How to Wrap Handlebar Tape

Maintaining a good grip on a bicycle's handlebars is important. Old or loose tape should be replaced as often as needed to ensure the tape doesn't twist beneath your grip. Skillfully wrapping a handlebar to perfection may take a bit of practice, but the results will be a snug fit and a neat look.

Things You'll Need

  • Handlebar tape
  • Scissors
  • Glue remover
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pull the plugs from the end of the handlebars and store in a safe place. Remove the old tape and clean the handlebar with a glue remover. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure the brake levers are tight and the bars are the same height.

    • 2

      Cut 1.5 inches of tape and place at the bottom side of each brake lever. This tape will cover the gap that will appear when the handlebar is wrapped. The wrap will partially cover the tape under the brake.

    • 3

      Stand in front of the bike, facing the handlebars. Place the tape at the end of the handlebar with about 1/2-inch of tape hanging off the end. Wrap the tape over the top and toward you. Wrap the tape at an angle and overlap the tape about 1/8-inch as it is wrapped. Stretch the tape gently while wrapping and do not allow any wrinkles.

    • 4

      Continue wrapping to the end of the handlebars and cut the tape with scissors. Fold the ends of the tape over and tuck inside the bar. Replace the handlebar plugs.