Thank you for your response. I have been seriously considering the rim drive. I asked VPI about it a few days ago. They said they had not tried it, but that they had heard from one of their customers who tried it and went back to the SDS. Maybe I should order it on trial. I have read online about others who also had positive things to say about it...
VPI Flywheel or Fishing Rod Wire on Aries Motor?
I realize that VPI has some other upgrades that may be better than the integrated motor/flywheel, such as SDS and the ring clamp. Assuming that an owner already has these (I'm planning on getting them), how significant an upgrade is the flywheel? I have not seem much emphasis on this product from dealers. Is this, perhaps, an unsuccessful upgrade? One downside, it makes for a larger footrprint table, making it extend beyond most typical equipment racks...this issue may account for its lack of popularity? I have heard that just using an Aries 3 motor with fishing rod wire (e.g., SpyderWire) is a good alternative. Any thoughts would be much appreciated.