I'd like to put in a word for being anti-prissy about tape. Personally, white tape with a little grime on the edges suggests a hard and often ridden bike-- or, admittedly, a slob-rider with greasy gloves. Just like a well-used steel frame gets a few dings and scratches and develops "character". ("Yup, that scuff on the fork is where I hit the guard railing and took down two other guys.") Anyway, tape is easy to change out......different seasons, different moods, different "images" we want to project.............try 'em all.
New bikes do demand the perfect tape color, texture, end caps, etc. The older and more familiar the bike, the funkier we can get. Years ago my newliwed wife only wore the the most delectable gossamer stuff to bed...years later it was hard to tell which species she belonged to. But it somehow didn't matter.
So, Deege, no matter what the wrapping, the ride will be just the same.
