If you’re looking for a quick way to brighten your bike, then changing the bar tape is the way to go.

There are a rainbow of colours available, and you can even get patterned tape. If you want to go the whole hog, it’s also possible to get different coloured rubber hoods, the part that fits out over the gear and brake levers, to match or contrast with your bar tape.

It’s not just about colour and decoration. The tape is designed to provide a little cushioning, grip, and also absorb moisture to make your ride more comfortable.

Grip tape can be made from different material. Some includes cork particles, others have a gel pad you can place on the bars under the tape for added cushioning.

Leather tape is robust and lasts and long time, but is pricy and can be less cushioned than the other options.