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Great physical appearance, as well as high performance and convenience, are some of the few things every cyclist looks for in a bike. As insignificant as it may seem, the handlebar tape on a bike can go a long way in influencing the overall ride performance. Outdoor enthusiasts and professional bikers could agree that the color, material, and texture of a handlebar tape could actually affect major things such as the grip and convenience. It’s a classic bicycle feature unbeatable by time due to its functional and resilient characteristics. Below are some of the best handlebar tapes made to suit, personify and match your strength and drive as a cyclist.
The Best Handlebar Tape
1
Cinelli Cork Handlebar Tape
The Cinelli Cork Handlebar Tape is a classic favorite for many riders. It features a simple yet functional design that holds firm in the most slippery or dry moments. Included in one box are two tape rolls with adequate adhesion on the base side. This tape is enough to wrap the entire handlebar while providing enough padding to cushion the hands and avoid blisters from extensive ride sessions. The highlights of this Cinelli bar tape have to be its capacity to greatly reduce vibrations resulting in enhanced performance. They effectively absorb shock keeping your hands free from numbing vibrations throughout the ride. Strap on these reliable adhesive handlebar tapes and enjoy a convenient and comfortable ride anytime.
Two adhesive rolls per box
End caps included
Reduces vibrations
Logo on the top
- BrandCinelli
- ModelNMCORKN
- Weight3.2 ounces
Two pre-cut strips of tape
Provides adequate cushioning
Gives a good grip
The tape doesn’t clean up easily
Logos are printed unattractively (to some) all over the tape
End caps are not so secure
2
Lizard Skins Handlebar Tape
This product has definitely become a favorite among recreational and professional bikers alike. The high-quality material is thick yet still light enough to be well fitted. The Lizard Skins Tape and Plugs Bar Tape adds color, style, and convenience to your already ‘cool bike’. Worn out tape will only downgrade the general appearance of the bike and make it look less cool. They also provide cushioning comfort for both long and short rides alike, ensuring the palms are blister-free after every ride. Made with top-grade materials, these handlebar grip tapes come in 3 different sizes; 1.mm, 2.5mm, and 3.2mm. With a wide range of colors to choose from, there’s no doubt that the diverse styles and designs would suit every bike and personality. It’s thick enough to absorb unpreventable vibrations from messing with your ride experience. When installing this bar tape it’s important to ensure the material is not stretched but is still placed on tightly. While this can be a challenge, it the best way to ensure this great looking, comfortable bar tape stands the test of time.
Lightweight form
2 bar end plugs included
Multiple color choices
Made from high quality and durable materials
- BrandLizard Skins
- ModelDSPDS875
- Weight3.2 ounces
Great cushioning
Firm and non-slip grip
Cleans out easily
Some users reported insufficient length
Questionable durability
3
BV EVA Road Bike Handlebar Tapes
If cycling has become more than a hobby and is more like a healthy addiction, it’s needless to say that the handlebars may be feeling the burn too. When exploring replacement options for the best bar tapes you may want to consider the BV EVA Road Bike Handlebar Bicycle Bar Tape. Not only does it add more style and convenience to your riding experience, but it also sports quite a lightweight form and in essence, doesn’t add much volume to the handlebars. It’s made with durable, water-resistant materials that ensure this handlebar grip tape will resiliently outlive diverse weather conditions and terrains.
With the capacity to take in undesirable vibrations from different road types, your hands stay comfortably pampered regardless of the time and place. The EVA foam provides adequate cushioning as well as an anti-slip grip on sweaty or rainy days. What’s better? The installation has been made even easier with the BV logo on one side and the adhesive placed on the flip side for easy recognition. And for the perfect finish, there are finishing tapes that keep the edges securely in place and end bars for a clean, decent look.
Made from high-quality materials
EVA foam for adequate cushioning
Fade, water, and UV-radiation resistant
3m adhesive backing
- BrandBV
- ModelBV
- Weight1.6 ounces
Shock and vibration absorbent
Easy installation
Affordable price
The sides are thinner than the middle
The adhesive doesn’t run through the width of the tape
Inadequate finishing tape
4
SRAM Supercork Bicycle Bar Tape
For all those who love standing out and shining, the SRAM Supercork Bicycle Bar Tape is a sure bet. Apart from its beautiful, radiant color that’s set to turn heads during the summer, it offers a neat and tight fit on handlebars. It’s an affordable option for everyone planning to change out their handlebar tapes on a budget. Made with vinyl material, it establishes a firm contact with the palms ensuring they don’t slip even during the most intense rides. The material itself can be stretched when installing it on the handlebars without fear of any heart-breaking rips. Being a super cork handlebar tape, it’s very comfortable and soft on the hands throughout the time-span of the ride. It stays firmly in place without pulling out when it comes in contact with water or sweat. For a professional and classy new look and a comfortable riding experience, the SRAM definitely lives up to the hype.
