Looking at getting some new grips for the new bike. I'm looking at Avon Custom Contour made with Kraton rubber and PM's Contours made with Renthal rubber. PM's price is a little high compared to the Avon's.
Can anyone explain to me the difference in the two materials? Is one softer than the other?

 

Hoping someone can answer to OP's question - I too am in the market for new grips.

 

Question...Does your 2012 have the control wires that all run "inside" the handlebars? If you do I don't think you will be able to use any of those two companies because they don't make a grip that is compatible. I had to send back my "avon purchase" and buy the Harley brand wide grips in black.

They newer model harley now have a throttle control piece at the end of the handlebars. and grips need to be molded accordingly.

 

Not sure about the ones you're comparing, but I went with the PM over the Avon.
The Avon Air Cushion vs. PM Contour XL grips. Plastic sleeves Avon instead of metal PM.
Glued on left grip Avon vs. set screws PM.

Having them both side by side made my decision easy. I gave the Avon grips to a friend.

The Avon grips are nice. The PM grips are much nicer IMO.

 

I was looking at both and went with the PMs for a couple of reasons. First of all, the grips felt better on my hands and seeing as how that's how I hang on to the bike that was the deciding factor. But when I saw the differences in quality and installation I was willing to spend a little more.

 

I wish I could tell you, but I've never ridden a bike with Kraton rubber grips. I went with the PM Renthal rubber grips on the FXDL and like them so much can't see changing. When I bought the RG, switching over to the PM grips was one of the first things I did.

I will say that there is a pretty big difference in the feel of the new grips on the RG and the worn grips on the FXDL. Might be time to call PM for some replacement rubber.

 

Thanks guys - I was leaning towards the PM grips and your responses just helped me make the decision.

 

I ran the PM Renthal's and then switched to the RSD Trackers which are the same as the PM Renthals with a slightly different look. I like them both and will use these exclusively. Can't speak for Avon but I'll pay the price for these because I like them so much.

 

I've got a Cold Sleel Recon Tanto knife with a Kraton rubber handle, Seems pretty tough