Handlebar Wrapping: The Skill Every Cyclist Should Master
Handlebar tape might seem like a small detail, but it’s one of those make-or-break elements on a bike. Get it right, and your ride feels polished and comfortable. Get it wrong, and you’ll be riding with blisters—or worse, unravelled tape flapping in the wind. So, how do you nail that perfect wrap every time? Let’s break it down.
What You’ll Need
Before diving in, gather these essentials:
Fresh bar tape
Bar-end plugs
Scissors
Electrical tape (or the finishing tape included in your kit)
Got everything? Great—time to roll up your sleeves.
Step 1: Ditch the Old Tape
Peel back the hood covers and start unravelling. It’s oddly satisfying, like pulling the plastic off a new gadget. Be thorough—sticky residue is no friend to fresh tape. Grab some isopropyl alcohol and a rag to clean the bars properly.
While you’re at it, inspect the bar. Look for cracks, especially near the shifter clamps, and check that the cable housing isn’t flapping about. Loose cables are a surefire way to invite chaos on the road.
Step 2: Prep with Cheat Strips
Ah, cheat strips—those sneaky little adhesive bits that make life easier around lever clamps. Trim them to size and keep them handy. Pro tip? Stick them to your top tube while you work. It’s like giving your tools a front-row seat.
Step 3: Start Wrapping Like a Pro
Begin at the bottom of the bar. Tuck the tape’s end into the bar and secure it with the bar-end plug. This first move is your foundation—get it tight.
Now, here’s where many riders go astray: the wrapping direction. On the drive side, go clockwise. On the non-drive side, go anti-clockwise. This simple trick ensures the tape tightens under your grip instead of loosening mid-ride.
What about the curves? Overlap slightly more to keep things snug. Chamfered edges on most tapes make this easier, giving a smooth, gap-free finish.
Step 4: Lock in the Bar-End Plug
Once you’ve wrapped a few layers, secure the bar-end plug. If it’s being stubborn, grab a pin spanner or pliers to coax it into place. A tight fit here isn’t just for looks—it keeps everything from unravelling later.
Step 5: Master the Hood Section
The hoods are where things get tricky. Many wraps fail miserably in this area, leaving unsightly gaps or loose sections. Want a foolproof method? Try the figure-of-eight wrap—it’s a bit of a fiddle but creates flawless coverage.
Alternatively, extend the tape over the underside of the lever and up towards the hood. Whichever route you choose, patience is your best friend here.
Step 6: Tidy Up the Tops
Now for the home stretch: the top of the bars. Keep your tension steady and your overlaps neat. Pause often to check symmetry—crooked wrapping is the cycling equivalent of wearing mismatched socks.
Step 7: Trim for the Perfect Finish
Decide where you want the tape to end, and cut it at an angle for a clean edge. This small detail makes all the difference when you secure the final layer.
Step 8: Lock It All In
Wrap the end with electrical tape for a bombproof finish. While many kits come with branded finishing strips, electrical tape tends to hold up better. If you’re feeling fancy, layer the finishing tape over the electrical tape and tuck the edges underneath the bar. It’s the little touches that make it look pro.
Picking the Right Tape: It’s Personal
Choosing bar tape is a bit like choosing shoes—what works for one rider might feel completely wrong for another. Silicone gel is a lifesaver for endurance rides, while synthetic rubber excels in rainy conditions. Brands like Silca, Supacaz, and Brooks offer a range of options, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
Maintenance Tips
Handlebar tape doesn’t last forever. Aim to replace it once or twice a year—or more often if you’re sweating buckets on a turbo trainer. Sweat and humidity can degrade adhesive backing, leaving you with slippery bars and a reason to swear mid-ride.
Inspect your tape and bars regularly. Worn-out tape isn’t just unsightly—it’s a potential hazard.
The Final Wrap
There’s something satisfying about a well-wrapped handlebar. It’s like the cherry on top of a perfectly tuned bike. Whether you’re clocking up miles on quiet country roads or smashing descents on a gravel trail, proper bar tape sets the tone for your ride.
Got any wrapping quirks or war stories? Maybe you’ve discovered a hack that’s too good not to share. Drop your thoughts in the comments—it’s always great to hear what’s working (or not) for other riders.
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