All cyclists want the best and most secure materials for their bikes, and the handlebar tape is no exception. Experienced bikers and those who like their comfort pay as much attention as they pay to other parts of their bikes regarding the handlebar tape used. This is because the suitable handlebar tape provides you with much-needed comfort for your ride. Surprisingly, some people don’t know that the handlebar tapes have been around for a long time. This is because it helps prevent blisters in your hand and helps to make sure you have the right amount of traction for a comfortable ride. If you are looking to go for an adventure and don’t want to carry much load, you should get a folding bike. You can check out Best Adventurer Folding Bike
The Best Handlebar Tapes Are Reviewed Below
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Below is a list of the best handlebar tapes available for your bikes. We know the current market is flooded with various similar products, all doing the same thing, but this has led to sub-standard products. Well, with this guide we have provided you with the best quality products available. This list was provided due to extensive research, and a lot of factors like durability, comfort, price, and a lot of other important features were taken into consideration. We hope you find what you are looking for.
1
Lizard Skins Tape and Plugs Bar Tape
One thing that is common with everyone is that we all want the best, so if you are looking for the best tape for your bikes, then the Lizard Skins Tape and Plugs Bar Tape is the best option for you. With this tape, you are assured of two quality features: quality material used for production and its lightweight ability. The polymer material used for the manufacture of this tape ensures that it is of the best quality possible. You can barely feel the tapes when they are stretched because of their lightweight abilities. While riders complain of blisters on the hands or fingers overtimes after a while, it is avoidable with the adequate padding on this tape. Those who are particular about the color of their handlebar tapes, then not worry because these tapes come in different colors, including Neon, yellow, green, and lots more. In some terrains, riders tend to struggle with the grip, but with the thickness of this tape, having a solid grip will not be a problem.
Key Features:
- Strong polymer
- Thick
- Great grip
- Multiple colors available
Specification:
- Material: Polymer
- Weight: 50g
- Thickness: 2.5mm
Pros
- It is lightweight
- It sticks well thanks to its adhesion
- It provides adequate padding for riders on their fingers and hands
- It absorbs moisture from the palms easily
Cons
- It is not durable
2
Weanas Bike Handlebar Tape
Weanas Bike Tape is the next handlebar tape to make it to our list, and it is genuinely worth been on the list with its unique features. The Weanas brand is a brand that has built great reputation overtime for its self when it comes to equipment, and this tape is no exception. This tape comes with different design layers that are designed structurally, and between those layers is the Vex Gel layer. With the Vex Gel Layer present, it helps protect the handle tape from moisture, rust, abrasion, and more. It is well known that this tape is long-lasting, which is because it has the Eva material present. Also present in this package are end plugs. Most people worry about the effects of vibration while riding their bicycle, but with the finishing tape, the situation is different. With the presence of the tape, vibration is dampened due to the help of its innovative layers. It also comes in various hues, which include Red, White, and Black to choose from.
Key Features:
- End plugs
- Finishing tape
- Vex gel
- Flexible
- Durable
- Shockproof
- High density
- Wear-resistant
Specification:
- Manufacturer: Weanas
- Material: 100-percent-cotton-jersey
- Dimension: 7.9 x 3.9 x 1.4 inches
- Weight: 4.6 Ounces
Pros
- It is elastic
- It has a great cushioning effect because of the vex gel present
- It is easy to fix the tapes
- It has a significant amount of layers
Cons
- It gets loose easily
- The color doesn’t stand out
3
Fizik Tempo Microtex Classic Tape
If you are a biker whose main concern or priority is the design or look of the bike, then this will be an excellent choice for you. It has all the fantastic plans and it is 2mm thick, which helps avoid blisters in hand caused by tractions. The weight of tapes used on handlebars has always been a concern for bikers because it affects their productivity. This brand considered that and made sure their tape is lightweight by using Microtex for its fabrication. As a rider, with the Microtex feature, you will experience a texture similar to that of leather that will provide comfort to your palms. If you are concerned about durability, you don’t need to worry because it is very durable and comes in different layers of thickness. You have the choice to pick which thickness works for you.
