Bicycle Mechanics - Bike Tape (newb question)

the tape on my handlebars is loose. It's in good condition but it definitely needs to be re-wrapped. I watched some videos and i think I can handle doing this on my own. My options are
1) retape the existing tape.
2) buy new tape.

But, looking at the different tapes out there I found:
1) Grippy Tape
2) Cork tape
3) Gel Cork Tape
4) Race Tape.

I have no idea what came stock with my bike (2008 Trek 2.1). I'm not sure if re-wrapping the existing tape is a smart idea (recommendation?) If I go with new tape, what recommendations do you have?

Only one way to find out if you can reuse the tape, remove it and see if it stays in a usable condition. I've not had any luck with the cork tapes with a strip of adhesive on the back side. They fall apart when I pull them off.

I'd suggest going to a bike shop and actually feeling the tape so you can get an idea of the different tapes. Its hugely a personal preference. I prefer the synthetic cork tapes over most anything else.

Wrapping bars is easy and fun thing to do.

Park's tutorial on wrapping tape is great: http://www.parktool.com/blog/repair-help/handlebar-tape-installation-drop-bar

Just do it.

The nice thing about re-tapeing your bars is that it's a fast and affordable way of giving your bike a make over. Find a tape that you like the looks and feel then just do it. After doing it a few times you'll get better at it.

thanks guys, i watched several videos and checked out parktool. I think this is something i can handle. I'm working over the weekend so I'll have to live with the existing tape for the next day or so, but I'm sure I'll survive one or two rides even though I'm OCD :)

Cinelli black cork.

You can always try first the re-wrap to practice.

Should I figure-8 or use wrap over the extra piece of tape? I guess it depends on thickness?

i havent used it yet, but i'm stoked about the newbaums. Super-long length, too many color options, long-lasting cotton cloth, made in phila.

-rob

I like fizik and cinelli. If you stick the fresh tape to your jeans a couple times and peel it off it'll cut down the stickiness which will allow you to remove without tearing and reuse later. Also keeps your handlebars from getting gummed up. You can decide if you like thicker and cushier or thinner and more streamlined.

Should I figure-8 or use wrap over the extra piece of tape? I guess it depends on thickness?

i figure 8 and use the extra piece on the tops of the bar for extra padding. the extra touch and customers seem to like it

If you like cotton try http://www.greengrips.org so many colors and fun to make over your bike with some fun colors.

I like a bit of friction tape around the upper corners it keeps the tape from gapping so easily
on that part of the bar that you slide your hand along, in changing the grip on the tops
to the grip on the brake lever hoods..
the friction tape can be a not overlapping spiral.

Depending on what type of tape it is, you might be able to re-use it, but if it's the typical padded cork/vinyl tape with the sticky back, you might as well replace it and start clean because the sticky stuff usually rips off the tape and stays on the bar when you unwrap it, so that the tape will easily loosen up from pressure if you try using it again. In contrast, cloth and cello type tape can be used repeatedly, as long as they are still in good condition.

Chombi