You’d expect the Genetic Hi-Grip tape to be, well, high-grip. And it is: it’s a fairly comfortable bar that offers good levels of grip in both wet and dry conditions. It’s not the cheapest tape, or the longest, but it’s very good. As long as you want black, because that’s all Genetic does.
You can check out other options in our best handlebar tape guide.
> Buy now: Genetic Hi-Grip Tape for 19.15 from Velozone
In the box you get the bar, end bars and chrome bar plugs. The finishing kit is good, but doesn’t feel particularly high-end. The tape is 3mm thick, with a standard adhesive tape on the back and a textured finish.
It’s not as stretchy, so it’s not as easy to wrestle around levers, but it’s easy enough to get a clean finish. I put it on a 42cm Genetic rod and was trimming the ends rather than casting a long length away, so maybe not the best choice for gravel rods.
In use, the tape feels quite firm under the hand, it’s not a sharp tape, but I found it comfortable. The bars are a bit like saddles in this regard, I often find that what feels comfortable at first doesn’t always provide comfort during the ride. The grip is good, the surface is slightly sticky and works well wet or dry, with bare or gloved hands. There was no noticeable wear during testing and the durability of the tape suggests it will last.
At 25 we’re not in premium cassette territory, Enve 35 cassettes are currently our top choice, but there are also really good cassettes like Kranx Stretta and Tortec Super Comfort for less than what you pay here. The genetic strip is a good fit-and-forget option, though, that looks like it will last and work well.
> Buy now: Genetic Hi-Grip Tape for 19.15 from Velozone
verdict
Strong webbing with good levels of grip and comfort during the long ride
Make and model: Genetic Hi Grip Bar
Tell us what the product is for and who it’s aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it?
From genetics:
“High-performance, anti-slip tape adhesive.
Modern and durable for riders looking for extra bar grip.”
Tell us more about the technical aspects of the product
Genetic list:
Anti-slip surface.
Shock absorbing EVA foam back.
Perforated central section.
Self-adhesive backing tape.
Push in chrome plastic plugs.
Black finishing tape.
3 mm thick.
Rate the product for quality:
8/10
Rate the product for performance:
7/10
Rate the product for value:
5/10
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its intended purpose
It’s good tape.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
Good levels of grip and comfort, durable.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
Pretty hard to wrap, not cheap on performance.
How does the price compare to similar products on the market, including those recently tested on road.cc?
25 is the middle market. Premium tapes cost about 10 more and you can get budget tape for half that. I’d say the value is okay based on what you’re getting.
Did you enjoy using the product? yes
Would you consider purchasing the product? maybe
Would you recommend the product to a friend? maybe
Use this box to explain your overall result
It doesn’t really shine, but it’s good tape.
Age: 50
I usually drive: whatever I test you…My best bike is: Kinesis Tripster ATR, Merida Scultura, Dward Design fixed
I have ridden for: Over 20 yearsI drive: Every dayI would classify myself as: expert
I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, commuting, touring, club riding, general fitness riding, fixed/single speed, mountain bike snorkeling, track
#Genetic #HiGrip #Tape
Image Source : road.cc