Recommended Bar Tapes?

[CanucksTraveller]

I need to replace my bar tape and I'm finding it impossible to buy the original type (Giant suede) that came on the bike, so something new is going to get fitted. What can you recommend? I'm going to double wrap, so a good base layer tape recommendation would also be welcome.

To give an idea of my preference, I like a tape with some soft texture and grip so the "suede" type finish is a favourite, and the "cork" feel are also good. I'm not so keen on the smooth PVC feel. The range of options is a little overwhelming. :-)

 

[mangid]

Cinelli Gel Cork for me.

 

[huwsparky]

Cork tape does feel nice but everything sticks to it, well the one I had anyhow.

If you get a 3mm tape you probably won't feel the need for two layers either.

 

[Joffey]

The thick Lizardskins tape is excellent

 

[alicat]

The thick Lizardskins tape is excellent

And fairly affordable for lottery winners.

 

[vickster]

Lasts well though. Well worth the extra IMO, no need to double wrap

Sigma always have at a good price

http://www.sigmasport.co.uk/item/Lizard-Skins/DSP-Bar-Tape-32mm/1TWH?

The fizik soft touch has that suede feel. Just don't get the White, it's dirty looking to start with! Thick too, no need to double up

http://www.tredz.co.uk/.Fizik-Performance-Tape_62044.htm

I'd still get the lizard skins every time however!

 

[CanucksTraveller]

Cinelli cork looks like it fits the bill, and at a tenner a roll I could double up if one layer feels scant.

 

[CanucksTraveller]

The thick Lizardskins tape is excellent

It does look a little shiney, any issues with grip?

 

[vickster]

It does look a little shiney, any issues with grip?

No, it's textured, not shiny

 

[CanucksTraveller]

No, it's textured, not shiny

I see, just the pictures looking a bit glossy then. Ta Vickster.

 

[vickster]

It's not a suede feel, it's quite hard to describe not shiny either, sort of sticky, textured. Go to a bike shop that stocks it and have a feel of the bit exposed by the packaging

I can't bear the feel of suede so not something I would seek out!

 

[si_c]

Quite like Cinelli cork or Selle Italia smootape.

 

[kipster]

Lizard skin, very comfy and sticky as vickster says, after riding with it today, it stays sticky when wet!

 

[mjr]

RSP is OK.

 

[coco69]

Lizard skin all the way...nothing comes close.