I have a 2500 ci4, a 1000 stradic fj, and just ordered a 1000 ci4 friday. I love both reels, the fj is definitely a smoother reel with the x-ship, but im a nut about weight and can truly appreciate the ci4.
Ive hooked into some huge pickerel and bass and have never dealt with flex with the ci4, i think its an amazing spinning reel, especially for how cheap you can find them on ebay.
I went to the local shop to play with the patriarch and wasnt impressed at all. For the money, i still think the stradic fj & ci4 are the best reels on the market, if you have a bit more money the sustain fg is my recommendation. You get the lightweight and x-ship.