Bicycle grip tapes are used to ensure that your handlebar grips perform efficiently and remain immune to damages. Handlebar grips withstand the pressure and body-weight of the rider and make the operation of the bicycle easier and safer. By providing a grip, they help you have a better control over the bicycle. Handlebar grips ease strenuous, long rides by eliminating finger numbness, exhaustion, vibrations and shocks. It is therefore imperative that bike handlebar grips are well-protected and cared for. Handlebar grip tapes shield the grips from external abrasions and damages.
.Bicycle grip tapes come in a variety of styles and colour. The cyclist hence has a wide range of options to choose from and can add a personal touch to his bicycle.
Bicycle grip tapes are made from a variety of materials like rubber, cork, plastic, leather and cello tapes. Some of these tapes are water-resistant and together with the grip prevent road vibrations. Grips are usually made of plastic, gel, foam or leather. Some grips are round and plain while some are designed to fit the rider’s hand better. Different kinds of grips like Slip-on(made of plastic), Tape grip(using racing bikes) and Drop-in grips(that provide an aerodynamic position to the rider), have different kinds to grip tape made to suit specific requirements.
There are many companies that make high-quality grip tapes and one of the leading companies is DiPell. They are made of leather and for myriad reasons leather is the best material to use for making grip tapes. They are more durable, sustainable and strong. Leather is soft to touch, has an exotic smell and is resistant to scratches. This is what makes Dipell one of the most preferred bicycle grip tapes.
Tape Direction:
Every now and then you will need to remove and re-install a bicycle grip tape. Removing the old grip tape can be done by blowing hot compressed air. Not compressed air removes the adhesives and loosens the tape. It can then be removed and cleaned properly for the installation of the new grip tape.
Grip tapes should be started winding at the ends of the grips towards the centre and this direction is very important. If you wrap from the other side, chances are there that your hand pressure while riding the bicycle can push the tape down. Also while installing the tape ensure that there are no air bubbles or overlaps that might add to the padding of the tape. Ensure that you install the tape in both the sides of the handlebar in following the same pattern.
There are ample choices to choose. So make a wise decision and use the bicycle grip tape that best suits your needs and your riding styles!