In a message dated 3/11/03 3:33:15 PM, WBINGHAM@imf.org writes:
>
> << Try double or
> triple wrapping with mixed colors (you have to roll the tapes together
> before you start). >>
to which Chuck replied:
> I highly recommend this approach as well! I have done the
> "double" routine
> on two bikes which I actually ride on a regular basis, and the
> tape really
> complements the paint and gets a few comments from on-lookers!!
>
> I usually wrap Benotto from the center to the bar end (FWIW).
Nobody has explained the reason I have always been told to wrap exclusively from ends to center. The point on the handlebars where the tape gets the most stress is between the tops and the brake hoods. The stress exercised on the handlebar tape is forward and outwards. If you wrap from the ends, this stress will never curl the tape, whereas if you wrap from the center out, you will sooner or later curl the tape. The perfect analogy is how you shingle a roof: you always start from the bottom and finish at the ridge/peak.
Steven Maasland
Moorestown, NJ