Key Features:
- Lightweight
- Multi-color
- Microtex technology
- Multiple layers of thickness available
Specification:
- Manufacturer: Highway Two, LLC.
- Thickness: 2mm, 2½ mm, and 3mm
- Dimension: 8 x 4 x 2 inches
- Weight: 3.2 Ounces
Pros
- It is easy and fast to clean
- It comes in different colors
- It comes in different designs
- It is easy to wrap
Cons
- It is not long enough
4
BV EVA Road Bike Handlebar Tapes
Another product to make it to our list is the BV EVA Road Bike Handlebar Tapes, and one of its great features is its durability. The cause of its excellent durability is the material used to manufacture it, which is Ethylene-vinyl acetate polymer. In addition to the durability, it is the perfect design that attracts people’s attention. You have a quick and straightforward installation of the handlebar because this tape has a 3-meter adhesive layer feature. The concern that usually comes up with other handlebar tapes is that they tend to get loose when in difficult conditions. That is not the case with this tape, as it sticks appropriately and won’t come off no matter the situation. Also, there is no need to worry about damages to the palm, which can be caused by friction. Now, with this tape, it is easy to go on that long bike ride that you have always been dreaming of, and you don’t need to worry about having any blisters on your palms.
Key Features:
- EVA foam
- Durable
- Lightweight
- 3-meter adhesive layering
- UV-radiation resistant
- Absorbs shock
Specification:
- 2 finishing tapes
- Manufacturer: BV
- Material: EVA Foam
- Weight: 1.6 OZ
- Dimension: 2100mm x 30mm x 2.5mm
Pros
- It has a great design that is long-lasting
- It is lightweight
- It absorbs easily any moisture from the palms
- It has excellent tractions on the handlebar
- It protects you from blisters with the help of the EVA foam
Cons
- It can not be used for bigger handlebar because of its short tape length
5
Domain Cycling Extra Long Bar Tape
If you are looking for stylishly designed tape, which also comes in several colors, then the Domain Cycling Tape would be the perfect fit. One amazing feature is that no matter how large your bike’s handlebar is, this tape would be sufficient to cover every part. It is large enough to have extra tapes leftover even after you are done wrapping your handlebar. All riders seek that firm grip on their handlebar, and the type of tape you choose has a huge role to play. With the Domain Cycling tape, there is an assurance that you will get the right amount of grip needed because the tape is equipped with Polyurethane Leather on its surface. No matter how tight your grip is or how long you are riding, you can be assured that you won’t experience any damage to your palms which is usually caused by friction. The tape is equipped with Vex-Gel and EVA Foam, which provides a cushion layer to eliminate any chances of having friction-related damages to your palm.
Key Features:
- Adhesive backing
- Lengthy
- Vex-gel lining
- Anti-slip
- Polyurethane Leather
Specification:
- Manufacturer: Domain Cycling
- Material: Pu leather
- Dimension: 2400mm x 30mm
Pros
- It has adequate tape length
- Attachment is possible because of the adhesive backing
- It is comfortable thanks to the vex-gel lining present
- It has better traction
Cons
- It is not durable
6
KINGOU EVA Road Bike Tape
If you are looking at making a list of accessories your bike should have, then the Kingou Eva Tape should make it to that list. Its ability to provide solutions related to optimal traction is one amazing feature. For those who are particular about colors, this tape comes in 10 different colors, making it possible to pick the one that suits your taste and bike. When riding your bike, you then sweat, which also happens in your palms, so having a handlebar tape that absorbs moisture is very important. With this tape, you dont need to worry about your handlebar’s losing grip because of sweat because the tape absorbs moisture easily, so you can relax and enjoy your ride. Sometimes, riders encounter problems while trying to wrap the tape around their handlebar, mostly due to insufficient tape length. This is tape has adequate length to easily warp around your handlebar and still has some left aside.
