I Tested Heated Grips on My Harley Davidson Motorcycle: The Ultimate Comfort Upgrade for Cold Rides
I’ve always found that the right accessories can completely change the riding experience, and few upgrades make a colder ride more comfortable than heated grips on Harley Davidson motorcycles. There’s something especially appealing about being able to keep riding when the temperature drops, without sacrificing control or that classic open-road feeling. Heated grips bring together comfort, practicality, and the unmistakable spirit of Harley riding, making them a popular choice for riders who want to extend their season and enjoy every mile a little more.
I Tested The Heated Grips Harley Davidson Motorcycles Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Kuryakyn 6470 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory: Heated ISO-Grips for 2008-20 Harley-Davison with Electronic Throttle Control, Chrome, 1 Pair
Kuryakyn 6781 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory: ISO Grips for Harley-Davison Motorcycles with Heated Grips, Gloss Black, 1 Pair
Kuryakyn 6473 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory: Heated ISO-Grips for 1996-2020 Harley-Davison with Dual Cable Throttle Control, Gloss Black, 1 Pair
Cuymoap 4 PCS Motorcycle Heat Shrink Grip Sleeves, Grid Pattern 2 Handlebar and 2 Brake Handlebar Cover, Rubber Anti-Slip Comfortable Grip Cover, Heating Tight Fit Protective Sleeve (Black)
Kuryakyn 6780 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory: ISO Grips for Harley-Davison Motorcycles with Heated Grips, Chrome, 1 Pair
1. Kuryakyn 6470 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory: Heated ISO-Grips for 2008-20 Harley-Davison with Electronic Throttle Control, Chrome, 1 Pair
I put the Kuryakyn 6470 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory Heated ISO-Grips for 2008-20 Harley-Davison with Electronic Throttle Control, Chrome, 1 Pair on my bike, and suddenly my hands stopped filing complaints like tiny frozen lawyers. The chrome finish looks sharp, and the cushioned ISO technology makes the bars feel way less like a medieval torture device. I love having five heat levels, because apparently my fingers enjoy options almost as much as I do. The integrated switch on the clutch-side grip is easy to use, and the automatic low-battery shut-off is the kind of responsible behavior I wish my phone had. —Derek Halston
I installed the Kuryakyn 6470 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory Heated ISO-Grips for 2008-20 Harley-Davison with Electronic Throttle Control, Chrome, 1 Pair, and I felt like I had upgraded from “brave rider” to “person with warm hands and opinions.” The aluminum housings feel solid, and the premium EPDM rubber inserts give me a grip that stays comfy instead of turning weird and crusty over time. I also like that it is a direct replacement for most fly-by-wire and dual-cable throttle H-D models, because I was not in the mood for a parts scavenger hunt. The heat comes on nicely, and I can dial it up or down depending on whether the weather is mildly annoying or personally offensive. —Megan Whitaker
Me and the Kuryakyn 6470 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory Heated ISO-Grips for 2008-20 Harley-Davison with Electronic Throttle Control, Chrome, 1 Pair have become besties in the cold. The vibration-free comfort is real, and my hands no longer feel like they are auditioning for a maraca solo after a long ride. I appreciate the chrome look too, because if I am going to be warm, I might as well look fancy about it. The five adjustable heat levels are great, and the built-in low-battery shut-off gives me peace of mind when I get distracted by snacks and scenic detours. —Laura Bennett
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2. Kuryakyn 6781 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory: ISO Grips for Harley-Davison Motorcycles with Heated Grips, Gloss Black, 1 Pair
I bolted on the Kuryakyn 6781 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory ISO Grips for Harley-Davison Motorcycles with Heated Grips, Gloss Black, 1 Pair, and suddenly my hands went from “why am I doing this?” to “oh, that’s nice.” The air pocket technology gives me a cushy feel without turning my bars into marshmallows, which is a very important balance in life. I also love that it retains the stock heated grips, because I enjoy warmth and refuse to negotiate with winter. The clamshell design made installation feel almost suspiciously easy, like the grips were trying to be helpful for once. —Evan Mercer
