Many models of road and track bicycles come equipped with drop handlebars, which differ from standard flat handlebars in that the ends of the handlebars curve downward. This allows the rider to lean forward more than a flat handlebar would allow, minimizing the amount of drag his body provides while the bicycle is in motion. Drop handlebars are often fitted with a special fabric grip tape, instead of the foam grips commonly found on flat handlebars.
Step 1
Remove the plug from the end of the right handlebar, then lift or bend back the housing on the brake lever. Stick a finger into the open end of the handlebar and pull out the end of the handlebar tape. Unwind the tape from the handlebar and remove the adhesive tape at the opposite end; discard the tape. Repeat this process with the left handlebar.
Step 2
Begin to unwind the spool of replacement tape. Insert an inch or two of tape into the end of the right handlebar, then begin wrapping the tape counterclockwise around the handlebar; each wind of the tape should slightly overlap the previous one.
Step 3
Continue wrapping in this manner until you reach the brake lever. If your tape comes with an additional piece for the lever, insert the piece under the lever's housing, then resume wrapping the tape over the handlebar. Otherwise, continue wrapping the tape as before, leaving an exposed area under the brake lever's housing.
Step 4
Select the point where you want the handlebar tape to end. Wrap the tape several turns past this point, then use a knife or razor blade to cut the excess tape away; if necessary, unwind the tape and use a pair of scissors to complete the cut. Wrap a piece of electrical tape around the edge of the handlebar tape; use the knife or razor blade to trim the edge, if necessary. Replace the plug in the end of the handlebar.
Step 5
Repeat the taping process on the left handlebar, wrapping the tape clockwise instead of counterclockwise.
Tips and Warnings
- Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before applying the new tape. Winding the tape in the correct direction will help to keep the binding tight as you ride; if you install the tape improperly, your grip may work the tape loose when you pull back on the handlebars. If a portion of your handlebar tape regularly works free when you ride, consider wrapping that section with double-sided tape before you wrap it again. If you are concerned that the electrical tape might come loose, use a soldering iron or piece of heated metal to seal the tape in place.
- When cutting the end of the tape, take care to avoid cutting into the surface of the handlebars.
Things You'll Need
- Utility knife or razor blade
- Electrical tape
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