I experimented with using self-fusing tape as a top layer on the handlebars. The idea was that I'd wrap the handlebars with the nice thick cork stuff, then add this cheaper stuff on top, and replace it when it got dirty.

This tape is interesting stuff, when you stretch it, it sticks to itself. I did the handlebars with one 12' x 1" roll. You could do it with 8' or maybe 6' once you got the hang of it. It's a little tricky, because if it folds on itself when you are stretching it, it sticks to itself, and it's hard to get that undone. You don't need electrical tape at the end.

It looks OK when done. It's a little shiny/rubbery. If I weren't using gloves I wouldn't like the feel of it. The white is a bit translucent, so it would be best to have white cork tape underneath.

If you stretched it enough, you could get it to about $3 per set of handlebars. You can get Nashbar regular tape for $5.99 + shipping.

Conclusion: Probably not worth it.