Another item worth noting is the Quid stem boxes are marked as 3T racing series components, but we have noted in some of our 3T catalogs that these stems have also been classified as more of a sport/fitness offering. We mention this, because we believe the Quid model, although very nice, is probably considered one step below some of 3T's other quill stem offerings (like the Record 84, Motus, Evol 2002, etc.). It's still a very nice design, finish, etc., but probably not the best choice in a stem that will be subject to high stress brought about by competitive riding/training/racing. Our best guess is that under such duress, this stem may flex a bit more then some of 3T's higher-end offerings.

We are spending a little more time inspecting each of these retail boxed stems, as we near the end of our stocks. Honestly, we may be splitting hairs with some of these inspections, as none of them are cosmetically perfect upon close scrutiny. Although, any cosmetic issues are usually fairly minor and may consist of, among other things, small blemishes in the form of forging/finishing imperfections coming out of the factory. In other words, we sometimes observe small/shallow dimples, pin-sized holes, thin lines, etc. in the stem body that appear to be the result of an imperfect forging process. We believe this to be something that occurred at the factory, because the anodized finish does not appear to be disturbed in these areas...meaning the finishing/anodizing process was completed after the forging imperfections were created. We also see some instances where the stem may not have been properly cleaned prior to the anodized finishing work. More specifically, there may be some other small cosmetic irregularities on the stem body (i.e., there may be some small/residual metal pieces, etc. that should have been cleaned/removed from the stem body, but were instead covered by the anodized finish). Lastly, we will sometimes identify some shopwear (i.e., light scuffs/scratches) in the anodized finish that is likely the result of several years of storage time. Listing Update...We have begun updating the pictures to reflect the next stem that will sell/ship. Although, please keep in mind the minor blemishes and shopwear do not always show up as well in the pictures as I would like...and just want to be honest with folks on this point. To this end, I see some minor forging/finishing imperfections on the stem body and maybe some light shopwear. Although upon close inspection, this particular stem still shows fairly well. Please also note that while we may have multiple quantities listed for sale, we will repeatedly update the pictures to reflect the next offering that will sell/ship.

Listing Update (To International Customers)...
This is not so much an update as it is a response to international customers requesting a less expensive shipping option for one of these stems. As we state in our Terms and Conditions, we cannot ship more expensive parts (including one of these stems) with a shipping service that does not include tracking and insurance, because we cannot afford to indemnify an international customer for a lost or damaged package out of our own pocket. So this generally requires that we ship one of these stems with US Postal Priority Mail International Shipping Service. Although, we understand this service has become quite expensive to most international destinations. With this in mind, there may be one other trackable and insurable shipping service that is less expensive (the US Postal Priority Mail International Padded Mailer). Now this is not an ideal option, because the triangular-shaped 3T stem boxes will just barely fit in one of these mailers (so the boxes will probably show-up in fairly rough shape to most international destinations). Although, we pack each of these stems quite well in additional bubble wrap, before shipping in it's original retail (triangular-shaped) box. So between this added layer of bubble wrap, the retail box and the aforementioned padded mailer (not to mention the insurance to cover any damage to the stem while en route), there should be little risk of damage (to the stem) or loss to a customer. As alluded to above, the retail box is probably a different story, but if you don't mind a heavily shopworn box upon receipt, then there is probably an opportunity to receive one of these stems for a slightly reduced Priority Mail International shipping rate. Lastly, please note the US Postal Priority Mail International Padded Mailer option will be the second option you will see upon checkout, so you will have to select this shipping option to receive the lower Priority Mail International shipping rate. I hope my notes are helpful concerning international shipping, but if you have any questions, please let me know.

Note to international customers regarding customs...
We also apologize to those that feel their country import taxes, duties and brokerage fees are excessive. As a small US business, we are required by customs' laws to declare each order as a retail sale. Additionally, the declared order value must be equal to total store purchases and/or winning auction bids (less any shipping costs, as these are not considered in the declared value). As a result, each customer will be responsible for paying his/her own country taxes, duties and brokerage fees, which will be collected upon delivery. Again, we apologize for these additional costs, but we cannot afford the penalties and fines that come with breaking customs' laws...so we have to strictly abide by them.