Tandem Cycling - Best cushioned bartape?

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View Full Version : Best cushioned bartape?


MGOBEL
02-05-11, 02:23 PM
Any opinions on what the best bartape is for maximum cushioning without going the gel pads (ie. Fizak) route?


TandemGeek
02-05-11, 03:44 PM
Lots of opinions...
http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php/422454-Most-comfortable-bar-tape-you-ve-used

Checking the archives, looks like you've had your Rivazza since 2006. So, the real question is, what problem are you trying to solve and what have you tried thus far?

Gloves & tape, double-layers of cork tape, don't like gloves just looking for a good tape, etc...

zonatandem
02-05-11, 07:36 PM
Here's our 2 cents worth . . .

Most padded bartapes are all similar and as stated above, good gloves can also help.
The stick on gel bar stuff is minimal improvement; sort of like getting a really cushy saddle that feels oh-so-good for 2 miles and then just lets you down.
Wider tires may also take up some of your road vibrations.

Our best solution is carbon fiber handlebars, or better yet, also add a nice c/f fork . . . that'll take the buzz out of your ride!
Pedal on TWOgether!
Rudy and Kay/zonatandem


MGOBEL
02-05-11, 10:57 PM
Years ago put a thick well cushioned bar tape on the tandem and was very satisfied with the thickeness, padding, grip and durabilty of the tape. Unfortunately, when I uwrapped the bars I could not find any markings on the tape to indicate who the manufacturer is. My memory isn't as sharp as I wish it was, so I am looking for suggestions for extra thick handlebar tape. Thanks for the help.

CHAS
02-06-11, 07:56 AM
Specialized Bar Phat. It has the gel pads you don't want, however.

Grishnak
02-06-11, 08:48 AM
Why not tape the bars with some old innertube,then tape? a very comfy solution.Then you still have the gel gloves,tyre pressures,tyre options,carbon bars.
But,would`nt it be nice to have a simple,easy fix that works ;-) It does`nt take long to try it out.

diabloridr
02-06-11, 09:48 AM
Double-taping (i.e, putting a second roll of tape over the first) is a trick used by the Pro's for Paris-Roubaix and similar races.

We use Cinelli cork on the singles and Profile foam on the tandem, but they likely aren't what you're looking for since we lean more towards firm control vs. squeezy softness.