Daiwa prepares to release new Steez Fle-X-Lite rods specifically for crankbait
and jerkbait applications
Date: |
6/12/08 |
Tackle type: |
Rods |
Manufacturer: |
Daiwa |
Reviewer: |
Zander |
Introduction:
Daiwa gives us another peek
inside the ICAST war chest
with new additions to the
company’s premium Steez
rods. Daiwa’s new
state-of-the-art Steez™ SVF
Fle-X-Lite™ bass-fishing
rods combine the flexibility
of fiberglass with the
lightweight, high-strength
properties of SVF Graphite
for ultimate cranking and
jerkbait fishing
performance.The original
Steez rod lineup was
designed primarily for
plastics and contact bait
fishing. The introduction of
the new flipping model mid
year further extended the
range of applications for
the series, and found
another use for the
company’s unique graphite
design and implementation.
Daiwa's latest SVF
Fle-X-Lite rods incorporate
the latest composition and
construction.
Daiwa adds five new rods to their
Steez lineup, and they are SVF-Fiberglass hybrids designed specifically for
cranking. Here are the three trigger rods...
Model |
Power |
Taper |
Length |
Pieces |
Line Wt. |
Lure Wt. |
No. |
Number |
|
|
Feet |
|
(Lb.) |
(Ounces) |
Guides |
SVF FLE-X-LITE TRIGGER RODS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
STZ651MLRBA-FL |
ML |
R |
6' 5" |
1 |
6 - 16 |
3/32 - 3/4 |
9 |
STZ701MRBA-FL |
M |
R |
7' |
1 |
8 - 20 |
1/8 - 1 |
9 |
STZ721MHRBA-FL |
MH |
R |
7' 2" |
1 |
12 - 25 |
1/4 - 1 3/8 |
9 |
SVF FLE-X-LITE SPINNING RODS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
STZ661MLFSA-FL |
ML |
F |
6' 6" |
1 |
4 - 10 |
1/32 - 1/4 |
8 |
STZ701MFSA-FL |
M |
F |
7' |
1 |
6 - 14 |
1/16 - 1/2 |
9 |
Designed specifically for
cranking applications, the new series will include three trigger and two
spinning rods. These Steez SVF Fle-X-Lite Rods are designed to offer anglers the
distinct advantages of SVF (Super High Volume Fiber) Graphite technology. SVF
packs unidirectional graphite fiber into a denser form with exact resin control,
this results in greater overall strength, lighter weight and excellent
sensitivity. With the combination of fiberglass the Steez Fle-X-Lite rods are
designed to provide the perfect amount of flexibility for crankbait fishing
success. The soft “giving” action of the blank allows fish to inhale a lure
deeper before feeling any resistance, increasing the chances of a hook-up. At
the same time the blank flexes just enough to absorb shock and help prevent fine
wire hooks from tearing loose, then it quickly transitions into serious backbone
for optimum fish control.
...Daiwa also has two new spinning
rods
Daiwa’s Steez SVF
Fle-X-Lite Rods will also feature high end components including Fuji®
Titanium-framed SiC guides the same slick machined aluminum reel clamp nut
(albeit in a different color) that is used on the current rods and replaces the
seldom-used traditional rod foregrip, eliminating excess weight while locking
the reel securely in place. Each Steez SVF Fle-X-Lite model also features an
ergonomic Air-Beam™ reel seat that reduces rod weight, fits easily in the user’s
hand and adds to the overall aesthetics. Rod weight is reduced further by Air
Foam™ grips, which supply a comfortable, secure hold, yet are lighter than cork
or ordinary EVA foam. Overall the rods have minor color differences with the
current rods but are easily identifiable, and bear an ito-esque color
combination. As expected the Steez SVF Fle-X-Lite rods come with Daiwa’s Limited
Lifetime Warranty.
A closer look at the new handles,
and the sweet ito-esque color scheme
These exciting new rods
will be available right after ICAST and retail prices will range from $419.95 to
$449.95 depending upon the specific model. There is no doubt that these new rods
were designed in parallel with the new higher gear ratio Steez reels, and when
anglers think about a premium cranking outfit, this new offering has
“enthusiast” written all over it. Daiwa is making a serious statement with these
offerings, and the best part….they still have additional surprises up their
sleeves for ICAST.