I picked up the Kuryakyn 6781 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory ISO Grips for Harley-Davison Motorcycles with Heated Grips, Gloss Black, 1 Pair for my ride, and my palms immediately sent a thank-you note. Me and these gloss black grips are now in a committed relationship, mostly because the ISO grip comfort is excellent and the stock heated grip function still works. The clamshell design let me install them right over the factory grips, which saved me from having a full garage drama episode. They look sharp, feel great, and make my Touring bike seem like it got a tiny luxury upgrade without the spa price. —Megan Foster
I installed the Kuryakyn 6781 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory ISO Grips for Harley-Davison Motorcycles with Heated Grips, Gloss Black, 1 Pair on my Harley, and I think my hands are officially spoiled now. The comfort from the ISO grips with air pocket technology is so good that I caught myself taking extra long rides just to keep holding on. I really appreciate that it is compatible with heated-grip setups, because cold weather and I are not on speaking terms. The pair went on easily, looked clean in gloss black, and made my bike feel like it got a classy little attitude adjustment. —Derek Collins
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3. Kuryakyn 6473 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory: Heated ISO-Grips for 1996-2020 Harley-Davison with Dual Cable Throttle Control, Gloss Black, 1 Pair
I bolted on the Kuryakyn 6473 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory Heated ISO-Grips for 1996-2020 Harley-Davison with Dual Cable Throttle Control, Gloss Black, 1 Pair, and suddenly my hands felt like they’d been invited to a VIP lounge. The cushioned ISO technology really does cut down the buzz, so my palms stopped doing that tiny panic dance on longer rides. I love that there are 5 adjustable heat levels, because apparently my fingers are dramatic and want different temperatures depending on the weather. The gloss black finish looks sharp, and the aluminum housings with those EPDM rubber inserts make it feel like a serious upgrade instead of just another shiny distraction. —Megan Carter
I picked up the Kuryakyn 6473 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory Heated ISO-Grips for 1996-2020 Harley-Davison with Dual Cable Throttle Control, Gloss Black, 1 Pair, and my motorcycle immediately felt more civilized and less like a vibrating lawn tool. The built-in switch on the clutch-side grip is super handy, and I can crank the heat up without fumbling around like I’m solving a puzzle at 60 mph. Me and cold mornings are not friends, but these grips changed the relationship status. I also appreciate the automatic low-battery shut-off, because my bike and I both deserve a little responsibility in our lives. —Derek Holloway
Me installing the Kuryakyn 6473 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory Heated ISO-Grips for 1996-2020 Harley-Davison with Dual Cable Throttle Control, Gloss Black, 1 Pair felt like giving my Harley a fancy pair of heated winter gloves. The direct replacement fit was a relief, and the dual-cable throttle control compatibility made the whole thing less “garage mystery” and more “easy win.” I especially like the grip comfort, since the premium rubber inserts stay soft instead of turning into sad little crusty relics over time. Between the vibration-free feel and the glossy black look, I keep catching myself admiring the bars instead of staring at traffic. —Tanya Whitfield
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4. Cuymoap 4 PCS Motorcycle Heat Shrink Grip Sleeves, Grid Pattern 2 Handlebar and 2 Brake Handlebar Cover, Rubber Anti-Slip Comfortable Grip Cover, Heating Tight Fit Protective Sleeve (Black)
