Robbo,
Think you are going through the same thought process as I did.
I have the smooth chrome EJ DE89, I'm pretty new to DE shaving and fancied upgrading from my Boots DE safety razor which I used for my 'trial' DE shaving period.
I looked at the DE89 and then had to make the choice between the lined and smooth chrome. Think the saving on the smooth was about a fiver at the time (on the big 'amazing' retail site
which is quite substantial when getting a nice entry level razor. Obviously I had the same concerns but looking at various threads on here and possibly other sites I came to the conclusion that the smooth would be fine in terms of grip. Thats the great thing I have found on this site, the info is there and if not people are willing to advise.
I have been using it for the last couple of weeks and as a novice and a not particularly tidy (in terms of dry hands etc) shaver I havent personally encountered any problems with the handle being smooth. Its a great looking piece of kit, a nice weight and provides a great shave. I can't obviously compare it with any others out there other than the basic boots one, but I haven't been disappointed at all.
All the best and happy shaving.