2020 Metanium question

[Rodney Smith]

All of my reels are Shimano’s, so naturally, I was excited when the 2020 Metanium came out. I have a couple of Bantams and I love them. The Metanium looked like a smaller, lighter Bantam. I have not found the new Metanium to be as long casting or forgiving as the old Metaniums I had. Has anyone else had this experience? I always use 2 brakes on, 2 off and side brake to 1 or 2. On the new Metaniums, I can’t seem to do that. I have to tinker with the tension to keep it from backlashing and casting distance is diminished.

[Cgrinder]

Try setting the spool tension to where it just removes the side to side play. Then turn the brakes up and work your way down. Certain reels or spools like a little more brake.

[Tywithay]

There's a lot of variables to rule out. Usually when I get a new reel that's a little sluggish, it's from grease packed bearings. Once the spool breaks them in, it gets better and better. Flushing and lightly reoiling is even more productive.