When should I relace my handlebar tape?
Don’t overlook this contact point on your bike
Handlebar tape replacement is a crucial aspect of bicycle maintenance, ensuring a secure grip and optimal performance. The Selle Italia brand recommends replacing bar tape annually during a tune-up or as needed when it becomes torn or damaged. Numerous factors influence the lifespan of handlebar tape, including the frequency of riding, the absence of gloves, exposure to the elements, rain, and dirt accumulation between the tape and bars.
Outdoor riding, especially in the rain, accelerates wear due to water ingress and debris. Additionally, sweating during indoor rides and using minimally padded bar tape can cause quicker degradation. Over time, the top skin layer can tear, the middle cushioning layer compresses, and the adhesive bottom layer loses its stickiness and unwinds.
Visible signs of wear such as torn skin, compression, discoloration, or peeling indicate it's time to rewrap your bars. A loss of grip and flattening under compression may signal worn padding. When the adhesive layer degrades, the tape may shift, potentially causing instability. A foul odor emanating from the tape signifies replacement is overdue.
Selle Italia suggests replacing bar tape when it loses elasticity, becomes hard, or no longer absorbs vibrations as effectively as it did when new. Regular inspection of bar tape helps maintain optimal handling and prevents corrosion of handlebars due to sweat, oil, and rust buildup.
Written by urgent.news from Cycling Weekly's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