Anti-slip grip
Anti-tear and flexible form
Vinyl material
There is an adhesive under that tape
- BrandSRAM
- Model00.7915.017.030
- Weight3.2 ounces
Affordable and reliable
Installs and re-wraps easily
Tight fit and comfortable grip
Runs a bit short
Not easy to clean
Insufficient finishing tape
5
Domain Cycling Extra Long Handlebar Tape
A lot of traditional bikes had handlebars without adequate taping around the surface. Of course, this resulted in tired, numb and blistered palms. Being a major means of transportation back then, that was definitely a lot to bear. However, times have changed; comfort and class are both being re-emphasized. That is why the Domain Cycling Extra Long Gel Bicycle Handlebars have been designed to stylishly help you take on the streets.
Designed to be longer in length than its competitors, this bike handlebar tape saves you the stress of re-wrapping over and over again. With an extra-long length that covers the entirety of both handlebars, enough tape would probably be left over for the levers. Measuring about 92 inches long and 1.2 inches wide, it still stretches adequately providing a tight and professional-looking finish. The adequate cushioning ensures your hands stay comfortable throughout the riding period, eliminating blister occurrences. With a non-slip surface that has you covered in wet or dry periods; enjoy a pleasurable ride without the fear of going the extra mile.
Extra-long anti-slip handlebar tape
Adequate EVA foam cushioning
VEX-gel lining underneath
End plugs and finishing tape included
- BrandDomain Cycling
- Weight3.8 ounces
Stretches well during wrapping
Logo free
Great cushioning
Color selection
6
Cinelli Special Edition Handlebar Tape
Handlebar tapes don’t only enhance the look of your prized bicycle; they highly contribute to your comfort and convenience while riding. This is why not just any tape will do, but one that has the properties adequate enough to cushion and dampen vibrations. The Cinelli Special Edition Handlebar Tape is designed to bring maximum comfort and plush cushioning to the palms on the go. The streets may be rough and the off-roads bumpy, but your hands will remain softly pampered by the texture of this road bike handlebar tape. With an extra attractive, classy leather outlook and feel, your bike is sure to turn heads whether it’s parked or gliding handsomely on the streets.
Made with a polyurethane base, its form is quite lightweight and easy to handle. The top is reinforced with a soft velvet cover that provides the luxury comfort every cycler, male or female deserves. On the flip side, there’s an adhesive strip that makes it quite easy to wrap on and bar end plugs that make the perfect finish. This set includes finishing strips, bar end plugs and more than enough tape to cover the length of the handlebars.
Rubberised, elastomer compound
Leather-like look and feel
Adhesive backing
Cinelli bar-end plugs and finishing tape
- BrandCinelli
- ModelNMBNR
- Weight4.2 ounces
Has a strong and durable form
Can easily be unwrapped and re-applied
Soft texture with a good amount of tackiness
Finishing tape is not quality
Adhesive tape is a bit too strong
Some users still complain it runs a little too short
7
Fizik Performance Bicycle Bar Tape
Are you a fan of wearing gloves when cycling? Does the mere thought of it make your palms sweat? Good news: there are a whole lot of people who don’t fancy wearing restrictive gear whether cycling for comfort or competitively. And now with modern and high-tech options that provide comfort anyway, you never have to feel guilty going out without a pair of gloves. Made with a durable and sturdy microtex material, the Fizik Performance Bicycle Bar Tape is lightweight enough for an easy application. With an ultra-thin form for a more flexible and stable fit, the sizes run in 2mm, 2.7mm, and 3mm. It comes in more than 12 colors that would definitely suit any bicycle regardless of the brand and type. The variety of colors also makes it easy to pick out a design that best suits your personal taste. Durable enough for regular rides, it doesn’t matter how many miles you cover, this Fizik bar tape was designed to go the distance without wear.
With 0.8mm more padded filling, this handlebar tape keeps the user comfortable all ride long. It also comes with a distinctive file tread texture that enhances the grip while providing a smooth surface where the hands can move smoothly. The tackiness of this handlebar tape is on par with what is expected of high tech tapes. Even when the handlebars get wet due to sweat or rain, the texture remains viscous enough to stably keep the palms on.
