What type of metal to use for hanlebars?

[hoser]

I am thinking of making my own handlebars out of copper tubing. I like the look of the copper. Anyone have any experience or thoughts on this?

 

[Skarrd]

I am thinking of making my own handlebars out of copper tubing. I like the look of the copper. Anyone have any experience or thoughts on this?

have a feeling that copper would be too soft of a metal.

 

[bairdco]

copper will definitely bend, and get crushed by the stem when you tighten it down.

last thing you want when going 30+ is your handlebars breaking...

if you really want the look of copper, you could get some regular bars copper plated.

 

[Lance Portnoff]

You want the type of metal the handlebar makers use or u will be buying the type of teeth the dentist make

 

[hoser]

Thanks. I kind of figured that copper wouldn't work too well. I'll have to look into copper or bronze plating.

 

[AuNaturalTanner]

I would suggest that you use a stock handle bars and plate then copper. See my post: in this section DIY Plating & Power Coat at Home!!!. You can also send it to a crome shop that does copper.

 

[fishguts]

I sanded mine and painted them with copper paint. You can leave it bright or fog it with a little dark brown as I did to antique it. The metallic copper paints look like the real deal.

 

[Allen_Wrench]

.

I'm sorry, I know this is a bit off topic. I just had to ask: Fish, did you mount your headlight upside down on purpose. You've built such a fantastic bike, and have skills I only dream about at this point. I figured maybe you had a reason...