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The Ergon GS1 Evo and GA3 both have an ergonomic wing design that supports your palm and reduces pressure. However, they provide different levels of support, which we’re going to discuss.
The GS1 Evo has a larger wing that is designed to provide more palm support. In the GA3, you get a smaller wing. Although it’s not a flexible mini-wing, it’s a good option if you want more freedom to move your hand on technical trails or if that’s simply what you’re used to.
Ergon GS1 Evo vs GA3: Which One Should You Buy?
My recommendation depends mainly on where and how you ride.
- Choose the GS1 Evo for long-distance riding, MTB touring, fitness bikes, or e-bikes where hand support and wrist support are your biggest priority.
- Choose the GA3 for cross-country and regular trail riding where you want some palm support without a large wing getting in the way.
- Choose the new GMS if you’re shopping for GA3-style grips today. It will take over the GA3’s role with an updated shape, although you can still buy the GA at a good clearance price.
If you ask me what my overall pick is, I would choose the GA3-style design, especially the GA3, if the prices are close. And if I had to choose between the two for touring and longer rides, I would go with the GS1 Evo, which will definitely provide more comfort for my hands.
Ergon GS1 Evo grips
Larger wing for palm support on long rides and e-bikes. Large, black; Small and other colors on the page.
Ergon GA3 grips
Mini-wing grip with more freedom for your hands on technical trails. Black; check the size on the page.
GA3 to GMS: What Changed and What Didn’t?
Ergon has replaced it with the GMS, which improves several details of the original design.
But the changes are small rather than a completely different approach to ergonomic grips.
Ergon GMS grips
The newer mini-wing grip that replaces the GA3. Large, black; check the size on the page.
What changed?
The biggest difference is the shape of the mini-wing.
The original GA3 has a curved supporting area that becomes narrower toward the inside of the grip. The GMS uses a smoother, more trapezoidal shape with a more consistent profile.
On the GA3, moving your hand inward can bring your palm closer to the transition between the wing and the round grip. The newer GMS reduces that abrupt transition, which makes it more comfortable when your hands shift around.
There are also changes to the gripping surface:
- Reshaped mini-wing: A smoother shape designed to follow the natural position of your hand.
- Less taper toward the clamp: The supporting area transitions more gradually into the inner portion of the grip.
- New surface texture: Ergon’s Smart Texture Rhythm pattern changes the texture across different gripping areas.
- Two raised ribs underneath: These give your fingers a more defined surface to hold, which is good on rough terrain.
The two ribs are especially interesting because they add a little more finger support without even needing a larger palm wing.
What stayed the same?
Ergon kept several features that made the GA3 popular.
Both grips use the GravityControl rubber compound, a flexible mini-wing, an aluminum locking clamp, and separate left- and right-hand shapes.
The GMS also comes in Small and Large, just like the GA3.
As the older GA3 specifications mention 30 mm and 32 mm versions, Ergon’s current US GA3 listing gives 31 mm and 33 mm. The GMS is listed at 31 mm and 33 mm.
Already own the GA3? Should you upgrade?
If the GA3 is not really comfortable for you, then I would recommend trying the GMS. And I know the newer model has improved contact points, but that won’t fundamentally change how these five grips work.
Experienced GA3 riders who have tested the new model (GMS) have said that it feels more supportive, and the redesigned underside also provides a more secure finger position. I know these are good improvements.
But if I already have the GA3 and it’s comfortable, and I can grip the handlebar properly, I don’t see any reason to replace it.
You can consider the newer model if you’re buying a fresh pair, have experienced pressure around the inner wing transition of your older GA3, or simply want more texture under your fingers.
Wing Size and Angle: The Difference You’ll Notice
GS1 Evo’s larger wing versus GA3’s mini-wing
Ergon describes the GS1 Evo as a combination of its supportive GP1 touring grip and the more trail-oriented GA3.
Its wing is larger than the GA3’s but slimmer than the traditional GP1.
This gives the GS1 Evo more surface area underneath your outer palm, which will help spread the pressure.
The GA3’s mini-wing extends just far enough to provide additional support while keeping much of the grip closer to a traditional mountain bike shape.
Here’s how that difference can affect riding:
| Situation | GS1 Evo | GA3 |
|---|---|---|
| Long seated climbs | More palm support | Moderate support |
| Smooth touring trails | Larger supporting surface | Smaller contact area |
| Technical corners | Larger wing may feel restrictive | More freedom to reposition |
| Frequent standing and descending | Less trail-focused shape | Better suited to dynamic riding |
| Riders who dislike bulky grips | May feel more noticeable | Smaller wing is less intrusive |
Why wing angle can matter more than the grip itself
Your handlebar height, brake lever angle, riding posture, and natural wrist position all affect how the wing should be adjusted.
For example, if you rotate the wing too far upward, it can push against your palm in a way that feels uncomfortable. If you rotate it too far downward, the wing will offer little support when you need it.
Before replacing either grip, I’d suggest:
- Start with the wing positioned close to your natural palm angle while holding the handlebar.
- Sit on the bike in your normal riding position and check whether your wrists feel too bent.
- Make small adjustments to the wing angle
- Test the position on a familiar ride and pay attention to pressure points.
- Once comfortable, tighten the clamp according to Ergon’s installation instructions.
Will a bigger wing get in the way on technical trails?
Yes, that can happen, and that’s why the GA3 is a good option in that situation. When you’re riding steep terrain, your body moves behind and above the bike, so your hands don’t always stay in the same position. A larger supporting wing can feel useful during steep climbs, but it may not feel as natural when your wrists rotate and your grip position changes, especially on descents or technical terrain.
