Bar tape is something you're in contact with almost the entire time you're riding.
Everyone has their own criteria for choosing it, like texture or color, right? For me, the top priority is grip. Whether I’m on a road bike or a fixed-gear, I like to be able to grip the bars firmly without any slippage, allowing for intuitive handling.
And after grip, the next thing is definitely cushioning.
Since my hands are on the bars for a long time—not just for daily rides, but also when I head out for a long ride on the weekend—vibration inevitably becomes a concern.
To get that plush cushioning, many people wrap their tape loosely, but that causes the tape to unravel when you grip it tight, so it’s popular to wrap bar tape while pulling it tight. Cork and sponge types don’t get very thin when pulled, but so-called silicone types with strong grip often stretch and thin out significantly.
Last year, a light shone down on me—a greedy rider who wanted both great grip and cushioning.
The answer to my "I wish I had this" prayers came in the form of these FIZIK bar tapes, which underwent a full model change at the end of last year.
From that lineup, we at Circles have selected three types that fit any riding scene.
【FIZIK】Terra Microtex Bondcush Gel Backer Tacky
¥3,880 (excl. tax)
Terra is a model with added cushioning, featuring a polymer pad foam layer sandwiched in the middle of a 3-layer structure.
Because the surface is bonded with Microtex—which is thin and resistant to slipping when gripped—it results in a 3.0mm thick bar tape that combines comfort, durability, and versatility. Furthermore, the surface finish is the "Tacky Touch" specification, which is the stickiest in the Fizik lineup, providing high grip even in the harshest riding conditions.
Bar tape that can be re-wrapped!
An even better feature is that the adhesive tape on the back—which helps you during installation—uses a low-tack gel backer that allows for re-application. So, as long as it isn't torn or worn out, you can peel it off during cable replacements or bike washes and use it again.
For those who want cushioning but also want to hold the bars firmly for quick handling, look no further.
【FIZIK】 Vento Solocush Tacky Bar Tape
¥3,560 (excl. tax)
Vento is a model that balances control and lightweight performance.
Within that range, Solocush features the most rational 2.7mm thick single-layer cushion structure; it resists slipping when gripped and will keep you comfortable on long rides.
"No, no, I want a tighter grip and want to focus on on-road riding!" For those people, check this out.
【FIZIK】Vento Microtex Tacky Bar Tape
¥3,560 (excl. tax)
The surface is made of the same 2mm thick Microtex used in the Terra model. Compared to Solocush, it provides a more direct feel, responding to your need for snappy handling and control.
The surface of these two Vento series tapes also features the non-slip Tacky Touch finish, but unlike the Terra, they have specifically designed grooves. This creates cushioning despite their thin profile, protecting your hands from subtle road vibrations and ensuring reliable control on both on-road and off-road terrain.
Move beyond the categories of "on-road" or "off-road" and mix and match according to your own unique riding style to pursue the comfort that's right for you!