Sturdy and tacky grip
Textured surface for enhanced traction
Ultra-thin tape
Made with microtex
- BrandFizik
- ModelF1703900
- Weight1 pounds
The tape never loses its traction even when wet
Looks great and sticks on easily
Great length
Insufficient padding
Does not dampen vibrations
Doesn’t stretch much
8
Lizard Skins DSP Bar Tape
Cycling is an amazing hobby and sport. It’s extremely healthy, very relaxing, and therapeutic. Sometimes it’s the little things we rarely pay attention to that influence performance the most. Handlebars determine the control you have over the bike and how much it can be accurately maneuvered. Weighing 56 grams, the Lizard Skins DSP Bar Tape sports a shiny and attractive looking polymer material sure to last. It has been reinforced with even more padding providing a satisfying, cushiony feel on the palms whether they are resting on the handlebars or gripping tight while cycling.
With 0.8mm more padded filling, this handlebar tape keeps the user comfortable all ride long. It also comes with a distinctive file tread texture that enhances the grip while providing a smooth surface where the hands can move smoothly. The tackiness of this handlebar tape is on par with what is expected of high tech tapes. Even when the handlebars get wet due to sweat or rain, the texture remains viscous enough to stably keep the palms on.
Comes in different colors
Made of polymer material
Weighs 56 grams
Comes with even more padding
- BrandLizard Skins
- ModelDSPDS600
- Weight4 ounces
Great cushioning
Tacky texture
Sustains a good grip even when wet
It is relatively expensive
Not great for bikers who love to change hand positions while riding cause of its grip-y texture
Installation is a bit hard
9
Planet Bike Comfort Cork handlebar tape
Your weight shifts mostly to the arms when cycling especially if the bike is on top speed. This tells on your elbows and wrists when they are not comfortably positioned. Your comfort can only be assured if the right materials are used and in place for enhanced riding experience. The Planet Bike Comfort Cork Handlebar Tape promises optimal convenience not just for you, but the handlebar too. It promises to be soft on the palms and gentle on the skin while providing a secure and easy grip.
The tape comes in multiple colors that would suit a wide range of bicycle saddles and personal style. All the available colors and designs come UV-protected to ensure you enjoy their vibrant look and feel over time. It equally sports a durable construction that will last a long time. Even when it drizzles or you work up a little sweat when cycling, these handlebar tapes remain tacky enough for a good and secure grip.
Durable design with gel
UV-protected colors
Anti-fade and water-resistant
Remains tacky even when wet
- BrandPlanet Bike
- Model5078
- Weight4 ounces
Limited lifetime warranty
The versatile tape can be used for other handlebars
Great cushioning feel
Cleans out easily
Back is not adhesive
Provided electrical tape isn’t so sticky
10
Fizik Performance Bicycle Bar Tape
Unclothed handlebars deserve appropriate dressing that protects them from the sun and other elements while providing you with optimal comfort. Good handlebar tape actually lengthen the lifespan and appearance of the actual handlebars. Choosing the right tape doesn’t just benefit you but the bicycle as well, that’s why its importance cannot be overemphasized. The Fizik Performance Bicycle Bar Tape is designed to promote top performance while providing the required fitted protection the handlebars need.
It’s no doubt why a good number of athletes choose this Fizik bar tape as their go-to handlebar dressing. The design puts comfort, convenience, and optimal performance first by innovatively combining the required technology with innovative ideas. The materials form and texture is anatomically designed to appropriately cushion the hands during every ride while the form remains beautifully lightweight. With different designs and colors to choose from, Fizik is definitely a reliable option for the rider who loves comfort, sophistication and drive.
Lightweight design
Comes in different colors and designs
Comes with finishing tape
Includes two rolls and end plugs
- BrandFizik
- ModelFi’zi:k
- Weight4.8 ounces
Durable tape that’s easy to clean
Lightweight and easy to stick on
Attractive look and tight, professional finish
The tape runs a bit short
11
KINGOU Bike Handlebar Tape
Leather has to be one of the most attractive types of handlebar tape materials found in the market. Their expensive, classy and shiny finish definitely adds a lot of swag to the bike. They also serve as great protection for the handlebars as well, and thanks to their long term durability they are changed out less. Made with PU Leather, the KINGOU Carbon Fibre Road Bike Handlebar Tape definitely stands out among the rest. It’s padded with an EVA foam that serves as adequate cushioning to the firm leather material.
