{"id":52980,"date":"2023-08-17T19:00:00","date_gmt":"2023-08-17T17:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/?p=247733"},"modified":"2023-08-17T19:35:43","modified_gmt":"2023-08-17T17:35:43","slug":"how-to-wrap-handlebar-tape-a-step-by-step-guide-for-a-professional-finish","status":"publish","type":"rss_feed","link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/rss_feed\/how-to-wrap-handlebar-tape-a-step-by-step-guide-for-a-professional-finish\/","title":{"rendered":"How to wrap handlebar tape | A step-by-step guide for a professional finish"},"content":{"rendered":"

Learn how bike mechanics replace bar tape perfectly <\/p>

By Oscar Huckle\n \t\t<\/p>

Published: Thursday, 17 August 2023 at 17:00 PM<\/p>

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There\u2019s nothing quite like replacing your bar tape to make your bike feel like new. Wrapping bar tape well is an acquired skill and in this guide, we\u2019ll walk you through the process.<\/p>\n

You may wish to change your bar tape if it has got scuffed, you want a new colour or style, or it\u2019s just looking a bit tired.<\/p>\n

Whatever reason you have for replacing your handlebar tape, being able to wrap it properly is a useful skill to have under your belt.<\/p>\n

Ask any 10 mechanics the best way to wrap bar tape and you\u2019re bound to get 10 answers \u2013 it\u2019s a truly hotly debated topic.<\/p>\n

On two things, however, everyone agrees: tape should not be baggy and no gaps should be left, revealing the handlebar.<\/p>\n

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If your bar tape is ripped or saturated with sweat, it definitely needs replacing.<\/span><\/figcaption> Kaden Gardener \/ Our Media <\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

We\u2019d recommend replacing your handlebar tape once or twice a year if you\u2019re riding frequently. If your bike sees regular use on a turbo trainer<\/a>, it\u2019s worth checking the condition of the bar fairly regularly \u2013 stories of bars corroding under a mix of sweat, spilt energy drink and dribble are not just urban myths and are a common maintenance mistake<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Unsure what tape to buy? We\u2019ve got a round-up of the best handlebar tape<\/a>.<\/div>\n\n
Given they\u2019re exposed once the tape is removed, you may want to consider timing the job with when you replace your bike\u2019s gear and brake cables<\/a>.<\/div>\n

Tools needed to replace handlebar tape<\/h2>\n
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Handlebar tape will typically also come with an extra strip to use around the back of the hoods and a finishing strip.<\/span><\/figcaption> Kaden Gardener \/ Our Media <\/i><\/span><\/div>\n
  • New handlebar tape<\/li>\n
  • Scissors<\/li>\n
  • Electrical tape<\/li>\n
  • Solvent to clean bar<\/li>\n
  • Hex key or rubber mallet to secure bar plug (optional but not essential)<\/li>\n
  • Pin spanner or pliers to hold tape (optional but not essential)<\/li>\n<\/ul>

    Wrapping handlebar tape is one of the few maintenance tasks where we\u2019d recommend against wearing gloves. However, make sure you wash your hands thoroughly before installing the new tape to avoid any greasy smears or marks, particularly if it\u2019s white.<\/p>\n