Key Features:
- EVA foam
- Different colors
- Moisture absorber
- Anti-slip
Specification:
- Manufacturer: KINGOU
- Material: EVA foam material
- Dimension: 2.8mm x 30mm x 2000mm
Pros
- It is lightweight
- It has a great grip that is made from texture
- It is affordable
- It is capable of absorbing water
Cons
- Lacks durability
- It is not attractive
7
Planet Bike Comfort Cork Tape
We are all looking for the best products available in the market, well this product also fits into that category. This product has been known to withstand the test of time as its existence can be dated a while back. All the while, it has retained its quality and continues to stand out in its way. The manufacturers of this tape have taken the convenience and traction of this tape very important, so they made use of the EVA foam tape in other to achieve this. It also comes in various colors to select from, and each color comes with UV protection to prevent any damage. With the flexibility available on this tape, fixing it should not be a problem. Also, it is great for people who like biking in wet conditions because it provides adequate traction.
Key Features:
- UV protection
- Padded
- Multi-purpose
- EVA foam tape
- Good Gear Guarantee
- End plugs
Specification:
- Manufacturer: Planet Bike
- Dimension: 8 x 3.5 x 1.5 inches
- Weight: 2.4 Ounces
Pros
- Its tapes are well padded
- It feels easy to use
- It stays strong on the handlebar
- The colors are protected against damage with the presence of UV
- It is used on other pieces of equipment
Cons
- The colors fade easily
- It has weak adhesive
- It could lose easily if not wrapped properly
8
Cinelli Cork Handlebar Tape
If you are looking for a quality handlebar tape that is of the highest standard, then the Cinelli Cork Tape is the solution. This tape has been in existence for over 33 years. This period has become a brand that its users can rely on in quality, durability, and efficiency. So, you realize the tape has a lot of history behind it, and it has yet to disappoint its users. The installation of this tape is quite easy and straightforward. All that is needed is cutting the tape into strips and putting them around the handlebar. The tape works using adhesion. Since most riders complain of blisters on their palms due to long rides, this brand considered that while manufacturing this tape. The tape is quite comfortable and tender on the palms, that even if you ride for long, there will be no blisters on your palms. There is no need to worry for people who are specific about the colors or designs of their tape as it comes in different colors and designs.
Key Features:
- UV protection
- Different designs and colors
- GEL and cork fabrication
- Vibration dampening
- Cinelli end caps included
Specification:
- Manufacturer: Cinelli
- Material: Cork
- Color: multiple
Pros
- It has UV protection for colors
- It comes in different patterns and colors
- It is great even in rainy/wet conditions
- It is gotten from GEL and cork
Cons
- It doesn’t come with a warranty
- The color is not the way it is advertised
- It is hard to remove when it is not installed properly
Buying Guide Questions
We know that no buying guide is complete without FAQs. So we have taken the opportunity to research some of the questions that customers and potential customers have asked. We have provided you with the best possible answers, and we hope you find the answers helpful.
WHICH HANDLEBAR TAPE IS THE BEST? WHAT HANDLEBAR TAPE DO THE PROS USE?
Yeah, it is normal, proper, and even advisable to know and look for the best products in anything you wish to acquire. Although all may seem to be good, the fact is some are better than others.
Handlebar tape is more useful and recommended while riding to prevent too many contact points with your bike. This has made it getting more products from different brands or companies. Each company producing this product will compete, and each of them will be claiming the betterment of his product. For a product to be produced by many companies means its function can not be underestimated. And for you to decide to buy one, it means you need it, and you will not like to lose its main purpose of buying it. With critical reading, it is noted that the best handlebar tape is expected to give a balanced grip, vibration absorption, relaxation, and stability and is easy in maintaining cleanliness. The considered and recommended ones to be best are:
- SUPACAZ SUPER STICKY KUSH
This is one of the best handlebar tapes for your bike, and it is made with Polyurethane material with a thickness of 3mm and a length of 216cm. It also included aluminum expander bar plugs. It is suitable for every personality.
- LIZARD SKINS DSP 2.5MM
This is good for the gloveless riders, and it is designed with the DuraSoft Polymer material with a thickness of 2.5mm or 3.2mm and a length of 208cm.
