Bicycle Handlebar Tape Replacement

Introduction

This is a basic step-by-step guide on how to replace handlebar tape on a bicycle. Whether the bar tape on your bike is ripped, worn-out, or just plain missing, this guide will allow you to replace the tape all by yourself!

What you need

Step 1 Handlebar Tape

Bicycle Handlebar Tape Replacement, Handlebar Tape: step 1, image 1 of 3

Bicycle Handlebar Tape Replacement, Handlebar Tape: step 1, image 2 of 3

Bicycle Handlebar Tape Replacement, Handlebar Tape: step 1, image 3 of 3

Undo the brake cables holding the brake calipers under tension.
Depress the brake/shift levers (brifters) and insert a 5mm Allen key into the internal bolt. This bolt secures the brifters to the handlebar.
With the 5mm Allen key, loosen and temporarily remove brifters.

Edit

Step 2

Bicycle Handlebar Tape Replacement: step 2, image 3 of 3

Remove the old tape and discard.
Pour some rubbing alcohol on the rag and clean any old adhesive residue off the handlebar.

Edit

Step 3

Bicycle Handlebar Tape Replacement: step 3, image 3 of 3

Starting on the right side of the handlebar, wrap the new tape around the end in a clockwise direction moving inward.
Be sure to wrap the tape tight, but don't pull so hard that it rips!
Using the scissors, cut the tape at an angle towards the outside of the bar.
Wrap the loose end with either electrical tape or the adhesive piece provided with the handlebar tape (pictured here)

Edit

Step 4

Bicycle Handlebar Tape Replacement: step 4, image 3 of 3

On the left side of the handlebar, wrap the tape around the end in a counter-clockwise direction moving inward.
Wrap tight, but don't rip!
Using the scissors, cut the tape at an angle towards the outside of the bar.
Wrap the loose end with either electrical tape or the adhesive piece provided with the handlebar tape (pictured).

Edit

Step 5

Using the 5mm Allen key, reattach and tighten the brifter levers onto the handlebar.

Edit

Step 6

Reattach the brake cables to the brifters and brake calipers
Depress the brake levers a couple of times to test and confirm that the cables were reinstalled properly before riding.

Edit