After months of waiting and finding… finally manage to get myself a decent BC reel… have to thank some of the recommendation from this forum as well, namely StewartK, nyamaoan & PHILLIP
The new Revo Elite IB
So here’s a newbie review, since I haven’t caught a biggie on it yet… and have not really used other more “expensive” reel yet…
first of all…
1.) Looks - One of the best looking reel I’ve seen so far… the chrome, black & red just compliments each other very well… and the carbon fibre handle makes it even more “sexier” :icon_thumright: Only downside to it is that it’s a real fingerprint magnet as with any other chrome reel (or mobile phone). which doesn’t really bother me much, after all it’s meant to be used and not (so much) to be looked at [:p]
2.) Ergonomics - Just like any Revo’s the reel sits pretty low on the rod which makes it quite easy to palm. The swept handle also makes it nicer to crank as it stays nearer to the reel body and theoretically better balance/leverage on cranking power (as was told by a friend). The weight of the reel is also quite balance as the dual braking (more on that later) makes it heavier on the non handle side, and the carbon-fibre handle is really light, hence don’t get the “heavier on one side” feel as with standard reels.
The EVA knob also has a nice feel to it, non-slippery when wet and also contributed to the lighter weight. More comfortable than a standard plastic or rubber knob.
3.) Features -
a.) Dual braking system- as someone puts it, you’re getting the best of both worlds. I’ve tested so far the best setting (for my application) is with 1 centrifugal, 0-3 magnetic brag for generally heavier lures like pencils and poppers. Was able to cast really far… estimate about 30m+ eg: with a 9cm skitterpop. Also using quite a stiff 10-20lb 6"8’ rod. I felt that if the centrifugal brake is set to 2 or above, it doesn’t really want to, even with the mag settings set to 0. maybe it would be more suitable for pitching, as I have yet to master the skill of pitching nor have i the best rod to pitch, so can’t really comment.
b.) Drag - tested (with thumb) similar to 2010 STX (which belongs to a friend), should be around 20lb. although rated at 6KG(13lb). Do not have a machine to test, so hard to confirm.
c.) gear ratio - 6.4:1 - fast enuff for me... and very smooth, quite similar to some of the shimano's I've tested.
d.) weight - 198g - need I say more [8D]
e.) Line capacity - 0.30mm - 145m, 5 meter extra if compared to STX
f.) Lightweight aircraft aluminum wiffle spool - at least that's wat stated on the box la... [:D]
In Conclusion, I was really satisfied with the purchase and look forward to get some big fishes at the end of the line… maybe will try it on saltwater next time..
Pros:
- Sexy chrome finish
- carbon fiber swept handle
- lightweight, balanced
- able to cast light lures - tried with small S.P with small sinker, estimate about 5-7g
- dual braking - more settings to play around with
- strong brakes
- smooth & solid feeling
- comfortable EVA knob
Cons:
- Fingerprint magnet - due to the chrome finish
- paint (or transparent layer) started to peel a bit near the thumb release(not sure what’s it called hahaha), not sure due to my carelessness or defect. Didn’t affect any functionality of cos[;)]
- slightly heavier if compared to premier or elite CB GP, extra weight which I’m willing to sacrifice for the dual brake.
Disclaimer: All I’ve written is based on my personal preference/experience, and my experience with BC reels are also quite limited. [:I]
- Team BKT - U4 2006 *
Fishing & TKSS… http://www.fishingkopitiam.com
