Alright, let's tackle how to install bar tape on your bicycle handlebar. It's a straightforward process, and with a little practice, you'll be wrapping like a pro!
How to Install Bar Tape on Your Bike
Here's the breakdown of how I'd approach this task:
Preparation
- Clean the Handlebars: Before anything else, give your handlebars a good cleaning. Remove any old tape residue or dirt.
- Secure Cables: Ensure your brake and shifter cables are neatly routed and secured.
- Tape the Levers (Optional, but Recommended): Use a small piece of tape to cover the brake lever hoods. This creates a smooth transition and helps with a clean look.
Wrapping the Tape
- Starting Point: Begin at the bottom of the handlebars (drops). You can use a bit of finishing tape or electrical tape to secure the bar tape initially.
- Wrapping Direction: Wrap inward for drop bars (towards the stem) and outward for flat bars (towards the rider). This depends on your bar style.
- Tension and Overlap: Maintain consistent tension as you wrap. Overlap the tape by about half its width for a secure and comfortable grip. Adjust the tension until it feels right.
- Handling the Brake Levers: As you approach the brake levers, wrap the tape around them, angling it slightly upwards to maintain the overlap. I usually cut a small section of tape, or cut it with a diagonal cut at the top or bottom of the lever, and start wrapping again.
Finishing Up
- Trimming Excess Tape: Once you've reached the end of the handlebar, trim off any excess tape at an angle, so there's not a big end that has to be taped to the bar.
- Tucking the End Tape: Now, here's where we get that final, professional look. Tuck the end of the bar tape firmly into the handlebar tube. This is important for a clean finish and to prevent the tape from unraveling.
- Inserting the Bar Plug: Next, insert the bar plug into the handlebar tube, ensuring it's fully secure. I always give it a good push to make sure it's firmly in place. This step is critical; without it, the tape won't be secured properly.
- Securing with Finishing Tape: Wrap the finishing tape around the bar tape to hold it in place. Make sure that it's good and tight.
- You're done! Repeat on the other side.
That should get you started, and remember, practice makes perfect.
Category: Bicycle Maintenance
