Every four weeks? Every six months? Or once a year?
Well... there’s no magic figure but there are a number of contributing factors that come into play. These factors can help you to determine when your bar tape needs replacing.
- The climate you're riding in
- Amount kilometres you bank each week
- Your riding style – cx, gravel, road, tri or commuting.
- The unfortunate event of a crash
- Grip, control and comfort/ personal preference
Unfortunately nothing is forever, every part on our bike deteriorates eventually. Sweat is one of the biggest contributors to bar tape deterioration, which can lead to the corrosion of your bars. Sweat contains salts, such as sodium, chloride and potassium. Salty liquid is corrosive and it’s not uncommon for riders to come across holes in their bars, from a lack of tape maintenance.
We at NALAC believe at a minimum, you should replace your tape every six months.
Make today the day you get your bars freshly wrapped in new tape!