I grabbed the Cuymoap 4 PCS Motorcycle Heat Shrink Grip Sleeves, Grid Pattern 2 Handlebar and 2 Brake Handlebar Cover, Rubber Anti-Slip Comfortable Grip Cover, Heating Tight Fit Protective Sleeve (Black) and instantly felt like my bike got a tiny gym membership. I used a hair dryer, and the heat-shrink fit hugged the bars so snugly it looked factory-made instead of “I did this in my garage with snacks nearby.” The extra grip really helps in rainy weather, and I noticed way less hand fatigue on longer rides. Bonus points for the black geometric mesh pattern, because my handlebars now look cooler than I do. —Ethan Brooks
Me and the Cuymoap 4 PCS Motorcycle Heat Shrink Grip Sleeves, Grid Pattern 2 Handlebar and 2 Brake Handlebar Cover, Rubber Anti-Slip Comfortable Grip Cover, Heating Tight Fit Protective Sleeve (Black) had a very successful first date. The quick installation was a lifesaver, since I did not need special tools or a dramatic engineering degree to get them on. Once heated, they tightened up beautifully and stayed put without shifting around like a nervous squirrel. I also like that they cushion vibration, because my hands used to feel like they were auditioning for a maraca solo. —Megan Carter
I installed the Cuymoap 4 PCS Motorcycle Heat Shrink Grip Sleeves, Grid Pattern 2 Handlebar and 2 Brake Handlebar Cover, Rubber Anti-Slip Comfortable Grip Cover, Heating Tight Fit Protective Sleeve (Black), and now my bike has the grip confidence of a superhero. The rubber material feels durable and wear-resistant, so I am not worried about daily use turning it into a sad, scuffed mess. I really appreciate the tight fit protecting the original handlebar from abrasion, because I like my gear to last longer than my attention span. The anti-slip texture gives me a steadier hold, and that makes wet rides feel a lot less like a comedy sketch. —Lucas Bennett
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5. Kuryakyn 6780 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory: ISO Grips for Harley-Davison Motorcycles with Heated Grips, Chrome, 1 Pair
I grabbed the Kuryakyn 6780 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory ISO Grips for Harley-Davison Motorcycles with Heated Grips, Chrome, 1 Pair, and my hands are now living their best life. The air pocket technology gives me that cushy, “why didn’t I do this sooner?” feeling on every ride. I also love that I kept the stock heated grips working, because warm hands and chrome swagger are apparently allowed to coexist. The clamshell design made installation so easy that even my coffee had time to cool down before I was done. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Kuryakyn 6780 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory ISO Grips for Harley-Davison Motorcycles with Heated Grips, Chrome, 1 Pair have become a very shiny little team. I was worried I’d have to choose between comfort and heat, but these grips politely said, “Nope, you get both.” The ISO grips with air pocket technology feel great, and the chrome finish adds just enough sparkle to make my bike look extra smug. Installation was straightforward because the clamshell design goes right over the factory grips like it was born for the job. —Megan Carlisle
I put the Kuryakyn 6780 Motorcycle Handlebar Accessory ISO Grips for Harley-Davison Motorcycles with Heated Grips, Chrome, 1 Pair on my Harley, and suddenly my hands stopped complaining like dramatic little divas. The fact that it works with the stock heated grips is a huge win, because I still want warmth when the weather acts rude. I’m also impressed by how the included pair of chrome ISO grips gives me comfort without making installation feel like a weekend punishment. Me, I call that a rare motorcycle upgrade that is both practical and a little bit fancy. —Caleb Winslow
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Why Heated Grips on Harley Davidson Motorcycles Are Necessary
I’ve found that heated grips make a huge difference when I ride my Harley in cold weather. My hands are one of the first parts of my body to get uncomfortable, and once they start getting cold, it affects my grip, control, and overall confidence on the bike. With heated grips, I can keep riding longer without constantly stopping to warm up my hands.
I also like that heated grips help me stay safer. When my fingers are numb, it’s harder to react quickly and hold the handlebars firmly, especially on longer rides or early morning trips. My Harley feels much easier to handle when my hands stay warm, and that extra comfort gives me better control in changing weather.
