SQlab handlebar tape: Top damping values on the new SQlab 714 Gravel handlebar tape

A handlebar tape will by no means last the entire life of the bike; it should be changed about once a year. This is particularly useful when you are getting your bike ready for the new season after the winter. For those who have not yet changed their handlebar tape but would like to do so in the near future or are simply dissatisfied with their current tape, the 714 Gravel learner tape from SQlab could be of interest.

SQlab handlebar tape: Vibration analysis

Handlebar tape is not just handlebar tape. The experienced manufacturer SQlab therefore carried out a special study to compare its new product with a "conventional handlebar tape". The result: The 714 Gravel handlebar tape has a 45 % lower rebound rate, which is why it is said to dampen more vibrations. This vibration analysis is also said to have shown that neither a standard nor a damping bar tape can hold a candle to the 714 on uneven roads. These would absorb 11% less vibration in the lower link, 13% less in the upper link and even 14% less when braking.

Key data of the new handlebar tape

The SQlab 714 handlebar tape has been specially designed for gravel biking. With a length of 2500 mm, the manufacturer promises to have developed a tape for different handlebar widths and thicknesses. It consists of a rubber compound with integrated knobs similar to a diamond structure, as in the SQlab MTB grips, which aim to guarantee more grip and a secure feel. This diamond structure can be wound in sizes S, M and L. This is also referred to as grip size or wrap thickness. Depending on how wide a rider's grip is, the different sizes ensure an optimum fit for hands of different sizes. Find out more in the manufacturer's fitting instructions:

Cushioning and pressure relief would also improve thanks to the dimpled structure adapted to the individual size. Speaking of damping: the results of the study conducted by SQlab itself can be attributed in particular to the underside of the Gravel bar tape. This is equipped with a damping layer that is designed to absorb micro-vibrations and protect the wrists and muscles of the forearms.

>> Saddle revolution from SQlab: From now on, the bicycle saddle is clipped on.

>> To match the new handlebar tape, SQlab launched new bike grips at the beginning of the year.

The SQlab 714 Gravel handlebar tape in detail

• RRP: 49,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight: 215 grams (manufacturer's specification)
• Length: 2500 mm
• SQlab sizing system: S (three rows of studs), M (two rows of studs) and L (one row of studs)