Rapala Canada -> Rods & Reels?

[araret]

Has anybody tried the rods and reels made by Rapala Canada? Seems like the rods and reels are domestic only, cant be found anywhere else :)

Going to buy the Type-R casting reel and its rod, for my 1st casting setup! Can't wait to get into my 1st birds-nest! Maybe I'll write a review on how easy it is to use for a COMPLETE casting newbie :)

Also eyeing their F2 series rod for ultra-light, ~$50. All the rods have 2pc options, which is exactly what I need!

[Dooch]

A buddy of mine has the R-Type rod a reel and loves it.

[Clive]

Haven't tried them yet, but they look solid!

[araret]

So I ended buying the Shift series rod, and the R-Type reel at Le Barons. Based on the catalog, the Shift series rod is 5.5oz and somewhere like 20% lighter than the R-type rod as a casting 2pc 7'1 rod. It was my first time to hold it, and it was pretty ridiculous compared to my old Daiwa spinning rod. I paired it up with an R-type reel, only because Le Barons didn't have a Shift reel to go with the rod. That said, I have yet to see any problems on any of the forums about R-type reels.
I am stoked to try the combo out!