Brett
I always use aluminum conduit for water tubes, it bends nicely with one on those cheapo pipe benders since conduit comes in the same generic sizes as schedule pipe. Also, for those really tight bends one can purchase aluminum elbows in 45 and 90 degree turns, the radius on these is about 2 1/2" on centerline, and they will really fit those tight places. You can cut the aluminum tubes with a medium sized tubing cutter, or even a wood cutting band saw works well, just spray a little WD40 or equiv in the blade and you are off to the races. The aluminum conduit is nice and soft, bens easily without kinks, and can be purchased at any electrical supply. The aluminum elbows we use come from an architectural supply house (railings and related fittings), and I believe they run about $6.00 ea, pretty cheap!. As far as the bead at the end of the tube, I have seen a tool similar to a bead roller that beads up the ends of the tubes and prevents the splices from sliding off, this is particularly important when using silicone hose. Also if you are using silicone hose make sure the clamps have an inner shield to prevent the silicone hose from extruding thru the slots in the clamp.
Good Luck
Phil