Last Updated on September 16, 2023 by Vinson Lozano
If you are a gravel rider, then you know that the comfort and function of your handlebar tape can make all the difference in your gravel ride. And when it comes to gravel biking, having the right handlebar tape is even more essential.
That’s why we’ve scoured the market to bring you the top contenders for the best gravel bar tape of 2023. With so many great options to choose from, you won’t have to sacrifice style for function, or vice versa.
So, if you’re ready to upgrade your gravel ride, then keep reading to discover the best gravel bar tapes for your next off-road adventure.
What is a gravel bike bar tape?
Gravel bar tape is a specialized type of handlebar tape designed for use on gravel bikes. It is made to provide comfort, durability, grip, and style for riders, especially on long and rough rides .
You want to look for gravel bike bar tape with excellent grip and offer extra cushioning and can take more abuse than regular handlebar tape, making them perfect for rough road conditions. All-weather non-slip gravel bar tape is also designed to be long-lasting and resistant to wear and tear compared to ordinary ones.
Additionally, there are customizable gravel bar tape that you can buy, which is available in various colors and designs to suit different preferences and styles. Installing gravel handlebar tape requires some basic materials and a few simple steps, so even beginners can do it with ease.
Overall, durable and long-lasting gravel bar tape is an important upgrade that can enhance the riding experience and provide greater comfort and grip on the roughest rides.
Importance of bar tape for gravel bike
Bar tape may seem like a simple component of a bike, but it actually plays a significant role in comfort and control during rides.
The importance of bar tape can be summed up in five key areas: comfort, durability, grip, style, and price .
By providing extra cushioning under your hands, ergonomic gravel bar tape can improve comfort on long, rough rides. Additionally, high-quality bar tape can last a long time, ensuring durability and protecting your hands from road vibrations.
A gravel bike handlebar tape with excellent grip is essential for maintaining control, especially in wet conditions, and this is where bar tape can make a significant difference. Style is always important, and with the wide variety of options available, customizable gravel bar tape can add a unique touch to your bike.
Finally, while bar tape upgrades may seem like an unnecessary expense, they can be affordable and well worth the investment for the benefits they provide. Overall, don’t underestimate the role handlebar tape can play in your cycling experience .
Top 6 gravel bar tapes of 2023
Gravel cycling has gained immense popularity in recent years, and it’s not just a fad. Long rough rides on gravel roads have become a preferred choice for endurance road riding, all-road biking, and all-day gravel adventures.
The rough terrain can be tough on your hands, making a comfortable and durable bar tape an essential upgrade. The best gravel bar tape not only provides excellent grip but also helps absorb road vibrations, making the ride smoother and more comfortable.
A good bar tape should be able to withstand harsh weather conditions, rough roads, and long rides. And, let’s not forget about style – there are tonnes of options to match your bike and personal preferences.
Our top choices for the best gravel bar tape for 2023 are Fizik Terra Bondcush 3mm Tacky, Brooks Microfibre Bar Tape-Honey, Deda Logo Tape, Ergon BT Gravel Space Blue Handlebar Tape, Lizard Skins Unisex’s DSP Bar V2 Handlebar Grip Tape, and Zipp Service Course CX.
Installing a bar tape may seem daunting, but it’s a relatively easy process that can be done on your own with a few necessary tools. Follow our steps to get a successful installation and enjoy a more comfortable and stylish ride.
Fizik Terra Bar Tape Microtex Bondcush Tacky
Introducing the Fizik Terra Bar Tape Microtex Bondcush Tacky, specially designed for gravel bikes. This bar tape is perfect for those adventurous riders who go off-road on drop bars. With its 3mm Bondcush construction, it provides layered mid-padding polymer foam that helps absorb road buzz, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride on rough terrains. The tape is bonded to a Microtex outer layer, making it Fizik’s chunkiest option for maximum comfort, versatility, and durability. The sticky gel backing serves two functions: it replaces adhesive tape for easy removal during cleaning and dampens off-road chatter without sacrificing firmness. The tacky finish creates a nonslip surface, providing ultimate grip in any condition.
