Upgrade Your Bike Comfort: Top 36 Handlebar Tapes for a Customized Ride

Are you looking for the perfect handlebar tape to add comfort and style to your cycling experience? Look no further! In this roundup article, we dive into a variety of options to choose from, each with unique features to suit your individual needs.

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Reviews

High-Quality Brown Handlebar Tape for State Bicycle Co Bikes

Experience a comfortable grip on your bicycle handlebars with the State Bicycle Co’s High-Quality Brown Bar Tape. This affordable and attractive addition to your bike will provide a smooth, secure ride. The bar tape is easy to install, making it a popular choice for riders seeking a reliable and sturdy grip. With a rating of 4.8 and 83 reviews, you can trust that this product will enhance your cycling experience.

Portland Design Works Handlebar Tape - Donuts

Get ready to elevate your cycling experience with the Portland Design Works PDW Wraps. This handlebar tape comes in a variety of enticing designs, ensuring you find the perfect complement to your ride. With its universally fitting construction and exceptional durability, the PDW Wraps are your go-to choice for a comfortable, controlled grip. Upgrade the look and feel of your bike and prepare for unforgettable cycling adventures with Portland Design Works’ PDW Wraps.

Shock-Absorbing Bar Tape with Stylish Design

Meet the Pnw Components Coast Bar Tape, coated in a variety of colors and complete with a set of matte black anodized handlebar end plugs. Perfect for drop bar gravel handlebars, this shock-absorbing tape offers a comfortable grip and a stylish touch to your bike. Made of anti-slip, PNW-embossed surface materials, the Coast Bar Tape ensures a secure hold, all while adding a touch of flair to your bike. Included in this package are two matte black anodized handlebar end plugs that seamlessly blend with your tape design, creating a sleek and cohesive look.

Supacaz Sticky Kush Star Fade Handlebar Tape - Platinum

The Supacaz Super Sticky Kush Star Fade tape is a top-performing handlebar tape, crafted with a perfect fusion of style and performance. It’s made from a super tacky and durable polyurethane material that provides an excellent grip and feel. Users love the tape’s easy installation and comfortable padding, while also appreciating the wide range of exclusive colors and long-lasting construction. With impressive reviews and a rating of 4.8, this bar tape is a must-have accessory for any cyclist.

Hyper Green Lizard Skins DSP V2.5 Handlebar Tape for Comfort and Durability

Experience ultimate comfort and durability with Lizard Skins DSP 2.5 mm Bar Tape Hyper Green. This advanced handlebar tape boasts easy installation, exceptional grip, and top-notch impact absorption to enhance your cycling experience. Perfect for long rides, it’s available in various colors to match your bike and bring out its beauty.

Bontrager Gel Cork Handlebar Tape - Ultraviolet & Comfortable Ride Experience

Introducing the Bontrager Gel Cork Handlebar Tape, a smooth fusion of classic cork feel and gel padding. This comfortable tape boasts a unique combination of traditional cork’s feel, vibration-damping power, and the added road-smoothing comfort of gel. As a modern classic, its clean aesthetics remain a timeless choice for any cyclist. Effortlessly installed, it comes complete with Bontrager finishing strips and bar end plugs, making assembly a breeze. Say goodbye to tired hands and enjoy the ride with this versatile and stylish handlebar tape.

Comfort Gel Handlebar Tape for Enhanced Riding Experience

Enhance your bike riding experience with Planet Bike’s Comfort Gel Handlebar Tape. This premium handlebar tape boasts soft, durable construction with gel padding for ultimate comfort and protection. The gel material becomes tacky when wet, ensuring a secure grip even in wet conditions. Available in a variety of vibrant, UV-protected colors, you can personalize your bike and enjoy its fade-resistant, water-resistant, and UV-protected qualities.

Portland Design Works Silicone Handlebar Tape - Pizza Wraps

Experience unparalleled comfort on your rides with Portland Design Works’ Wraps with Silicone Handlebar Tape. This innovative product offers a blend of style and functionality, featuring durable woven nylon and an added silicone grip for ultimate control. The cush foam backing provides extra comfort, while the self-adhesive feature ensures a secure fit on your handlebars. Available as a set, these wraps are an excellent investment for enhancing the feel of your bike rides.

