Handle the Cold Like a Pro with Heated Hand Grips for Motorcycles

Picture this: You wake up on a cool autumn morning. There’s a light frost in the air, but it feels almost like a dream. Your breath mists as you walk toward your motorcycle. You’re getting ready to test out a new route, surrounded by the changing leaves, and you can feel the excitement growing.

But—it’s just cold enough that your favorite pair of gloves won’t quite cut it. And you know cold fingers can quickly turn painful—and even dangerous. In some cases, it can lead to frostbite.

So, what’s the solution? Heated hand grips for your motorcycle. These are designed to provide warmth directly to your hands, helping you stay in control and comfortable on the coldest rides.

In this article, we’ll cover:

I. Heated Grips 101

II. Top Heated Hand Grips

III. Installation Tips for Heated Hand Grips

IV. Other Cold Weather Accessories

Heated Grips 101

The basic principle behind heated hand grips is simple. A heating element is embedded within the grip material. When activated, the element generates heat, which is transferred to the rider's hands. Most heated grips offer multiple heat settings, allowing users to adjust the temperature based on the weather conditions.

This flexibility ensures that riders can enjoy a comfortable grip without compromising their control over the motorcycle.

Heated grips can be installed on most bikes and are powered either by the bike's electrical system or by a separate battery pack. They come in various styles and heat settings, allowing riders to customize their warmth level according to their preferences.

The convenience of heated grips means that riders can enjoy longer journeys without the discomfort that typically accompanies colder weather, thus enhancing their overall riding experience.

Do Heated Grips Drain the Battery?

Heated grips can drain a motorcycle battery, but it depends on a few factors. One of the biggest is human error—leaving grips “on” for an extended period when the bike isn’t running.

When They Might Drain the Battery:

• When the engine is off: As mentioned, if you leave the heated grips on while the bike isn’t running, they can definitely drain the battery—sometimes quickly.
• On smaller bikes with low-output stators: Bikes with limited charging systems may struggle to keep up with the extra electrical demand, especially if you're running other accessories like heated gear or auxiliary lights.

When They Don’t Really Drain It:

• While the engine is running and the charging system is healthy: On most modern bikes, the alternator can handle the load just fine—especially if the grips draw around 3–5 amps (which is typical).
• With auto shutoff systems: Many aftermarket heated grips (and OEM ones) have automatic shutoff or voltage-sensing features to prevent accidental battery drain. This means they’ll automatically shut off when the bike’s voltage drops below a certain level.

If you are concerned about battery drain, consider using a relay or switch them through a circuit that only gets power when the ignition is on. That way, they can’t accidentally be left running and kill your battery.

Pros and Cons of Heated Hand Grips

Heated hand grips are an incredible product, but alone they won’t completely stop the cold—even if they do make it a considerably more comfortable ride. Though we still highly recommend them for riders that experience cooler climates, here are some pros and cons of this useful accessory.

Pros:

• Warm Hands = Better Control: Cold hands get stiff fast, which can affect throttle, brake, and clutch control. Heated grips help keep your fingers nimble and responsive.
• Always Onboard: Unlike heated gloves, you never forget them. They’re wired into the bike. Just flip the switch and go.
• Minimal Gear Required: Ideal for when you don’t want to bulk up with extra layers or heated gear. Keeps your setup simple.
• Easy to Use: Most systems have multiple heat settings and quick warm-up times, giving you control over comfort.
• Long-Term Investment: The cost-benefit analysis for heated hand grips is excellent. They are a relatively affordable option that provides a long-term improvement to your riding experience.

Cons:

• Limited Coverage: They only heat your palms. Your fingers and the backs of your hands are still exposed to the wind and cold.
• Electrical Load: They can put extra strain on your bike’s charging system, especially on older or smaller-displacement bikes.
• Installation Required: Aftermarket grip installs can be a hassle. Wiring, fitment, and potential handlebar mods are often required.
• Added Thickness: If you have small hands or just prefer a thinner grip, heated grips may not be for you. In this case, you may want to consider adding a heating element that can go underneath your existing grips.

Moto Machines’ Top Choice for Heated Motorcycle Grips

With a variety of heated hand grips available on the market, choosing the right one can be a daunting task.

Our top choice?

