I’m interested in this rod for finesse applications, I’m intrigued with the 7ft light plus and the 7ft medium light, sometimes Shimano ratings are overpowering. Anyone have any experience or info on these two rods they can share. Thanks in advance.

I have the expride 6’10 ml and I used to have the zodias 7’2 ml+. To me they were both properly rated for the lure range that they stated and the power. The ml+ was a little longer and just a little more powerful than a true ml with a light tip that could still throw light lures accurately. I sold that rod because it seemed like the extra 2 inches was added to the top and not included for in the handle and it didn’t balance well. The 6’10 ml expride balances perfectly with a c3000 vanford and it great for all around finesse presentations.

There is not a big difference between the two except that the 7 foot light is an X-Tra fast action. The 7'2'' is a fast action. The seven footer is more of a drop shot rod and maybe a shaky rod/wacky rod. The 7'2'' ML is more of a general finesse rod, ned rigs, spy baits, hair jigs...

3 hours ago, Reel said:

There is not a big difference between the two except that the 7 foot light is an X-Tra fast action. The 7'2'' is a fast action. The seven footer is more of a drop shot rod and maybe a shaky rod/wacky rod. The 7'2'' ML is more of a general finesse rod, ned rigs, spy baits, hair jigs...

I’m comparing it to the 7ft light plus to the 7ft ml not the 7’2 ml plus,both rods are extra fast. My buddy has an expride 7ft light and a 6’10 ml and the 7ft light is definitely more stout, wondering if that the case with these two rods.

https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Shimano_Zodias_B_Spinning_Rods/descpage-SZBS.html

Sorry, my mistake.

5 hours ago, Reel said:

Sorry, my mistake.

No worries, appreciate the response. Hoping other chime in.

Shimano	7'0"	Zodias	ZDS70MLA
Shimano	7'0"	Expride	270L+

These are the two models I have, probably the generation prior to what the OP is inquiring about, but possibly still relevant to the issue. Light + is an accurate descriptor for the power of my Expride 7'0" 270L+ and as for the Zodias, I'd say it's definitely a little stout for a ML, but just a little more so, and although I could find the love for it when I first owned it, I have come to appreciate it for a variety of applications. For the fishing I do, I use the Zodias more than the Expride. Both are well made and balance well.