If anyone saw it, Lew's posted on facebook about a new BB1 Pro:
"New and improved! For 2018, the BB1 Pro Speed Spool will be upgraded to a new patented QuietCast externally adjustable Centrifugal Braking System, a 20lb Carbon Fiber Drag System, an upgraded 95mm skeletal aluminum handle with the new Lew's Custom Round EVA Power Grip and a rich caviar black finish. The upgraded and improved BB1 Pro will continue to retail for $199.99. We have lots of new-for-2018 introductions, but all we can say about them right now is, "Wow!". Stay tuned."

Not a big fan of the EVA Power Grip. But they added 6lb to the drag, which I can see a few people wanting. Anyone know anything else or if they'll be introducing some new ratios for RH and LH?

One of the reasons I returned  my pro was loud casting, more like a screech, oiling didn't help. Must have been a bigger issue seeing the "quiet cast" improvement. 

Interestingly enough, one of my BB1s is rather loud compared to the other, perhaps that is a big problem

8 hours ago, Robert Riley said:

Not a big fan of the EVA Power Grip.

 

Really? I love them so much that i bought two, one for my BB1 and the other for my Super Duty . My BB1 (the original, not the Pro) is a very smooth and silent caster... and boy do it cast a country mile!

Does most Lews reels make a noise doing the retrieve?

 

Does most Lews reels make a noise doing the retrieve?

Only one of mine does. I sell plenty of them at work and get zero complaints.