TechSpec Gripster Snake Skin Pad - Review http://www.bikechatter.net/media/reviews/photos/thumbnail/320x320s/d6/df/b7/1102_techspec-snakeskin-1330037781.jpg Hot

Intrigued to see if they do actually make any difference, Leigh wanted to grab a set of grippy tank pads when he upgraded his bike, after making enquiries it was decided that TechSpec's Gripster model was to be a good place to start and the Snake Skin variant was swiftly fitted.

Initial Thoughts 

When did tank pads evolve? I only seem to remember you got smooth, shiny protective dots and stripes and of course the obligatory gaudy looking crotch pad. Nowadays though the vogue is to go for a grippy tank pad and a few brands have really made their mark in the sector, one such company is TechSpec and their Gripster range of pads.

Construction 

The theory of why we should use a grippy tank pad is pretty obvious really, as we ride we tend to lean and slide about which all causes fatigue on the body, trying to find friction in order to stay in place and moving to a better position afterwards can be incredibly tiring on a ride. By placing a high friction surface where we need it we gain more control for less effort. OK then.

In my case I am always told I don't shift my weight about enough, theres a fair bit to shift too and that, I think, just adds to the problem. Because I tend to find little grip on the tank with my knees I don't trust myself enough to hang off more, as a burly bloke even the slightest of instabilities is amplified considerably. The Tech Spec Gripster Tank Pad is designed for this very purpose, on the side of the tank, where my knee would try to lock in and fail, the Gripster adds a neat, rubber layer that just allows you to grip on.

TechSpec's gripster comes in a few different options, other brands offer clear material and I was initially more inclined to go that way, after reading a little more though I am glad I went with the darker option and stuck with the Gripster, reports of an ugly bubbling in the adhesive that is near on impossible to avoid apart from the most anal of applications. The three options currently available through techSpec are: High Fusion, a lightly textured, thin layer. Snake Skin, a deep and tactile, heavily textured pad. C3, the latest version, a middle ground of the previous two models in terms of texture depth.

For my purpose, the Snake Skin Gripster was chosen, reading the instructions the application seemed simple enough, clean and heat the application area, apply the pads and leave to set fully before using - no pushing and squeezing air bubbles around for me. Borrowing the wife's hair dryer was probably the most nerve racking moment, hell would have to be paid if there was any damage to the GHD Frieda MK3 special edition platinum (or something), after warming both the tank sides and the adhesive area I carefully placed the pad in position and firmly pressed down across the surface, switching sides, the process was completed.

In the box I had four pieces, two of them were obviously tank sides, the shape matched perfectly. There were two others though that made no sense, I was not expecting any more than the two tank sides so cast them to one side for another time, as it happens these are to be fitted to the frame on my particular bike and as I already have lashing of carbon fibre across the frame I opted to keep them off.

For the first ride I was expecting some major difference in feel, something really obvious that had changed, there was no such thing though. That is not to say that the Gripster was not offering me additional grip when I needed it, as it clearly was, but in use the pads are much more subtle than you would probably expect. I had heard stories of  these grippy pads leaving marks in leathers, jeans and knees so had expected the TechSpec models to do something similar, I can happily announce though that in thousands of miles they have caused zero visible damage or discomfort to knees or riding kit.

Actually, trying to spin out this review is going to be incredibly difficult as the Tech Spec Gripster has been flawless in it's application and so unobtrusive that once you are used to the difference in feel you really don't notice you are using it, this though, in my opinion, is the sign of a great product.

TechSpec tout that their product is removable and reusable thanks to their special adhesive, I actually never had a reason or chance to test this out as my bike will be my ride for a while, and, being honest, I don't see many folks buying a Gripster kit for one bike and moving it to another. If you are likely to do so though, Gripster has a releasable adhesive which will offer you an increased value for money.

Spec:

GRIPSTER Tank Grips:
Increase/maintain control of weight/body position
Eliminate sliding
Improve riding style
Decrease body fatigue
Improve weight adjustment
Protect tank from abuse
Improve re-sale value
Remove and re-use
Customize for functionality as well as creativity
Provide benefits of grip material without damaging leathers
Developed in the United States of America

High Fusion is a thin (.035") synthetic rubber blend with a simple rough texture and uses our personal "Releasable Adhesive." With this blend, you will feel a positive grip into your tank and less pressure on your wrists, elbows and shoulders. Excellent for paint and surface area protection.

"C3" is our new synthica rubber. This (.100") thick grip pad offers excellent grip and the ultimate comfort in our GRIPSTER line. With t he synthetic properties, you will feel a reduction of vibration and an increase in comfort. "C3" also uses our personal "Releasable Adhesive."

Snake Skin is a thin (.125") tank grip with a low profile diamond pattern. With these rubber padding properties, you will feel a positive grip into your tank and less pressure on your wrists, elbows and shoulders. Excellent product for all riders and uses our personal "Releasable Adhesive."