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Handlebar tape has a limited lifespan and should be replaced about once a year. A good time to do this is after the winter, when the bike is being prepared for the new season. For those who have not yet changed their handlebar tape or are unhappy with their current tape, the 714 Gravel handlebar tape from SQlab could be of interest.
Damping study on the new SQlab handlebar tape
The renowned manufacturer SQlab has conducted a study to compare its new 714 Gravel handlebar tape with a "conventional handlebar tape". The result shows that the 714 handlebar tape has a 45% lower rebound rate and therefore effectively reduces vibrations. The vibration analysis also showed that the 714 handlebar tape is clearly superior to both standard and damping handlebar tape on uneven roads: 11% less vibration is absorbed in the lower handlebars, 13% less in the upper handlebars and even 14% less when braking. The bottom line is that the new handlebar tape should offer noticeably better riding comfort.
The most important information about gravel handlebar tape
The SQlab 714 handlebar tape was specially developed for gravel biking. With a length of 2500 mm, it is versatile and fits various handlebar widths and thicknesses. The tape consists of a rubber compound with integrated knobs, similar to the diamond structure of SQlab MTB grips. As a result, it offers improved grip and a secure feel. The handlebar tape can be wrapped in sizes S, M and L to suit different hand sizes. Depending on how far you grip the handlebars, you can choose the right grip size or wrap thickness.
Instructions for wrapping handlebar tape in the video
The dimpled structure of the customised bar tape also improves both damping and pressure relief. Speaking of which: the good damping results from the SQlab study are presumably due in particular to the underside of the Gravel bar tape. There is a special damping layer that absorbs micro-vibrations and at the same time relieves the wrists and forearm muscles.
Details of the SQlab 714 handlebar tape
- Price: 49,95 Euro >> available here
- Length: 2500 mm
- Weight: 215 grams (manufacturer's specification)
- SQlab sizing system: S (three rows of studs), M (two rows of studs) and L (one row of studs)
Lukas Niebuhr
Working student
