How to add padding to drop bars?
05-27-21 | 10:38 AM
#26
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2017
Posts: 568
Likes: 155
From: Western WI (USA)
Bikes: TNTL (Too numerous to list)
Since my 40s I've been padding my bars with 1/2" foam pipe insulation. Six feet for under $4. It usually lasts for a few months, before losing its cushion. I wrap the ends with some black duct tape. The foam is not slick like you'd imagine, and my grip feels secure.
I'm sure, someone more artful than I could make it look good.
I'm sure, someone more artful than I could make it look good.
.
05-27-21 | 03:40 PM
#27
Full Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 282
Likes: 19
I don't have your issue. I kept getting sore hands. I wrapped my commute bike in extra bar tape. Cork tape came in two rolls per package. I used 3 rolls. It definitely added cushion but also makes the diameter wider. I may try foam under the tape in the future.
05-27-21 | 09:44 PM
#28
Clark W. Griswold
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 18,323
Likes: 6,653
From: ,location, location
Bikes: Foundry Chilkoot Ti W/Ultegra Di2, Salsa Timberjack Ti, Cinelli Mash Work RandoCross Fun Time Machine, 1x9 XT Parts Hybrid, Co-Motion Cascadia, Specialized Langster, Phil Wood Apple VeloXS Frame (w/DA 7400), R+M Supercharger2 Rohloff, Habanero Ti 26
Keep in mind folks, more padding isn't always the answer and usually the answer lies in your fit. GO GET A FIT (ideally dynamic)! If you have pain it might have little to do with how much pipe insulation you have wrapped around your bars but the position of everything from your bars and stem to your seat post and seat angle and things like that. Certainly talk to a doctor as well but don't just jump to tons of padding.
Certainly though a thicker tape isn't always bad if you are feeling discomfort say on some rough roads or gravel but if you have regular pain, that is probably not going to stop with tape or foam or anything like that and again see a fitter and a doctor (ideally one who understands cycling and sports medicine)
Certainly though a thicker tape isn't always bad if you are feeling discomfort say on some rough roads or gravel but if you have regular pain, that is probably not going to stop with tape or foam or anything like that and again see a fitter and a doctor (ideally one who understands cycling and sports medicine)
