My Asian K90, US K90 & US K95

[jetlee2k]

Hi..

After a month of playing Asian K90, 3 days of US K90 & 2 days of K95 here is my short review. I am an all court, 1HBH player. I played in the US Open league from 5.5-6.0 level. I play alot of Single as well as Double tourney in the US, thru out South East Asia and now in Viet Nam.

I played with Dunlop 200G (Mcenroe OLD racquet) for about 10 years, then PS85 for about 5 years then I got injured I switched to a HEAD tweeny 100sq in racquet for about 3 years, then I play with Andy Roddick Pure Drive Plus ever since it came out until now (2years). After reading many comments on this board and I demo the N90 tour for a couple days, I decided to try on the K90.. Here is my short review. NO, I DO NOT care whoever play with this racquet or with old babolat racquet.. All flame should go to /dev/null.

Asian K90. I bought this one of Ho Chi Minh city and I specially chosed the DEMO version to make sure it's a REAL racquet. The stock version to me consider not a good racquet. Very unstable and light. I had to put 3g @ 3, 9 & 12 and about 11g at the handle to make sure it's about 340g as my US K90 version will ship to me later in the month. The customized racquet is an AWSOME racquet. I strung with BB 16L @ 50lb. I felt the 50lb has a better feel at the ground stroke but at the net @58lb is better.

Serve. GOOD power, kick, spin, flat serves.... It's just nasty and heavy serve that surprised many of my opponents..

Ground Stroke. THE BEST feel and power in the return. Specially the back hand side. I felt like I can swing and hit back many defensive shots as an outright winnder compare to the Roddick Pure Drive plus. I felt it's very to swing thru the ball with good power.

Volleys. My strongest part of the game is volley but I felt I do not have enough power when I punch the ball as well as the ball does not skid low enough to the ground to attack my opponent. I think it's just a matter of time for me to get use to with the smaller head size and a low string tension.

Overall, this is a great stick with some customize otherwise it's not worth to try as a stock racquet at all.

I just received my US K90 3 days ago. Again, the stock racquet is not even came close to the Asian K90 customized racquet. So I put 3g @ 12 and about 7g in the handle. I strung it again with BB @50lb. WOOOWW.. this is even better than the Asian K90 customized version. Everything is a little bit better. Just everything but again, the volley is still the weakest point of this racquet for me. I think my volley techniques getting used with the bigger head size so I need to change some thing to compensate for the new smaller head size. I felt the K90 is not stiff enough compare to Roddick Pure Drive plus. I felt it is much easy on the arm with low string tension eventhough it's a heavy racquet. After a few week, I don't even felt it's heavy anymore. It's just nice and felt great in my hand.

US K95. I just don't like the polish look of it but it looks beautiful. Many of my friends just love the look but to me I like the look of K90 better. My US K95 came as 16x18 pattern, and string with BB 16L @52lb. I think it's better to string this one a little bit higher let's say around 55-58 is a better racquet.
The serve just HUGE, the volley is excellent with deep penetration but after playing with the K90, the K95 ground stroke is nothing compare to it so I decided to keep it as a stock frame version but not customize it. The K95 felt a little bit heavy and harder to swing compare to the K90 even the customized version. I just felt like the K90 back swing and ground strokes are much faster and easier. So I probably keep this racquet as a collection or spare ones. It came one as (K) arbon Black and one is (K)arophite black or something..

As the result, I will mainly play with my 2 US K90 customized racquet, keep 1 Asian K90 for a spare and may be use K95 for some bussiness double or friendly games.

Jet Li

 

[jmk2888]

Great review, Jet......

Have you weight the racket before you have customized them, what was the weight ?

 

[Pro_Tour_630]

And here we are in the US many wanting to make their USK90 lighter and more maneuverable so they can be able to hit with it and the Asian people wanting their Asia K90 to play like a USK90. Strange world we live in.

Anyway, I took 15grams off my USK90 to make it closer to an Asian K90, will have to see if it is that much less stable.

 

[Pete.Sampras.]

Very nice review. Thanks!

 

[BreakPoint]

And here we are in the US many wanting to make their USK90 lighter and more maneuverable so they can be able to hit with it and the Asian people wanting their Asia K90 to play like a USK90. Strange world we live in.

