I wanna get an Expride casting rod before the price increase hits, which I have heard is coming real soon—like, as early as next week. Thinking about the 6’10” Medium since it gets so much hype as the perfect jerkbait rod. But I don’t throw jerkbaits enough to warrant a dedicated jerkbait rod. So, what else can it handle? Too fast for whopper Plopper 90 and other smallish topwaters? Is it chiefly a treble-hook bait or can it handle single-hook small moving baits like a finesse swim jig and Minimax bladed jig?

 

Thanks!

What else can it handle? A whole lot more in my experience.
I was in the exact same boat as you, wanting this model but not being a big jerkbait fisherman. I ended up pulling the trigger and getting one.
Ive used it with fluoro for squarebills with good success but after putting braid on that setup it’s been more versatile for me. Ive used it for small to midsize topwater with great results so far. I don’t think you’ll have any issues with it being too fast.
Also don’t be afraid to try single hook moving baits like keitechs on a medium or light wire jighead. I rarely throw them but I don’t see why it wouldn’t be a perfect rod for a Minimax or light wire swimjig around more open water also. 
Good luck with your decision and let us know how it treats you if you end up with it. 
 

I have a very comparative St Croix rod and use it for just about everything in its weight range.  Great size rod.  I wouldn't hesitate at all if I was considering again.

FYI can step up to the Poison Adrena line of rods from Japan for the same price as buying an Expride domestically. 

2 hours ago, Rockhopper said:

I have a very comparative St Croix rod and use it for just about everything in its weight range.  Great size rod.  I wouldn't hesitate at all if I was considering again.

What model?

1 hour ago, MontclairDave said:

What model?

Mojo bass "Jerkbait". I've fished both. They are very similar, though the expride a tad lighter I think. Pretty close though. That's the last gen, not the trigon.

i have one. I use it with braid for topwater up to a half ounce or so.also good for sqaurebills in tight cover etc. ive never thrown a mini  max on it but i think it would be just fine.