Bar tape and grips are the contact points most riders change least often — and notice most when they get it wrong. On the road, bar tape thickness and material affect how vibration translates from the bars to your hands on long rides. Thinner tape (2mm or less) gives a more direct feel and is preferred by riders who want a clean, precise contact point; thicker tape (3–4mm) absorbs more road buzz and suits longer endurance efforts. Material matters too: cork and cork-blend tapes are the classic choice for balance of grip and cushion, leather provides a premium look and feel that ages well, and synthetic options deliver durability and consistent performance in all weather.
RA Cycles carries 165 bar tape and grip options covering road, gravel, and mountain riding. At the premium end: Brooks leather bar tape and ring grips for classic-oriented builds, Selle Italia Smootape for Italian-made road tape with a supple feel, and Colnago-branded tape for matching builds. Ergon lock-on grips anchor the MTB and gravel side, with the GP5 BioKork offering an ergonomic shape in a natural cork compound. The collection spans every material, thickness, and color to suit road, gravel, and mountain handlebar setups.
See the full range of handlebars and stems at RA Cycles, or browse all bike accessories for more cockpit and contact point upgrades.
