Can anyone explain this concept to me? How are they constructed? What is the claimed benefit? Thanks

They probably keep the chain from sawing through the paint on the chainstays when in the cobbles. Interesting Belgian take on it, but ride quality improvement is hooey.

Higher profits.

They are stickers, IMHO. We got one in and all had a hardy laugh once we saw it. Guy bought it over the internet. The thing is, with carbon stays being so cheap why not just use the real thing?

They do kind of look like stickers don't they? Looking closly it seems to be 1 (2?) layer of carbon fiber cloth wrapped around the chainstays. The leader has it only on the drive side. I assume the chain stays are scandium aluminum like the rest of the frame, but what effect would a wrapping have?

My 04' Merckx Race has the carbon wrapped "sticker" BUT just aft of the "sticker"
I have several chips in the paint on the frame. I know the chain strikes it but WHY????????? HOW????????? Big bumps are my guess.

It kinda' ticks me off they didn't run the length it prevent this.

Is it more than $12.99? <a href="http://www.performancebike.com/shop/Profile.cfm?SKU=16462&Store=Bike" target="_blank">http://www.performancebike.com/shop/Profile.cfm?SKU=16462&Store=Bike</a>

that their main function is to protect the stays in case the chain comes off, or something to that effect. I have a Team SC ane it is a very nice ride.

It sure is a sweet ride!
No complaints here!

I think it might help take up some road shock.
It might also protect the chainstays from denting.
I have seen tubing on these newer (AL) bikes dent real easy down there.