Since I change my handlebar quite often for review purposes, I also like to try different bar tapes to compare comfort and performance. The Supple Bar Tape from Wolf Tooth Components had been on my list for some time, so I reached out to them to review it and see how it performed over long gravel rides.
About Wolftooth components
Wolf Tooth Components is a Minnesota-based brand known for precision engineering and thoughtful product design. Every piece they create, from small drivetrain parts to accessories, reflects their commitment to performance, durability, and rider-focused innovation. Their products are designed and tested in-house, ensuring top quality and functionality across all types of cycling disciplines.
The Supple Bar Tape
The Supple Bar Tape lives up to its name. It is extra thick and extra wide, striking a great balance between cushioning and control. The material is soft yet grippy, holding securely even when conditions get rough or wet. Its generous dimensions let you achieve the same comfort and thickness in one wrap that would normally take multiple layers of traditional tape, which is a big advantage for anyone who likes to fine-tune their cockpit feel.
The testing
I tested the tape on my gravel bike for about 1,000 km, covering smooth tarmac as well as loose, washboard gravel. Installation was straightforward, and the tape allows you to adjust the feel of your handlebars by varying the overlap. One detail worth noting is that it does not include adhesive backing, which may matter to some, but in practice this made it easy to tweak and rewrap until I found the perfect feel. Once wrapped, it felt extremely comfortable, absorbed vibrations well, and maintained excellent grip through changing weather conditions. It is slightly thicker than what most riders may be used to, so it requires adapting your wrapping technique, but the result is worth the effort in my opinion.
Overall, the Wolf Tooth Components Supple Bar Tape combines comfort, control, and versatility. It is an excellent choice for gravel riders, commuters, or anyone seeking maximum cushioning without compromising grip. Its quality construction and thoughtful design make it one of the most comfortable bar tapes I have tested so far.
You can have more information about Wolf Tooth Components here:
