Casting: One of the boldest design choices in the Ti100 is Trika's use of full ceramic ABEC7 spool bearings. While these bearings are more expensive than traditional steel or hybrid options, they provide the reel with a distinct performance, sound, and personality. Ceramic bearings aren't for everyone - they produce a higher-pitched sound and have a unique feel - but after a few minutes casting the T100, you might just become a convert.

Trika went to great lengths to impact the performance and refinement of the Ti100 starting with the machined line guide

Trika's decision to use two full ceramic ABEC7 bearings in the spool is primarily aimed at maximizing casting distance. These bearings are lighter, harder, smoother, and more water-resistant than their steel counterparts, with a lower coefficient of friction. They're also less affected by heat, offering greater durability over time. While these benefits come at a higher cost, they allow a well-designed spool to start up quickly, cast farther, and maintain peak performance over extended use.

I was constantly impressed by how solid and powerful the Ti100 felt under load

The Ti100 prototype we tested was already a strong caster, but its original ceramic bearings produced a very obvious whine. Over time, the reel became quieter as the bearings wore in, and all without any additional lubrication. Fast forward to the production model, and the out-of-the-box casting performance matched the prototype but with significantly less noise. It's clear Trika has fine-tuned both the bearings and their integration into the overall casting system.

The externally adjustable magnetic cast control feels familiar and is easy to dial in

An experienced caster can come close to spooling the Ti100 when throwing heavier baits, thanks to how quickly the spool starts up with the ceramic bearings. However, raw distance without accuracy isn't always a worthwhile trade-off. Trika accounts for this with a magnetic cast control system, which helps keep casts under control while allowing for precise adjustments via an external clicking dial.

Taking a look under the non-handle sideplate

I found the system intuitive and easy to fine-tune. On higher settings, the magnetic brake and spool tension knob can feel a bit aggressive, noticeably reducing casting distance but effectively preventing overruns. Personally, I only turned the brakes past 20 when casting in strong winds.

The Ti100's spool is particularly interesting as it features a titanium shaft and full ceramic support bearings

Trika tends to make bold claims about their rod and reel performance, but when it comes to casting, the Ti100 delivers. The ceramic bearings start up fast, hold up well over time, and while louder than steel bearings, they give the Ti100 a distinct personality - one that I find fun and engaging to fish with.

The full ABECS7 ceramic bearings (Si3N4 balls) with PEEK retainer cages help deliver a very unique casting experience

A common question anglers will likely have is how the Ti100 compares to the Bates Hundo. Both reels offer great ergonomics, but the Hundo leans more toward finesse techniques, while the Ti100 is built for power fishing. Despite having similar cast control systems, the Ti100's ceramic bearings create a completely different casting experience. Additionally, we noticed that the clutch on the Ti100 requires more force to engage, which helps minimize accidental engagements during casts.

Casting is managed via the magnetic casting system

Though the two reels may look similar, they fish very differently due to their materials, casting characteristics, and overall design philosophy.
Retrieve: The Ti100 may not be the smoothest reel on the market when cranking, but it still delivers a refined and powerful retrieve. The CNC-machined aluminum frame provides a solid, high-end feel and does an excellent job of maintaining gear and bearing alignment.

The second full ceramic bearing is nested inside the non-handle sideplate's magnetic raceway

Where the Ti100 truly excels is when retrieving resistant lures or fighting fish. Despite its compact size, the reel delivers consistent cranking power that feels light and efficient, even under load. This is a major advantage of the billet aluminum frame, which offers greater rigidity compared to cast aluminum or composite-bodied reels - both of which can sometimes feel hollow, and even exhibit noticeable flex under pressure.

Though small, the Ti100 feels like a brawler once a fish is on the line. It delivers a level of power and solidity that’s unexpected for a reel of this size.

The ceramic bearings require no maintenance and the final version is quieter and smoother than what we first experienced in the prototype reel

The biggest limitation in the current Ti100 lineup is that it's only available in a 7.1:1 gear ratio. While this is a versatile choice, allowing anglers to speed up or slow down their retrieve depending on the lure, it would be great to see additional options in the future - such as a slower cranking ratio for deep-diving baits, and a higher-speed 8:1 version for power fishing applications.

Weight reduction is a factor on the Ti100 with examples like the ported drag star, but the reel feels very solid throughout

Next: Titanium used in the drag