Handlebar tapes serve as crucial contact points between you and your bike, ensuring comfort and control while riding. When choosing bar tape, factors like shock absorption, cushioning, grip in wet conditions, and durability come into play. 

Moreover, replacing old bar tape with new offers an affordable opportunity to personalize and revitalize your bike. In this article, we will explore the top handlebar tapes plus will also cover helpful tips for wrapping them properly.  

So, let’s begin our journey of discovering the best handlebar tape options available.

What is Bike Handlebar Tape

Bike handlebar tape, also known as bar tape or handlebar grip tape, is a wrapping material used to cover the handlebars of a bicycle. 

It serves multiple purposes, including providing a comfortable and secure grip for the rider, absorbing road vibrations, and enhancing the overall aesthetics of the bike.

Top 3 Picks for Bike Handlebar Tape

In today’s extensive marketplace, making educated purchasing choices can be daunting. Our curated list of the top 3 bike handlebar tapes empowers you to navigate this intricate landscape with assurance. After conducting thorough assessments, we’ve handpicked the three best bike handlebar tapes that align with your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, homebody, or outdoor explorer, we’ve got you covered. Our top 3 picks epitomize innovation, quality, and satisfaction, guaranteeing you’ll discover the ideal product for your cycling pursuits.

Last update on 2024-11-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Explore the Diverse Range of Bike Handlebar Tape

There are several types of bike handlebar tape available on the market, each with its characteristics and features. Here are some common types:

1. Cork Tape

Cork handlebar tape is a popular choice among cyclists due to its comfort, durability, and affordability. It provides a good amount of cushioning and absorbs vibrations, making it suitable for long rides. Cork tape often has a textured surface for added grip.

2. Synthetic Foam Tape

Synthetic foam handlebar tape is lightweight and offers excellent shock absorption. It provides a soft and comfortable grip, minimizing fatigue during long rides. This type of tape is usually thicker than cork tape and offers better insulation from road vibrations.

3. Gel Tape

Gel handlebar tape incorporates gel padding or inserts to provide enhanced cushioning and vibration dampening. It offers a plush and comfortable grip, ideal for riders who prioritize maximum comfort. Gel tape is often thicker than other types and can help reduce hand fatigue on rough terrains.

4. Leather Tape

Leather handlebar tape is known for its classic and elegant look. It offers a natural and traditional feel, and it tends to become more supple and comfortable over time. Leather bar tape is durable and provides a good grip, although it may not absorb vibrations as effectively as foam or gel tape.

5. Silicone Tape

Silicone handlebar tape is a newer option gaining popularity due to its unique properties. It is highly grippy, even in wet conditions, and offers good shock absorption. Silicone tape is also easy to clean and maintain. It typically comes in a variety of colors and has a smooth, tacky feel.

6. Textured Tape

Some handlebar tapes feature textured patterns or designs to provide additional grip and traction. These textures can vary from subtle patterns to more pronounced ridges or bumps, offering a secure grip even in wet or sweaty conditions.

Advantages of Using Bike Handlebar Tape

Using bike handlebar tape offers several advantages for cyclists. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Comfort

Handlebar tape provides a padded and cushioned surface for the rider’s hands, offering increased comfort during long rides. It helps absorb road vibrations, reducing hand fatigue and discomfort.

2. Grip

Handlebar tape enhances grip, especially when riding in wet or sweaty conditions. The material used in the tape, such as cork or synthetic foam, provides a non-slip surface, allowing the rider to maintain better control and handling of the bike.

3. Shock Absorption

The tape’s padding helps absorb vibrations and shocks from the road, which can reduce strain on the rider’s hands, wrists, and arms. This is particularly beneficial when riding on rough or uneven surfaces.

4. Customization

Handlebar tape comes in various colors, patterns, and textures, allowing cyclists to personalize the appearance of their bikes. It can be a fun way to add a touch of style and individuality to the overall bike aesthetics.

5. Protection

Handlebar tape provides a protective layer for the handlebars, preventing scratches and scuffs. It helps maintain the handlebars’ integrity and longevity, especially for bikes that may be leaned against walls or dropped occasionally.

6. Insulation

In cold weather conditions, handlebar tape can act as insulation, protecting the rider’s hands from cold metal handlebars. It helps to maintain a comfortable grip and prevents discomfort caused by cold temperatures.

7. Hygiene

Handlebar tape is relatively easy to clean and maintain. Regular cleaning can help remove dirt, sweat, and grime that accumulate over time, ensuring a cleaner and more hygienic grip surface.

