I can't believe I'm even considering buying these things, but here goes.....

So when looking for the stuff on the open market what should I look out for?

I have no trouble buying these things when they are being made in generic Aluminum, but if they are CF it seems like I should be sticking to brand name stuff.

I'll go peruse roadbikereviews as well, but what does the collective consciousness here say?

Sorry if this the equivalent of a double vs triple thread. Normally I don't pay attention to such threads although I did read that CF seatpost thread-"Carbon seatposts-the cycling equivalent of the rear spoiler"

I'm sure overtightened bolts and such is probably murder on these parts.

1. Do I use a stem with a four bolt clamp with CF handlebars?

2. Do any particular CF seatposts have a bad design?