Portland Design Works Pizza Handlebar Tape

Give your bike a vibrant makeover with the Portland Design Works Pizza Wraps Handlebar Tape. This unique handlebar tape boasts a fun pizza design on cloth, ensuring you stand out on the road. Crafted from durable woven nylon and layered over a cush foam backing, it provides both comfort and style while keeping you rolling in style. Available in black, this is a must-have for bike enthusiasts looking to add a touch of personality to their ride.

Supacaz Super Sticky Kush Handlebar Tape: Durable, Comfortable, and Stylish

The Supacaz Super Sticky Kush Red Starfade tape is the ultimate addition to any cyclist’s collection, boasting an attractive and grippy design. Featuring PU material for durability, this high-quality handlebar tape is perfect for keeping a grip in any weather condition. The comfortable foam backing ensures a smooth feel, while the tacky adhesive ensures a secure fit. With a stylish Starfade pattern and vibrant red color, this tape is bound to match any cyclist’s style.

Supacaz Super Sticky Kush Star Fade Handlebar Tape - Neon Pink

Experience the ultimate comfort and style with the Supacaz Super Sticky Kush Pink Starfade Handlebar Tape. This high-quality tape is crafted with premium PU material and comes equipped with all the necessary components for a seamless installation. Perfect for those who crave a tacky and comfortable grip, this tape excels in both wet and dry conditions. Enjoy the luxurious feel of the Nano Thin adhesive and the durable Kush foam that adds extra cushioning, making it a top choice for any rider looking to elevate their cycling experience.

Coast Bar Tape: Shock-Absorbing, Non-Slip Handlebar Tape with Matte Black Plugs and Seafoam Teal Option

Experience the perfect blend of grip and cushioning with the Pnw Components Coast Bar Tape. Available in multiple color options, this high-quality bar tape features a non-slip, PNW-embossed surface with shock-absorbing material, making it ideal for gravel handlebars. Each Coast Bar Tape purchase includes two matte black anodized handlebar end plugs for added durability and style. With a rating of 4.5 and 73 reviews, customers appreciate its comfortable fit, attractive design, and reliable durability.

Coffee-inspired Handlebar Tape by Portland Design Works

Introducing the Portland Design Works Coffee Handlebar Wraps - a unique blend of style and comfort. This top-quality cloth handlebar tape features a vibrant coffee color that’s not only eye-catching but also defined by a classic black outline. Made from durable woven nylon and soft cush foam backing, these Wraps ensure a comfortable ride and a captivating appearance that’s impossible to resist.

Supacaz Super Sticky Kush Star Fade Handlebar Tape

Experience the high-quality bicycle handlebar tape from Supacaz with their Super Sticky Kush Star Fade Bar Tape. This durable PU tape boasts a tacky surface that outperforms other tapes, offering premium touch and performance. The tape’s advanced polyurethane layer remains tacky even in wet conditions, ensuring a secure grip throughout your ride. With a thickness of 2.5mm, it will match your new bars perfectly. Embrace the fusion of style and function with Supacaz’s Super Sticky Kush Star Fade Bar Tape.

Bontrager Supertack Handlebar Tape Set - Blue for Enhanced Grip and Comfort

For a comfortable and secure grip on your road bike handlebars, the Bontrager Supertack Handlebar Tape Set offers a no-slip grip. Its super-tacky texture ensures a firm hold, while the shock-absorbing foam enhances comfort during long rides. Available in a sleek, thin profile, this handlebar tape set also includes finishing strips and reflective Bontrager bar end plugs for added features. Users praise the tape’s tackiness, comfort, and ease of installation, making it a top choice for cyclists seeking a reliable, stylish handlebar tape set.