Measuring about 79 inches it runs long enough to cover both handlebars, while the width runs at 1.2” with a 0.11” thickness. This makes it easier to install when the tape is lightweight and a bit on the slim side. The material itself is very breathable adequately absorbing sweat and moisture. Contrary to what you’d expect, the texture is not slippery and provides great traction even when wet. Enjoy a vibration-free glide even when riding on the bumpy off-roads.
Made with PU Leather and lined with EVA foam
Includes ABS plastic plug with reflective metal coating
Anti-slip surface
Breathable and sweat-absorbent
- BrandKINGOU
- Weight3.2 ounces
Easy to install
Easy to wrap and un-wrap
Shock absorbent
runs a bit too short
finishing tape doesn’t stick on well
12
TOPCABIN Bicycle Bar Tape
For an effortless, cool and classy look, this camouflage series is a must-have for those who love the design. It runs in three different colors: black, blue and silver. Made to soften the contact your hands have on the handlebars, the TOPCABIN Bicycle Bar Tape EVA Camouflage Series are a perfect choice.
A good and comfortable grip adequately cushions your hands and reduces the stress your wrists and elbows normally experience. These soft and comfortable tape does just that while providing a great grip. The tape is fade resistant, and even after washes and a lot of gripping during ride sessions, the colors stay vibrant over time. Another benefit to this bike handlebar tape is its water-resistant feature; this allows users that don’t mind a few raindrops to continue on in the rain without too much concern.
Fade-resistant
Water-resistant
Made with polyurethane
Includes finishing tape and end bars
- BrandTOPCABIN
- ModelFBA_TOP520006277348
- Weight2.4 ounces
Offers great grip and cushioning
The length runs long
Great looking camouflage tape
Doesn’t stretch much
No installation instructions
13
Newbaum’s Cloth Bar Tape
The Newbaum’s Cloth Bar Tape has to be one of the best and leading cloth handlebar tapes in the industry, providing one of the most durable and breathable handlebar dressing you’d find. Users who prefer natural, soft material bar tapes to the synthetic products could easily go for this cloth tape. The fabric is durably milled in the US and designed to live through different weather conditions and terrains.
It also gives users the versatile options of combining fabrics for a spontaneous, customized and personalized look. Colored with eco-friendly dyes, this soft, cushioning cloth bar tape is a great choice for all those who love the environment and love to support its cause. The manufacturing process poses less risk to the environment while providing you with the traction you require on the handlebars.
Made with durable milled cotton
All materials made from renewable natural resources
Eco-friendly dyes used for coloring
Adhesive back
- BrandNewbaum’s
- Model26312
- Weight1.6 ounces
Made with eco-friendly materials
The adhesive sticks well
Easy installation
Runs a bit short
14
Brooks England Microfiber Bar Tape
Just like other parts of the bicycle wear out with time, so will the handlebar wraps. Tires, chains, and other gear need frequent maintenance or replacements every now and then; this is what keeps the bike in top-notch appearance and performance. Handlebar tape is relatively inexpensive, so there is really no excuse to keep on the custom wraps that have evidently worn out.
The Brooks England Microfiber Bar Tape is made from a synthetic microfiber material that is meant to last longer while providing a smooth and breathable surface. It’s quite lightweight measuring 3mm in width which makes it thick enough to cushion your palms and slim enough for an easier installation. Apart from the ease it provides during wrapping, thinner bar tapes help athletes and cyclists that love to feel the ground when cycling, do just that. This is especially common with professional athletes that use this to their advantage. All in all, this durable and great looking bar tape would make a great choice.
3mm in width
Made with synthetic microfiber fabric
Easy installation
Includes vulcanized rubber end plugs
- BrandBrooks England
- ModelBT03A05205
- Weight5.6 ounces
Durable and functional
Great appearance
Very comfortable feel
Some users reported complicated installations
Tape runs short
15
Vinqliq Super Soft Cork Bike Bicycle
Get a grip with the Vinqliq New Super Soft Cork Bike Handlebar; the perfect companion for your long-distance rides. It’s made with soft and lush materials that are gentle on the hands and convenient for those extra-tight grips when you hit uneven grounds on the road. Cork tapes are the go-to handlebar wraps when you’re looking for great cushioning and reduced vibrations on the road.
This road bike handlebar tape is adequately cushioned with EVA foam while the cork provides superior gripping quality. It comes well reinforced for top road performance with shock and vibration absorbent features that ensure you’re on top of the game at all times. When you’re cycling long distance, continuous vibrations can end up numbing your arms and the feeling isn’t so great. That’s why these bar handles come with more comfortable, stable and secure features that will definitely rock on your bike.