You'd think Wilson would be smart enough to offer both versions worldwide so that ALL of its customers get to choose which version is best suited to their games. But nope. :sad:

 

[textbook strokes]

Good stuff man... .Could you tell more about the k95. Not enough information on the board yet. On the contrary, k90s reviews are everywhere.
Could you compare it with the n95 if you had this frame?. Any thougths about the k models for a player who only plays on clay, and therefore, needs consistency?. Thanks man

 

[sureshs]

And here we are in the US many wanting to make their USK90 lighter and more maneuverable so they can be able to hit with it and the Asian people wanting their Asia K90 to play like a USK90. Strange world we live in.

That is because he is not just another player - he is a 6.0! I don't think he is representative of either US or Asian players.

 

[ironstring]

"All flame should go to /dev/null."

good one hahaha
That should really take care of some problem.
Lets hope it works here

 

[jetlee2k]

Yes the US K90 is heavy. Almost all of the guys picked up and tried my racquet said it is too heavy but then after they tried to hit with it a couple ground strokes all said it is a great racquet but they need to work on their strength to play at at least for 2 hrs as well as to change their techniques a little bit. Somehow I felt the K90 hit like a long body racquet. I played with Pure Drive Roddick Plus (27.5in) before but this racquet felt like a stretch racquet and much much easy to swing than PDR+ eventhough it's much much heavier after customize.

I noticed that with the K90 added weight, My shots alot more powerful and consistence if I total relax my arm, hit the ball on the rise and up front then use the momentum swing thru the ball.. Man, it's just heavy and heavy. I hit so many winners on both sides against the most consistence and power player pros. I actually can push them back 1 or 2 step further behind the baseline after I switched to the K90. The player with loopy strokes and hit the ball late and low will find this racquet is not suite their game. The backhand slice is another great one with this racquet but again I missed quite a few slice since the heavy weight made me prepared the racquet head alittle bit late. So early timing is the key point to play with this racquet.

NO, I don't have to scale to weight the racquet before & after customize it. I will try to weight on a borrowed scale hopefully today.

For the K95, I just played with it for 2 days and I did not played with the N95 version before so I can not give an accurate review BUT a few guys who are currently playing with the N95 18x20 tried with my K95 16x18 and they love it. B/c I strung it @52lb and it's too loose so they get use to it after a few sets. They said it's very similar feel with the n95 but has alot more power and feel. The serve is just big. One guy just acing me left & right on his 1st and 2nd serve with the K95. The ground stroke has more power and land deeper near the baseline compare withe the nblade & n95 that they are playing with. This racquet is good for 2HBH player. These are my own opinion that I got from playing against them using my K95 not from my actual playing.

At the end, some of them offer to buy my K95 right up but I have yet to decide it. I hope my short input for K95 would help. It's time to crush the balls now

Jet Li

 

[10sfreak]

And here we are in the US many wanting to make their USK90 lighter and more maneuverable so they can be able to hit with it and the Asian people wanting their Asia K90 to play like a USK90. Strange world we live in.

Anyway, I took 15grams off my USK90 to make it closer to an Asian K90, will have to see if it is that much less stable.

Hey Michael, how did you take 15 grams off of your US K90? Did you just switch to a synthetic grip? I wonder if there's any way of lightening up my PS85 a little bit...

 

[Pro_Tour_630]

That is because he is not just another player - he is a 6.0! I don't think he is representative of either US or Asian players.

Me thinks it is more like we covet what we can't have.

So you are trying to tell me that the normal 4.0-4.5 Asian can not handle the heavy USK90?

I think this whole two models, one for the Asians is boarder line racism if you ask me. If I were an Asian I would be offended. I think this topic has been discussed before and few Asian posters were offended.

 

[BreakPoint]

I think how heavy of a racquet you can handle mostly depends on your style of play. Like jetlee2K mentioned, some of the guys he plays against that are at the same level as him could not handle the heavier US K90.

I know some guys in their 50's that still play extremly well with 13 oz.+, 90 sq.in. racquets. They just play a style that benefits from using these types of small, heavy racquets.

 

[@wright]

I'm waiting for the Hispanic version to come out...No, I'm not Hispanic, either.

 

[Pro_Tour_630]

I'm waiting for the Hispanic version to come out...No, I'm not Hispanic, either.

