After much thought, I've decided to take one of these rods on my next trip - mainly because I can use my existing Pike fly reel which wouldn't have been possible with a rod of #10 or more.

Has anyone used this rod and do you have any opinions about whether it is better suited to a #8 or a #9 line ?

Don't do it Ken. They're notorious for loose joints and breaking. If you must use one I found it best with a #9 line, but then again I have quite a 'lazy' casting style.