Disadvantages of Using Bike Handlebar Tape

While bicycle handlebar tape offers numerous advantages, there are also a few potential disadvantages to consider:

1. Durability

Handlebar tape is subject to wear and tear, particularly if you ride frequently or in challenging conditions. Over time, the tape may become worn, torn, or discolored, requiring replacement. The lifespan of handlebar tape varies depending on the material used and how well it is cared for.

2. Maintenance

While bicycle handle tape is generally easy to clean, certain types of tape, such as light-colored or fabric-based options, may be more prone to staining or discoloration. Regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to keep the tape looking fresh and in good condition.

3. Installation Difficulty

Applying handlebar tape properly requires some skill and attention to detail. It may take a few tries to achieve neat and even wrapping, especially for those new to the process. However, with practice and following instructions, most riders can become proficient at applying handlebar tape.

4. Limited Cushioning Options

While handlebar tape provides some degree of cushioning and shock absorption, the level of comfort may vary depending on the type and thickness of the tape. Some riders, particularly those with specific comfort needs or hand sensitivities, may prefer additional cushioning options such as gel inserts or padded gloves.

5. Cost

The price of handlebar tape can vary depending on the brand, material, and quality. While there are affordable options available, higher-quality tapes or those with additional features like gel padding or unique textures may be more expensive. It’s important to balance cost considerations with the desired level of comfort and durability.

It’s worth noting that while there are some potential disadvantages, handlebar tape remains a widely used and popular accessory among cyclists due to its overall benefits and ability to enhance the riding experience.

What to Consider While Buying Bike Handlebar Tape

1. Bike Tape Grip

The handlebar tape on your bike serves more than just an aesthetic purpose. It plays a crucial role as the primary point of contact between you and your bike. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that it provides a secure grip, enabling you to maintain control over your bike regardless of the conditions. 

When selecting handlebar tape, prioritize finding one with a sticky finish that enhances grip, especially when riding in wet weather. This becomes even more important if you ride without gloves.

2. Bicycle Handlebar Tape Padding

Padding is another crucial consideration when it comes to handlebar tape, especially for riders who prefer not to wear gloves. During long rides, especially on uneven surfaces, your hands and wrists endure significant impact. 

Therefore, it’s important to choose bike tape with ample padding to minimize vibrations transferred to your body. If you frequently ride on exceptionally rough roads or even cobblestones, you might even want to consider wrapping your handlebars with two layers of tape for enhanced protection.

3. Bicycle Handlebar Wrap Ability

Typically, thinner tapes are easier to wrap due to their increased flexibility, but they may tend to bunch up at the bends of the handlebars. So, choose wisely.

4. Bike Handle Tape Material

Bar tape is available in various materials, with the most popular choices being synthetic, leather, and cork. Synthetic options typically utilize materials like polyurethane, nylon, or silicone, often featuring a foam or gel core. 

These types of tape are known for their durability and are designed to provide a slightly tacky feel, even when exposed to rain or sweat. On the other hand, leather tape can be more challenging to wrap due to its stiffness and lack of cushioning (as expected from leather). 

However, once it’s broken in, it becomes soft to the touch and has an elegant appearance. Lastly, cork tape is known for its softness, cushioning, and thicker profile, but it tends to absorb sweat and dirt.

5. Bike Tape Backing

The majority of handlebar tapes are equipped with either an adhesive or a sticky gel strip on the back to prevent them from shifting during rides. The gel option typically provides slightly better vibration damping, while the adhesive type excels at maintaining a secure grip throughout the season.

6. Bicycle Handlebar Tape Thickness

In road racing, it has been traditional to favor thin tape, typically ranging from 1 to 2mm in thickness. This thinner tape provides a more direct connection and immediate feedback from the bike. 

You can find a variety of options, including leather, cork, and synthetic tapes, in this thickness range. However, as gravel rides and other off-road drop-bar adventures gain popularity, there is a growing demand for thicker bar tapes that offer enhanced shock absorption. 

Companies such as Specialized, Silca, and Blackburn have responded to this demand by designing multilayered tapes that provide improved grip, sweat absorption, and cushioning. 

These tapes are particularly effective at dampening the impact of bumps and vibrations associated with road and gravel riding. If comfort is a top priority, you can opt for a bar tape in the range of 2.5 to 3.2mm thick. As an example of an extra-cushioned option, the Lizard Skins DSP 4.6 offers an impressive 4.6mm of cushioning.