Comfortable Nylon Handlebar Tape with Silicone Grip for Road Cyclists

Looking to upgrade your road cycling comfort? The Portland Design Works Wraps with Silicone Bar Tape is your new best friend. Crafted from durable nylon and reinforced with silicone strips for a firm grip, these wraps ensure you glide through any ride smoothly.

Aurora Purple Handlebar Tape with Graduated Color Fade

Experience the stylish and comfortable Ciclovation Leather Touch Handlebar Tape in Aurora Purple. This vibrant and personalized handlebar tape not only attracts attention but also provides exceptional grip quality, thanks to its innovative Smart GEL technology. Designed for optimal performance and convenience, it’s a durable and easily installable choice for your bike.

Trek Gel Cork Handlebar Tape - Brown

The Trek Gel Cork Handlebar Tape Set offers a combination of classic cork feel with the added comfort of vibration-damping gel for a smooth ride. Its timeless design and easy installation make it an instant classic. Perfect for those who appreciate the traditional cork feel while benefiting from gel’s extra comfort, this handlebar tape set includes finishing strips, reflective bar end plugs, and a non-adhesive backing.

Suede-Finished Handlebar Tape for Smooth Ride Comfort and Easy Installation

Experience the ultimate combination of comfort and style with the Specialized S-Wrap Roubaix Handlebar Tape. Perfectly designed for those challenging Paris-Roubaix cobbles, this grip tape provides unmatched cushioning and vibration-damping capabilities. With its extra-wide design, the tape ensures a smooth finish and effortless installation. The suede finish not only feels great in your hands but also provides a clean, aesthetic appearance. The elastomer gel backing offers an extra layer of cushioning for added comfort. Try it once, and you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it!

Fizik Tempo Microtex Bondcush Soft Bar Tape - Comfortable Road Bike Handlebar Tape

Introducing the Fizik Tempo Microtex Bondcush Soft handlebar tape - a luxurious, silky soft addition to your bike. Designed with comfort in mind, this tape features a gel padding for an enjoyable ride. Its matte, silky surface not only feels great but also dries quickly, perfect for those hot summer rides. Available in various colors, you can personalize your bike even further. And don’t worry about long rides or rough terrains, the shock-absorbing gel keeps your hands comfortable.

Stylish Cycology Multicolor Handlebar Tape with Enhanced Grip and Comfort

Transform your bike with Cycology Graffiti Handlebar Tape, a stylish and comfortable upgrade for cycling enthusiasts. With vibrant designs and a grip that won’t let you down, this multicolored handlebar tape provides the perfect balance between fashion and function. Enjoy extra padding and shock absorption for a more comfortable ride, all while attracting admiration from fellow cyclists.

Lizard Skins Cool Gray 2.5mm Handlebar Tape

The Lizard Skins DSP V2 2.5 handlebar tape is a top-notch upgrade for your bike, offering impressive comfort and durability. With easy installation, this premium bar tape boasts advanced polymer materials that provide exceptional wear and abrasion resistance, as well as impressive impact absorption capacity. Despite its premium price, the tape’s performance and aesthetics make it a popular choice among cyclists, particularly for long rides on road bikes where grip and control are paramount.

Brooks Honey Microfiber Handlebar Tape

Experience the perfect blend of durability and comfort with the Brooks Honey Microfibre Handlebar Tape. Designed for a stylish yet practical touch, this tape ensures a secure grip and excellent breathability. Measuring 215cm in length, it fits most handlebars perfectly. Not only is it comfortable, but it also offers a classic look with its honey color. Reviewers praise its grip quality, durability, and easy installation. Upgrade your bike with the attractive and versatile Brooks Honey Microfibre Handlebar Tape.

Wolf Tooth Supple Orange Bar Tape

This Wolf Tooth Supple Bar Tape offers a comfortable and durable grip for your handlebars. With a 5mm thick, 40mm wide design, it provides extra cushioning and comfort even on tough trails. The washable surface ensures it lasts longer without wearing out, while the tacky texture keeps your hands securely in place. The self-fusing silicone finishing tape offers a clean finishing touch and easy installation. Its thick and wide nature may take a bit of practice to wrap around the handlebars, but the extra effort is worth it for its superb ride quality and hand protection.

