New handles can help make the bike feel like new. Even though they are small parts of the bike, the handles and tape are key factors for comfortable riding. The good news is that you don't have to go to a bicycle repair shop to install a new handle.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Replacing the Rubber Handle
Step 1. Drag or cut the old handle very carefully
Sometimes the handle does need to be carefully trimmed with a razor, but try not to scratch the bike's chrome. If you don't want to cut the handle, spray WD-40 between the handle and the handle, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the liquid to seep into the handle. Twist the handle to spread the WD-40 inside and it can be pulled out easily.
- Slide a flat-head screwdriver between the handle and the handlebar, if you can't access the inside of the handle easily to spray WD-40.
- If it gets stuck, you can use compressed air to remove the handle.
Step 2. Clean the handlebars with soap/water to remove WD-40 dust and grease
Scrub the handlebars well with a rag or sponge to keep them as clean as possible. Thus, the new handle is easier to install and stays firmly on the handlebars. When you're done, wipe it dry.
If the handle is open at both ends, make sure you dry the inside of the handlebar as well. The water left there can cause rust
Step 3. Use 3-4 long plastic straps as "tendrils" to drag the new handles across the handlebars
Wrap a plastic strap on each side of the handlebars, then use the smooth, slippery surface to slide the handle onto the bike. Then, pull the strap off to complete the installation.
Nowadays, lock-on (lock) handles are gaining popularity; Mounting this handle requires a hex wrench (Allen key), but you can loosen the bolts, slide the handles, and tighten them easily
Step 4. Apply hairspray, hand sanitizer, or other volatile substance to the inside of the handle
If you don't have a plastic strap, a little alcohol-based substance, such as hairspray or hand sanitizer, can help you slide the handles easily. What's more, it helps the handle to really "settle" on the handlebars once they're attached. Although not required, this step can prevent the handle from slipping out.
Step 5. Push the handle all the way into the handlebar, twisting it to align its contour
You can twist the handle as you push it a little at a time. Although it is difficult to install because the handle fits tightly on the handlebars, you will be grateful later when the handle does not come off easily when used for driving.
Method 2 of 2: Attaching Adhesive Handlebars
Step 1. Cut or unscrew the old handle
Usually, you don't need to cut the handle tape, and you should be careful not to pry the handlebars if you have to cut the tape. Most of the time, all you have to do is peel the old tape off the bike. Remove the covers on both ends of the handlebars, and use a flat-head screwdriver if needed.
Before removing the handle, measure the length of the old tape that was used on the handlebars. This measure will guide you as you install the new grip tape
Step 2. Wash off any adhesive deposits that remain from the old tape
Use a mild degreaser, or a little warm water and laundry soap to lightly remove all of the adhesive.
Step 3. Prepare the work post and bicycle handlebars
Provide electrical tape and lightly wrap the wires on the handlebars, if they haven't been installed before. Mark the desired end point of the grip tape, and have a pair of scissors or a knife ready to trim off any excess tape when you're done.
If you want to add a pro touch, apply double-sided tape 5-7.5 cm from the end of the handlebars to keep the grip tape from moving
Step 4. Start the installation from each end of the handlebar, and wrap it clockwise for the right handlebar, and counterclockwise on the left handlebar
The handlebars need to be wrapped in such a way that they don't open when used for driving. Start at the end to prevent the bandage from sliding down your hand. What's more, wrapping in the right direction will prevent the coil from opening while riding (many people make fists and twist them out when they're tired of riding).
Pull the grip tape tightly; make sure the tension is large enough to get a tight and watertight grip
Step 5. Let about half of the grip tape hang over the ends of the handlebars in the first wrap, and wrap 3-4 times as you get to the base
Work your way to the base of the handlebars, overlapping a little bit by 3-4 wraps. Then, press the cover against the exposed bandage, sucking it into the inside of the handlebars so that the cover holds the end of the bandage and keeps it from moving.
Step 6. Work slowly, overlapping about a quarter of the tape at each turn as you slowly approach the base of the handlebars
Now carefully pull the cover off, and secure the bandage on the handlebars. You may need to tug and bandage a few times and make sure you don't miss anything.
- It's usually better to test the tightness of the duct tape before starting. Pull firmly to feel the tightness of the tape without tearing it.
- To prevent gaps from appearing, it's best to overlap more.
Step 7. Lift the lever body (the rubber cap on the brake/shifter) and wrap it past this point towards the base of the handlebars
The base of the handlebars, on the flat part, needs to be wrapped in reverse. When finished wrapping the base of the handlebars, approach the lever as close as possible. Then, skip the small area where the handlebar bends and start wrapping the base of the handlebar.
Step 8. Reverse the direction of the bandage for the base of the handlebars
This step is easy if you pass the lever cover according to the guide above. Most riders will twist their wrists at the base of the handlebars, potentially opening the bandage. This is why you change the direction of the dressing when it reaches the base of the handlebars:
- The right side should be bandaged counterclockwise.
- The left side should be bandaged in a clockwise direction.
Step 9. Cut the duct tape to the desired length and finish wrapping
You can "overwrite" the bandage, then use a pen to mark the point you want to cut. Just follow the marking line with scissors for a neat and professional look.
Step 10. Add 2-3 packs of electrical tape to secure the dressing
Cover the end of the grip tape with electrical tape to keep it from moving. Wrap it just enough so it doesn't open easily, usually 2.5-5 cm in length on the handle tape and 2.5-5 cm also on the bicycle frame.
For a firmer hold, use a clamp to “weld” the tape until it melts so that it sticks together in several places
Tips
- The use of oil, soapy water, or the like will cause the handle to slip out of the handlebars when driving.
- Just spit is also enough if you don't have hairspray or hand sanitizer.
