I've always thought Velbon to be a cheap and nasty brand for tripods compared to Manfrottos and Gitzos. But very pleasantly surprised with this tripod.

I purchased this to replace my lost Manfrotto 055ProbX and after testing it today i found it to be as firm/steady as the 055 with the center column up. I even deliberately put my 5d2 + 70-200 on the tripod without the lens collar so its front heavy and mounted on the body only. I pushed the tip of the lens down and I was pleased that it didnt wobble at all!

The center column also can be reversed and legs can be locked in 3 different positions for those macro setups.

The thing about the center column is that you can break it in half and save even more weight by taking only the head end and save around 200-300g?

Only negative about this is that unlike the ProbX models. There is not horizontal option for the center column.

Pros:
Ultra Light
Compact
Steady
Cheap compared to the top brands
No slippage with Flip lock legs
Leg markings
CF construction

Cons:
No horizontal center column

Specs:

Total Length approx 40cms
Weight: 1.32kgs
Max height: approx 170cm with center column up:
Max load: Big Cameras 5-6kgs