For a better riding experience, we recommend using handlebar tape on your bike’s handlebars. This improves grip and absorbs shocks and vibrations. When it comesto handlebar tape, comfort, feel, and grip are the most important factors.
There are handlebar tapes on the market made of textile materials, plastic, cork, or leather, each offering different properties:
The classic handlebar tape made oftextile material is craftedfrom cotton or linen and offers excellent value for money. Thanks to its good moisture-wicking properties, it also works well as an additional layer; other handlebar tape can simply be wrapped over it.
The advantage of modern plastic tapes is their two-layer construction. The foam layer enhances cushioning, while the outer layer offers excellent grip.
Handlebar tape made of cork are particularly shock-absorbing and have a very pleasant feel. Grips made from this material get dirty more quickly, but this is offset by their relatively low price.
Leatherhandlebar tape isn’t just appealing because of its unique look. The natural material is highly breathable, preventing a “sweaty” feeling, and its durability is higher thanks to the sturdy material, meaning the handlebar tape needs to be replaced less often. The tape can be combined with a leather saddle in the same color for a particularly stylish look.
It takes a bit of skill, practice, and precision to wrap the handlebar tape. Especially the first time, it’s a good idea to ask someone experienced for help.
You can see another way to wrap a bike handlebar here:
Further sources (October 16, 2020):
- fahrradreparatur(dot)net/lenkerband/
- fahrradreparatur(dot)net/how-to-wrap-handlebar-tape/
