Chrome handle
 

Maybe there's a better place for this and if so I apologize and if recommended I'll post there. I have a 126 and my question is I've noticed I have a chrome handle on the right side is there a reason or meaning as to why some were made this way?

Sitting on the 126 the handle on the right is to lift implements attached to the tractor. The one on the left is to engage the PTO.

You can learn all about your tractor (and other stuff) from the Operator's Manual found in this site's Tecnical Library....
https://www.onlycubcadets.net/forum/...ead.php?t=4664

Chrome handle
 

I guess I should be more specific. I've noticed that some handles are chrome and some are not both being the handle on the right if sitting on it so my question is why were some chrome when some where not

Well, the only other option would have been bare metal w/rust .....or paint.
Which is yours?

My 125 and 124 handles are chrome.

I'm making an assumption here.... I think when IH were manufacturing the tractors they would get the rods in chrome from their supplier(s) and attach it to the lower part of rod assembly. The chrome was probably already masked off for painting (protection , actually) by the supplier.

The older models had painted handles, like the cub cadet Original, 70, 71, 100, etc....the ones made in the early and mid to late 60's. Eventually, IH probably went to chrome for the better, more eye appealing look than stick with the painted ones. I am not for sure exactly when the change occurred, but my 123 (1967) still had the painted handle, but I think by 1969 they were chrome. The chrome handles were probably first put on the cubs that came out with the QA (quick-attach) feature.

Cub Cadet 123