7. Color of Bike Tape

Some individuals in the cycling community may insist that your handlebar tape should match either the color of your saddle or the head tube or be black. However, I believe you should choose a color that appeals to you without any strict rules. 

If you explore various options, you’ll find vibrant choices like black, brown, oil slick, and grey, available from brands like Supacaz and Lizard Skins, including some eye-catching patterns. Ultimately, it’s your bike, so feel free to personalize it in whichever way you prefer.

How to Wrap Handlebar Tape Properly on Bike

1. Prepare Your Bike

First, secure your bike in a work stand and retract the brake-hood covers. Proceed to remove the old bar tape by peeling it off and removing the bar plugs. Take care to scrape off any remaining adhesive. 

Use electrical tape to secure any loose cable housing against the handlebar. Before handling the new bar tape, make sure to thoroughly clean your hands to remove any grime.

2. Wrap It Right and Tight

Begin by partially peeling off the adhesive backing of the new bar tape. Gradually remove more backing as you progress. With the tape oriented in your desired direction (clockwise or counterclockwise), start at the end of the handlebar, ensuring the adhesive strip is in full contact with the edge while allowing the remaining tape to hang off. 

As you wrap, overlap approximately one-third to half of the tape’s width.

Maintain a consistent tension on the tape while wrapping, aiming to stretch it slightly without causing it to tear. However, it’s important to note that some handlebar tape manufacturers recommend avoiding stretching the tape. 

Before you commence wrapping, check the instructions provided with the tape you have purchased. As you navigate the bends of the handlebar, increase the overlap on the inner side of the curve and decrease it on the outer side.

Achieving the ideal tension and overlap may require a few attempts. If you observe any gaps in the tape, simply unwrap it and start again.

3. Halt for Brake Detail

Typically, new handlebar tape is accompanied by two shorter pieces. In case, they are not included, you can cut a 3-inch piece from each roll before you begin wrapping. Utilize these shorter pieces to cover the brake-lever clamps. 

Irrespective of your initial wrapping direction, always start by wrapping the top, flat section of the bar with the tape going over the top of the bar towards the rider. As you ride, your hands will naturally tighten the tape.

When wrapping towards the outside, you will need to change direction at the lever clamp. To accomplish this, wrap as closely as possible to the clamp, overlapping it by approximately one-half to three-quarters of the tape’s width. 

Then, proceed to wrap under the clamp at the front of the bar, against the inside of the clamp, and over the top of the bar, slightly overlapping the clamp.

Inspect the wrapped area for any gaps in the tape. If you notice any, it is advisable to re-wrap that section. Continue wrapping the top half of the bar. When wrapping towards the inside, wrap as close to the bottom of the lever clamp as feasible before continuing over the clamp.

4. Add the Final Touches

Determining the finishing point is a matter of personal preference. Take note of where you want the handlebar tape to end, and continue wrapping two or three additional turns beyond that point. 

Then, mark the desired finish point on the tape using scissors. Unwrap the tape, cut it at the marked angle, and re-wrap it so that the cut end is positioned at the bottom of the bar, resulting in a tidy finish.

To secure the cut end in place, wrap a few rounds of electrical tape around the end. Next, go back and tuck the overlapping portion into the end of the bar and insert the end plug. If needed, gently tap the end plug into place with a rubber mallet. 

Finally, pull the brake hoods back down into their original position. Congratulations, you have completed the bike handle tape installation!

Top 7 Best Bike Handlebar Tapes to Meet Your Cycling Demands

1. Lizard Skins DSP 2.5mm Handlebar Tape

Last update on 2024-11-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

When it comes to comfort and grip, Lizard Skins excels in both aspects, making it a popular choice for many cyclists. The range of thickness options allows you to customize the tape according to your preferences without compromising grip and comfort. 

However, if weight is a concern for you, it’s worth noting that the 4.6mm thick tape adds 50 grams compared to the 1.8mm version.

The tacky texture of Lizard Skins material ensures exceptional grip, even in wet conditions when riding without gloves – a challenge that some tapes struggle with. This feature also proves advantageous during warm weather, as it helps maintain a secure hold on the handlebars despite sweaty palms.

The primary drawback of Lizard Skins DSP tape is its price, as it falls into the higher price range. However, like many cycling accessories, the cost is reflective of the quality you receive.

