I ride 24 miles, round trip, to work. I wear a minimalist cross country Troy Lee Designs glove and had recently been experiencing numbness in my ulnar nerve that often comes from extended rides. So I figured if I’m going to be riding to work I might as well be comfortable doing it. I’ve found that the more comfortable I am riding, the less excuses I’ll make for not riding my bike. But besides using gel tape your options for increasing hand comfort are slim to none…except for the Delta Aztec Vibe Wrap System.

Delta Aztec Vibe Wrap System

Out of the package the pads feel stiff and not so comfortable. I was pessimistic about the effectiveness of these pads immediately and worried that I had bought a gimmick product. Too late to complain now, but the system was complete if nothing else. Here’s the provided pre-wrap that goes on initially so that your bars will stay clean from any adhesive from the pads. Very nice. If a company goes so far as to protect an inexpensive handlebar that’s a good sign as far as I’m concerned.

Pre-wrap. Nosey dog not included.

Next up are the pads. Peel the adhesive off the back and wrap each pad around their position on the handlebar. The directions are easy to follow that even a technically stupid person like me can figure it out. The pads that go on the drop part of the bar even have the side printed on them to prevent you from screwing it up. Once you take the paper backing off the pads it brings new hope. They become pliable and soft and conform perfectly to the contours of the bar.

Mmmm…comfy

The included white tape is used to anchor the pads to the handlebar. As I installed this system on the bars I could tell how thoroughly it was thought out. Those of you with sharp eyes will notice I wrapped the left side of the bars in the opposite direction. I’ve had no problems so far but if the wrap loosens I can always go back and wrap in the correct direction. The only gripe I had about the system was the finishing tape with the Aztec logo(see first picture). It was too short for my tastes, but I just grabbed some electrical tape and finished the wrap off with that. And in case you’re wondering, yes, I re-wrapped and left about an inch of bar tape hanging over to tuck into the bar end.

Bad wrap job…no problem…Do over!

The final wrap job leaves your handlebar looking lumpy and a bit goofy. I taped the rubber bar ends on with electric tape just for peace of mind too. But don’t be fooled by it’s appearance this wrap system is excellent. I’ve ridden with them over a long period of time and have had absolutely none of the numbness I used to have in my hands. When I’m cranking it out over long distances I usually place my hands on the top of the bar and, oh mama, it’s like a Lay Z Boy for your hands! And when you need to go into aggressive mode and put your hands on the drops the extra padding is immediately noticeable.

And all the hands say… “Ahhhhhh”

This grip system is well thought out and very effective. Hand numbness is a thing of the past and my 24 mile ride is now a comfortable cruise. If pampering my hands is snobby then call me Paris Hilton. I’ve not seen another bar wrap out on the market that can compare to the Delta Aztec Vibe. If you take extended road rides or commute to work over long distances, I highly recommend this wonderful item. Any long distance commuters will find this system both a great asset and a comfortable luxury. Hey, you use your hands for almost every daily task so why not buy this system and show them that you really care? It’s an excellent investment for $25. If you have the cash and your hands need some TLC, take a chance on these.

Popularity: 11% [?]

Bike Commuter Essentials at PricePoint.com