The American made ODI Ruffian grip has been one of the most popular BMX grips on the market for decades. For ODI, converting the iconic Ruffian grip to the V2.1 single clamp system was a no brainer. Creating an XL version though, that’s an interesting concept.

You see the original Ruffian grip is popular because it’s medium diameter is sized perfectly for a medium/average sized hand. The smaller knurled pattern can be a little polarising among riders though. Although the compound is soft it’s not very thick so you feel a lot of feedback through the bike, there’s not a lot of give in the grip. This is where the Ruffian XL steps in.

I’ve always found the Ruffian diameter a little small for my hands, when the Ruffian XL was released though I was keen to give them a run and see if they might be a good alternative to my current favourite, the ODI Rogue.

The Ruffian XL features the V2.1 clamp system and is a little wider at 135mm, which equates to about 130mm of grip width. Where it differs from the original Ruffian is larger diameter. The diameter of the Ruffian is 30mm and the Ruffian XL is 32mm. But rather than a larger base diameter the knurled pattern is taller. This provides a lot more comfort overall.

We spoke with Colby from ODI late last year and he gave us a brief run down of the Ruffian XL. Check it out in this video.

Pros & Cons of the Ruffian XL V2.1

Pros

• Increased width from 130mm to 135mm
• A softer/spongier feel than the original Ruffian
• A simpler single lock system
• A larger bolt head
• Quicker and easier installation
• More colour options
• Hand Friendly Soft Ends

Cons

• No flanged option
• No replaceable end clamp and cap should you drop the bike (aka crash), making it harder to keep the grips looking fresh
• No longer able to change clamp colours and have them engraved.

So they look great, but how do they feel?

The ODI Ruffian XL didn’t feel as soft on the hand as the Rogue that I’m used to and the diameter was noticeably smaller. The knurled pattern was a little different at first, with hundred’s of tiny points in the palm of the hand (this is way more noticeable with bare hands), but not a factor once you start riding with them.

I felt a lot more feedback from the track through the bike with the XL’s than I do with Rogues but I still found them pretty comfortable to ride with. While they weren’t bad with bare hands I found them most comfortable paired with gloves.

These grips would be perfect for those who liked the Ruffian but wanted a little more cushioning.

I’ve been asked “is the single clamp enough for BMX?”, a valid concern for sure. The short answer is yes, more than enough. The larger Allen bolt head means you can tighten it down without fear of rounding out the bolt head or breaking the Allen key. Once I tightened mine up that was it, set and forget, it’s been weeks worth of riding now and they still haven’t budged.

I’ve noticed three big advantages with the V2.1 lock on system. The first is you don’t get any rocking in the grip that would occur over time with the original double clamp system. The second, and you can call me lazy – I can handle it, is they come pre-assembled so all you have to do is put them on and lock them into place. The process takes seconds. The third is with one less clamp the grip can be made wider, and in the case of the Ruffian and Ruffian XL it is.

If you are into finer details, the ODI logos on the ends of the grips can be positioned horizontally. You will see in the photos I rotated the grips back a little to put the Allen head bolt away from my thumbs which tend to contact the clamp from time to time.

Manufacturer’s Description

ODI ICON EVOLVED!

Our newest addition to the ODI line brings a new welcomed facelift to our iconic Ruffian Lock-On grip. Constructed of our proprietary Soft Compound TPE material and featuring an intense extra large Ruffian diamondized pattern, these grips provide exceptional comfort and control. The addition of the new v2.1 Single-Clamp Lock-On system makes installation a breeze and ensures that your grips stay put no matter what the conditions. Coming in four awesome colours to fit every riders needs. This new take on the classic Ruffian pattern puts the Ruffian XL in a category for riders who prefer comfort over feedback, but still want exceptional control.

PRODUCT FEATURES:

• Extra Large Ruffian Diamondized Pattern
• Optimal Comfort and Control
• SINGLE CLAMP – Version 2.1 Lock-On System
• Proprietary ODI Soft Compound Material
• Hand Friendly Soft Ends – Reinforced for Added Durability
• 32MM Medium Diameter
• Available in Black, Blue, Grey, Red and Purple

Final Words

The ODI Ruffian XL V2.1 Lock On grips are a great variation of the iconic Ruffian grip. A nice wide grip with a medium diameter that offers additional comfort and the durability and quality that ODI are known for.

Gallery

Rating 20/20

Comments

• I have said this a number of times now “ODI quality might come at a cost but it will pay for itself in the end.” Quality, durability, comfort and reliability that’s worth every cent.
• Grips are the one item I have never heard anyone ask the weight of, but with only a single clamp and a thinner base these will keep the weight weenies happy, and comfortable.
• The iconic Ruffian grip pattern that’s been used by BMXers for decades and built by the best in the business has just got better. Making them even more comfortable without giving away functionality will only make the Ruffian XL even more relevant.
• An awesome traditional grip pattern that’s even more comfortable with a modern look, five colour options and all the redeeming qualities you would expect from an ODI product. The quality and finish of ODI grips is unmatched.

Want To Know More?

ODI is available Australia wide through www.lustyindustries.com Be sure to give them a follow on Instagram at www.instagram.com/wearelusty 

Check www.odigrips.com for more information and give them a follow on Instagram at www.instagram.com/odigrips

Reviewed by Shane Jenkins/bmxultra.com April 13, 2023