For bicycles.. which kind of handlebar tape is best?

Question

also any particular brands of breaks?

Answer 1

I don't know about best, but I've always liked this stuff:

http://www.performancebike.com/shop/prof...

Can't say much about BRAKES without a little more information.    

Answer 2

Cork is nice, but you need a deft hand not to tear it when stretching it over the bars.  I have always liked Profile tape as an inexpensive, lightweight, comfortable tape that won't tear as easily as cork.

Recently I used some Bontrager gel tape on my wife's bike, and it's no thicker than Profile but adds that extra little bit of cush.

I am currently using Fizik tape with Specualized Bar Phat underneath.  The Fizik tape has a suede-like texture that I really like, but it's definitely a thin tape and I need some plush in the drops.

I've also ridden on some of the stitched two-tone tape.  Also thin, but the feel is exquisite.