thanks for all the input guys. As for just buying new bars with the cross bar , I don't have a BMX stem that would allow me to install the bars. I'm pretty much stuck with the stem I got.... a Gary Fisher 1.25 dia odd ball size that cost me $50. This is going on a mt. tandem that I'm going for a clunker/baja/enduro look with. I may end up fabricating the cross bar but I no longer have access to a Bridgeport. ....!