Lizard Skins DSP 2.5 mm Neon Pink Handlebar Tape for Enhanced Grip and Performance

This Lizard Skins DSP 2.5 mm Bar Tape boasts neon pink hues, offering an eye-catching option for your bike. Crafted with an advanced polymer material, it ensures exceptional wear and abrasion resistance, along with impressive impact absorption capacity. While it’s easy to install, the key highlight lies in the excellent grip and control it provides during long hours in the saddle. Choose between various colors to match your bike and make it stand out.

Bontrager Grippytack Handlebar Tape: Attractive, Comfortable, and Easy to Install

Experience ultimate grip and comfort with Bontrager’s Grippytack bar tape. Designed for a snug fit and easy installation, this versatile tape is made from shock-absorbing foam to ensure a smooth ride. With its sleek black appearance and reflective Bontrager bar end plugs, this bar tape is not only practical but stylish too. Whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling gravel trails, Grippytack bar tape has you covered.

Comfortable and Stylish Supacaz Super Sticky Kush Handlebar Tape for Bikes

The Supacaz Super Sticky Kush Handlebar Tape brings a unique blend of style and comfort to your bike, with stunning designs and excellent grip from its shockproof material. Made from PU, these tapes offer a customizable fit for aluminum surfaces, perfect for all weather conditions. The tapes are easy to install and feature a sturdy construction, ensuring they’ll withstand even the toughest of rides. With their unmatched combination of feel, looks, and performance, these tapes offer a top-grade experience that will set your bike apart from the rest.

Supacaz Kush Star Fade Handlebar Tape: Neon Blue, Super Stick PU

Wrap your handlebars in style and comfort with the Supacaz Super Sticky Kush Star Fade tape. Ideal for high-performance riders seeking a combination of grip and luxury, this tape boasts an exclusive Supercaz compound that provides shock-absorbing qualities for enhanced handling. The tape is enriched with the sacred geometric Supacaz pattern that maximizes grip and stickiness, while its top layer of Super Sticky PU offers superior hand feel with long-lasting performance. Embossed with the unique Supacaz pattern, this tape will elevate your cycling experience to new heights.

Portland Design Works Silicone Handlebar Tape - Tacos

Bring some style and comfort to your bike rides with the Portland Design Works Wraps with Silicone Handlebar Tape, aptly nicknamed “Tacos. ” These wraps boast a durable woven nylon construction, cush foam backing, and clear silicone grip strips, all designed to ensure a smooth and comfy grip. Made with a self-adhesive backing, they’re perfect for handling various handlebar materials. Dive into the world of PDW Tacos for an unbeatable riding experience!

Portland Design Works Desert Silicone Handlebar Tape

Take your cycling experience to new heights with the Desert Portland Design Works Wraps Silicone Handlebar Tape. This tape is meticulously crafted with a durable woven nylon, cush foam backing for added comfort, and clear silicone grip strips to ensure a superior grip. With its self-adhesive feature, this handlebar tape is both style and comfort at its finest.

Arundel Gecko Bar Tape (Black)

Ditch the old-school cork tape and upgrade to the Arundel Gecko Grip Tape, a game-changing option that provides superior grip and comfort during your bike rides. Made from cushy EVA foam and ventilated polyurethane, this tape offers an attractive option compared to its cork counterpart, without the need for constant reapplication. Its tacky feel and ability to wipe clean effortlessly makes it the perfect spring and summer tape, while its durability and easy installation make it suitable for cyclocross enthusiasts too. Whether you’re a casual bike rider or a seasoned cyclist, the Arundel Gecko Grip Tape is a must-have for an enjoyable and comfortable riding experience.

High Shock Absorbing Bike Handlebar Tape

Experience the comfort of a well-designed bike handlebar tape. With its two-layer construction, this bar tape offers a non-slip polyurethane surface for a firm grip and a shock-absorbing EVA material to reduce vibrations. Available in multiple colors, this model is perfect for road cycling enthusiasts seeking a durable and washable option that will never fail to amaze.

