Bar Tape

[Michelin]

I want to change the bar tape on my bars.At the moment its got Fizik tape but theres no cushioning in it it feels like your just holding the bars. Any ideas what a nice comfortable tape is . I don't want to use gel inserts just tape. Cheers

[Gattonero]

There's so many choices that is impossible to give you an answer, it's a bit like saddles: each has it own preferences.

My only advice would be to stay away form tape that has a sort of "film" on top, like the Lizard Skins one: when this wears out, it looks and feels horrible.


A nice and though tape is the Arundel, or similar, they have a bit of cushion and lots of grip


Or just get some classic Cinelli one, they do many styles, their "cork" type is a classic and is durable (I clean it with water and Swarfega hands-cleaner, it comes back like new), they do a "gel cork" or a "chubby ribbon" which are nicely soft
https://www.highonbikes.com/cinelli-chubby-extra-thick-bar-tape.html

[mattsccm]

I like silicone tape. Cushioned, grippy in the rain and not sticky backed so it can be reversed.

[cycleruk]

Two layers of tape. Save some of the old tape you take off and re-use under parts of the new tape.
I just lay some lengthways along the tops of the bars under the new tape.

[David9694]

Tortec or Fabric Hex

[foxyrider]

For durability and comfort my go to tape is the Bontrager gel. Nicely bevelled to give a nice even finish, cleans easily and doesn't suffer from compression IME. One bike has a set fitted in 2015, which, though faded, is still going strong.

[reohn2]

For durability and comfort my go to tape is the Bontrager gel. Nicely bevelled to give a nice even finish, cleans easily and doesn't suffer from compression IME. One bike has a set fitted in 2015, which, though faded, is still going strong.

+1great tape IMO

[freiston]

I really like Cannondale Synapse tape. It is gel-backed and non-adhesive but it is grippy on the bars. I find it much easier to fit than other tapes.

[reohn2]

I really like Cannondale Synapse tape. It is gel-backed and non-adhesive but it is grippy on the bars. I find it much easier to fit than other tapes.

Sounds like Bontrager bargel tape recommended above

[TrevA]

Specialized Bar Phat. Comes with gel inserts that sit underneath the tape and give greater cushioning. My wife has it on her bikes. I find normal cork tape gives enough cushioning.

[james01]

I've heard of people using old inner tubing as an underlay, then wrapping new tape of choice on top. Very comfortable, apparently.

[fastpedaller]

I've heard of people using old inner tubing as an underlay, then wrapping new tape of choice on top. Very comfortable, apparently.

Especially when the inner tube is inflated

[yostumpy]

All together now.....

'' On Ilkley moor bar tape, On Ilkley moor bar tape, on Ilkey..........................

[keyboardmonkey]

Specialized Bar Phat. Comes with gel inserts that sit underneath the tape and give greater cushioning. My wife has it on her bike...

+1

Also, on another bike I have Giant Connect bar tape over another layer of some other bar tape.