I am half Polish, I would hate to see what Wilson has for me in a K90 ;-) maybe they might have to borrow from the head intelligence "smart" series

 

[Pro_Tour_630]

Hey Michael, how did you take 15 grams off of your US K90? Did you just switch to a synthetic grip? I wonder if there's any way of lightening up my PS85 a little bit...

http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/showpost.php?p=1276405&postcount=74
yes I replaced leather with light replacement grip
I shaved extra strips from the bumper (another 3grams, and shave some material from grip 3grams)
http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/showpost.php?p=1276728&postcount=76

http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/showpost.php?p=1275957&postcount=5

 

[Pro_Tour_630]

I just received my US K90 3 days ago. Again, the stock racquet is not even came close to the Asian K90 customized racquet. So I put 3g @ 12 and about 7g in the handle. I strung it again with BB @50lb. WOOOWW.. this is even better than the Asian K90 customized version.

http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/showpost.php?p=1276374&postcount=72

so now your USK90 is at least 370grams if not more with the BB, it is almost more head heavy, 32.5cm if not more, SW is above 340 for sure. Please update us on your arm as well.

 

[jetlee2k]

Breakpoint said it all. K90 is good for 1hbh with attacking style.. Hit the ball on the rise, up front, little back swing with total relax your arm and the K90 is perfect fit for you. Some of the guys use to play with a laid back, defensive, loopy style does not suit for this racquet even at 5.5-6.0 player. The racquet is too heavy and the harder you muscle the ball the less power you would get and the ball spray everywhere.

Today I did practice like 2hrs on my volley and slice and finally I would say I almos got about 90% of my old volley back. Since the racquet to me a little flex with smaller head size I had to firm my wrist a little bit more and actually punch thru the ball unlike my old Pure Drive Roddick Plus, I just firm my wrist and natural punch it.. My volleys today penetrate deep near by the baseline after I change alittle bit techniques. I have a little problem with the soft balls since I have to actually generate my own power with that heavy racquet.

You know what, I just love to play tennis and play good, competitive tennis rather than I care it's Asian made or US made or whoever made it or whoever play with it. Everytime I step on the court I try to improve my strokes & my techniques. I would be very happy on a day even I lost a 6-0 6-0 match but my strokes felt good and improved rather than just dinging the ball, pushing the ball around to win a match. By saying that, I also find any chance to improve my game just not b/c I like winning (of course everyone love to win) but for a better tennis game. I tried the lead, the SW2, lower string tensions and other recommendation for my own sake and thank to this board I slowly figure out the right equipment that I am going to use. So Just be open minded and learn. The worse thing that would happen is you just go back to the old setup.

I play everyday at least 3 hrs or sometimes 5-6 hrs. The first 3 days with my Asian K90 plus the added weight, my arm were tired, my muscles were aching and my shoulder felt sore but after 3 days everything went back to normal. Today is the 4th day I played with the customized US K90 and I must say I felt it's normal and light. This morning I went back to my old customized Asian K90 and I felt it is light so I would add alittle more weight to the butt.

To prepare for the K90, I hit the gym early in the morning doing biceps, tricepts, shoulders and chest. Yes, you must do it correctly even with heavy heavy weight without getting hurt and your muscle will not stiffen up. There are many many pros in Asia that afraid to use heavy weight b/c they are afraid their muscle stiff up so they can't hit the ball.. This is very very wrong mentality and techniques. IF you know how to do it, your arm would be relax more than ever and super super strong and minimize the chance for body injuries. I can tell you that I can do a 3 set of 10 count tricepts at 150-200lb. Arm curl at 100-150lb. Shoulder 200-250lb, Chest free weight 50-80lb, Chest machine 200-250lb.. The best part is that I can do it even right before a 10 minutes of a tennis match. You must do the exercise correctly otherwise your arm will hurt. You will get tennis elbow definitely & shoulder problem if you have a big serve.

To answer Michael question, my arm actually felt much much better with the heavy racquet than with the old head (a very light racquet about 280g head heavy unstrung). In fact I had tennis elbow and shoulder problem when I play with the head racquet. Then I switched to Pure Drive Roddick plus and things are much better but after a month of Asian K90 and 4 days of US K90, My arm felt good. My shoulder is not aching & the tennis elbow actually gone.
Again, this is my own opinion. I prepared for the K90. I study my weakness and change my strokes to adapt for the heavy weight and everythings seem work out much better.

I do not work or sponsor by Wilson or any retail stores. I held a PhD in Biophysics from a well known Ivy League University. I just love the GAME..
I met my wife on a tennis court 10 years ago, I co-own 3 tennis clubs in South East Asia just as my bussiness hobbies. We tried to play tennis as much as we can if we have times. My wife played tennis during her prenancy from 3-8months.

Jet Li

 

[Pete.Sampras.]

