On my current drop bars:

Avenir cork- super light weight, decent cushion. I don't ride this bike much, and I wouldn't expect the tape to last very long if I rode it every day. It was only $6, though.

Avenir gel- Has a "checked" rubbery grip. Very comfortable, and tough. Lasted about 6 months before I took it off for a different tape (swapped for vanity, not necessity). It currently is being re-cycled and used on the handle of my lawnmower, and over a year later still going strong. Paid about $12.

Easton cork: Paid about $12, just got plain black. Looks alright, feels alright. Seems to be holding up good, but nothing phenomenal about it.

Serfas cork: Paid about $12, got a brown cork. Looks good, feels great. Has been thoroughly rain-soaked more than once and ridden tons with sweaty/grimy hands and still looks new many months later.


I've used a ton of other brands over the years, and none of them particularly stand out. I generally buy cheap tape, though. Not the Microtex or Brooks, or anything like that.

My current faves are the Serfas cork and the Avenir gel. I will purchase those again to replace, when needed.