ODI

Who or what is ODI?

ODI is an American company and the world leader in grip technology. For over 25 years, they have been known in the BMX world for producing the highest quality grips. Today, they are a dominant force in BMX, MTB, Motocross, and beyond.

Who founded ODI and what was their first hit?

ODI was originally founded in the 1970s by Herb and Kay Guerr in Torrance, California. They ran a molding company that produced various items (skateboard rails, boogie board grips, Christmas ornaments). Their first big breakthrough in BMX came in the 1980s with the legendary Mushroom Grip, which featured a ribbed pattern designed by Herb's brother, a mold maker.

What does the name ODI stand for?

Originally, ODI stood for "Ornate Designs Incorporated." As this no longer fit their identity, the brand redefined the name. Today, ODI stands for their core philosophy: "Observe, Design, Innovate." They observe professional riders, analyze wear patterns, and use their in-house production capabilities to innovate.

Who owns ODI today? (The Dave Grimes Story)

ODI's ownership history is unique:

1. The founders, Herb & Kay, sold ODI in the late 80s to retire. However, the new owner defaulted on the terms of the sale.
2. This forced Herb & Kay to come out of retirement and found a competing company: ATI Grips.
3. ODI went through several unsuccessful owners until Dave Grimes—who was already working as a molder making grips for ODI—bought the company in 1994.
4. Dave Grimes rebuilt the brand and invented the Lock-On grip. He has retired.
5. Today, ODI is owned by MR Industries, a Corona, California-based manufacturing company.

What is ODI's most important innovation?

Without a doubt, the Lock-On Grip. After Dave Grimes took over, ODI launched the first commercially successful lock-on grips. This system, where the grip is clamped onto a sleeve rather than glued, has since become the worldwide standard in mountain biking and a staple in BMX. ODI has continuously refined it (e.g., the Lock-On System v2.1).

Did ODI also produce parts for other brands?

Yes. Dave Grimes' shop was located right next to Troy Lee Designs (TLD). He produced parts for TLD, including visors (like the "Aero Visor"), mouthpieces, and even the wings on the back of Jeremy McGrath's helmets. He also manufactured OE (original equipment) grips for Trek. A popular early grip was the "Tomac Attack," which was renamed the "Attack Grip" after the previous owner ran into royalty issues. ODI also produced private-label motocross grips for other well-known brands for many years.

What does the ODI brand stand for?

ODI stands for uncompromising quality, comfort, and durability in grips. Their slogan " The World Leader in Grip Technology" is backed by decades of product refinement and innovation, often setting the standard for the entire industry.

What makes ODI products special?

ODI's specialty is their iconic "Longneck" mushroom-style grip. Its soft, collapsible rib pattern provides exceptional comfort and vibration damping, making it one of the most popular and frequently copied grips ever made. They also pioneered the Lock-On Grip system (common in MTB and now BMX), which prevents grips from slipping.

What does ODI primarily manufacture?

ODI's core focus is grips for a variety of sports:

• BMX (Freestyle, Race)
• Mountain Bike (MTB)
• Motocross (MX)
• Watercraft

They also produce handlebars, bar ends, and apparel.

Who are ODI products suitable for?

ODI grips are suitable for every BMX rider, from beginner to pro. If you are looking for the most comfortable, durable, and trusted grip on the market, the ODI Longneck (available in various compounds and as a lock-on) is the industry standard and a top recommendation.