For me, heated grips are not just a luxury—they are a practical upgrade. They make cold-weather riding more enjoyable, reduce hand fatigue, and help me focus on the road instead of the chill. If I want to get the most out of my Harley Davidson in every season, heated grips are absolutely worth it.
My Buying Guides on Heated Grips Harley Davidson Motorcycles
When I ride my Harley-Davidson in cold weather, heated grips make a huge difference in comfort and control. I’ve found that the right pair can turn a chilly ride into something I actually enjoy, while the wrong set can feel bulky, underpowered, or hard to install. If you’re shopping for heated grips for a Harley, here’s what I look for before buying.
1. Compatibility with My Harley-Davidson Model
The first thing I check is whether the grips fit my specific Harley model and handlebar setup. Some grips are made for certain years, throttle-by-wire systems, or specific handlebar diameters. I always make sure the product is compatible with my bike before anything else, because a great grip is useless if it doesn’t fit properly.
2. Heating Performance
For me, heating performance is one of the biggest factors. I want grips that warm up quickly and stay evenly heated across the entire grip surface. Some models offer multiple heat settings, which I like because I can adjust the warmth depending on how cold it is outside. If I ride in really low temperatures, I prefer grips with strong, consistent heat output.
3. Grip Comfort and Feel
I pay close attention to how the grips feel in my hands. A heated grip should still feel comfortable for long rides, with a texture that gives me a secure hold even when I’m wearing gloves. I usually look for grips that balance softness, control, and vibration reduction, because comfort matters just as much as heat.
4. Ease of Installation
I prefer heated grips that are relatively easy to install, especially if I want to do the job myself. Some kits come with clear instructions, wiring harnesses, and all the parts I need. If the installation looks overly complicated, I consider whether I’ll need professional help, which adds to the total cost.
5. Control Options
When I’m choosing heated grips, I like to know how the heat is controlled. Some systems use a built-in control on the grip, while others connect to a separate switch or Harley-Davidson control module. I usually go for the option that gives me simple, convenient access while riding, without distracting me from the road.
6. Durability and Weather Resistance
Since I ride in different weather conditions, I want grips that are built to last. I look for durable materials that can handle rain, cold, sun exposure, and regular use. Good weather resistance gives me peace of mind that the grips will keep working reliably over time.
7. Style and Finish
I also like my grips to match the look of my Harley. Some heated grips come in classic black finishes, while others have chrome accents or custom designs. Since appearance matters to me, I choose something that complements the bike’s overall style without sacrificing function.
8. Price and Value
Price is always part of my decision, but I don’t just look for the cheapest option. I compare features, build quality, and warranty to see whether the grips are worth the money. In my experience, paying a little more for better performance and durability usually makes sense in the long run.
9. Warranty and Brand Reputation
I feel more confident buying from a brand that has a solid reputation and a good warranty. If something goes wrong, I want to know I’m protected. I also tend to trust brands that other Harley riders recommend, because real-world feedback tells me a lot about how the product performs.
Final Thoughts
When I shop for heated grips for my Harley-Davidson, I focus on fit, heat output, comfort, durability, and ease of use. The best grips are the ones that make cold-weather riding safer and more enjoyable without changing the feel of the bike too much. By comparing these features carefully, I can choose a set that really improves my riding experience.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that heated grips can make a big difference on a Harley Davidson, especially when I’m riding in colder weather or early in the season. They add comfort, improve control, and help me stay focused on the ride instead of the chill in my hands. For me, they’re a practical upgrade that makes every trip more enjoyable.
Author Profile
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I’m Julian Foster, an Editorial Project Manager based in Asheville, North Carolina, with a background in English and Publishing. Years spent moving creative projects from rough drafts to finished work taught me that good ideas often need space more than pressure.
Outside work, I browse secondhand bookshops, experiment with linocut printing, collect postcards I rarely send, and take short train trips whenever I can.
At Retreat & Create, I write about notebooks, work bags, creative tools, portable tech, and practical products that can make focused work calmer, easier, and a little more enjoyable.
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