Bar tape wears out faster than most components on the bike—UV exposure, sweat, grip pressure, and the occasional brush against a wall or car rack all break down the wrap surface over time. The Ritchey WCS Gazos tape uses a 3mm gel-padded construction that maintains cushioning across long rides while the textured synthetic surface provides grip whether your hands are dry or soaked with rain and sweat. This is Ritchey's competition-level tape applied to a component that directly affects comfort and control on every ride.

The Gazos construction combines a firm base layer with gel padding distributed evenly across the tape width, which prevents the spongy feeling that cheaper foams develop after a few months of use. That 3mm thickness hits a middle ground—enough cushion to absorb road vibration without creating the disconnected sensation that comes from overly thick wraps. The synthetic surface material resists moisture absorption, so the tape doesn't become waterlogged during wet rides or develop the slick, compressed patches that natural cork tends to show in high-grip zones.

Installation follows standard wrap technique, and Ritchey includes finishing tape and bar-end plugs with each roll. The material stretches predictably during wrapping, which helps maintain consistent overlap without thin spots or bunching at the curves near the brake hoods. Four colorways let you match frame graphics or go neutral—black disappears into most builds, white works for classic aesthetics, and the red and royal blue options add contrast where you want it.... Read More