What size round stock for sissy bar?

[DeathTrapFXR]

Hey, I'm making a sissy bar for my 79 FXDL and was wondering what a good size for round stock would be? I have some OEM harley sissy bar mounting plates, so I want to make sure that the round stock isn't too big to fit inside the mounts.

I would just go measure the size of the mounts, but I'm at work and wanted to pick up the round stock when I get off.

also if ya'll have any cool photos of your homemade sissy bars it'd be cool to see um

[brach77]

I used 1/2" round stock and it fit the factory plates very well.

[BadMonkeyMW]

Yep, 1/2" is the standard.

[Deckard43]

I used 1/2" on mine. I wish i would have went 5/8. It shakes alot at idle. I'm sure when i get my king/queen bolted up it wont anymore.

[hutchings]

Depends how tall you're planning on making it, 1/2" is the standard that most use.

But if it's really tall 5/8" might be a better choice for added rigidity.

Oh, and make sure you use COLD ROLLED round stock too.

[CRFyou]

How tall is it going to be?

I use 5/8 on anything taller than a short loop.

If it's going to be used to strap shit to or a back rest, I'd use 5/8 and not worry about it.

My BSA is rocking 5/8 and it's solid as shit. I could put a fat chick back there no problem.

Getting this shit chromed and painted this week....

[brooklynbomber]

What about using stainless? Not wanting to powder or chrome mine.

[redasphalt3]

I made one with 7/16 the other day, seems solid enough to me. The thicker they are the heavier the vibrations.

[DeathTrapFXR]

I'm gonna pick up some 5/8's cold rolled tomorrow, its only gonna be 7 dollars and some change for a 6ft piece, so if it doesn't work out i'll buy another size. Thanks for the input really helped me out, I'll put up a picture of it once it's on the bike.

[brooklynbomber]

Looking to do a sissybar thats about 36"-40" from lower mount on drop out to tip. Planning on strapping a bunch of shit to it all the time, having my lady on the back every once and awhile. I'd prefer stainless steel so I dont have to chrome or paint. Any issues with this height on a harder material like stainless? 9/16"-5/8" material preferred. How is this material to bend? I'll be using MAP gas to do my bends.

[gypdawg]

Me and a buddy just did mine yesterday, I used 1/2' round bar. Did it 16' up off fender.Its sturdy as hell. I was going to do a thread on it,but you guys know what your'e doing already.

[porkchop5000]

1/2" or 5/8"? depends on the look you want. i like the 1/2" for long bikes. and stainless is your best bet! polish it out and itll shine forever!