I'm going to visit Riv bikes when I'm up in Monterey in two weeks - hopefully I'll decide and post some pictures the next weekend! I'm not adverse to electrical tape (black? tan?) - or twine (the twine I have is very thick, so checking Riv's). Just like you - I cut both my grips I cut shorter and even - didn't think to cut around the gearing. . . . I love them though - highly recommended!!!