Pros

• Durable
• Lightweight
• Feels amazing
• Can be rewrapped
• Can be wiped clean
• Large range of colors

Cons

• High price but justified by the quality of the product.
• Lizard Skins DSP is a highly favored choice among professionals in the WorldTour peloton, offering one of the most indulgent sensations among handlebar tapes available in the market. 

In addition to the 2.5mm option, there are three other thicknesses to choose from (1.8mm, 3.2mm, and 4.6mm), and despite its generous padding, it can be easily rewrapped as needed.

2. Supercaz Super Sticky Kush Bar Tape

Last update on 2024-11-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

When a bar tape claims to be “super sticky,” it must provide exceptional grip, and Supercaz’s product certainly lives up to that expectation.

I have tested this tape on various bikes and have always been impressed by its combination of comfort and grip. Even when riding without gloves in persistent showers, the super sticky tape exceeded my expectations, thanks to its geometric pattern that offered a surprising grip despite the challenging conditions.

Regarding the “kush” factor, the tape boasts a 3mm thickness, which falls on the thicker side, providing a truly comfortable experience. It’s tackiness and decent cushioning makes it ideal for long rides or rough terrains. 

However, this thicker profile does sacrifice some bar feel. Riders who prefer gloves may find them slightly bulky, although this is subjective to personal preference.

Wrapping a thicker tape can sometimes be more challenging, but the Supercush tape has proven to be relatively trouble-free in my experience. While it may not be as effortless to install as thinner and more stretchable tapes, it offers enough flexibility to avoid major difficulties.

The Supercush tape also earns bonus points for its wide range of color options. Whether your bike or kit is in a unique shade like “coffee brown” (notable for Ag2R fans), you can find a Super Stick Kush tape to match. Additionally, it comes with adjustable bar plugs, which is an expected feature given its higher price tag, but not always provided by other brands.

Pros

• High level of grip.
• Plenty of cushioning.
• Good quality adjustable bar plugs.
• Huge range of colors and patterns.

Cons

• May be too thick for some

3. Bontrager Grippytack Bar Tape

Last update on 2024-11-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Bontrager’s Grippytack handlebar tape proudly showcases its claimed benefits right in its name. After using it for almost a year, which included enduring a long and sweaty summer, I can confidently say that there is no false advertising here. 

Even when my hands were drenched in sweat during rides in scorching temperatures exceeding 35°C (95°F), this tape provided a reliable and much-needed grip.

The tape boasts a relatively thin profile, ensuring an ample bar feel. However, it incorporates shock-absorbing foam to offer cushioning support for your hands during lengthy or bumpy rides. 

The thickness of bar tape is a personal preference, but I found that the Grippytack tape struck a perfect balance between comfort and tactile sensitivity. Its texture features a series of micro-dots, akin to the Kinesis 4 seasons tape. 

But wrapping Bontrager Grippytack can be a bit more challenging, despite its claim of “ideal stretch for quick-and-easy installation.” I noticed that it didn’t stretch as much as I anticipated, making the installation process slightly more demanding, though it is not the most difficult tape I have encountered.

The included bar plugs are simple and easy to install, requiring only a gentle tap with your palm. However, a thoughtful addition is the reflective Bontrager logo on the bar plugs, enhancing visibility and adding an extra layer of safety.

Pros

• Grips well even with sweaty palms.
• Not overly thick, blends comfort and feel.

Cons

• Not the easiest tape to wrap.

4. SRAM Supercork Bar Tape

Last update on 2024-11-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

A comprehensive bar tape guide wouldn’t be complete without featuring a classic cork option. For those who have been cycling for a while, that cork tape was likely the go-to choice for many years, surpassing cotton and vinyl in terms of performance and comfort since its invention in 1983. In this case, I’ve selected SRAM’s Supercork.

Cork tape is essentially a polyurethane tape embedded with natural cork fragments, resulting in a soft and spongy texture that is lightweight and offers a good grip. SRAM’s version maintains a traditional 3mm thickness, delivering highly comfortable tape with ample cushioning.

One drawback of cork tape can be its grip in wet conditions or when your hands become sweaty. However, in my experience, SRAM’s tape does a commendable job of addressing this issue. It’s worth noting that if you’re accustomed to super sticky modern tapes like Lizard Skins, you may find the grip provided by cork tape somewhat underwhelming.

Arguably, the biggest advantage of SRAM’s Supercork tape, as well as most cork tapes, is its affordability. These tapes can cost half or even less compared to high-end options like Supercaz. This means you can re-wrap your handlebars more frequently, giving your bike a fresh and renewed feel for as little as £10.

