Description
Ultimate finesse, light as air is the best description for the new Gekkabijin Air.
The precision engineering supports high accuracy Digigear II drive and silent oscillation system to produce smoother rotary efficiency and increased cranking power like never before. The ABS II spool delivers trouble-free casting and line management, while ATD or Automatic Tournament Drag is the newest introduction into Daiwa spinning reels. On one level ATD implements structural changes to the spool metal of the reel that provides greater support of the spool across the entire length of the main shaft. This additional support of the spool reduces spool twist under load, promotes more even wear of the drag washers and ultimately reduces pulsing of the drag when fighting the fish.
The second aspect of ATD is an improved drag grease that exhibits a low viscosity at rest, yet becomes more viscous immediately after drag startup. This reduces initial drag startup inertia and combined with the structural changes of the ATD Drag System results in a smoother drag from the initial hook up.
Given the popularity of saltwater fishing, reducing water penetration into the reel is a major goal to minimize corrosion and promote longer life and better performance. If saltwater infiltrates a reel and dries, it crystallizes and then erodes gears and bearings. Through years of research and development, Daiwa found the solution – a membrane of magnetic oil, in conjunction with magnets between the body and the rotor of the reel, which greatly reduces the penetration of water inside the body via the main shaft. Being magnetized this lubrication system avoids any friction, reduces dust intrusion, eliminates oil spray and improves reel life expectancy.
Not content with Magsealing the rotor/anti-reverse system, Daiwa introduces fully contained Magsealed bearing in the line roller system to attenuate water intrusion, maintain rotation smoothness (reducing line twist) and increase part longevity. The line roller bearings are the first part on the reel to contact saltwater. They are one of the hardest wearing parts in a reel and are constantly working. The pressure of the line, continual water and salt impregnation destroys roller bearings quickly. Introduced to spinning reels over 20 years ago, line roller bearings have now reached the pinnacle of evolution with the addition of Magsealed ball-bearings.
The body is made of Zaion‚ a high-density carbon resin. This high-density material is light, strong, sensitive and resists corrosion. The hollowed-out construction of the Air Rotor enhances reel sensitivity and the transmission of vibration, whilst reduced weight, a lower centre of gravity and precise centre of axis allows the rotor to spin with perfect balance, transmitting vibration through the Zaion Body with greater efficiency. Gekkabijin Air is one of the lightest finesse reels available.
