Wrapping your bike handlebars is a simple but effective way to improve your riding experience. It can provide extra comfort, grip, and style. If you’re new to wrapping handlebars, don’t worry – it’s a relatively easy process that can be completed in a few hours. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to wrap bike handlebars like a pro.
Before you start, you’ll need to gather a few supplies. You’ll need a roll of handlebar tape, a pair of scissors, and a small amount of rubbing alcohol. You may also want to use a hair dryer to help the tape adhere better. Once you have your supplies, you’re ready to start wrapping.
The first step is to clean your handlebars. This will help the tape adhere better. Use a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a clean rag to wipe down the bars. Once the bars are clean, you can start wrapping the tape. Start by placing the end of the tape in the center of the handlebar. Then, wrap the tape around the bar, overlapping each layer by about half an inch. As you wrap, be sure to keep the tape tight and even. When you reach the end of the handlebar, use the scissors to cut the tape and then tuck the end under the previous layer.
Overlapping the Tape
To create a comfortable and secure grip, overlapping the handlebar tape is crucial. Follow these steps meticulously:
1. Start with the Left Side:
Begin by placing the tape’s end at the left end of the handlebar, approximately 1 inch from the edge. Secure it with electrical tape or glue.
2. Wrap Away from the Body:
Wind the tape away from you, keeping it taut but not too tight. Aim for an overlap of approximately 1/2 to 1 inch on each wrap.
3. Anchor the Tape:
Once you reach the end of the handlebar, fold the tape over itself and secure it with a few wraps of electrical tape.
4. Start the Right Side:
Repeat the process on the right side, starting at the outer edge and wrapping towards the center of the handlebar.
5. Overlap the Middle:
When the right-side tape reaches the middle of the handlebar, overlap it slightly over the left-side tape. Use 4 to 6 wraps to firmly secure the overlap. This creates a “bullhorn” shape that enhances grip and comfort.
| Wrap Layers | Starting Position | Ending Position | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | Left end | Right end | 1/2 – 1 inch |
| 3-4 | Right end | Middle | 1/2 – 1 inch |
| 5-6 | Middle | Left side | 4 – 6 wraps |
How To Wrap Bike Handlebars
Wrapping your bike handlebars is a great way to improve the comfort and style of your bike. It’s also a relatively easy and inexpensive project that you can do yourself with a few basic tools. Here are the steps on how to wrap bike handlebars:
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Gather your materials. You will need the following materials to wrap your bike handlebars:
- Bar tape
- Electrical tape
- Scissors
- A Phillips head screwdriver
- A hex key
- A torque wrench (optional)
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Remove the old bar tape. If your handlebars are already wrapped, you will need to remove the old bar tape before you can wrap new tape on. To do this, use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the brake lever clamps and the shifter clamps. Then, carefully peel off the old bar tape.
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Clean the handlebars. Once the old bar tape is removed, clean the handlebars with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
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Wrap the electrical tape. Start by wrapping electrical tape around the handlebars, starting at the center and working your way out towards the ends. Wrap the electrical tape tightly and overlap each layer by about half. The electrical tape will help to protect the handlebars from the wear and tear of the bar tape.
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Wrap the bar tape. Start by wrapping the bar tape at the center of the handlebars, overlapping the electrical tape by about half. Wrap the bar tape tightly and overlap each layer by about half. Continue wrapping the bar tape until you reach the end of the handlebars.
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Secure the bar tape. Once the bar tape is wrapped, use electrical tape to secure it in place. Start by wrapping the electrical tape around the handlebars at the center, and then work your way out towards the ends. Wrap the electrical tape tightly and overlap each layer by about half.
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Reinstall the brake lever clamps and the shifter clamps. Once the bar tape is secured, reinstall the brake lever clamps and the shifter clamps. Tighten the clamps using a torque wrench to the manufacturer’s specifications.
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Enjoy your newly wrapped handlebars! Your bike handlebars are now wrapped and ready to ride.
People Also Ask About How To Wrap Bike Handlebars
How often should I wrap my bike handlebars?
You should wrap your bike handlebars whenever they start to show signs of wear and tear. This could be due to the bar tape becoming frayed, torn, or dirty. If you ride your bike frequently, you may need to wrap your handlebars every few months or so.
What type of bar tape should I use?
There are many different types of bar tape available, each with its own unique properties. Some of the most popular types of bar tape include:
* Cork tape: Cork tape is a natural material that is comfortable to grip and absorbs vibrations.
* Synthetic tape: Synthetic tape is made from a variety of materials, including rubber, plastic, and foam. Synthetic tape is often more durable than cork tape, but it can also be less comfortable to grip.
* Leather tape: Leather tape is a luxurious material that is both comfortable to grip and durable. However, leather tape can be more expensive than other types of tape.
How do I choose the right size bar tape?
The width of the bar tape should match the width of your handlebars. You can measure the width of your handlebars by measuring the distance between the two ends of the handlebars. Once you know the width of your handlebars, you can choose the appropriate size bar tape.