Product Description:
- Designed for gravel bikes
- 3mm Bondcush construction absorbs road buzz
- Microtex outer layer for comfort and durability
- Sticky gel backing for easy removal and off-road damping
- Tacky finish for exceptional grip
- Includes 2 bar tapes and end plugs
Pricing: (based on online data)
- Price: €43.90 (subject to change)
Advantages for Gravel Bikes:
- Enhanced Comfort: The Bondcush construction and Microtex outer layer combine to provide excellent comfort during long rides on rough gravel roads.
- Maximum Durability: The chunky material blend ensures the tape can withstand the demands of off-road riding, making it a reliable choice for gravel bikes.
- Secure Grip: The tacky finish creates a sticky nonslip surface, offering optimal grip and control even in challenging conditions.
- Easy Maintenance: The sticky gel backing replaces adhesive tape, allowing for easy removal during cleaning, ensuring your handlebars stay clean and fresh.
Improve your gravel bike experience with the Fizik Terra Bar Tape Microtex Bondcush Tacky, offering comfort, durability, and unmatched grip for your off-road adventures.
Brooks Microfibre Bar Tape
Introducing the Brooks Microfibre Bar Tape, the perfect companion for your gravel bike. Made with premium quality materials, this bar tape is designed to enhance your riding experience and provide excellent grip in all weather conditions. Here are the key features and advantages of the Brooks Microfibre Bar Tape for gravel bikes:
Key Features:
- Made from plastic synthetic textile for durability and resistance to abrasion and moisture.
- Sturdy surface with excellent grip, ensuring a secure hold on the handlebars.
- Designed specifically for gravel bikes, providing optimal comfort and control during off-road adventures.
- Honey-colored tape for an aesthetically pleasing look that matches well with Brooks saddles.
Advantages for Gravel Bikes:
- Excellent Grip: The Brooks Microfibre Bar Tape ensures a firm grip on the handlebars, even on rough or uneven surfaces common in gravel riding.
- Durability: Constructed with top-notch materials, this bar tape is built to withstand the demands of off-road riding, providing long-lasting performance.
- Moisture Resistance: The synthetic textile material is resistant to moisture, allowing you to ride comfortably in wet conditions without compromising grip.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The honey-colored tape adds a touch of style to your gravel bike, enhancing its overall appearance.
- Comfortable Ride: The bar tape’s soft and ergonomic design helps reduce fatigue and vibrations, ensuring a more enjoyable and comfortable ride.
Pricing:
The Brooks Microfibre Bar Tape for gravel bikes is priced competitively, offering excellent value for its premium quality and performance. With its durability, superior grip, and attractive design, this bar tape is a worthwhile investment for any gravel bike enthusiast.
Ergon BT Gravel Space Blue Handlebar Tape
Introducing the Ergon BT Gravel Space Blue Handlebar Tape – the perfect accessory for your gravel bike adventure. Designed specifically for gravel riding, this handlebar tape offers maximum comfort and enhances your overall riding experience.
Key Features:
- Designed for gravel: Enjoy maximum gravel fun with minimum discomfort. This Ergon bar tape simply feels good to the touch, increasing your riding enjoyment and improving ride performance.
- Quality material: Made with 2.5mm thickness of durable EVA foam, this handlebar tape is built to last. The three precisely developed material layers provide excellent durability and grip.
- Supports pressure distribution: The tape supports excellent pressure distribution and increased vibration damping. This allows for better control on the handlebars, reducing hand fatigue, even on longer rides.
- Customize your wrap: With built-in wrap positioning guide marks, you can easily customize the wrap thickness. The dual-directional surface allows for more grip or freedom of movement, depending on your preference.
- Package includes: Each package comes with two 2300mm rolls of bar tape, end plugs, and finishing tape.
- Durable and secure grip: The Ergon BT Gravel Space Blue Handlebar Tape offers a counter-angled surface with an anti-slip texture, providing a secure grip in any riding situation.
- Reduces hand fatigue: The tape’s soft and comfortable feel greatly reduces hand fatigue, allowing you to ride for longer periods without discomfort.
Pricing and Advantages for Gravel Bikes:
- It is specifically designed for gravel bikes, ensuring maximum comfort and enjoyment during your off-road adventures.
