That is a problem I have had with CF. You usually don't know who really built it, and under the clear coat and paint it's hard to tell what you really have. Im not in the steel is real crowd (raced one of the first OCLV's on the road), but have to admit it is easier to spot a crappy lug or poor brazing. Someone can say Kestrel has issues, you hear about Madone BB's cracking. Antidotal and invisible to the eye problems, not a great confidence builder. I would be interested in more detail on quality issues as well, then I could scratch Kestrel off my list or keep it on.