i'm leaving the gas tank and steering conponants natural steel but how do you keep them from rusting thanks Greg

try http://www.por15.com/
It is supposed to be a not only a superior rust preventative paint, but also you can paint it over rust, it is supposed to bond and stop rust forever. It jas a hard black glassy surface. They have an eval kit. I got it but haven't tried it yet.

Greg,
You can have bare steel parts clear powdercoated. It looks bitchin'- we do BMX bikes and parts like handlebars in clear powder. The only drawback is it has a glossy look to it, so if your going for a resto look it may not be right. I've used Krylon Dullcoat before with good success on suspension and brake parts. Don't spray it on too heavy though cause it will blush.
Hope this helps- Pete

POR15 also makes a non-yellowing clear that can be used on bumpers, gas tanks, etc.