Arundel Art Gecko Bar Tape - Stylish, Waterproof Handlebar Tape

The Arundel Art Gecko bar tape offers a visually stunning addition to any bike, with its gradient design transitioning seamlessly from grey at the hoods to black at the ends. This taping solution boasts a polyurethane rubber surface for a comfortable grip, while still providing enough cushioning for a smooth ride. Crafted in 220 cm rolls, it allows for plenty of coverage without compromising on its lightweight 92 grams. Available in a range of other colorful designs too, there is a choice for every cycling personality.

State Bicycle Co. Orange Bar Tape

Experience the perfect blend of style and comfort with State Bicycle Co. ’s high-quality orange bar tape. Designed for bullhorn or drop bars, this premium offering comes complete with bar end caps, ensuring a snug fit on your bike. The vibrant orange color adds a touch of flair to your ride, while the plush padding and excellent grip promise a comfortable ride. With an impressive 4.7 rating and 83 reviews, you can trust that this bar tape will exceed your expectations.

Brooks Leather Bar Tape Brown

Elevate your bike’s style with the Brooks Leather Bar Tape, available in an assortment of colors to complement your Brooks saddle. Made from high-quality leather, this bar tape adds a touch of luxury and comfort to your cycling experience. Each kit includes two strips of perforated leather bar tape, two natural cork and wood bar-end plugs, and two adhesive cloth strips. With its timeless look and superior grip, the Brooks Leather Bar Tape is the perfect addition to any bike.

Brooks Leather Vintage Bar Tape

Upgrade your handlebars with the Brooks Leather Bar Tape - Antique Brown. Perfectly matching and aging over time, this premium leather tape boasts superior durability for long-lasting comfort. Enjoy the natural breathability of leather, fitting the tape to your bike like a charm. Choose from a range of lengths to find the perfect fit for your bike, and let the premium quality of the Brooks Leather Bar Tape take your cycling experience to the next level.

Buyer’s Guide

Selecting the right handlebar tape for your bicycle is key to enhancing your grip, comfort, and overall performance. To guide you in making the right choice, this buyer’s guide will focus on essential features, factors to consider, and general tips for choosing the best handlebar tape.

Materials

There are three primary materials used in creating handlebar tapes: fabric, cork, and gel. Fabric tapes, such as cotton or nylon, are known for their durability and smooth surface, making them a popular choice. Alternatively, cork tapes offer a more comfortable grip and better insulation than fabric tapes. Gel tapes, on the other hand, provide excellent cushioning and shock absorption. Each material has its benefits, so it’s essential to choose the one that best suits your preferences and requirements.

Width

The width of the handlebar tape also plays a vital role in its performance. Wider tapes (at least 1.5 inches) offer better cushioning and grip, but require more wrapping and cutting during installation. It’s essential to select a tape that provides enough width to ensure a comfortable grip and proper coverage for the handlebars. The typical width range lies between 1.5 and 2.5 inches.

Adhesive

A high-quality adhesive is necessary for maintaining the handlebar tape securely in place. Opt for tapes with strong, weather-resistant adhesives that can withstand varying temperature and humidity conditions. Avoid handlebar tapes with weak adhesives, as they may require frequent retaping and result in uneven tape application.

Design and Aesthetics

Handlebar tapes come in an assortment of colors, patterns, and designs. Although cosmetic factors may not be as crucial as performance aspects, a visually appealing tape can greatly enhance your cycling experience. Select a tape that complements the overall aesthetics of your bicycle and personal preference.

FAQ

So, what is handlebar tape?

Handlebar tape is a versatile accessory that wraps around the handlebars of a bicycle, providing a comfortable grip and absorbing road vibrations while you ride. It also adds a personal touch to your bike, with an array of color and pattern options to choose from. High-quality handlebar tape can even prolong the life of your handlebars by shielding them against wear and tear caused by friction and exposure to the elements. This essential bike accessory enhances both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your ride.