- The tape’s excellent pressure distribution and vibration damping properties provide increased control and reduce hand fatigue, making it ideal for longer rides.
- The durable and secure grip of the tape ensures a confident hold on the handlebars, even on rough terrains.
- The ability to customize the wrap thickness and direction allows you to tailor the handlebar feel according to your preferences.
- With its quality construction and materials, this Ergon handlebar tape offers lasting surface durability, providing a reliable and long-lasting addition to your gravel bike setup.
Upgrade your gravel bike with the Ergon BT Gravel Space Blue Handlebar Tape and experience the perfect balance of comfort and performance during your gravel adventures.
Deda Logo Tape
Introducing the Deda Logo Bar Tape for Gravel Bike, a professional-quality handlebar ribbon designed specifically to enhance your gravel biking experience. This durable tape is not only comfortable and long-lasting but also comes in a captivating Chianti Red color, perfect for adding a touch of style to your ride. Here are the key features of this exceptional bar tape:
- Synthetic material: Crafted from high-quality synthetic material, this tape offers a comfortable grip and maintains its performance even in challenging weather conditions.
- Soft touch: The tape’s soft touch adds an extra layer of comfort to your handlebars, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable ride.
- Good water resistance: With excellent water resistance properties, this bar tape delivers optimal performance in wet conditions, making it ideal for gravel biking adventures.
- Embossed logo: The Deda Logo Tape features an embossed logo for a sleek and stylish look on your handlebars.
- Includes accessories: Each set of Deda Logo Bar Tape comes with chrome plastic end plugs and finishing tape, providing a complete package for your gravel bike upgrade.
This exceptional Deda Logo Bar Tape is priced at $5.37. As for the advantages specific to gravel biking, this tape offers enhanced grip and comfort during off-road rides. Its durable construction ensures longevity, allowing you to navigate rough terrains without worrying about wear and tear. With its water resistance properties, the tape also ensures a reliable grip even when facing muddy or wet conditions.
Overall, the Deda Logo Bar Tape for Gravel Bike combines style, comfort, and durability, making it a great choice for gravel biking enthusiasts. Upgrade your bike’s handlebars with this reliable tape and enjoy a smoother and more enjoyable ride on any gravel trail.
Lizard Skins Unisex’s DSP Bar V2 Handlebar Grip Tape
Introducing the Lizard Skins Unisex’s DSP Bar V2 Handlebar Grip Tape. This top-selling bar tape offers excellent gripping power and durability, making it an ideal choice for those long rides on gravel terrain. Here are the key features of this exceptional grip tape:
- Superior Durability: Made with high-quality materials, this bar tape is built to withstand the toughest gravel rides, ensuring it stays in pristine condition for miles on end.
- Highly Grippy: The tape’s tackiness provides an exceptional grip, preventing your hands from slipping even in the roughest riding conditions.
- Thick Padding: With a thickness of 2.5mm, this bar tape offers enhanced comfort and vibration absorption, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride on gravel roads.
- Easy Installation: The tape comes with a pair of expanding screw-type bar ends, providing added convenience and securing the tape in place.
- Wide Range of Colors: Choose from a wide selection of colors to match your gravel bike’s aesthetic.
The Lizard Skins Unisex’s DSP Bar V2 Handlebar Grip Tape is priced competitively, offering great value for its features and performance. With its durability, grip, and comfort, this bar tape is the perfect choice for gravel bike enthusiasts, providing them with the confidence and control they need on challenging terrain. Upgrade your gravel riding experience with the Lizard Skins Unisex’s DSP Bar V2 Handlebar Grip Tape.
Zipp Service Course Bicycle Handlebar Tape
Introducing the Zipp Service Course Bicycle Handlebar Tape, the perfect accessory for your gravel bike. Designed to withstand the rugged demands of cyclocross (CX) riding, this tape offers both style and durability.
