Hi everyone, I have an 80 special and I am restoring it. Unfortunately I can not afford the cost of chroming so any part that would normally be chromed will now be painted. I am asking you for some ideas for the painting scheme. I don't want a cafe race look rather I would like a more modern look I will post an example picture but am curious to see what you guys have seen/done/just a good idea. Pictures always helpful. Thanks.
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shamus
XS400 Addict
I wouldn't say there are any parts that are considered "typically chromed", because really you can chrome just about anything on a motorcycle. If you still want some shiny metal on there, you can polish anything aluminum to a high lustre. However, if you're going for all painted surfaces because that's what you prefer, then paint on friend.
sir_h_c
XS400 Addict
Green, yellow, black and polished aluminum
You could really make a statement with some textured spraypaint...I'm thinking the hammered bronze spraypaint or something...
If you can afford it, powdercoat the frame and maybe the rims the same color and a coordinating color for the tank, forks, side covers, fenders, etc.
Go with a color scheme from your favorite team...I'll be doing Crimson and Cream when I need my seat reupholstered.
You could really make a statement with some textured spraypaint...I'm thinking the hammered bronze spraypaint or something...
If you can afford it, powdercoat the frame and maybe the rims the same color and a coordinating color for the tank, forks, side covers, fenders, etc.
Go with a color scheme from your favorite team...I'll be doing Crimson and Cream when I need my seat reupholstered.
Iggster
XS400 Enthusiast
I really like the chameleon paints.....have thought about redoing her in one of those schemes.....
chrome powder coat
Pork Chop
XS400 Junkie
Strip back to bare metal and clear powder everything. Wrinkle black engine with red aermacchi style front fender.
Thanks for the replies. Drewpy ive seen pictures of chrome powder coat and i think it looks more of a silver than chrome. Pork chop I am liking the idea but it's kind of hard to visualize can you find some example pictures please.
Renegade
XS400 Enthusiast
I think doing the bike in a dark gray, with red accents (maybe flat gray and gloss red) would look wicked.
1lowdiesel
XS400 Addict
my tank...