Length: 208cm. It has a sticky texture and screw in the bar end plug.
- FIZIK VENTO MICROTEX TACKY
This handlebar tape is designed with microtex material with a thickness of 2mm while its length is 235cm. It offers a premium experience to riders.
- PRO SPORT COMFORT
This is built with Eva material with a thickness of 3.5mm and 200cm. It is specifically designed for the pro, and it gives a comfort enhancement.
Others include;
Selle Italia Smootape Gran Fondo, Deda Presa
Fabric Hex Duo, Cinelli Cork Gel, and Brooks Leather.
In every field in life, the professionals will always want theirs to be different and special. No handlebar tape is bad or not suitable for the pros, but they only want to be different. So the pros always go for the quality, standard, durable, and expensive bar tape.
Some of the handlebar tape used by the pros include:
RACE COMFORT TAPE
RACE COMFORT SILICONE
FIZIK VENETO MICROTEX TACKY
SUPACAZ SUPER STICKY KUSH
LIZARD SKINS DSP 2.5mm
PRO SPORT COMFORT
SELLE ITALIA SMOOTAPE GRAN FONDO
DEDA PRESA
FABRIC HEX DUO
CINELLI CORK GEL
BROOKS LEATHER
HOW DO I CHOOSE HANDLEBAR TAPE?
Considering the type or kind of handlebar tape for you is no big deal since there are various tapes in the marketplace which all may look very beautiful and attractive. Choosing or selecting handlebar tape will be very easy when the following considerations are put in place:
- MATERIAL
For any product you wish to buy, you should consider the materials used in making the product because knowing the materials is halfway to knowing their originality. Without any form of doubting, it is cleared that the originality of the materials used determines the originality of the product. Handlebar tapes are designed with different forms of material. The most popular ones include synthetic, leather, and cork. Synthetic also comprises polyurethane, nylon, or silicone, with a foam or gel core for cushioning. These materials are generally used to give more durability. It may also be built with a “tacky” texture that helps control a wet or dry situation, and it also participates in giving a favorable feeling under the hands.
- THICKNESS
The thickness of the tape should be considered because some racer gives preference to a tiny tape (between 1 to 2 mm) to give a more direct connection and give a good reaction to the bike. But a comfortable bar tape is usually between the range of 2.5 to 3.2mm thick because the thicker the tape, the more absorbent it will give.
- COLOUR
Colour should be considered because tapes come in various forms of color, and not everybody can maintain the beautiful outlook of his tape. For instance, you chose to buy a white tape bar, and you do not have the time or the encouragement to clean it every moment, then you waving goodbye to the beautiful outlook of your bike. But if you go for other colors like black, its beauty can still be maintained. So you are to choose your color according to your suitability.
HOW OFTEN DO YOU CHANGE YOUR HANDLEBAR TAPE?
Changing or replacing a handlebar tape depends on many reasons that will answer the best time you can change your handlebar tape.
- HOW YOU CYCLE AROUND
Yes, the number of cycling you do with your bike determines how often you need to change your handlebar tape because it is a clear fact that the more a product is used, the more it gets tired. So if you are a kind that uses his bike from time to time, then you should always get yourself prepared to replace it as it gets exhausted.
- THE QUALITY OF THE TAPE
The quality of a tape also determines the period of its replacement. You can not compare your less quality tape to the quality ones. If, for example, the quality ones use 3years, then the otherwise should use maybe 2years. So if you go for the less quality, then do not be offended when your tape calls for replacement.
- PRESCRIPTION OF EXPIRY DATE
Some companies are fond of giving an expiry date to their product because they have examined it and know it will expire to give users a clue on the expected time to change their tape.
- HOW IT IS APPLIED
The application of your tape also depends on the time you will have to change your tape. If it is well applied during the wrapping process, it may take a long time before wearing out and vice versa.
Furthermore, tapes mostly suffer from two problems which are:
SCRAPPING, No matter the quality of your tape and the maintenance you give to it, it cannot be prevented from tearing if it is subjected to falling or other related issues.
