Bicycle Mechanics - Remove Rubber Grips with Alcohol?

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xenologer

01-31-09, 02:08 AM

I've seen the trick to use rubbing alcohol to slip rubber grips on and off bars.
But was wondering, how that actually works? is it somehow melting the rubber or something?
And is ther any long term deterioration or damage to ther rubber?

bikinfool

01-31-09, 02:19 AM

Compressed air works even better. The alcohol is just acting as a bit of lubricant before it evaporates...

2_i

01-31-09, 08:44 AM

You can use water instead of alcohol.

curbtender

01-31-09, 08:57 AM

Alcohol works but you need to dry it well before reinstalling. Hairspray works when installing and when it drys, sticks the grip to the bars. A little water will rehydrate the spray and they slip right off. I usually use the compressed air because I have it available.

Panthers007

01-31-09, 12:33 PM

Soap & water also works. Wash it off when done.

Mondoman

01-31-09, 01:17 PM

Nope, the alcohol won't hurt the rubber or plastic. As the others said, it's only on there for a short time anyway.