I hope these practical tips help you answer the question:
How to replace the griptape on a stunt scooter?
Changing the griptape on a scooter is simple—you can do it yourself at home without special tools.
Prepare a hair dryer, a degreaser, a sharp knife, new griptape and your scooter; an Allen key will also come in handy.
1. Remove the old griptape
Warm the worn tape with a hair dryer so the adhesive softens. Lift one edge with a knife or scissors and peel it off evenly. Try to remove it in one piece.
Make sure the deck surface is completely clean and free of old glue or paper.
2. Prepare the deck surface
Degrease the bare deck. Use a store-bought degreaser or high-proof alcohol such as pure spirit or plain vodka. Avoid nail polish remover with moisturizers, which can leave a residue.
3. Measure and cut the new griptape
Check that the new sheet fits your deck. Some griptapes are made for specific models and need no trimming, but most come in a universal size.
If you removed the old sheet in one piece, use it as a template and trace it onto the back of the new griptape, then cut it out.
If not, place the sheet on the deck and mark where the headtube sits. Cut out a notch so it fits around the headtube, or simply cut along the shape of the deck after tracing it.
For a more precise fit you can remove the rear wheel and brake, trace the exact deck shape on the back of the griptape and cut it out. If you prefer the faster method, keep everything mounted and cut openings for the wheel and brake as you go.
4. Apply the griptape
Scooter griptapes are self-adhesive with a strong backing—like a giant sticker.
Do not remove the entire backing at once. Peel it away in small sections, pressing the tape down firmly as you go.
5. Trim the edges
If you left the wheel on, trim any excess. Fold the tape over the deck edges and run an Allen key along the border to score a line, then cut along it with a sharp knife. Repeat anywhere that needs a clean edge.
Your stunt scooter is ready to ride! Cutting directly on the deck can leave scratches, so if you change griptape often keep in mind that these marks will remain visible under new tape.
