How to Chrome MTB Bars: Step-by-Step Guide

What You’ll Need

Safety glasses and chemical-resistant gloves
Dish soap and water
Fine steel wool (0000 grade)
Sandpaper (220, 400, 600, 800, 1000 grit)
Metal polish (e.g., Mother’s Mag & Aluminum Polish)
Clean microfiber cloths
Rubbing alcohol
Masking tape and plastic bags (to protect ends)
Optional: paint stripper (if bars are painted)

Step-by-Step

Remove the bars – Take the handlebars off your bike. Loosen the stem bolts and any controls (shifters, brakes, grips). Keep all hardware in a safe place.
Clean thoroughly – Wash the bars with dish soap and water to remove dirt and grease. Dry completely.
Strip any coating – If your bars are painted or anodized, use a chemical paint stripper following the manufacturer’s instructions. Alternatively, sand off the coating with coarse sandpaper (220 grit). Work in a well-ventilated area.
Sand to bare metal – Once bare, sand the entire surface with progressively finer grits: 400, then 600, then 800, then 1000. This removes scratches and creates a smooth base for plating. Always sand in one direction (lengthwise) for a uniform finish.
Polish the metal – Apply metal polish with a clean cloth and buff the bars until they shine. This step is crucial because chrome plating magnifies any imperfections underneath.
Degrease – Wipe the bars with rubbing alcohol to remove any polish residue and fingerprints. Let them air dry completely.
Protect the ends – Plug the bar ends with masking tape or small plastic bags to keep plating solution out of the inside. Also tape any threaded areas.
Send to a chrome plater – Take the prepared bars to a professional electroplating shop. They will apply the chrome layer. This is not a DIY process due to toxic chemicals and specialized equipment. Ask for a quote and turnaround time.

Common Mistakes

Skipping the fine sanding – leaving scratches that show through the chrome.
Not degreasing properly – any oil or polish residue causes poor adhesion and blotchy plating.
Attempting DIY chrome plating at home – it involves hazardous chemicals (hexavalent chromium) and is illegal in many areas without permits.
Plating over existing rust – rust must be completely removed before plating, or it will continue to corrode under the chrome.
Not protecting the internal surfaces – plating solution can get inside the bar and cause corrosion later.

Tips

If your bars are aluminum, make sure the plater knows – they may need a special pre-treatment (like a nickel strike) for adhesion.
For a show-quality finish, spend extra time on the prep. The better the base, the better the chrome.
Consider powder coating instead if you want a durable colored finish – it’s cheaper and more practical for MTB use.
After plating, apply a coat of wax or sealant to protect the chrome from scratches and corrosion.
If you plan to ride aggressively, be aware that chrome can chip on impact – some riders prefer a clear powder coat over chrome for durability.

Troubleshooting

Bars look dull after plating – The plater may not have polished the base enough. You can buff the chrome with a soft cloth and metal polish to bring up the shine.
Chrome is peeling or flaking – This indicates poor adhesion, often due to improper cleaning. You’ll need to have the bars re-plated after re-prepping.
Rust spots appear – This can happen if the chrome layer is too thin or damaged. Clean the spots with fine steel wool and apply a rust inhibitor. If it persists, re-plating is needed.
Plater rejects your bars – Some shops won’t plate aluminum or bars with internal welds. Ask for recommendations or consider a different finish like nickel plating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I chrome plate at home?

No. Chrome plating uses hexavalent chromium, a highly toxic and carcinogenic substance. It requires specialized equipment and permits. Always use a professional shop.

How much does it cost to chrome MTB bars?

Costs vary widely by shop and location. Expect to pay more for aluminum or complex shapes. Get quotes from several platers.

Will chrome plating weaken my bars?

Properly applied chrome plating does not weaken the metal. However, the prep process (sanding) removes a tiny amount of material, which is negligible on a handlebar.

How long does chrome plating last on MTB bars?

With proper care, chrome can last many years. It’s resistant to corrosion but can chip on hard impacts. Regular waxing helps extend its life.

Can I plate carbon fiber bars?

No. Chrome plating is an electrochemical process that only works on conductive metals like steel and aluminum. Carbon fiber cannot be plated.

What’s the difference between chrome and nickel plating?

Nickel plating is harder and more corrosion-resistant, but has a slightly yellower tint. Chrome is brighter and more reflective. Many platers apply a nickel under-layer before chrome for better adhesion.

Sources: Metal Finishing Association. Menus and buttons can differ slightly by version. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.