Michael, instead of taking 10-15 gramms off of your racket, why don't you just buy something else? Your K90 probably feels a lot more like any other lighter players frame now... and even the fine leather grip for added feel is not on it anymore


I'm not sure whether I should buy an asian K90 or not. I really wanted one, but now that I think about it I could instead try other players frames first, like Yonex RDS001/002 or the new Dunlop Aerogel 200 or something like that. I've always played with the Wilson PS85, that's probably why I want the new version of it. But that would be the US-version so...

I would buy the USK90 but I have one problem with this racket. I love it for about an hour or two, but then I get really tired, even on a fast surface. I don't even want to think about how it will be when I use this racket on clay, where I have to play most of the time...

 

[BreakPoint]

You know what, I just love to play tennis and play good, competitive tennis rather than I care it's Asian made or US made or whoever made it or whoever play with it. Everytime I step on the court I try to improve my strokes & my techniques. I would be very happy on a day even I lost a 6-0 6-0 match but my strokes felt good and improved rather than just dinging the ball, pushing the ball around to win a match. By saying that, I also find any chance to improve my game just not b/c I like winning (of course everyone love to win) but for a better tennis game.

My sentiments exactly!! I couldn't have said it better myself.

To prepare for the K90, I hit the gym early in the morning doing biceps, tricepts, shoulders and chest. Yes, you must do it correctly even with heavy heavy weight without getting hurt and your muscle will not stiffen up. There are many many pros in Asia that afraid to use heavy weight b/c they are afraid their muscle stiff up so they can't hit the ball.. This is very very wrong mentality and techniques. IF you know how to do it, your arm would be relax more than ever and super super strong and minimize the chance for body injuries. I can tell you that I can do a 3 set of 10 count tricepts at 150-200lb. Arm curl at 100-150lb. Shoulder 200-250lb, Chest free weight 50-80lb, Chest machine 200-250lb.. The best part is that I can do it even right before a 10 minutes of a tennis match. You must do the exercise correctly otherwise your arm will hurt.

I do not work or sponsor by Wilson or any retail stores. I held a PhD in Biophysics from a well known Ivy League University. I just love the GAME..
I met my wife on a tennis court 10 years ago, I co-own 3 tennis clubs in South East Asia just as my bussiness hobbies. We tried to play tennis as much as we can if we have times. My wife played tennis during her prenancy from 3-8months.

Wow! You sound like one real hard core tennis player!

BTW, I don't think I could ever lift weights 10 minutes before I play tennis because I lose all control of my muscles right after lifting weights and I would have no coordination to properly hit my strokes at all. I used to lift some weights AFTER I play tennis, but I don't even do that anymore. Perhaps I should start lifting weights again? Hmmm.....

 

[Pro_Tour_630]

Michael, instead of taking 10-15 gramms off of your racket, why don't you just buy something else? Your K90 probably feels a lot more like any other lighter players frame now... and even the fine leather grip for added feel is not on it anymore

I did, I bought the DNX10mid as well, it is better IMO in many categories especially comfort and ease of use vs K90. It is the "Pure Drive" of the Mids IMO you heard that quote here first. Out of the box performance for the mid

I play everyday at least 3 hrs or sometimes 5-6 hrs.

To prepare for the K90, I hit the gym early in the morning doing biceps, tricepts, shoulders and chest. I can tell you that I can do a 3 set of 10 count tricepts at 150-200lb. Arm curl at 100-150lb. Shoulder 200-250lb, Chest free weight 50-80lb, Chest machine 200-250lb..

To answer Michael question, my arm actually felt much much better with the heavy racquet than with the old head (a very light racquet about 280g head heavy unstrung). In fact I had tennis elbow and shoulder problem when I play with the head racquet. Then I switched to Pure Drive Roddick plus and things are much better but after a month of Asian K90 and 4 days of US K90, My arm felt good. My shoulder is not aching & the tennis elbow actually gone.
Again, this is my own opinion. I prepared for the K90. I study my weakness and change my strokes to adapt for the heavy weight and everythings seem work out much better.

I do not work or sponsor by Wilson or any retail stores. I held a PhD in Biophysics from a well known Ivy League University. I just love the GAME..
I met my wife on a tennis court 10 years ago, I co-own 3 tennis clubs in South East Asia just as my bussiness hobbies. We tried to play tennis as much as we can if we have times.

