Cork tape with gel backing adds vibration damping without changing the external feel you get from cork texture. The gel sits between the tape and your handlebars, handling impact absorption while the cork surface maintains grip and moisture management. Cinelli's Gel Cork Ribbon uses this approach by combining their classic EVA-and-cork construction with a VibraAbsorb gel layer on the inner surface. If you're running standard cork tape and want more cushioning for rough roads or gravel sections, this delivers that extra layer without moving to foam tape.

The cork content sits in a polyurethane base, giving you grip texture that works when your hands sweat and maintains function through wet conditions. The self-adhesive backing means the tape stays positioned during wrapping and you can lift and reposition sections if needed during installation. The tape remains elastic enough to stretch around bar curves and brake hoods without tearing, and it handles heat up to 60°C without the adhesive failing or the gel breaking down.

Each package contains two rolls, bar-end plugs with the Cinelli logo, and finishing strips for brake lever transitions. That's everything needed for a complete drop bar wrap. The tape wraps standard 31.8mm bars and aero bars without issues, and you control cushioning level by how much you stretch the tape during application. Stretching it tight gives you a thinner profile with direct bar feel, while wrapping with less tension increases the cushioning effect from the gel layer.... Read More