Water-based Chrome Plating?

[Ronin38]

I recall about 5 or 6 years ago this was all touted as the new and improved way to chrome things, but I can't seem to find out much recent information about it. Anyone familiar with this technique and how it's holding up?
I'm getting a luggage rack made for my Shadow 1100, and I'm looking for ideas to either chrome it or paint/powdercoat it. I have a local guy who does powdercoating, but he said the bright silver powdercoat he's tried doesn't hold up very well over time, it gets "cloudy."

 

[Moosee1955]

I've been a biker/ mechanic for years. Doesn't it come chrome plated? I've never had any luck with any cheap plating. These days you've got to spend the money for it to last. Your probably looking at $200.00 plus to plate. I know racks for bikes aren't the strongest. You might want to consider polished aluminum, or find one preferably Honda that comes chromed.


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[Ozz]

Pretty sure you're talking about this or similar (Spectra, Alsa, etc.)? All similar products.

www.cosmichrome.com



Your mileage may vary, but my experience wasn't great. It's a nickel based layer covered by a clear for hardness, and is only about as strong as paint. Not something I'd spend the not-cheap-at-all costs on for an exterior part. I had a part done by the manufacturer and after some time on the car the clear split and it clouded up in some spots. I removed it and am not a fan overall. Love the idea, but no thanks.

Powder coating is much stronger, but the chrome look is indeed more of a shiny gray/silver/whatever. In the right light or at the right angle it can look like chrome, but it can't compare overall. I'd spend the money on actual chrome plating if I were you. Or settle on doing it in a different color in paint or powder and save yourself a bunch.

 

[Ronin38]

Well, since this got bumped up... I still haven't found someone who will actually make the dam rack for me. I've had 2 different people who said "Sure, no problem."
Months later... nada. Dammit if you say you're going to do something, DO IT!

I have a guy on the Shadow forum who's not too far away, and sounds like he can actually fab something up for me. And he's said so on a large forum and is well-known there, so... hopefully. I'll get in touch with him next week.
I do have a friend here locally who can do the powdercoating, I'll probably just go with black to match the tank n' fenders.