Key Features:
- Thickly padded for extra comfort during long and rough rides
- Cross-hatch patterned grip for a secure hold on the handlebars
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Gel center strip provides added cushioning
- Knurled texture prevents slipping, even in wet conditions
Priced affordably, this high-quality bar tape offers great value for gravel bike enthusiasts. With its exceptional grip and comfort, it’s the ideal choice for riders looking for a balance of cushioning and control. Whether it’s tackling challenging terrains or enjoying long rides on rough surfaces, the Zipp Service Course Bicycle Handlebar Tape is your perfect companion.
Pros and cons
When it comes to choosing the best gravel bar tape for your bike, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option. On one hand, thicker bar tape offers greater shock absorption and comfort, making long rides more tolerable.
On the other hand, thinner tapes offer a more direct connection to the bike, providing better control and bike handling. Durability is another important consideration, with some tapes being more resistant to wear and tear than others.
Additionally, some tapes feature a sticky grip that provides greater traction in wet conditions, while others may be less effective. Style is also a factor, with a variety of colors and patterns available to suit your personal taste and complement your bike’s design.
Ultimately, the best gravel bar tape for you will depend on your individual preferences and needs, so it’s important to do your research and choose carefully.
Price
When it comes to choosing the best gravel bar tape, price is definitely a factor to consider. While there are some high-end options on the market, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to break the bank to get quality bar tape.
In fact, there are plenty of budget-friendly options available that still offer great comfort and durability.
One such option is the Deda bar tape. While it may not have the same luxurious feel as some of the more expensive tapes, it still gets the job done. It’s well-made and offers a thickness of 2.8mm, which provides a good amount of cushioning. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors, making it a great choice for adding a bit of style to your bike.
Another affordable option to consider is the Wolf Tooth Supple Bar Tape. This tape is known for its maximum cushioning, providing a plush feel under your hands. It’s perfect for those long, rough rides where comfort is key.
Despite its high level of cushioning, it still maintains a reasonable price point, making it a great value for your money.
So, whether you’re on a tight budget or simply looking for a great deal, there are plenty of options available that offer both quality and affordability. Don’t let price be a barrier to finding the best gravel bar tape for your needs.
Do-it-yourself gravel bar tape installation
Materials needed
When it comes to installing gravel bar tape for wider bars, there are a few materials you’ll need to have on hand. First and foremost, you’ll need the bar tape itself.
Depending on your preferences, you can choose from various options available, such as the Fizik Terra Microtex Bondcush bar tape or the Velox 3.5mm tape for ultimate thickness.
Other materials needed include adhesive or sticky gel backing to secure the tape to the handlebars. It’s also a good idea to have a pair of scissors or a knife to trim the excess finishing tape and bar end plug to finish off the installation neatly.
Additionally, having a clean surface on your handlebars, free from dust and debris, will ensure a smooth and secure application. Finally, it’s helpful to have access to some online tutorials or step-by-step guides to follow along with during the installation process.
By gathering these materials and following the proper steps, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a comfortable and stylish gravel handlebar tape installation.
Steps to follow
When it comes to installing gravel bar tape, there are a few steps you can follow to ensure a successful installation. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to do:
1. Prepare the handlebars: Start by removing any existing bar tape from the handlebars. Clean the base layers thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue.
2. Gather the materials: You’ll need the bar tape itself, scissors or a utility knife for trimming, and electrical tape or bar plug to secure the ends.
3. Start wrapping: Begin at the end of the handlebars, leaving a small overhang to tuck in later. Wrap the tape tightly and evenly around the handlebars, overlapping each layer slightly.
4. Continue wrapping: Work your way up the handlebars, making sure to maintain an even tension and alignment. If the tape has a pattern or design, make sure it is facing the right way.
5. Secure the ends: Once you reach the top of the handlebars, trim any excess tape and secure the ends. You can use electrical tape or bar end plugs to hold everything in place.
6. Finishing touches: Take a few moments to smooth out any wrinkles or uneven spots and make sure the tape is secure and comfortable to grip.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to install your gravel bar tape with ease and enjoy the benefits of improved comfort, durability, grip, style, and price.
Tips for a successful installation
Installing handlebar tape for gravel bike can be a straightforward process with a few helpful tips. Firstly, it’s important to make sure you have all the necessary materials, including the bar tape itself, scissors or a knife for trimming, and electrical tape or bar end plugs for securing the ends.
