Originally Posted by nmichell
So when Boeing starts selling their 787 carbon fibre plane I guess you won't be flying on it

No.
Carbon fibre is a special material for a special use. It is not a strong material and can get damaged by abuse very easily. Hence in the hands of the average person I would not trust C.F. to be strong enough.
When it comes to The highly technical manufacture as used in Transport (Planes, Boats, Cars) There would be certain safety margins built in like being overbuilt and testing before it could be deemed as safe. However, as an example,- What happens to the body work of a Formula 1 car in an accident? And although that is not overbuilt, it is tested and x rayed before use and F1 body work can fail without an accident.
I used to be a glass Fibre laminator and had to repair too many Boats that have had a slight knock last year that has gradually caused a problem that is now severe, so I do talk with some knowledge.
To trust my backside to a seat post that can fail at any time with the loose shards of pointed glass sticking upwards, is not something that I would readily do.