Don Steel wrote on 02/13/08 at 05:06:24:Kwaknut. I'm doing something similar with mine. Polished casings, etc. Just deciding what colour to do the barrel, black or silver!? Mine is in pretty grotty order, so will need to be either!
I wouldn't minded of doing my paintwork Matt black, however have just done it Ford Imperial Blue with ghost flames on in silver. I'll post some pics sometime. The trouble is, she's taking so long to build back up, I quite fancy the matt black colour which has become popular!
It's a matter of personal choice, but if you're painting the bike a dark blue, I'd suggest silver barrel. It makes the bike look the business with dark paint.
Compare these two shots. Admittedly the silver-barrelled one has had some well-balanced work done and looks better anyway, but the overall effect of the barrel is much cleaner and, for me, looks ten times better.
I think that the aluminium finish makes the barrel look bigger too - maybe that's just a macho thing wanting the thumper to look like it's a bigger motor, but I think it's a nice aspect of the look of the bike.
Down to personal preference though, some owners will much prefer a black barrel!!