right now I have stock handle bars 1" in diameter, and I saw a set of buckhorns on craigslist for fairly cheap but they are 7/8" in diameter, is there any way I could make the switch without compromising the handling?

 

None of your controls will work with the 7/8th bars.

 

In short, no! Not only will the controls not fit, but the bars won't fit in your handlebar clamps. Just go and buy a set of new bars you want, it will be quicker and simpler! Ebay has bars as well.