Cinelli Bar Tape Range expands for Modern Road and Gravel Riding

For many long‑time road riders, fresh bar tape was once the ultimate pre‑race ritual. Before power meters and aero gains dominated the conversation, swapping to crisp white Cinelli bar tape felt like unlocking free speed. Clean, tight, perfectly wrapped bars meant you were ready. So the news that Cinelli has refreshed its entire bar tape range will strike a nostalgic chord with riders who remember those days – and interest anyone looking for modern performance with classic style.

Nearly forty years after Cinelli reshaped the category with its original cork EVA tape, the Italian brand has returned with a fully updated collection designed for today’s road and gravel demands. The new line sits alongside recent innovations such as the race‑proven Aeroscoop, signalling Cinelli’s renewed focus on performance contact points.

The refreshed collection introduces two new models – Gravel Travel and Pro Race – while retaining the much‑loved Classic Cork and Cork Gel options. Updated packaging and a colour‑rich palette underline Cinelli’s continued commitment to aesthetics as well as function.

Cinelli Chairman Victor Luis says the relaunch blends heritage with modern materials:

“We’ve combined the best elements of the original recipe with the advanced materials we now have available today… reimagining an industry icon.”

New Models: Gravel Travel and Pro Race

Gravel Travel

Designed for long‑distance gravel and off‑road riding, Gravel Travel uses a higher‑density construction with a 3.2 mm thickness for improved comfort and vibration damping. The gel layer allows the tape to be repositioned or reapplied, making installation more forgiving. A suede‑like, washable finish adds grip and comfort.

Specs:

• 105 g
• 3.2 mm thickness
• 2050 mm length
• Washable brushed surface
• Colours: Black, Camouflage, Red SG/Crimson

Gravel Travel Chubby

A thicker, more cushioned version, Gravel Travel Chubby doubles the gel density for maximum shock absorption. It shares the same length and finish as the standard model.

Colour: Chubby Black

Pro Race: Slim, Grippy, Performance‑Focused

Aimed at riders pushing the limits on the road, Pro Race uses a premium polyurethane–microfibre blend to create a lighter, slimmer tape with a high‑grip feel. A 3D‑textured surface enhances control, especially during hard efforts or in wet conditions. The range also continues Cinelli’s collaboration with artist Mike Giant, offering a distinctive graphic option.

Specs:

• 93 g
• High‑stick grip
• 3D‑textured finish
• 2000 mm length
• Colours: Aero Dimple Black, Lightning Grip Black, Mike Giant Black

Classic Cork and Cork Gel: The Originals Return

Classic Road Cork

The tape that started it all. EVA provides shock absorption while natural cork offers moisture‑wicking grip. At 2.5 mm thick and just 60 g, it remains a benchmark for riders who want comfort without bulk.

Colours: Black, Natural, Yellow, Denim, Orange, Grey, Pink Jersey, Red, White

Classic Road Cork Gel

Adding gel to the original EVA–cork blend increases density and cushioning for riders who prefer a softer feel. Still 2.5 mm thick and 60 g, it fits most bars without adding unnecessary volume.

Colours: Black, Corky, White, Pink, 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 details are available at Cinelli’s website.

Want more bar tape? Take a look at our review of the Super Sticky Kush bar tape from Supacaz.