Bar Tape

Bar tape is the padded wrap you see on the handlebars of road bikes, gravel bikes, and other drop-bar bikes. It’s an essential piece of gear that does more than just look good. It adds comfort, grip, and protection every time you ride.

One of the main reasons riders use bar tape is comfort.

The tape creates a cushioned layer between your hands and the bare metal of the handlebar,. This helps absorb vibrations and road buzz. And makes a big difference on long rides. Helping to reduce hand fatigue and numbness, especially on rough roads.

Bike bar tape also gives you better grip and control.

It has a textured or tacky surface that stops your hands from slipping, even when you’re sweating or riding in the rain. This secure grip is especially important for handling, braking, and cornering with confidence.

Beyond comfort and control, bar tape is a simple way to personalise a bike’s look. It comes in a huge range of colours, thicknesses, and materials, so riders can choose what feels best and matches their style.

EVA foam is lightweight, affordable, and provides good shock absorption. Many standard bar tapes use EVA foam as the base because it’s flexible, easy to wrap, and offers moderate padding without feeling bulky.

The PRO Sport Control Team is an example. It's 2.5mm thick which means it has a balance between comfort and road feel.

Many modern high-end bar tapes use synthetic microfibre materials.

They’re lightweight, durable, easy to clean, and come in many colours and finishes.

Brands often use perforations or textured surfaces to improve breathability and grip.

Burgh bar tapes are a very popular example of this type of bar tape.