Handlebar Tapes

The Best Bike Handlebar Tape for Your Ride

As an avid cyclist, one of the best ways to improve your riding experience is by having a comfortable grip on your bike’s handlebars. This is where bike handlebar tape comes in handy, as it provides a comfortable and secure grip for your hands while you’re cycling. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cyclist, choosing the right bike handlebar tape can significantly enhance your riding experience. In this article, we’ll discuss what bike handlebar tape is, the advantages of using it, features to consider when buying it, and some of the best bike handlebar tapes on the market.

What is Bike Handlebar Tape?

Bike handlebar tape is a type of material that’s wrapped around the handlebars of a bicycle. Its primary function is to cushion your hands against the handlebars, which in turn can reduce hand fatigue and provide a more comfortable grip. Bike handlebar tape also enhances the overall appearance of a bike as it comes in different colors and patterns. Some bike handlebar tapes come with extra features such as padding, which can provide additional comfort and vibration absorption while riding.

Advantages of Using Bike Handlebar Tape

Apart from the obvious benefits of providing a comfortable grip, bike handlebar tape has several advantages that cyclists can benefit from. Firstly, it can improve your bike’s grip, particularly in wet conditions, as many handlebar tapes have anti-slip properties. Secondly, bike handlebar tape can reduce the vibration that comes from riding on uneven terrain, which can lead to hand numbness and fatigue. Additionally, bike handlebar tape can help protect the handlebars from wear and tear, increasing their longevity.

Features to Consider When Buying Bike Handlebar Tape

When looking to buy bike handlebar tape, there are several features to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Firstly, you need to consider the material of the tape, which can range from cork to synthetic materials. You also need to consider the thickness of the tape, as this will impact how it feels on your hands, with thicker tapes providing more cushioning. The texture of the tape is another feature to consider, as some handlebar tapes have a smooth finish, while others have a more textured finish for added grip. Finally, you need to consider the color and design of the tape, as this can significantly impact the appearance of your bike.

Best Bike Handlebar Tapes on the Market

There are many bike handlebar tapes on the market, making it difficult to choose the best one for your needs. However, some of the best bike handlebar tapes on the market include Lizard Skins DSP, Fizik Performance Tacky, and Cinelli Cork. Lizard Skins DSP is a lightweight handlebar tape that offers excellent grip and comes with a 1.8 mm thickness for added comfort. Fizik Performance Tacky is another excellent option, featuring a unique texture that offers riders exceptional grip, even in wet conditions. Finally, Cinelli Cork is a classic option that provides the perfect combination of cushioning and grip, making it a practical and affordable choice for cyclists.