WOW Jet Li, many here would love to be in your shoes, PHD biophysics from Ivy league, you own three tennis clubs as a hobby, 6.0 level of play at 36 playing 6 hours a day for fun to get better and one hour at least of Gym time for conditioning. If I did that my wife will divorce me :-( plus I would not have time to work in my real job plus be with my kids etc... I dont know how you do it and still work as a doctor? But I am jealous.

Thanks for the update and keep us informed about your progress it is very interesting.

If you have time please email me at chaho@sbcglobal.net I have a personal question? Thanks

 

[sureshs]

That is because he is not just another player - he is a 6.0! I don't think he is representative of either US or Asian players.

Me thinks it is more like we covet what we can't have.

So you are trying to tell me that the normal 4.0-4.5 Asian can not handle the heavy USK90?

I think this whole two models, one for the Asians is boarder line racism if you ask me. If I were an Asian I would be offended. I think this topic has been discussed before and few Asian posters were offended.

So you concluded that from my post? Which part of "either US or Asian players" was confusing?

According to TW, K90 is for 4.5+ players. OP is clearly not a recreational player, which would be most US and Asian customers.

Clothing sizes and food portions in restaurants in Asia can run smaller. Large shoe sizes may be difficult to find. But I see your point about models designed specifically for Asian markets. From a business point of view, what if Wilson cannot sell the lighter models here and the heavier models in Asia? Do they still have an obligation to make them available in both places?

As long as they don't put "Asian K90" on the stick, it should be OK?

 

[@wright]

I don't think this is meant to be public information. I bet 99% of k six one tour users in USA have no idea they make a lighter one for Asia and vice versa. Tennis racquets are not the only product that big manufacturers do this with. You can go visit one of many car forums and read posts about enthusiasts whining about not getting what people across the pond get.

 

[Pro_Tour_630]

According to TW, K90 is for 4.5+ players. OP is clearly not a recreational player, which would be most US and Asian customers.

Clothing sizes and food portions in restaurants in Asia can run smaller. Large shoe sizes may be difficult to find. But I see your point about models designed specifically for Asian markets. From a business point of view, what if Wilson cannot sell the lighter models here and the heavier models in Asia? Do they still have an obligation to make them available in both places?

As long as they don't put "Asian K90" on the stick, it should be OK?

Well, from what i have noticed that most posters in the US are complaining that the USK90 is heavy and wish they would have a slightly less heavy K90, hence the Asian K90, you should be able to see that trend. I have also seen few Asian posters before this one, after ordering their Asian K90 ordering few USK90, maybe for collection I don't know. We shall see how the trend is but from looking at the heavy Ultra II and StVincent PS's, the Asian's are hording this market as well.

Anyway is this ok? ;-)

http://www.yawningbread.org/arch_1999/yax-136.htm

 

[sureshs]

Well, from what i have noticed that most posters in the US are complaining that the USK90 is heavy and wish they would have a slightly less heavy K90, hence the Asian K90, you should be able to see that trend. I have also seen few Asian posters before this one, after ordering their Asian K90 ordering few USK90, maybe for collection I don't know. We shall see how the trend is but from looking at the heavy Ultra II and StVincent PS's, the Asian's are hording this market as well.

Anyway is this ok? ;-)

http://www.yawningbread.org/arch_1999/yax-136.htm

That would be if we were discussing extended length vs standard length racquets.

 

[jetlee2k]

Here is my "secrete" how to get a strong arm. Again, this is my OWN opinion and I do not advise you go to the GYM and kill yourself in there. Since there are a few highschool and young tennis players in this forum so I do not want to be in detail and specific. This is just as reference and it has been working for me and for many players that I told them how.

For weight training you can do as heavy as your physical body can do but remember always does it in superset and do the Maximum weight first. Your body must warm and fit in order to follow this training.

ex: My maximum for triceps exercise is 150lb then after warm up, I hit about 8 reps of 150lb then I do about 8 reps of my maximum biceps which is about 100lb. So one push up exercise then I do one pull down exercise right after it. The next set you lower the weight which is 120lb/80lb .. and etc..

Before I play tennis, I warm up again with the GYROS (powerball). This is I consider the best & the best ever warm up exercise compare to rubber band, push up and etc.. For younger kids, powerball is a great tool to warm up for your wirst, forearm, elbow, triceps/biceps and shoulder and your arm very very relax.

