Both failures were not catastophic. This was financially catastrophic in that I had to have the next set installed at our state MS 150 ride. What I learned was that most times when carbon bars break it occurs at spot where the break levers are clamped-this is a poor installation issue. Right about where the bars begin to curve down off the top there is a joint. It is glued together just like a coupling on fly rod. You see a crack when the tape's off, andt the lower part will detach from the upper.
The handlebar tape kept it from failing catastrophically.
I was told by my wonderful LBS that new models are wider,requiring a new stem. This was done so that the stems can be used on both road and mountain bikes.
Easton has agreed to give me all new-Bars and Stems. That was only made possible by the great customer care I get at my LBS. I could imagine trying to deal with a Mail Order Outfit-1 year after the fact.
New Eastons are one piece, so the joint glue issue should not be a factor.
Thanks for your responses