Although many models of bikes come with grips on the handlebars, this isn't the case for all bikes. And some grips can feel uncomfortable to some bikers. Grip tapes come in varying forms, with some offering thickness and a small amount of padding while remaining coarse and easy to hold on to. Once you figure out the type you want, you should be able to apply your new grips without much trouble.
Step 1
Loosen the brake levers, and pull them away from your handlebars to make room for the grip tape. You may need to loosen the tightening bolt with a flathead screwdriver to do this.
Step 2
Remove the plugs from the ends of your handlebars. These are usually made of rubber or plastic and can be pried out by slipping a flathead screwdriver between the plug and the handlebars, then using the screwdriver as a lever to pop out the plug.
Step 3
Wrap the two 3-inch strips of tape included with your grip tape around your handlebars on either side of where the brake clamps attach. Close the space that your brake clamps make with the tape.
Step 4
Unpeel about 3 inches of grip tape, and wrap it around the end of your handlebars so about half of the tape's width is hanging over the edge of the metal.
Step 5
Wrap another layer around your handlebars, angling the tape as you turn it so that it slowly makes progress up your handlebars as it is wrapped. With each wrap, overlap about one-third of the previous wrap with your new layer.
Step 6
Wrap the tape up rest of your handlebars, keeping tension it so that the wrap is applied tightly without any bumps or wrinkles.
Step 7
Stop the wrap when you arrive about 1 inch from the stem of the handlebar post. Cut off excess tape, and smooth the tape end down onto your handlebars. If desired, cover the end of the grip tape with a couple of wraps of electrical tape.
Step 8
Tuck the excess grip tape from the start of the wrap into the open holes at the end of your handlebars. Replace your handlebar plugs into these holes.
Step 9
Tighten the brake clamps by turning the screw on the brake clamp holder clockwise with a flathead screwdriver. Make sure the clamp holder is in its original place on the handlebars before tightening it.
Tips and Warnings
- Handlebars can be wrapped in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.
Things You'll Need
- Flathead screwdriver
- Electrical tape (optional)
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