I am in the market for a 2000 size reel. Would like to stick with Shimano as I have a Sustain 1000 and Stradic ci4 2500. This would pair up with a Dobyns 702sf for dropshots, light shaky heads, dartsheads, and river fishing for smallies up in Minnesota. Is anyone familiar with Japan's (JDM) 2000 Shimano offerings? Are they a true 2000 body like what Daiwa offers or just 1000 size bodies with 2000 spools? I am specifically looking at the 2010 Complex Ci4 2000HGS F3, 2011 Biomaster C2000HGS, and 2012 Ultegra C2000HGS. I would most likely be purchasing through eBay to get a price around $200.  What do you guys think? Maybe I should just quit being brand loyal and grab a 2000 size Daiwa Ballistic? Sucks that Shimano doesn't offer a 2000 size in the states.

not much difference between a 2000 and 2500. why not just use the 2500?

that's a good question hahaha. I mainly want a 2000 size because it will weigh less than anything in a 2500 size unless I get another ci4 but I wouldn't be able to tell the difference between rods because all I own is Dobyns Champions.

Wait another month to see what Shimano comes up with at ICAST.

I'm pretty sure everyone will be talking about the new CI4.