TWISTING, maybe by sliding from your hand and so on.
You do not need to change your tape unless it calls for replacement and the look is no more favorable.
WHAT COLOR HANDLEBAR SHOULD I GET?
Normally, deciding the color of any of your wished products is a matter of taste. So the color of your handlebar tape depends totally on your favorite, so there is no need to follow any rule in choosing the color of your choice except you do not know how to counsel yourself on the best color that suits your personality, then you may need advice from someone.
Tapes are produced in a variety of colors which you will need to look for your suitability. For instance, classical black color is advisable for someone who can not endure his time to maintain the proper look of his bike because if such personality goes for the light colors, he has gone beyond his ability and may not like the unfavorable look may later yield to.
But if you find yourself capable of maintaining the shining light colors, then there is no problem going for the light colors like white.
The black color is advisable because it does not call for every time attention in cleaning it, unlike white. You may also choose the color for your tape if you think or feel you have the same color in any part of the bike to give it more outlook.
CAN YOU DOUBLE WRAP HANDLEBAR TAPE?
Nothing in this life is impossible until you prove its impossibility. You can double wrap your handlebar tape if you think it is too tinny and are not comfortable with it. Double wrapping a handlebar tape gives it more comfortability and makes it thicker than earlier.
- DOUBLING YOUR HANDLEBAR TAPE
Firstly, you need to expose about 5cm of the handlebar tape by removing the bar plug, taking your blade, and cutting along the bar tape. Doing this allows the second layer of the tape to be attached to the bar and prevents being too thick.
Secondly, you proceed to the wrapping of the second layer after tying the first layer tightly. In the process of wrapping the second layer, you give it enough distance from one turn to another to ensure that the tape covers the entire handlebar. It is advisable to make use of a “cork tape” because it is stretchier than others.
After the due processes, then you have your handlebar double wrapped efficiently.
Note: when you are double wrapping your handlebar, make sure the first layer is well tightened before you wrap the second layer.
CAN YOU REUSE HANDLEBAR TAPE?
Yes, not every product you used in the first place can be reused. But as for handlebar tape, you can reclaim its usage after being used before. The only thing you need while unwrapping it is to focus on gentility while removing it so that it will not be worn down. After being successful in removing it, then you can reuse it in various styles. While unwrapping it, you should also concentrate on the hood to replace it in the same pattern.
HOW DO YOU CLEAN WHITE HANDLEBAR TAPE?
As we all know, any white surface calls for special cleaning attention because to make your white surface attractive, and you must maintain its bright white color all time.
White handlebar tape may be cleaned in different manners depending on the one that works for you. It may be cleaned using;
Some of the disinfectants you use in your kitchen like morning fresh
Making use of a citrus degreaser
Using biodegradable substances like a product named Simple green
Dishwashing liquid mix with little baking soda and warm water using a small cloth or rag
Using a toothbrush with a soft-bristle together with toothpaste.
DO I NEED HANDLEBAR TAPE?
Handlebar may be needed and may not be needed, so the choice belongs to you. There may be no problem in riding a bike with no tape but believe me, and it will not be that comfortable when you are riding. You find only yourself cycling with no tape bike, although you may build some confidence, the truth is that you will find it degrading when others are riding with a taped bike. Why did you even love to go for a no tape bike when the result are not encouraging like;
You will not be happier like others riding a taped bicycle
Your hand may even develop a slight pain if not cautious
It is advisable to try tapping your bar before riding it because it will give you a smoosafeaved and comfortable cycle. It gives a more beautiful look to your bike, and tapping bars are easy to hold unto unlike bare bars.
Conclusion
In the article above, we provided you with a list of the best handlebar tapes to chose from. The list compiled after a lot of research and review was taken into consideration and other factors. We hope you find one that suits your needs, but whatever choice you make from the list provided above, you can be sure if getting the best quality available. If you are looking for a bike that provides you with the best comfort, then check out (Best Comfort Bikes in 2021)