I've heard reports of candy's breaking, but never the chrome or stainless. Have you seen/heard of both types faililng? And in what way did they break? (hit rock? too many engage/disengages?)

I'm curious because I ride them. I haven't ever had problems and I LOVE them. I have not used other clipless systems, so I don't feel that it is fair to weigh in, but I can say I don't have any troubles with them.

On the other hand, SPD systems are moderately less expensive.