There are various types of handlebar tape on the market, each boasting its own unique benefits. Three of the most common options include cork, rubber, and synthetic materials such as microfiber and silicone. Here’s a brief rundown of each:

• Cork handlebar tape is environmentally friendly, lightweight, and offers excellent grip. It also has a natural look and feel, making it a popular choice for vintage and retro bicycles. However, it does require regular maintenance and can be more susceptible to damage than other types of tape.

• Rubber handlebar tape provides impressive shock absorption and grip, making it a go-to choice for off-road and mountain cyclists. It’s also more durable than cork tape and requires less maintenance.

• Synthetic handlebar tape, like microfiber and silicone, is lightweight, easy to clean, and offers good grip. It’s also more resistant to wear and tear than cork and rubber tapes.

Ultimately, the choice of handlebar tape comes down to personal preference, the type of cycling you do, and the style of your bicycle. Factors such as grip, durability, and aesthetics should be considered when selecting your handlebar tape to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable cycling experience. Measure your handlebars accurately to ensure a proper fit and coverage.

How do I install handlebar tape?

Installing handlebar tape can be a bit tricky, but with the right tools and patience, you can do it yourself. Here are the basic steps:

• Remove the old handlebar tape by unwrapping it from the handlebars. You may need pliers to remove any staples or wire used to secure it.

• Clean the handlebars thoroughly to remove any residue from the old tape. Use degreaser if necessary.

• Measure the handlebars to determine the length of tape needed. Add a few inches for overlap and end caps

• Apply the new handlebar tape, starting at the center of the handlebars and working your way outward. Use a firm tension when wrapping the tape, ensuring it’s snug but not too tight

• Use pliers to secure the end caps and trim any excess tape

• Use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges or bumps in the tape

If you’re not comfortable installing handlebar tape yourself, consider taking your bike to a local bike shop for professional installation. They have the necessary tools and experience to ensure a proper and secure fit. Remember to ask for advice on the best type of handlebar tape for your bike and cycling style.

What’s the difference between single-sided and double-sided handlebar tape?

Single-sided handlebar tape has a solid layer of grip material on one side, while double-sided tape has a layer on both sides. The main difference between the two is the grip. Single-sided tape provides a softer, more pliable grip, while double-sided tape has a firmer, more durable grip. The choice between single-sided and double-sided tape is all about personal preference and the type of cycling you do.

For off-road and mountain biking, where a firmer grip is crucial for control and safety, double-sided handlebar tape might be the better option. For road cycling or commuting, where a softer grip might be more comfortable over long periods, single-sided tape could be a better fit. Consider your cycling style, hand size, and the conditions you’ll be riding in when choosing between single-sided and double-sided handlebar tape.

How often should I replace my handlebar tape?

The frequency at which you should replace your handlebar tape depends on several factors, including the type of tape, the amount of use, and the conditions you ride in. Generally, handlebar tape should be replaced when it becomes worn, stretched, or damaged. This can occur after several months or years of use, depending on the conditions.

If you notice a loss of grip, fraying, or damage to the tape, it’s time to replace it. Additionally, if you’ve been riding in harsh conditions such as extreme temperatures, humidity, or exposure to salt and grime, the tape may require more frequent replacement. Regular inspection and maintenance of your handlebar tape can help ensure a safe and comfortable cycling experience. If you’re unsure about the condition of your handlebar tape, consult a local bike shop for advice.

Can I use handlebar tape on other parts of my bike, like the seat post?

While handlebar tape is designed primarily for handlebars, it can also be used for other parts of your bike, such as the seat post or handlebar stem. However, this is not a common practice and may not provide the same level of grip or durability as handlebar tape designed specifically for those parts. In some cases, it may even be more difficult to install and remove the tape correctly.

If you’re considering using handlebar tape on other parts of your bike, consult a local bike shop for advice. They can recommend the best type of tape for your specific needs and ensure a proper and secure installation. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal performance and safety.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ I receive compensation through qualifying purchases!