The Oxford Heaterz Pro Heated Motorcycle Grips. These grips are sleek, minimalist, and easy to install. Not to mention, effective. They’re extremely durable and feature anti-slip rubber for an unmatched grip and comfort. The standout features that make these grips a cut above the rest are:

• They come in three different trimmable sizes depending on your riding style: Adventure (132mm), Touring (120mm), and Sports (123mm).
• Five heat settings with an easy-to-use weatherproof controller.
• Advanced thermistor technology for precise and consistent temperature control.
• Wiring designed to minimize battery drain.

If you are in search of a more simple or budget-friendly option, consider the Oxford Heaterz Premium. These are known for their exceptional performance and durability. They feature a high-quality rubber construction that provides excellent grip, even in wet conditions. With a straightforward installation process, they fit most motorcycles and come with a user-friendly control switch; allowing riders to easily adjust the heat settings.

That said, both are great choices for those in search of a better way to keep their hands warm. The biggest difference between the Pro and Premium versions? The handlebar-mounted control, which you wi

One of the standout features of Oxford Heaterz is multiple heat settings. These provide a quick warm-up and help you to maintain a comfortable temperature. Riders appreciate the fact that these grips are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, making them a reliable choice for long-term use.

Additionally, these grips are equipped with a smart shut-off feature that prevents overheating, ensuring safety during prolonged use. Many riders have reported that these grips significantly enhance their riding experience during colder months, allowing them to extend their riding season without discomfort.

Installation Tips for Heated Hand Grips

Installing heated hand grips can seem intimidating, but with the right tools and guidance, it can be a straightforward process. Here are some general tips to ensure a successful installation.

Gather Your Tools

Before starting the installation, gather all necessary tools, including a screwdriver. Having everything on hand will streamline the process and prevent unnecessary interruptions.

Additionally, consider having a multimeter handy to check for continuity and voltage, which can be invaluable in troubleshooting any electrical issues that may arise during installation.

Follow Manufacturer Instructions

Every heated grip model comes with specific installation instructions. It’s crucial to follow these guidelines closely to ensure proper installation. Pay attention to wiring diagrams and connection points, as incorrect wiring can lead to malfunction or damage.

Some manufacturers may also provide online resources or video tutorials that can offer visual guidance, making the installation process even clearer and more accessible.

Test Before Riding

Once installed, it is essential to test the heated grips before hitting the road. Turn on the grips to ensure they heat up properly and check for any issues with the wiring or connections. This step can save riders from potential discomfort during their ride.

It's also a good idea to take the bike for a short test ride in a controlled environment to ensure that the grips maintain a consistent temperature and that all controls function smoothly. This precaution can help identify any adjustments needed before embarking on longer journeys.

If you’ve chosen the Oxford Heaterz, here’s a video explaining how to install them. (Side note: Heaterz are called “HotGrips” outside of the United States.)

 

Maintenance Tips

After installation, regular maintenance is key to ensuring your heated grips continue to function properly. Periodically review the wiring and connections for any signs of wear or damage. Be sure to clean the grips with a suitable cleaner to avoid buildup of dirt and grime. A soft cloth or sponge works best for this task. While doing so, don’t forget to look out for any signs of wear or damage.

If you notice any decrease in heating efficiency, it may be time to inspect the electrical components or consult with a professional to address any underlying issues.

A Few Installation FAQs

When you’re choosing your heated hand grips, you likely have some questions. Here are a few of the biggest ones we receive:

Will heated grips fit my motorcycle?

Most heated grips are designed to fit standard motorcycle handlebars, but it's important to check your handlebar diameter (usually 7/8" or 22mm for most bikes, and 1" for many cruisers) and ensure compatibility with your throttle setup. Some motorcycles with throttle-by-wire or special bar-end hardware may not work if they are built into the grip.

Oxford Heaterz grips are designed to fit the majority of motorcycles with 7/8" handlebars. And as mentioned for their Pro option, they offer several models — like Touring, Adventure, Sport; increasing the odds you’ll find a product with a more seamless setup for your ride. They also include spacers and adapters in the kit, making it easier to fit them even if your setup isn't perfectly standard.

How difficult is it to install heated grips?

Installing heated grips usually requires moderate DIY skills. You'll need to remove the old grips, install the new ones (with glue), connect the power source, and mount the heat controller.

Oxford Heaterz grips are known for being very user-friendly to install. They include everything you need — grips, an intelligent controller, wiring harness, connectors, and even detailed instructions.

