Originally Posted by
79pmooney
But the disadvantage of wrapping this way is that the tape is wrapped from the top, so the exposed tape edge is on the upper side. Your hands will try to peel that edge back. Wrap from the bar ends and your hands slide down a smooth overlap hence the tape tends to hjold up considerably longer.
Ben
Hi Ben,
Several hundred sets of drops/bullhorns/other hand held steering devices later, I can comfortably say that if the tape is pulled appropriately tight, it won't come (appreciably) loose from use. "Cork" (foam) tape is the easiest to install, in this respect, but I still tell people to expect to snap your first roll. You just don't learn how much is 'too tight' until you snap it while applying it. The Lizard Skins DSP tape is the worst in this respect, as if you stretch it too far (but not so far it snaps), the rubberized coating will begin to crack after a few days/weeks. Leather/synthetic leather is a whole 'nother beast, as neither wants to stretch, and the default state is non-conforming.
I find with my leather wrapped bars, they need to be tightened every 8-12 months. Leather stretches and takes a set, but it's nothing a good snugging every now and then can't fix. One bar is on 3 years with the same leather tape, with moderate use (several hours a week).
Cloth tape typically means you've been fit very well for the bike. Many do not like it, as it is unyielding. I find that if you are fit properly, it's not an issue.