Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 23,639
Likes: 1,106
From: Mans of NC & SW UT Desert
Bikes: 86 Katakura Silk, 87 Prologue X2, 88 Cimarron LE, 1975 Sekai 4000 Professional, 73 Paramount, plus more
I don't recall ever seeing steel handlebars in a bright finish that were not chrome. The only ones not chrome were painted some contrasting color.
As far as what works, since you live in the perfect testing environment, go for it, and let us know.
Most bicycles move away from steel parts, not due to rust, but due to weight. The savings is significant, and many aluminum replacement bits are pretty cheap, cheaper than clear coating, and continual maintenance.
Last edited by wrk101; 08-22-10 at 01:37 PM.