Ergon GS1 Evo vs GA3: Specs, Weight and Price
Here are the main specifications:
| Specification | GS1 Evo | GA3 |
|---|---|---|
| Wing design | Larger ergonomic wing | Smaller, flexible mini-wing |
| Available sizes | Small, Large | Small, Large |
| Grip diameter | 31 mm S / 33 mm L, US shop listing | Older specs: 30 mm S / 32 mm L; current US shop: 31 mm / 33 mm |
| Listed weight, pair | 160 g S / 180 g L, retailer specifications | 115 g S / 135 g L, Ergon specifications |
| Independently measured weight | 181 g, reviewed pair | 122 g S / 134 g L, measured pairs |
| Rubber | Medical LongLife compound | GravityControl compound |
| Clamp | Aluminum, inboard | Aluminum, inboard |
| Carbon handlebar compatible | Yes | Yes |
| Standard twist-shift compatibility | No | Dedicated version required |
| Ergon use categories | Fitness, Touring, MTB-Touring, E-Touring | All-Mountain/Trail, E-MTB, MTB-Touring, XC/Marathon, Fitness |
Which one is lighter?
The GA3 is lighter. The smaller version weighs around 168 grams per pair, compared with 150 grams for the GA3. So there’s around an 18-gram difference per pair.
However, after checking and talking with other riders, I found that the difference can sometimes vary, which works out to:
- GA3 Small: Around 122 g per pair.
- GA3 Large: approximately 134 g per pair.
- GS1 Evo: 181 g for the reviewed pair.
Which size should you choose?
They are available in Small and Large sizes. One thing is very simple: if you have small hands, choose the Small size. If you have big hands, choose the Large one.
But another important thing is your comfort, and that’s what matters most. Maybe you have small hands but prefer a thicker grip and feel comfortable with it.
In that case, you should go with the thicker version. So, this mainly comes down to your personal preference.
Also read: Ergon GA3 Grips Small vs Large: Size Chart, Fit Test, and Buying Advice
Which Grip Makes More Sense for Your Bike?
Instead of choosing based only on weight or appearance, I’d match the grip to the kind of riding your bike actually does.
For trail and cross-country mountain bikes
The GA3, or its replacement GMS, would be my first choice.
Both use a smaller wing that supports your palm without creating the same broad platform as the GS1 Evo.
That’s useful on trails where you regularly stand, shift your weight, and rotate your wrists.
The GS1 Evo can still be a reasonable choice for XC riders who prioritize comfort over aggressive handling, particularly on smoother routes.
For bikepacking and long-distance riding
The GA3 is also an alternative to the GS1 Evo. It’s my first choice because both of them have a smaller wing, which supports your palm without creating the same broad platform as the GS1 Evo.
However, the GS1 Evo is designed for XC riders who want more comfort and aggressive handling. For long-distance riding, I like the GS1 Evo, especially if you’re going to be riding on gravel roads, forest tracks, and similar terrain. Its larger wing gives your palm more support.
The GA3 also has a strong reputation among bikepackers because its smaller wing offers a useful compromise between comfort and control.
For e-MTBs and hybrid e-bikes
On an upright e-touring bike, where you’re generally seated and don’t move around as much, you should go with the GS1 Evo.
On an e-MTB used for trail riding, the GA3 or GMS is a good choice because the smaller wing interferes less with active riding.
Both designs can work on electric bikes. So, it is more about the terrain and your riding posture.
What about carbon handlebars?
Both the standard GS1 Evo and GA3 are compatible with carbon handlebars.
They use internal aluminum clamps and do not rely on the rubber to hold the grips in place.
You just want to follow the grip and handlebar manufacturers’ installation requirements, including tightening torque.
Bike torque wrench, 2-10 Nm
For tightening grips and bars to the maker’s torque spec, as the carbon handlebar advice says.
Conclusion
The GS1 Evo and the GA3 both solve a similar problem, but they are designed for different types of riders.
The GS1 Evo is for those who need more palm support, especially if they ride for fitness, go on long-distance rides, or have an e-mountain bike.
On the other hand, the GA3 also offers support but gives you more freedom. If you’re someone who rides on unpredictable terrain, this one is a good option because it allows you to move your hands more freely when riding over uneven terrain or constantly changing your riding position.
In that case, the GA3 is a good choice. I also recommend the GA3 for new riders and beginners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ergon GA3 discontinued?
Yes, Ergon officially introduced the GMS as the replacement for the GA3 in September 2026.
Remaining GA3 stock may still be available through retailers, including closeout listings.
Does the GS1 Evo have a bigger wing than the GA3?
Yes, the GS1 Evo have a larger supporting wing than the GA3 while retaining a slimmer shape than the GP1 touring grip.
Is a mini-wing enough for technical trail riding?
For many regular trail and cross-country riders, yes.
The GA3’s smaller wing provides support without the bulk of a full ergonomic wing.
However, very steep or aggressive terrain can require more wrist rotation and hand movement.
GA3 Small vs Large: Which should I get?
We’ve already discussed the specifications, so you can choose whichever you prefer. Generally, the smaller one suits riders who like a narrower grip, while the larger one is for those who prefer a thicker grip.
Can I use the GS1 Evo or GA3 with twist shifters?
The standard GS1 Evo is not designed for twist shifters. However, Ergon has made dedicated GS1 Evo and GA3 versions for single twist shifters.
These are different from the standard grips, so make sure you check the variant before placing your order.
