When I heard that Dutch parts & accessories company BBB was making leopard print bar tape together with Team Amani, I was sure this was going to be something kitsch to go with either a Cipolini skinsuit or the next ultralight creation from Dangerholm (IYKYK). But BBB totally proved me wrong. Instead, these are two low-key, good-looking black bar tape options with subtle printed-on animal print that promises extra grip in the wet!
BBB + Team Amani limited edition animal-print bar tape
Technically, this is just a limited edition run of BBB’s no-nonsense, standard thickness polyurethane handlebar tape with a thin gel backing for extra cush. But instead of boring black or blasphemous white with a lot of tiny BBB logos, this tape gets anti-slip animal prints that create a slightly sticky finish that’s apparently easy to keep clean.
It was created as a collaboration with East African pro gravel racing Team Amani whom BBB supports, to give the racers better grip in a durable all-conditions tape with a touch of home. BBB describes it as “inspired by the wildlife of the African savannah” but going beyond that to create a “tribute to their culture, spirit and racing style” that cyclists around the world can appreciate.
“For us, it’s more than just equipment — it’s a symbol of where we come from and what we represent. The patterns reflect the diversity of the team, the beauty of our environment & wildlife, and the untapped potential of cycling in this part of the world. Every ride becomes a connection to home, a reminder that we ride not only for ourselves but for the future of cycling in East Africa.”
– Shawn Rath, Team Amani Communications Director
Tech details
- 2.5mm thick “strong and resilient” stretchy polyurethane foam bar tape
- animal-print creates “anti-slip pattern for superior grip”
- gel backing provides extra comfort and makes the tape reusable since it uses no adhesive to stick to the bar
- 3cm wide x 200cm long rolls to fit wide bars (88g claimed for the set)
- comes with Amani edition teal (leopard) or purple (giraffe) bar plugs, and matching black animal-print finishing tape
BBB Amani bar tape – Pricing, options & availability
The BBB Team Amani Ultra Ribbon Gel bar tape sells for 27€, in any case, the same price as the standard black or white. But, instead of a boring bar, you can get a sneaky black-on-black leopard-print or giraffe-print bar wrap that actually improves your wet-weather grip. Get it now, from your local bike shop or directly from BBB shipped all over Europe.
You know you want some!
