First Look: 2017 Ergon Downhill Series Grips and Saddles 1

Ergon is diversifying their lineup and expanding into DH with new grips and saddles. The components were developed with help from the ultimate tech wizard and competitor, Fabien Barel and women's World Cup DH standout, Tahnee Seagrave. Ergon debuted the new GD1 Factory Grips and SMD2 Saddles last week at Crankworx Les Gets, so we stopped by their booth to get the scoop.

Ergon GD1 Factory Grips

Ergon has two new grips; the GD1 Factory and GD1 Slim Factory. As you figured, there are different diameters to the grips because not all hands are created equal and sometimes you need more padding. In addition to the size options, the new Ergon grips feature a patent-pending design that uses a tapered shape which puts more material on the outside of the grip, where impact is felt most, and less material inside to help keep fingers wrapped around tightly.

The rubber used on the GD1's has exceptional adhesive and rebound properties according to Ergon. The combination of rubber used and grip shape reduces hand fatigue while providing more gripping power.

The GD1 Factory and GD1 Slim Factory grips come in Orange or Black, weigh 145g (standard) and 130g (slim). Retail price for either pair of grips is €34.95.

Ergon SMD2 Saddles

Ergon puts it quite cleverly when they say "this is first saddle we developed that's barely used for sitting." DH saddles don't get the seat time of a traditional saddle but are an integral part of bike handling, so Ergon, with input from Fabien Barel, created the SMD2 saddles.

The saddle uses a "tilted orientation" design which Ergon says gives downhill riders more freedom of movement. Equally important is a layout which includes fully-wrapped padded edges for a rider's inner thigh to aid steering and keep bike deflection under control. The two higher-end SMD2 saddles are covered in a variety of surfaces to ensure you have grip where you need it, but are still able to adjust your position during aggressive DH runs.

The SMD2 is offered in three different models, each with differing materials and weights. Regardless of material, the rails are all designed to be shock-resistant and the saddles have extra clearance for the rear tire built in, giving riders the option to run a lower seat post than with regular saddles.

The three Ergon saddle models are the SMD2 (220g, €59.95), the SMD2 Comp (215g, €99.95) and the SMD2 Titanium (205g, €149.95). The Comp and the Titanium feature carbon shells and anti-slip surface in the seating area.

Visit ergonbike.com for more information on their new DH grips and saddles.