I tried searching old posts and the internets, but without much luck...

I was wondering how chrome forks compare with other materials commonly used in the 80's (501, 531, gas-pipe). Are they considered light/heavy? Soft/Stiff? Durable/prone to failure? Any good at absorbing road vibration?

Can anyone answer these questions or direct me to somewhere (or someone) who can? The touring bike I recently picked up has chrome forks, and I'd like to know a thing or two about them.

Thanks,

A