SRAM Supercork tape is relatively easy to wrap, similar to most cork tapes. However, it’s important to proceed with caution. Cork tapes tend to snap if you apply excessive tension during the wrapping process.

Pros

• Great tape for those on a budget.
• Classic cork feel delivers plenty of comfort.

Cons

• Less grippy.
• Not as durable as some tape.

5. Ritchey WCS Race Gel Bar Tape

Last update on 2024-11-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Ritchey’s WCS Race gel tape is crafted from lightweight polyurethane and features a gel backing, providing a remarkably comfortable feel. I had the opportunity to use it on various bikes and have consistently found its 2.4mm thickness to offer ample cushioning, particularly when used without wearing gloves.

In terms of grip, the surface of the tape is moderately tacky, although not to the extent of options like Supacaz or LizardSkins. It strikes a balance between these highly grippy tapes and more traditional cork tape designs. 

Regardless of weather conditions, the tape performs well, whether in cold and wet conditions or warmer climates where sweaty hands can be a challenge. Additionally, it is relatively easy to wrap, offering just enough stretch to maintain tension during installation for a clean and tight wrap.

The tape boasts a classic appearance, featuring a repeating embossed Ritchey logo for an added touch. It is available in several colors, including black and white, making it a suitable match for most road bikes. 

The bar ends are of the straightforward “push in” type. Overall, Ritchey’s WCS Race tape is a well-crafted option that offers both comfort and a professional aesthetic, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable tape with a business-like presentation.

Pros

• The classic look suits many road bikes.
• Gel delivers plenty of comfort on long rides.

Cons

• Basic bar plugs.

6. Kinesis 4 Seasons Bar Tape

Kinesis’s 4 Seasons tape may appear unassuming, but it possesses several noteworthy details that make it a worthy inclusion in this guide to the best handlebar tape options.

Constructed from Kinesis’s self-proclaimed “anti-slip” rubber, this tape features a micro-diamond pattern designed to deliver grip in all weather conditions, earning its “4 Seasons” moniker. 

I have tested this tape in both fair and inclement weather and can confirm its impressive grip. Even during heavy downpours, it maintains a solid level of traction, especially when compared to cork tapes. Additionally, it boasts remarkable durability, as I have used it for over a year without significant signs of wear.

Crucially, the tape provides a comfortable riding experience. Although Kinesis does not specify its width, it is not excessively thick. 

Nevertheless, the incorporation of a shockproof layer and Vex Gel backing proves effective, combining with the pattern’s slightly tacky texture and cushioning to deliver a pleasant ride, even over long distances and uneven road surfaces. 

I utilized this tape while riding sections of cobblestones, and while it couldn’t eliminate vibrations (a challenging task for any tape), it performed admirably over several bone-jarring kilometers.

One additional advantage of the Kinesis tape is its ease of installation. It offers a satisfactory amount of stretch and lacks an overly sticky backing, allowing for hassle-free re-wrapping if necessary, without creating a mess.

Are there any drawbacks to the tape? Not really, although cleaning the gaps between the small diamonds can be a bit challenging.

Pros

• Durable.
• Affordable.
• Quality adjustable bar ends.
• Grippy even in wet conditions.
• Comfortable without being overly thick.
• Plenty of stretch makes it easy to wrap.

Cons

• A small diamond pattern isn’t the easiest to clean.

7. Silca Nastro Fiore

Last update on 2024-11-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Silca has developed a unique tape using a blend of its proprietary synthetic materials. This custom creation offers a soft and comfortable feel, enhanced grip in both wet and dry conditions, and superior vibration isolation and durability. 

With a thickness of 2.5mm, the Fiore tape is claimed to provide the same level of comfort as a 3.2mm-thick tape made from other materials. 

While it posed a slight challenge during the wrapping process due to its limited stretchiness, the effort is well worth it. True to Silca’s reputation, this tape exhibits an astonishing level of attention to detail and boasts an elegant design.

Pros

• High quality.
• Subtle geometric design.
• The stickiest tape I tested.

Cons

• Pricey
• Tricky to wrap
• Limited color options

Closing Remarks — Bike Handlebar Tape

I trust that this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of bike handlebar tapes. When you contemplate purchasing new handlebar tape in the future, I encourage you to take into account the insights shared here. 

By doing so, you can maximize the value of your investment and ensure a satisfying experience. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to leave a comment below, and I’ll respond promptly to assist you. Happy cycling!

Bike Handlebar Tape — Frequently Asked Questions

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