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
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
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
BV EVA Road Bike Handlebar Tapes
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
SRAM Supercork Bicycle Bar Tape
- 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
Domain Cycling Extra Long Handlebar Tape
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
Cinelli Special Edition Handlebar Tape
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
Fizik Performance Bicycle Bar Tape
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
Lizard Skins DSP Bar Tape
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
Planet Bike Comfort Cork handlebar tape
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
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
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
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
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
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
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?
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?
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?
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.
Originally posted 2024-02-15 10:05:14.