Hello, this is JUS.
Summer is drawing to a close, isn't it? Have you all been riding your bikes a lot this summer?
After a full summer of riding, the stickiness and tackiness of your grips or handlebar tape can become a concern.
So, this time, I’d like to talk about why you should try replacing your own handlebar tape.
I'll give you a rough guide.
JUS's guide to wrapping handlebar tape.
The tape I’m using this time is this one↓
fi’zi:k SUPERLIGHT SOFT TOUCH BLACK, ¥1500
I personally like this handlebar tape.
The texture, the grip, and the cost-performance are all great.
And above all, it's easy to wrap, so I highly recommend it for those who are changing their tape for the first time.
First, the basic wrapping method starts from the end. Yes, things often begin at the end. Wait, what??
As for the direction, if you wrap the left side clockwise and the right side counter-clockwise, it becomes less likely to shift when you grip the handlebars.
Let's wrap it evenly and neatly.
I usually start by leaving a three-row gap per turn.
As you proceed, you will inevitably hit the drop arch. This is the first hurdle.
Since the "inner" and "outer" sides have different surface areas, you need to overlap them a bit more as you wrap.
For the "inner" side, I leave a one-row gap per turn ↑
And for the "outer" side, I leave a two-row gap. ↑ This is just my own rule. Please find "your own way" depending on the material of the tape and the thickness you prefer!
Next is this ↑ Inside the handlebar tape box, you'll find a small piece of scrap tape. Naturally, this has a proper purpose.
It’s a bit long, so trim it to size...
That's right, use it to hide the silver part where the lever is clamped to the handlebar!
Then, give it a good tug and wrap it around neatly.
(I’m sorry, I couldn't quite explain this part well in writing.)
And though it’s a bit late to mention, I apologize for the nearly impossible-to-see photos of black tape on black handlebars.
I mean, if you could see everything perfectly, that would be a bit boring, right?
After that, all that’s left is to head for the finish line—keep wrapping evenly and neatly!
Finally, trim off the excess (it helps to cut it at an angle),
secure the end with electrical tape, wrap the included finishing tape over it, and you're done!
Everyone here at Circles is particular about handlebar tape wrapping, each with their own theories. That’s part of the fun!
Of course, if you leave it to us at the shop, we’ll wrap it beautifully for you.
Whether it’s handlebar tape or anything else, try tinkering with your bike yourself. If it doesn't go well... try customizing it. Sometimes you might even break something...
We love customers who come in and say, "I tried it, but it didn't go well."
Whatever it may be, please feel free to consult with us if you have any questions.