The latest material to find its way into cycle handlebar tape is Lorica, the synthetic fabric that looks and acts much like leather but without the weight and water retention penalites.
Saddle manufacturer San Marco debuted a new Lorica handlebar tape at Ice Bike this week.

With a tapered cross section for a smooth, ridge-free fit and boasting embossed San Marco and Lorica logos, the tape is not only stylish but immensely strong as was demonstrated by an impromptu tug of war using the tape as a rope.

Several colour options are on their way with black the first to arrive in the UK in serious quantities. Although fairly expensive at £24.99 per pack, the tape promises longevity and greatly enhanced resistance to abrasion and should please those cyclists who like the appearance of leather but balk at its weight and retro image.