ODI relaunched the Rogue grip with the V2.1 single clamp lock-on system and in four colour options, just a few months back. On the surface the only real difference is the single clamp vs the older two clamp system. The RogueV2.1 still has the larger 33.5 mm diameter (compared to the 30mm of the more common ODI Ruffian) and 135mm width, it still has the soft large classic rogue pad design. But with the single clamp design it means you no longer have the hard lock clamp on the outside of the grip.

I found two major advantages from the update. The first is that I have a very large hand and run my hands towards the outside of my grips, after a big session on the dual clamp Rogues I could get some discomfort from the outside of my hand being on the hard alloy lock clamp instead of the rubber grip area. That’s no longer an issue. The other advantage is the grips sit wider now, since it only locks to the bars on the inside of the grip. Sure it’s only the width of the lock clamp, probably only about 5mm or so each side, but it’s nice for those of us who are maxing out handlebar width already.

When ODI decided to withdraw the flanged Rogue lock-on grips from the market I sought out every grip I could find for a stock pile that should keep me going through the apocalypse, and probably beyond.  After using the Rogue v2.1 I’ve discovered that might have been in haste, while I do like the flange on the older version of the grip it’s more or less a “security blanket” and may not actually serve any real purpose for me while riding. Like I said earlier I run my hands wide on the grips, which means only a small part of my thumb touches the flange anyway. I also like the aesthetics of the flange because it has more of a BMX look about it, but that’s changing anyway as racing equipment becomes more minimalist. Realistically the bike still looks very much like a BMX bike.

One thing that was pointed out to me with the Rogue V2.1 is since they aren’t directional, like the ODI AG and ODI CF grips, if you want to put the bolts away out of reach it means the ODI logos on the end of the grips won’t be the right way up. It’s nothing major, and I didn’t notice it at first myself, just a warning for the OCD crowd.

Pros & Cons of the Rogue V2.1 Vs the Rogue Originals

Pros

• 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?

I’ve always favoured the ODI Rogue grips because I prefer to ride without gloves, you will only see me wearing gloves when I have to. The ODI grip pattern is soft and comfortable enough, I’d go as far as to say perfect, for riding with bare hands. The grip pattern also provides plenty of air flow under the hand so sweaty palms won’t be a problem even on a very hot day. But you need to remember that the Rogue has the biggest outer diameter of any grips in the ODI range, so while they may not suit everyone they are perfect for a larger hand.

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.

Manufacturer’s Description

ODI ICON EVOLVED!

Our newest addition to the ODI line brings a welcome facelift to our iconic Rogue Lock-On grip. Constructed of our proprietary Soft Compound TPE material and featuring our Rogue large padded design, these grips provide the ultimate shock absorption. 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 modern take on the classic Rogue gives the grips a nice refresh with still providing the rider with that large padded Rogue feel they have come to love.

PRODUCT FEATURES:

• Classic Rogue Large Pad Design
• Ultimate Shock Absorption
• SINGLE CLAMP – Version 2.1 Lock-On System
• Proprietary ODI Soft Compound Material
• Hand Friendly Soft Ends – Reinforced for Added Durability
• 33.5MM Large Diameter
• Colours: Black, Blue, Grey and Red

Final Words

The ODI Rogue V2.1 Lock On grips are a welcomed upgrade on a classic. I’d recommend them to anyone looking for a wider and fuller grip. I freakin’ love them.

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. I can tell you though, the chunky Rogue grip is not going to greatly effect the overall weight of your bike in comparison to a smaller more traditional grip like the ODI Ruffian for example.
• The Rogue is classic BMX grip pattern that’s been used by BMXers for decades and built by the best in the business. I know I couldn’t ask for more from a grip for a big hand.
• The ODI Rogue is a classic, the Rogue V2.1 Lock On grips have given them a modern look, making them as relevant as ever. Don’t forget the additional colour options, a nice touch ODI, bravo! Like all ODI grips, it’s a great looking BMX grip built with a level of quality that’s 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 September 19, 2022