Taping your handlebars is a quick and effective way to enhance both your bike’s appearance and your comfort on the ride. Good handlebar tape provides a secure grip, reduces hand fatigue, and offers shock absorption—essential for those long, bumpy rides.
The process may seem intimidating for beginners, but with a few basic steps, you’ll have your handlebars looking sleek and feeling cushy. Let’s dive in!
Why Taping Matters
Handlebar tape does more than just look good—it’s a practical upgrade that can improve your riding experience. With well-wrapped handlebars, you gain better control of the bike, reduce the risk of hand and wrist fatigue, and protect the handlebars themselves. This guide will walk you through the process, providing a few pro tips along the way.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you get started, have everything you need within reach:
- Handlebar tape (available in different materials and textures to suit your style and comfort level)
- Scissors or a knife for trimming excess tape
- Electrical tape to secure the ends
- Handlebar plugs to close off the bar ends
- Clean cloth to wipe down the handlebars
Tip: Handlebar tape kits often include tape, electrical tape, and plugs, so check your kit before buying extras.
Step 2: Remove Old Tape and Clean the Handlebars
If you have old tape on the handlebars, start by carefully peeling it off. Once removed, you’ll likely see some adhesive residue—wipe this off with a clean cloth to ensure a smooth base. Removing the old tape will also reveal your handlebars’ bare metal or carbon finish, giving you a fresh start.
Step 3: Position the Tape and Start Wrapping
Now it’s time to start applying the new tape:
- Begin at the bar ends: Place the end of the tape at the very bottom of the handlebar with about 2-3 inches of overhang. This extra bit will fold inside to secure the plug later on.
- Wrap in the right direction: Start wrapping the tape in the opposite direction of your hand rotation when you grip the bar. This helps keep the tape from unraveling over time.
- Keep it snug and spaced: Apply tension as you wrap the tape to keep it taut. Aim for a slight overlap on each turn—around a quarter-inch between layers.
Tip: As you move toward the brake levers, consider using a figure-eight technique (described below) to cover the area around the lever cleanly.
Step 4: The Figure-Eight Technique (for Brake Levers)
When you reach the brake levers, it’s easy to get uneven coverage or gaps. The figure-eight method ensures a seamless wrap:
- Wrap under the brake lever: Bring the tape underneath and around one side of the brake lever.
- Cross over to the other side: Loop the tape over the top, around the other side of the lever, and continue your wrap.
- Return to the handlebar: After making the figure-eight, continue wrapping the tape up the handlebar, keeping the same snug tension and overlap.
Step 5: Finish Wrapping and Secure with Electrical Tape
Once you reach the top of the handlebars, trim any excess tape to achieve a clean finish. Secure the end with a strip of electrical tape, wrapping it a few times to keep everything in place. Be sure to press the electrical tape down firmly for a flush, seamless look.
Tip: To give your handlebars a unique look, consider using a contrasting color for the electrical tape—it can add a personal touch to your bike’s style.
Step 6: Insert Handlebar Plugs
Finally, fold the overhanging tape into the bar ends and insert the handlebar plugs. Push them in firmly so they stay put. These plugs keep the tape secure and offer extra safety by covering the sharp bar ends.
Extra Tips
- Choose the Right Material: Handlebar tape comes in various materials like cork, synthetic, or leather. Cork tape provides a soft, cushiony feel; synthetic options offer durability, and leather has a classic, sleek look.
- Replace When Needed: Worn-out tape not only affects grip but can look shabby. Replace it when you notice tearing, discoloration, or loss of texture.
Patience and Give It A Try
Now that you’ve learned the steps, grab some tape and give it a try. Like anything, handlebar wrapping takes a bit of patience, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a valuable skill. With clean, freshly taped handlebars, you’ll not only ride more comfortably but look good doing it. So, happy wrapping—and happy riding!