To begin, start by removing any old bar tape and cleaning the handlebars thoroughly. This will ensure a clean surface for the new tape to adhere to. Next, it’s a good idea to wrap the handlebars with a layer of electrical tape to provide extra cushioning and prevent the bar tape from slipping.
When applying the bar tape, start at the bottom of the handlebars and work your way up, overlapping each layer by about half its width. This will provide a smooth and secure wrap. Be sure to pull the tape tightly to ensure a snug fit, but avoid stretching it too much as it may cause the tape to lose its shape over time.
Finally, trim any excess tape and secure the ends with electrical tape or bar end plugs. Take your time and be patient, as a neat and even wrap will not only look great but also provide a comfortable grip.
By following these tips, you can ensure a successful installation of your gravel bar tape and enjoy a comfortable and stylish ride on any terrain.
Bar Tape Frequently Asked Questions
Is there anything special about gravel bar tape?
Yes, there is. Gravel bar tape is a special type of handlebar tape designed for the extra-awkward positioning of drop bars on gravel bikes (and cyclocross bikes). Unlike regular handlebar tape, gravel bar tape can be placed further down on the bars and has an extra long flap that covers the bar top to stem junction. The flap also can extend further down the bar. This design works to add protection and reduce friction.
In addition, these tapes are made of slightly thicker rubber and have additional protection from weather and rough roads. The design of the tape is also different. It’s more abrasive and offers better protection in the case of a fall. These tapes are also wider and have a different padding on the underside.
What materials are used for handlebar tape?
Tapes are made of either cloth, leather, or synthetic materials like neoprene, nylon, synthetic rubber, and polyurethane. In the early days, cloth bar tapes such as cork are mostly used for road bikes and other bikes.
Cork tape is very popular because it is very soft, so it molds to the shape of the handlebar. This also means that it will stretch and lose its shape over time. Because of this, cork tape is usually covered with a thin layer of fabric underneath. This type of tape is called “double-tape.”
Leather tapes are also popular, and are worth the extra money. They are very durable, but also very expensive.
Some people like the feel of leather better, but this is purely a matter of personal preference. Synthetic tapes are often used for mountain bikes. They’re also usually covered with a fabric layer underneath. These tapes are extremely durable, and don’t stretch out over time.
How thick should gravel bar tape be?
It’s a question that’s been asked for quite some time. What’s the ideal thickness for bar tape? Some people say a thicker tape is better, while others will swear that a thinner tape offers better comfort. The answer is not so simple.
A thicker tape will offer you more padding, but will also be harder to wrap. A thinner tape will be easier to wrap, but not as comfortable. Also, the thickness of the tape will depend on the thickness of your handle bars. If you are riding on smooth roads, you will want to get something that is thinner. However, if you will be riding on bumpy roads, you are going to want something that is thicker.
If you’re looking for the most comfortable bar tape, but you also want to have it look great, consider a gel bar tape. Gel bar tape offers a lot of comfort, but it also looks great and comes in an array of colors.
Do I need adhesive on the back of gravel bar tape?
One of the most common questions we get is whether you need to include adhesive on the back of your bar tape. The short answer is no, you don’t need to include any glue. All bar tape has a pre-installed adhesive already on it. This adhesive is applied to the underside of the tape in a way that it doesn’t touch the bar.
The adhesive is only exposed when you wrap the tape around the bar and peel off the backing. If you’re using pre-cut pieces of bar tape, it’s important to make sure there is no adhesive that is exposed. This means you need to have a little bit of extra tape to wrap around the bar. I have never used adhesive and my tape has never fallen off, but I know people who use adhesive and their tape has fallen off. It’s not worth the risk to me.
Does bar tape color matter?
There are plenty of reasons you might want to change out the handlebar tape on your bike. Maybe it’s cracked, maybe it’s old, or maybe you just want to give it a new look. The color of your tape can definitely have an effect on the way your bike looks, and it’s an easy way to change the look of your bike without buying a bunch of new gear. If you’re looking for a way to dress up your bike, changing out the bar tape is an easy way to do it.
