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Originally Posted by Rideskinz

Just a FYI for you guys who want to know more about carbon fiber parts...

Basically there are three different types of resins (or clear glues) that can be used when producing carbon fiber parts. Having worked a lot with composites (carbon fiber/fiberglass/kevlar) in the past, I can tell you the best carbon fiber/epoxy resin parts are made for Formula One racing.

Here are the differences in the three different types of resin:

Epoxy resin is extremely flexible. The flexibility allows a carbon fiber product to absorb a high level of impact force without breaking. Epoxy resin does not spider-crack. When epoxy reaches its maximum bending potential, it will form only a single crack at the stress point. Epoxy resin has a transparent finish that allows the deep, black 3D appearance of the carbon fiber to show through. Epoxy resin does not shrink and is 100% UV resistant.

Polyester resin is what a lot of aftermarket companies use because of the low cost. Polyester has a blueish finish instead of a clear finish, is inflexible and will spider-crack at the mere thought of bending. Excessive amounts of polyester resin need to be used during the molding process. This adds considerable weight to the product and defeats the purpose of purchasing lightweight carbon fiber. Polyester resin will shrink over time and alter the shape of the final product, resulting in installation headaches and additional modifications for fit. Polyester resin is not UV resistant and will turn yellow over time.

Vinyl-ester resins are midway between polyesters and epoxy resins. Vinyl-esters are more tolerant of stretching than polyesters. This makes them more able to absorb impact without damage. They are also less likely to show stress cracking. Vinyl-esters are less sensitive to ambient conditions (temperature and humidity) than are polyesters.

Good info.