Leslie, I got the 7 ft Spinflex I paid ?35.00 for it and it's a great rod. I never used the old Spinflex so I can't comment on it being a better rod.
I'm using it with a suvaran 2000 loaded with 30lb PowerPro braid and I would say it's a pleasure to use very light with a good feel when playing good perch and jacks. I've yet to have a decent pike on it but I can't see me having a problem with a stated TC of 1.5lb.