This heated grip wrap set is designed for demanding winter riding, with rapid heat-up and waterproof construction making it a top pick for extreme conditions. Its 10-second heat-up time and three adjustable levels offer quick, customizable warmth. Compared to the external heat demon kit, it provides more weatherproofing and a more tailored fit for specific handlebar diameters, though installation can be more involved. Its waterproof rating (IP67) and durable Kevlar-silicone construction make it suitable for snow and rain, but it requires a 12V power source and may need some effort to secure firmly. This option is ideal for riders who face harsh weather and need reliable, fast-heating grips.
Pros:- Fast heating with 10-second warm-up
- Adjustable heat levels for personalized comfort
- Waterproof and durable, suitable for extreme weather
Cons:- Requires connection to vehicle’s 12V power system
- Installation may demand effort for secure mounting
Best for: Riders who need durable, waterproof heated grips for winter riding on motorcycles, ATVs, or snowmobiles.
Not ideal for: Casual riders or those without a stable 12V power source, as these wraps need to connect directly to the vehicle’s electrical system.
- Voltage:12V
- Heat Levels:3 (Low/Medium/High)
- Material:Kevlar and silicone
- Waterproof Rating:IP67
- Fitment:Outer diameter 1.2″–1.5″
- Heating Time:10 seconds
Bottom line: Best for riders seeking fast, reliable, and waterproof heated grips in harsh winter conditions.
Heated Grip Wraps for Motorcycle, ATV, Bike, Snowmobile – USB Powered, 6 Temperature Settings, Waterproof
This USB-powered heated grip wrap offers a flexible, easy-to-install option for riders who want adjustable warmth without wiring complexity. Its six temperature settings and 10-second heat-up time provide precise control, making it suitable for various weather conditions. Compared with the 12V wraps, it’s more portable and easier to set up, but it limits mobility to a USB power source, which might be inconvenient for long rides or off-grid use. The waterproof design adds reliability, but its fit is restricted to grips with diameters of 1.2″–1.5″, and the wrap-around style may not suit all handlebar shapes. It’s best for riders who value convenience, portability, and detailed temperature control over maximum power or weatherproofing.
Pros:- Easy plug-and-play USB connection
- Fast heat-up in 10 seconds
- Six adjustable temperature levels
Cons:- Limited to grips 1.2″–1.5″ diameter
- Dependent on external USB power source
Best for: Riders needing a quick, portable, and adjustable heating solution that works over existing grips and is powered via USB.
Not ideal for: Long-distance riders or those without easy USB power access, as mobility is limited by the need for a USB port or power bank.
- Power Source:5V USB-A
- Temperature Settings:6
- Waterproof Rating:IP67
- Fits Grip Outer Diameter:1.2″–1.5″
- Material:Kevlar heating fabric
- Heat-Up Time:10 seconds
Bottom line: Great for riders who want a portable, adjustable heating option that’s easy to install and use over existing grips.
Kimpex 30W Handlebar Grip Heater Kit 12-170
The Kimpex 30W Handlebar Grip Heater Kit offers reliable warmth with adjustable heat levels, making it a practical choice for ATV and snowmobile riders. Compared to the Oxford grips, which focus on motorcycle use, Kimpex’s kit is tailored for different vehicles but lacks a thumb warmer, which might be a drawback for those seeking full hand coverage. Its adhesive mounting simplifies installation, but the limited compatibility means it’s not ideal for street motorcycles. This kit is perfect for riders who prioritize straightforward, budget-friendly heating solutions for off-road adventures. The absence of a thumb warmer and its specific vehicle focus are tradeoffs to consider.
Pros:- Adjustable heat levels for personalized comfort
- Simple adhesive mounting for easy installation
- Compatible with ATVs and snowmobiles
Cons:- Does not include a thumb warmer, limiting full-hand warmth
- Limited to specific vehicle types, not suited for street bikes
Best for: ATV and snowmobile enthusiasts seeking an affordable, easy-to-install heating solution.
