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Reel Preview


The introduction of a meaner greener Curado, and an enhanced Citica
 

Date: 6/19/08
Tackle type: Reels
Manufacturer: Shimano
Reviewer: Zander








Introduction: With rumors and blurry snapshots of the soon to be announced Curado E popping up all over the internet we have finally obtained concrete details of the next evolution of the popular series, as well as a first look at the enhanced new Citica E. 

 


Finally, a clear look at the upcoming Curado E

 

Model Number   Line Retrieve  per Crank (in.)   Max Drag (lbs.) S A-RB Ball Bearings Shielded Stainless Steel Ball Bearings A-RB Roller Clutch Bearings Gear Ratio Weight (oz.) MSRP
Retrieve Line Capacity (# test/yd)
CU200E7 Right 30 8/180, 10/155, 14/110 11.0 1 5 1 7.0:1 7.6 $179.99
CU201E7 Left 30 8/180, 10/155, 14/110 11.0 1 5 1 7.0:1 7.6 $179.99
CU200E5 Right 21 8/180, 10/155, 14/110 12.0 1 5 1 5.0:1 7.6 $179.99
CU300E Right 28 12/240, 14/190, 20/120 15.0 1 5 1 6.2:1 10.5 $249.99
CU301E Left 28 12/240, 14/190, 20/120 15.0 1 5 1 6.2:1 10.5 $249.99

No other baitcaster is of more importance in the Shimano lineup than the venerable Curado. Sure there are higher end reels, but the Curado is the most popular reel in the company's lineup due to both features and price. Since 1991 when the series was first introduced anglers have turned to the Curado as the benchmark for modern day baitcasters. Just as anglers took notice, so have the competitors.

 
The Curado E features a brand new footprint, one that is smaller and lighter (by over 2oz.) than the Curado D!

With increased pressure from the Daiwa Zillion and the Abu Garcia Revo series reels the stakes couldn't be any higher. Shimano is preparing to introduce a completely redesigned Curado bearing a more traditional darker shade of green (similar to the 100B) than the current Curado D and a major upgrade in features.


The Curado E7 will be a burner reel with a 7.0:1 gear ratio, notice the enlarged gearbox on the handle side... this houses the updated HEG gearing

The first thing that anglers will notice about the new series is that the reels start in 200 size as the redesigned reels are much smaller and lighter than the previous model. Compare the Curado E's weigh in of only 7.6oz versus the Curado D's weight of 9.8oz. The Curado E has been designed with a major improvement of ergonomics in mind, and is sculpted to be extremely comfortable to palm. While Shimano manages to shrink the footprint of the 200 they increase the bearing count from 5 to 7, and keep the HEG (High Efficiency Gearing) intact. The Curado E will feature an aluminum frame and graphite sideplates, except for the 300E which will have an aluminum handle side. 


The Curado features a recessed reel foot allowing the reel to sit lower on the rod, making it better for palming comfort and maneuverability

The new Curado E will feature a A7075 Aluminum Magnumlite spool that is double anodized to match the handle. The drag star has now been upgraded with the same swept star design found on the premium Calais. The cast control is provided by the proven VBS system behind a 1/8 turn easy access sideplate. 


The handle is ported and double anodized, and a updated swept drag star comes standard on the new reel

There will be two sizes available (200 and 300), and the CU200E5 features a slower more powerful 5.0:1 gear ratio while the CU200E7 and left handed CU201E7 will feature a high speed 7.0:1 gear ratio. The CU300E and CU301E will likely be popular swimbait reels like the current version, but now sports minor upgrades in performance. The profile of the 300 doesn't undergo as radical a change as the 200 sized Curado's but is improved with a 6+1 bearing count (versus 5 +1 on the D version) with the pinion bearing being a new S A-RB.


A look at the non-handle sideplate and the 1/8 turn release

Aside from enhanced ergonomics, upgraded performance, and added refinement Shimano has confirmed that rather than increase the price of the new reels they are going to actually reduce them versus the previous D version. The Curado D retails for $199.99 and the new reels will retail for 20 dollars less at $179.99 per reel. The 300 size will remain the same and retail for $249.99 per copy. Each and every Curado E will be made in Japan.


The 300 size gets a bearing S A-RB boost and minor (greener) cosmetic changes

Next Section: The Citica gets a makeover as well

 

   

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