I am going to purchase either a Revo S or Citica E but have a question. Why is it that most all of Shimano's reels have such a low bearing count but the comparably priced Revos have such a high bearing count?

Is there a difference in the bearings that they use? Are the bearings in the Shimanos better therefore they can use less?

I don't get it.

I don't know why, but my Curado E and my Chronarch Mg outperform all the Revos I've owned. Don't get me wrong, I liked the Revos-especially the S model, but they didn't compare side-by-side.

I say it's just a ford/chevy thing (which tells you how far Abu has come since the introduction of the Revo line).

Especially from this lefty's prospective where Abu has MANY more options, Abu has evened the score for their mainstream reels.

I have a 2010 Revo Premier, and it's the best performing reel I've ever used (and that includes the 51mg).

Abu needs a Premier with a different ratio (like a 5.4:1 and a 7:1) to complete their lineup...


To answer the original question, most of the increase in bearing count comes from the handle on Revos(most have 4 bearings in the handle, 2 per knob), and by nature those are cheaper/lowr performing bearings much like spinning reel bearings. They don't have to be high performance bearings because it's just not necessary, unlike spool bearings which are capable of much higher RPM's.

I would say that the bearings the 2 companies use are comparable especially ARB's vs. HPCR bearings...

So the idea of buying a reel beacuse it has more bearings is bogus because it is more of a marketing tactic by the reel companies?

Kind-of it depends on where they are putting the bearings. More bearings in the handle doesn't help casting.

don't forget to check ebay before you buy

Mostly yes. In the old days, bearing count was something to really watch. Of course, reel manufacturers noticed this and took advantage of it.

Now don't get me wrong, you still need a certain number of bearings to have a good reel, but 8 or 10 bearings is just not necessary. Shimano Calcutta's are some of the best, longest lasting reels ever made. And they had what, 2 or 3 bearings ???

I put a non bearing handle on one of my Revo S's (for kayaking), and I can hardly tell the difference during the actual use of the reel...

However, newer reels that use nylon bushings are almost as good as bearings, but older reels sometimes have problems staying smooth/quiet. That's where handle bearings can make a difference vs. non, but there's not too much difference in a reel that just has quality built bushings in the handle (see current Ambassadeur handles).

some reels design doesn't require as many bearings...Like most high bearings reels have the inside at the end of the crankshaft, whereas in say an ambassadeur the crankshaft is drilled and rotates around a shaft that is fixed to the frame, which makes it rotate just as smoothly as if it had a bearing there.

Quantums have a bearing on the outside of the roller (that one's ASKING to get corrosion if used in salt)...and I hate that bearing.

as long as reel has at least 2 bearing supporting the spool and an anti-reverse roller, the rest is up to how well the parts are manufactured for the most part.

The biggest difference you will "feel" is the huge amount of plastic/graphite used in the Citica 200E. The Citica uses plastic/graphite for both sideplates, drag star, front support. It does have an aluminum frame. It really feels cheap IMO. The Revos uses an aluminum handle side sideplate. This coupled with its aluminum frame keeps the gears aligned. I do, however, prefer the way the Citica is built on the inside. Proven design.

I have both reels and i prefer the citicas b/c they just cast further. if you are flipping wont matter. I have a prototype H2O Menace redesigned for 2010 and it blows these reels out of the water. 10 bearings, wiffle spool, drilled handle, drilled drag knob, and silky smooth. Also only about 7 ounces and $99. SHould be available in stores feb. WILL NEVER PAY FOR OVERPRICED REELS AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!

More than 4 is just gonna cost you more money. Stick with the Revo S.

I have had 3 revo s's and one sx. I would say hands down citica 200e is tons better, smoother and cast further. I am selling my revo sx high speed also. I have several citica 200 dsv's if interested?

+1

Sounds like I might be the minority but I will take a Revo over a Citica any day and yes I have both reel types.

I'd take a revo over a shimano anyday.... but this is all subjective.