Wrapping your bike handlebars is a simple but effective way to improve your riding experience. New handlebar tape can provide better grip, reduce vibration, and add a touch of personal style to your bike. Best of all, it’s a relatively inexpensive and easy project that you can do yourself in just a few hours.
To wrap your handlebars, you will need a roll of handlebar tape, a pair of scissors, and a small amount of rubbing alcohol. First, clean your handlebars with the rubbing alcohol to remove any dirt or grease. Then, start wrapping the tape at the center of the handlebars, overlapping each layer by about half an inch. As you wrap, make sure to keep the tape tight and even. When you reach the end of the handlebars, tuck the end of the tape under the previous layer and secure it with a small piece of electrical tape.
Once you have wrapped both handlebars, you can finish the job by adding bar plugs to the ends of the tape. Bar plugs help to keep the tape in place and prevent it from fraying. To install bar plugs, simply insert them into the ends of the handlebars and tap them into place with a hammer. Finally, enjoy your newly wrapped handlebars! Not only will they look great, but they will also provide a more comfortable and enjoyable riding experience.
How To Wrap Bike Handlebars
Wrapping your bike handlebars is a relatively simple and inexpensive way to improve the comfort and performance of your ride. It can also add a personal touch to your bike and make it more unique. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to wrap your bike handlebars:
- Remove the old handlebar tape. Start by removing the old handlebar tape. To do this, simply peel back the tape from one end of the bar and pull it off. If the tape is stuck on, you can use a razor blade to carefully cut it away.
- Clean the handlebars. Once the old tape is removed, clean the handlebars with a damp cloth. This will help to remove any dirt or residue that could interfere with the new tape.
- Install the new handlebar tape. Start by wrapping the tape around the end of the bar. Overlap the tape by about 1 inch and secure it with a piece of electrical tape.
- Wrap the tape around the handlebar. Continue wrapping the tape around the handlebar, overlapping each layer by about 1 inch. As you wrap, make sure to keep the tape tight and even.
- Finish the wrap. Once you reach the end of the handlebar, wrap the tape around the end of the bar and secure it with a piece of electrical tape.
- Cut the excess tape. Use a sharp knife or razor blade to cut off any excess tape.
People Also Ask
How often should I replace my handlebar tape?
Handlebar tape typically lasts for about 6-12 months. However, if you ride frequently or in wet or muddy conditions, you may need to replace it more often.
What type of handlebar tape should I use?
There are many different types of handlebar tape available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most popular types of tape include:
- Cork tape: Cork tape is a natural material that is very comfortable to grip. It is also relatively durable and easy to clean.
- Rubber tape: Rubber tape is a synthetic material that is very durable and provides a good grip. It is also relatively inexpensive.
- Foam tape: Foam tape is a synthetic material that is very soft and comfortable to grip. It is also very lightweight.
- Gel tape: Gel tape is a synthetic material that is filled with a gel to provide extra cushioning. It is very comfortable to grip but can be more expensive than other types of tape.
How do I wrap handlebars with bar end plugs?
To wrap handlebars with bar end plugs, simply insert the plugs into the ends of the handlebars before wrapping the tape. Then, follow the steps outlined above to wrap the tape around the handlebars.
