Difference between Chrome and Mirror polished

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Nov 28, 2006 | 01:03 AM

BLCK PRL

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From: Missoula Montana

Difference between Chrome and Mirror polished

I noticed that finish on CCW wheels is "mirror polished". What is the difference, appearance wise, between the "mirror polished" wheels and chrome wheels. TIA

Nov 28, 2006 | 11:01 AM

rocco16

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From: SCMR Rat Pack'r Charter Member..Great Bend KS

The difference in appearance is slight (I prefer the polished to the chrome), but the difference in upkeep/maintenance is huge.

Larry
code5coupe

Nov 30, 2006 | 08:02 PM

NYCHASM

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From: Probably talking that police officer out of giving you a summons! ========== The Beautiful Lower Hudson Valley, NY

St. Jude Donor '08-'09

Quote:

Originally Posted by BLCK PRL

I noticed that finish on CCW wheels is "mirror polished". What is the difference, appearance wise, between the "mirror polished" wheels and chrome wheels. TIA

"Mirror polished" would be polished aluminum. Chrome would be plating applied to a steel wheel. I don't think you can "chrome" aluminum.

A polished wheel can be clearcoated so that there is no additonal polishing required to maintain the shine.

Charlie

Dec 2, 2006 | 07:27 PM

SR71

Burning Brakes

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From: Knoxville TN

stick with polished. at least they will never rust.

Dec 3, 2006 | 01:04 AM

Mr. Lucky

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From: Newark, DE

St. Jude Donor '06

Quote:

Originally Posted by BLCK PRL

What is the difference, appearance wise, between the "mirror polished" wheels and chrome wheels.

They look very similar, but there are two important differences. Polished will require much more upkeep to stay looking like new. Chrome, although easier to care for, is very unforgiving if you scratch or damage the surface (i.e., it's not a DIY job to fix it).

Quote:

Originally Posted by NYCHASM

I don't think you can "chrome" aluminum.

Millions of Harley owners would disagree that statement.

Dec 4, 2006 | 03:06 PM

3rd Childhood

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From: Durham NC

Quote:

Originally Posted by NYCHASM

Sure you can plate aluminum. Most, if not all, of the chrome wheels for sale are aluminum.

Dec 4, 2006 | 03:17 PM

rocco16

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From: SCMR Rat Pack'r Charter Member..Great Bend KS

Quote:

Originally Posted by NYCHASM

I don't think you can "chrome" aluminum.

A polished wheel can be clearcoated so that there is no additonal polishing required to maintain the shine.

I would have to disagree.

Aluminum can be chromed.
None of the wheel manufacturers (none that I'm aware of, anyway) will clearcoat a polished wheel. Reason: the clear paint won't adhere to a polished surface.

That's why polished wheels are such a PITA to maintain....

Larry
code5coupe