who cares if the pipes are powdercoated or not? powdercoating, it doesnt magically add 50 rwhp.
1) aluminum is lighter than mild steel 2) with aluminum you dont need to powdercoat 3) aluminum costs a lot more than mild steel 4) TOM custom makes each set for each customer, i'm sure if you really wanted to use mild steel or if you want them powerdercoated he might be able to accomodate you. 5) ive had my set for over a year. No waiting 2 years or however long it was 6) who cares if you can see tig welds or not? i'm looking for form over function