Originally Posted by rohittsingh45

You’ve got a nice find with that Electra Townie! 👍 Sticky, gummy grips are pretty common on older bikes — it’s usually just the rubber breaking down with age and sun exposure.

A few options you can try:

• Quick fix: Clean them with rubbing alcohol or WD-40 and a rag. Sometimes that removes enough of the gummy residue to make them usable again.
  
• Replacement grips: You can definitely buy new grips and trim one down to fit the shorter side near the shifter. Just make sure to measure first. Brands like Bontrager and Ergon make comfortable options.
  
• Handlebar tape: Works in a pinch, but as you mentioned, it will reduce the grip diameter and may not feel great for longer rides.
  

If you’re not worried about keeping it “original,” I’d say just replace the grips — it’s inexpensive and will make the bike feel brand new.