Easy installation
6.6-foot length
Skidproof design
Shock, tear and sweat resistant
- BrandVinqliq
- Weight3.4 ounces
The length runs long
Adhesion sticks on well
Durable and solid tape
Doesn’t include strips to cover the back levers
Best Handlebar Tape Buying Guide &FAQ
No matter how much you love and cherish your custom handlebar tapes, they are bound to wear or tear eventually. There are many smart replacement choices to make, and we have made the choice a lot easier by outlining the best handle bars the market has to offer. As a bonus, there is extra information that will definitely benefit you before and after the desired handlebar has been purchased.
What to Look for in a Handlebar Tape
- The Grip:
Handlebars are undoubtedly a very attractive part of a bicycle. However, the taping does a lot more than just sitting pretty. The grip it provides is extremely important as the handlebars are the major contact point your hands have on the bike. This influences your control, direction, and general safety. A good handlebar tape should provide a firm, non-slip grip that keeps the user's hands securely on the bars at all times.
- The Padding:
When considering comfort, the padding on the handlebars is extremely important. The handlebars should adequately be able to cushion the hands throughout the time-span of the ride. This eliminates the occurrences of painful blisters and sore palms.
- Flexibility:
Thinner tapes will actually wrap better around the handlebar whether it hangs low or is positioned sideways. It is important that the tape is ‘flexible’ enough to go round the length of the handlebars without posing serious installation issues.
- Colour:
While a lot of people preferably go with white, others prefer colors that would wash easier without evident stains. Cyclists believe that the color of the handlebar tape should match with the head tube or saddle. Get colors you feel will match the vibe and design of the bike without glaringly standing out too much. At the end of the day, the color option is solely up to up you.
Why You Should Use a Bar Tape On Your Road Bike
The handlebars are actually the most important contact point you have with the bike in terms of control. It may seem insignificant but the grip and comfort will enhance control when riding especially at top speed. A non-slip base with adequate cushioning will deliver the much-needed comfort your palms require to ride long distances. This is even more important when you’re not wearing gloves and the palms of your hands have no protection.
Different Types of Bike Handlebar Tapes
Handlebar tapes are most commonly made from one of the three;
- Cork:
This tape is a traditional and classic material still used for wrapping handlebars today. They deliver a more luxurious and comfortable feel on the hands. This is probably the reason why it may seem more expensive than the rest. Users have to be careful when wrapping cork tape on the handlebars, if it’s stretched too much it will most likely be prone to wears.
- Leather:
Leather is that go-to material that is practically compatible with all related applications. It feels good on the hands and looks great on the bike too. They are also an extremely durable option and won’t wear anytime soon. However, when looking for materials that will absorb vibrations, leather isn’t the best choice.
- High-tech synthetic:
Many handlebar tapes are made from synthetic materials that are lighter and durable in the long run. They are also used to provide a tacky feel to the handlebar that facilitates a better grip. They are mostly combined with foam or gel cores for an enhanced cushioning effect. They also provide good vibration and shock absorption despite their slim, modern form.
Best Handlebar Tape FAQ
Q: What is a handlebar tape?
A: Handlebar tape is the material wrapped around the length of the handlebars on your bicycle. They provide a more comfortable feel when riding and also enhance the general look of the bike. These tapes also provide a better grip ensuring a safe, non-slip surface you can always rely on regardless of the weather.
Q: How do I use bicycle handlebar tape?
A: The tape is neatly wrapped around the handlebars on your bike and secured at the ends by finishing tape. This cushions the hands when riding and dampens vibrations while enhancing a firmer and more secure grip.
Q: How long does handlebar wrap last?
A: It definitely depends on the materials used, maintenance and how it is wrapped. Most manufacturers advise that cork tape should be stretched as minimally as possible to preserve the materials used. Overstretching the tape may shorten the lifespan of the tape or even cause breakages, tears, and frequent unwrapping. Usually, when cork tape unravels, the adhesive allows it to be placed back and it could last for years. Gel tape doesn’t fare as well as cork tape, as the pressure from continued use keeps separating the particles, causing easy wear.
Our Top Pick
We highly recommend the Cinelli Cork Ribbon Handlebar Tape that comes with two roll tapes adequate enough to securely cover both handlebars. The thick and comfortable tape is soft on the hands and provides sustainable cushioning that prevents sore palms and blisters. With the Cinelli Cork handlebar tape, be assured of a fun and convenient ride, free of annoying vibrations all ride long.
Source:
- How to Tape Handlebars – Wiki How