Hmmm ... I bought a carbon frame on eBay that had been repaired post-chain drop. The seller claimed "LBS inspected, cosmetic only, gouges filled, repainted". I proceeded to build it up with an expensive gruppo. 2,000 miles later, it has yet to asplode on me. I did baby it at first, and I continue to check the chainstay area periodically. I'll bomb down hill on it today without a second thought.

I once saw carbon handlebars snap off at the stem in a pro race. It wasn't a pretty sight ...

I would not purchase used carbon handlebars. I would not purchase new made-in-China carbon bars, wheelsets, or a "Chinarello".

So why did I buy the KNOWN damaged frame with no guarantee I wasn't purchasing a ticking time bomb? A good question. Maybe it was a stupid move, and I just got lucky (at least so far). All I can say is I wanted that particular frame, the price was right, and I figured "if one chainstay breaks when I'm at speed, the other chainstay is there, as are both seat stays and the seat tube - hopefully that will maintain enough stability for a safe stop".