Because the Heaterz controller senses when the bike is running and automatically shuts off the grips, you can wire them directly to the battery without worrying about complicated wiring. Most riders can handle installation themselves in a couple of hours if that.

If you have questions or are unsure, don’t be afraid to enlist the help of a mechanic or another rider who has already installed heated grips.

How are heated grips powered?

Heated grips draw power from the motorcycle’s 12V electrical system, and you typically have two options: wire them directly to the battery or connect them to a switched source (like the ignition) to prevent accidental battery drain.

Oxford Heaterz include an intelligent controller that automatically detects whether the bike is running based on voltage. You wire them straight to the battery using the included harness and fuse, and the system will automatically shut off the grips when the bike is off. This means there’s no need to find a switched circuit unless you prefer to.

How many heat settings do heated grips have?

Heated grips range from simple designs with just "on" and "off" to advanced models with multiple heat levels. Riders often prefer more adjustability to handle different weather conditions and riding styles.

Oxford Heaterz Pro grips stand out by offering a 5-level intelligent heat controller, letting you fine-tune the warmth between 30%, 40%, 50%, 75%, and 100% output. This allows you to stay comfortable whether you're facing a chilly morning or freezing winter temperatures.

Other Cold Weather Accessories

Heated grips are one way to keep your hands warm in cooler weather, but they may not be strong enough alone—especially in below freezing temperatures.

Here are some additional products we recommend for winter rides.

Gloves

One question we often receive is: what’s better, heated gloves or heated grips?

Heated hand grips really shine when it comes to keeping your palms and the underside of your fingers warm. The right motorcycle gloves can handle the rest—heated or not. Look for gloves that are insulated on the back and sides, and just have leather palms.

We recommend getting both gloves and hand warmers because gloves alone often can’t keep up with air movement—meaning that all the heat can get sucked away. Together though, you might find yourself to be unstoppable.

Another great option to help keep your hands toasty warm? Motorcycle hand covers, like Hippo Hands. These handlebar covers protect your entire hand from wind, rain, sleet, and snow.

Thermal Base Layers

Moisture-wicking and insulated base layers help trap heat without bulk. They create an insulating layer under your gear without restricting movement. Avoid cotton, which holds moisture and makes you colder over time. A proper heated vest can be life changing.

A warm sweater is also a crucial part of your cold weather gear. Don’t forget a cozy beanie for those times between rides.

Insulated, Waterproof Riding Jacket & Pants

A proper cold-weather motorcycle jacket and pants combo should offer windproofing, thermal liners, and waterproofing to protect against icy winds and road spray.

Look for gear with adjustable ventilation to manage temperature changes. Armor and reflective elements are also key for safety in darker, wintery conditions.

Balaclava or Neck Gaiter

Cold air sneaking through your helmet or collar can be brutal on long rides. A windproof balaclava or thick neck gaiter seals that gap, protecting your neck, chin, and sometimes even your shoulders. Some come with fleece lining or integrated breathing vents for helmet comfort.

Waterproof Boots + Thermal Socks

Wet, cold feet are miserable and can become dangerous if numbness sets in. Insulated, waterproof motorcycle boots help block moisture and trap warmth. Add wool or thermal socks for extra insulation and comfort.

Heated Seat

A heated seat adds comfort and helps prevent numbness on long, cold rides. Many aftermarket versions offer variable heat levels and install easily with a controller. It’s a luxury feature that becomes surprisingly practical in winter riding conditions.

Heated Visor Insert

Heated visor inserts or shields use a small electrical current to prevent fog and frost from forming on your helmet visor. They’re especially helpful in freezing temps or humid conditions, offering crystal-clear visibility when traditional anti-fog coatings fall short. Some plug directly into your bike’s power system, while others run on small rechargeable batteries for convenience.

Braving the Cold with Heated Motorcycle Grips

Heated hand grips are a game-changer for motorcycle enthusiasts who refuse to let cold weather hinder their passion for riding. With a variety of options available, riders can find grips that suit their needs and preferences.

By investing in quality heated grips, following proper installation and maintenance practices, and adopting cold-weather riding strategies, every ride can be enjoyable, no matter the temperature.

If you have questions about any of these products or for how to stay warm on cold winter rides, feel free to contact us. We’ll be happy to share some of our top strategies and favorite products for your bike specifically.

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