"Okay, while we are on a handlebar tape thread, has anyone - especially those who are also vintage car buffs - found a source for leather tape? I am thinking of the perforated sort that used to be used for wrapping steering wheels. Has anyone tried this type of tape on handlebars?"
I have read that some have used the tape for golf club and tennis racket handles. I haven't tried this yet. The right width must be a factor, so golf club leather tape might be harder..Someone on the list once mentioned edge taper as another important factor in getting the overlaps right. I'll bet some of the LBS or the big sport stores that sell bikes and other equipment might wrap them for you if were willing to pay the price. Wasn't someone on the list pursuing ostrich leather not so long ago? Didn't Renaissance also have some leather offerings some months back?
Best Wishes,
Mark Cutrufelli
Laurel,MD