How to choose a bicycle handlebar tape?

One of the most important controls on a bike is the handlebar. Users who often use it as a means of transportation prefer braiding. What it is, what functions it has and how to properly wind it, we will tell you in our article.

The handlebars of a road bike are often decorated with wrapping. Over the years, the materials used have changed and improved, but the essence remains the same. The main qualities are considered reliability, elasticity and strength. However, at the same time, basic requirements are set for the braid, which, by the way, are not so many.

First of all, the wrapping is done so that the cyclist can securely grip the handlebars in any situation. Hands damp from sweat or rain should not slip. Besides, you can hold on not only to the special handles, but also where it is convenient.

In addition, the material makes the bicycle wheel pleasant to the touch and comfortable. The braid must be strong enough to be actively used in different conditions and not deteriorate. Appearance is another factor, it must match the tastes of the rider and look beautiful.

A tape acts as a winding, which can be made of different materials. Mostly road bikes are decorated with it, but if you wish, you can use it both on simple and on mountain bikes.

There is a wide range of bicycle handlebar wraps on store shelves. It is made from different materials and, accordingly, has a different cost.

The highest quality is considered genuine leather winding. It is completely non-slip, pleasant to the touch, and is not afraid of high humidity and precipitation. However, it should be noted that the price will also be quite high.

Synthetics, which contains foam, also boasts a long service life. The winding in this case can have a different texture, and a variety of colors. The price is set several times lower. This tape is often found on bicycles among teenagers.

In some cases, consumers stop on textile tapes. It should be noted that it has the lowest cost. At the same time, it loses significantly in quality to the previous options. Such a winding gets wet quickly and dries for a rather long time.

Cork tape winding enjoys well-deserved popularity among consumers.... It should be said that this material is reliable and durable. Moisture is not absorbed, and excess liquid can be easily wiped off with a napkin. This tape belongs to the middle price category.

You can independently perform several options for braiding. The most popular ones use leather and materials at hand. Let's talk about them in more detail.

Most often, such a tape is purchased in specialized departments. However, in order to save money and with the availability of appropriate materials, it can be made independently. You can simply cut a strip of leather from any old item. However, in this case, it must be borne in mind that only dark leather products are suitable. Light shades will get dirty very quickly, respectively, they will no longer look spectacular.

The use of leatherette is also possible, but its quality will be several times lower. The durability of such a material is also questionable. You need to wrap the bicycle wheel in a warm room. The procedure is carried out from the bottom up.

Experts recommend purchasing for a bicycle handlebar exactly specialized winding tapes. They are as reliable and easy to use as possible.... In addition, if you wish, you can choose a fairly affordable option. However, the use of scrap materials is also possible. Moreover, this method will help to highlight the "iron horse" in the total mass, to make it bright and exclusive.

Before starting work, the steering wheel should be wrapped with electrical tape.... This will help to easily remove the winding when it is no longer necessary. Double-sided tape is wound over the electrical tape, which will help to securely fix the main layer.

Rubber, leather, suede and other tapes are fine. It is recommended to give preference to all the same natural materials, which are reliable and very pleasant to the touch.

As mentioned above, you can make the winding yourself. However, in this case, attention should be paid to the nuances that can significantly affect the quality of work. The first step is to remove the handles. If there is an old winding, you must completely remove it.... The steering wheel is thoroughly cleaned of glue residues, its surface should be smooth. Next, the transmission and brake cables are fixed.

The seal is placed under the brake levers. If this is not done, the winding in this section will be of poor quality and interfere with a comfortable ride. When processing the steering wheel on the left side, the winding is done clockwise. On the right side - against her. This will help the tape hold more tightly. The first uterus is done evenly, after which a slight tilt can be allowed.

In the case when the tape ends, and the winding has not yet been fully completed, it must be secured with a small tape, after which the procedure can be continued.When the work is finished, the brake holders are removed, and the steering wheel is completely wiped from dust and dirt.

When it comes to road bikes, they are often wrapped around them. Demand gives rise to supply, respectively, there are various variants of tapes on sale.

Not all cyclists dare to do their own winding. However, if certain recommendations are followed and the rules are followed, the procedure is not difficult. You can also use materials at hand. The main thing is convenience, comfort and attractive appearance.

In the following video, you will learn how to properly wrap a road bike handlebar.