Cinelli Revisits its Heritage Handlebar Tape Collection with New Range
- Cinelli expands its bar tape collection after its original cork EVA tape launch 40 years ago
- The range includes new models Gravel Travel and Pro Race with its Classic Cork and Cork Gel continuing
Milan, Italy, 15:00 BST / 16:00 CET, 2 April 2026: It’s been nearly forty years since iconic performance cycling lifestyle brand Cinelli helped define the bar tape category with its original cork EVA tape. Cinelli returns with a new collection of tape across road and gravel to match the demands of modern day cycling.
Following recent innovations across its range of performance and adventure bikes, including the race-proven Aeroscoop which carves out a new era of aerodynamics for Cinelli, attention has also turned to developing high-performing bar tape to match.
Cinelli’s bar tape collection returns with a new name and color drenched packaging, with Classic Road Cork & Gel tapes joined by two new options, Gravel Travel - for off-road adventures, and Pro Race for the demands of pushing your limits on the road. The new collection reaffirms Cinelli’s position as an innovator in combining comfort and performance, whilst maintaining an ever present eye on aesthetics, for riders worldwide.
It was back in 1987 that Cinelli introduced the cork EVA bar tape, setting a new benchmark for comfort and shock absorption. Since then, its cork bar tape has become an industry classic, widely imitated.
Victor Luis, Cinelli Chairman, commented on the launch: “Cinelli is a brand full of rich heritage and product innovation, spanning beyond just bikes - something that makes this company and team so special. So to bring back an iconic product from decades past that helped define the bar tape category is an exciting moment for us all. An introduction that allows us to honor brand heritage whilst elevating the experience for a new generation of cyclists.
“We’ve combined the best elements of the original recipe with the advanced materials we now have available today. The range reflects our dedication to comfort, performance and design, reimagining an industry icon.”
Product Information
Gravel Travel
New to the Cinelli bar tape range, Gravel Travel is designed for long off-road distances and gravel terrain. Featuring a higher-density construction, weighing 105g with an increase on standard thickness of 3.2mm. The gel technology allows the tape to be repositioned, adjusted and even reapplied even after installation. The 2050mm length tape has a 100% washable suede-like brushed finish, a choice made to enhance comfort.
Available in: Black, Camouflage and Red SG/ Crimson
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Gravel Travel Chubby
The Gravel Travel Chubby is constructed with twice the amount of gel density than the standard option, weighing 105g with an increased thickness of 3.2mm for added support and vibration damping. At 2050mm in length, the tape is finished with a 100% washable, suede-like brushed surface.
Available in: Chubby Black
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Pro Race
Designed for performance, the new Pro Race bar tape is constructed from a premium blend of Polyurethane and microfibres, creating a lighter, slimmer tape at 93g. The specially developed material delivers a high-stick feel for increased grip, while the 3D-textured finish enhances control and comfort across the full 2000mm length. This range also continues Cinelli’s artist collaboration with Mike Giant, with a uniquely designed version available.
Available in: Aero Dimple Black, Lightning Grip Black and Mike Giant Black
Classic Road Cork
The original. The Classic Road Cork Bar Tape is designed to blend comfort and performance. Made from EVA for shock absorption and cork for a natural, moisture-wicking grip. With a medium density, it provides the perfect balance of comfort and support, the 2.5mm thickness cushions whilst only weighing 60g at a 2050mm length.
Available in: Black, Natural, Yellow, Denim, Orange, Grey, Pink Jersey, Red and White
Classic Road Cork Gel
The Classic Road Cork Gel tape uses the original EVA and cork construction with added gel, increasing density for improved cushioning and impact protection. The tape is 2.5mm thick, 60g in weight and 2050mm long, offering cushioning without adding bulk and fitting most handlebars.
Available in: Black, Corky, White, Pink and Blue
Pricing
Classic Road Cork - £15.00 | €17.50 | $23.00
Classic Road Cork Gel - £18.00 | €21.50 | $28.00
Gravel Travel - £26.00 | €29.00 | $38.00
Gravel Travel Chubby - £30.00 | €35.00 | $44.00
Pro Race - £37.00 | €42.00 | $50.00
Pro Race Art - £40.00 | €45.00 | $55.00
More information can be found at https://cinelli-milano.com/
A selection of imagery can be found here.
For more information please contact:
Abbie Manley
About Cinelli
Founded in Milan in 1948, Cinelli is the world’s leading performance cycling lifestyle brand. Over 75 years of rich history that made Cinelli develop a unique mix of manufacturing know-how, creative collaboration and cultural significance, allowing Cinelli to operate outside the rigid categories and constraints of the mainstream cycling market, and instead work to continuously redesign the cultural limits of performance cycling. Made in Milano, ridden everywhere.