Not ideal for: Motorcyclists wanting a universal, multi-function grip heater with thumb warmers or advanced controls.
- Heat levels:Hi and low
- Mounting type:Adhesive
- Included:No thumb warmer
- Fits on:ATV, Snowmobile
- Position:Right and left
Bottom line: This kit makes the most sense for off-road riders on ATVs or snowmobiles who want straightforward heat at a good price point.
Oxford Heaterz Premium Sports Temperature Controlled Motorcycle Grips
The Oxford Heaterz Premium Sports Grips stand out for their 9 heat settings, allowing riders to dial in precise warmth, which surpasses the basic two-level options of the Kimpex kit. Designed for 22mm handlebars, these grips can be trimmed for a perfect fit, offering a tailored experience, especially for performance-minded motorcyclists. Though they require a battery, which might mean frequent charging, their weatherproof construction and memory function make them highly reliable in various conditions. Compared to simpler kits, these grips are better suited to riders who want advanced control and durability, but the need for power management could be a downside for some. Complex controls and battery dependency are the main tradeoffs.
Pros:- Nine adjustable heat settings for precise comfort
- Weatherproof and sealed for durability in all conditions
- Easy to trim and install on standard handlebars
- Memory function for quick heat level recall
Cons:- Requires a battery, which needs regular charging
- Control interface might be complex for some users
Best for: Serious motorcyclists who want highly customizable, weatherproof heated grips with a sleek design.
Not ideal for: Casual riders or those preferring plug-and-play solutions without battery management or complex controls.
- Heat Settings:9
- Handlebar Diameter:22mm (0.86 inches)
- Adjustable Length:114mm to 123mm (4.48 to 4.84 inches)
- Weatherproof:Yes
- Battery Saving Mode:Yes
- Sealed for Life:Yes
- Max Power Draw:Under 4A
Bottom line: This pick makes the most sense for experienced riders demanding maximum control and weather resistance from their heated grips.
How We Picked
Products were evaluated based on performance, build quality, ease of installation, and user safety. We prioritized kits that offer reliable heating, adjustable temperature controls, and durability in various weather conditions. Cost-effectiveness was also considered, ensuring each option delivers good value for its features. The ranking emphasizes user-friendliness and compatibility, helping riders of all skill levels find suitable options. We excluded any kits with dubious build quality or poor customer feedback, aiming for a curated selection that caters to different needs—from casual riders to enthusiasts.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Motorcycle Heated Grips Kit
Choosing the best motorcycle heated grips kit involves considering several key factors beyond just heating power. Compatibility with your bike’s handlebar size and wiring setup is essential to avoid installation issues. The number of heat settings can affect convenience—more options allow precise control, but may add complexity. Durability, especially waterproofing, ensures your investment lasts through tough weather conditions. Price varies widely; understanding your riding frequency and climate helps determine whether investing in premium features makes sense. Lastly, ease of installation can save time and frustration, especially for DIY enthusiasts or those less familiar with electrical work.Compatibility and Fit
Before purchasing, verify that the heated grips kit is compatible with your handlebar diameter and your bike’s wiring system. Some kits are designed for specific handlebar sizes, and mismatched dimensions can lead to installation headaches or poor performance. Easy-to-install kits with clear instructions save time and reduce frustration, especially if you plan to do the wiring yourself. If your bike has unique handlebar configurations or limited space, look for compact or custom-fit options to ensure a seamless fit and reliable contact with the heating elements.
Heating Power and Settings
The core purpose of heated grips is to keep your hands warm, but not all kits deliver the same level of warmth. Higher wattage typically results in faster heating and more consistent warmth, which is crucial in very cold climates. Multiple heat settings provide flexibility, allowing you to dial in comfort based on weather conditions and personal preference. However, more advanced controls can add complexity and cost. Consider your typical riding environment—if you often ride in extreme cold, prioritize higher power and adjustable settings for maximum comfort.
Build Quality and Weather Resistance
Durability matters, especially if you ride year-round or in unpredictable weather. Waterproof and weatherproof designs prevent moisture ingress, extending the lifespan of the heating elements and wiring. Look for grips with high-quality rubber or silicone finishes that resist cracking and wear. Good build quality also includes sturdy wiring connections and reliable switches, reducing the risk of failure over time. Investing in a well-made kit pays off through consistent performance and fewer maintenance concerns.
Price and Value
Prices for heated grips range from budget-friendly options to premium kits with advanced features. Cheaper kits may lack durability or sufficient power, leading to disappointment over time. Conversely, high-end kits often include multiple heat settings, better materials, and easier installation, but at a higher cost. Consider your riding frequency and local climate—spending more on a durable, high-power kit makes sense if you ride often in cold weather. For occasional riders, a simpler, more affordable option may suffice.
Ease of Installation
Some kits are designed for plug-and-play installation, ideal for DIY riders or those who want to avoid complex wiring. Others may require more advanced electrical work, including splicing and mounting relays or switches. Clear instructions and included tools simplify the process, but it’s still worth assessing your comfort level with electrical projects. A kit with minimal wiring and straightforward connections can save hours of setup, especially if you plan to install it without professional help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install heated grips on any motorcycle?
Most heated grips are designed to fit standard handlebar sizes, but compatibility can vary, especially on custom or vintage bikes. It’s important to check the diameter of your handlebars and ensure the kit is suitable. Additionally, some bikes have limited space or specific wiring configurations, which might complicate installation. Reading the manufacturer’s specifications and user reviews can help determine if a particular kit will work with your motorcycle without extensive modifications.
Do heated grips drain my motorcycle’s battery?
Heated grips do draw power from your motorcycle’s electrical system, but well-designed kits are optimized to operate efficiently without overly taxing the battery. Most kits include switches or relays to control power, preventing continuous drain when not needed. If you frequently ride with the grips on at high settings, it’s wise to monitor your battery health, especially on older bikes. Installing a high-capacity or upgraded battery can help ensure reliable performance in cold conditions.
How long do heated grips typically last?
The lifespan of heated grips depends on build quality, usage, and maintenance. High-quality kits with waterproof wiring and sturdy materials often last several seasons with proper care. Cheaper options may degrade faster, especially if exposed to moisture or rough handling. Regularly inspecting the wiring and switch components can prevent failure and extend the lifespan of your heated grips, ensuring consistent warmth for many rides to come.
Are wireless or Bluetooth features necessary in heated grips?
Wireless features are generally not a necessity for heated grips, but they can offer added convenience, such as remote control or app-based adjustments. Most riders prioritize reliable heating and easy installation over wireless capabilities. If you value minimal wiring or want to control heat levels from a distance, a kit with Bluetooth or remote control features might be appealing. However, these features often come at a premium and may introduce additional points of failure.
What should I do if my heated grips stop working?
If your heated grips cease functioning, start by checking the fuse, wiring connections, and switch. Many issues stem from simple electrical problems rather than defective heating elements. Replacing a blown fuse or re-securing loose wires can often resolve the issue without needing to replace the entire kit. If problems persist, consulting a professional or contacting the manufacturer for warranty support is recommended, especially if the kit is still under warranty.
Conclusion
The best overall choice for most riders is the Heat Demon External Grip Warmer Kit due to its reliable heating and straightforward installation. If you prioritize budget-friendly options, the 12V Heated Grip Wraps offer decent warmth without breaking the bank. For those seeking advanced features and premium build quality, the Oxford Heaterz Premium Sports Grips provide customizable heat levels and durable materials. Beginners or casual riders should focus on kits with simple wiring and clear instructions, while experienced DIY enthusiasts might opt for high-power, versatile options. Consider your climate, riding style, and technical comfort to pick the perfect kit for your needs.