Have you ever played tennis with paddle tennis racquet? I would recommend for the player which already have establish good tennis strokes. You will see your game will jump to another level. It is a much much harder work out than with a string racquet. We play alot of those in my home court and yeah it's a good way to handicape a 5.5-6.0 player. Some guys here play for alot of money (no I don't, I don't gamble. The maximum I bet is one can of ball $3). If the score 6-0 you tripple, 6-1/6-2 you double and the rest is normal bet. The paddle tennis force you to move faster, must hit thru the ball every single a shot and always upfront.

I've been playing tennis over 25 years with many professional players. I used to train with Jim Grab, Jim Pugh in Southern California. I even went to visit Nick Bolitary Academy. I used to come to watch Grand Slam events (but not anymore). I remember one year I play in a Pro AM tourney at Indian Wells my partner can you believe it, it was James Blake and my opponent partner was Leander Paes. We lost the breaker like 7-5 or something but James blew up the first 4 points. Last few year I tried to come to Shanghai to watch TMC beside most of bussiness still in Shang Hai & Beijing.

Yeah, I consider myself a hardcore tennis player and thank GOD my wife loves tennis too.

 

[Pro_Tour_630]

Well, from what i have noticed that most posters in the US are complaining that the USK90 is heavy and wish they would have a slightly less heavy K90, hence the Asian K90, you should be able to see that trend. I have also seen few Asian posters before this one, after ordering their Asian K90 ordering few USK90, maybe for collection I don't know. We shall see how the trend is but from looking at the heavy Ultra II and StVincent PS's, the Asian's are hording this market as well.

just a quick update on the asian demand market, I bet many are not from Asia

http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/search.php?searchid=345011

 

[jmk2888]

just a quick update on the asian demand market, I bet many are not from Asia

http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/search.php?searchid=343765

Sorry - no matches. Please try some different terms.



I cannot see the post .........

 

[StunLock]

wow .... Let Li .... you're really hardcore.

The fact that you lift weight 10 minutes before a match tells me that you're not just another tennis enthusiast. That takes years of professional training I believe. I've only heard of NBA players do that.

Thanks for the great read.

 

[PurePrestige]

Hey, just a quick question for anyone who's tried both.
Which swings heavier, Liquidmetal Prestige Mid or the K 90?
I was thinking of making a switch to the K90 because I want an open pattern mid because I just don't get enough spin right now. But my LM Prestige is just too light for me, so i'd like something heavier too.

 

[Pro_Tour_630]

Sorry - no matches. Please try some different terms.



I cannot see the post .........

hope this works

http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/search.php?searchid=345011

 

[roundiesee]

Hi Jet; I'm just curious to know your opinion re the PS 85 cf the new K90. Do you feel that the new K90 is a better racket? If you customise the PS 85 would that come close to your US K90s? Thanks.

 

[tennis_hand]

Michael, instead of taking 10-15 gramms off of your racket, why don't you just buy something else? Your K90 probably feels a lot more like any other lighter players frame now... and even the fine leather grip for added feel is not on it anymore


I'm not sure whether I should buy an asian K90 or not. I really wanted one, but now that I think about it I could instead try other players frames first, like Yonex RDS001/002 or the new Dunlop Aerogel 200 or something like that. I've always played with the Wilson PS85, that's probably why I want the new version of it. But that would be the US-version so...

I would buy the USK90 but I have one problem with this racket. I love it for about an hour or two, but then I get really tired, even on a fast surface. I don't even want to think about how it will be when I use this racket on clay, where I have to play most of the time...

seriously, i think the RDS001 is a better fit at 325grams unstrung and its balance point. The Asian K90 is lighter than RDS001 and more HH.
From my point of view, the Asian K90 is better than the RDS001 only in the price. (Unless u wanna look like Fed with a paintjob.) Yonex rackets are more expensive, and not many 2nd-hand sales. I can get the Asian K90 any time here if I want.

 

[BreakPoint]

From my point of view, the Asian K90 is better than the RDS001 only in the price. (Unless u wanna look like Fed with a paintjob.) Yonex rackets are more expensive, and not many 2nd-hand sales. I can get the Asian K90 any time here if I want.

Really? I haven't been able to find any Asian K90's for less than like $230, whereas, people can buy the RDS001 for under $150.

I'd be willing to trade a brand new RDS001 for a brand new Asian K90 anyday.

BTW, even the US K90 sells for $199 while the RDS001 sells for $179 here at TW so I don't understand why you say the RDS001 is more expensive?

BTW2, where are you located and where can you get the Asian K90 "any time that you want"?

 

[tennis_hand]

Really? I haven't been able to find any Asian K90's for less than like $230, whereas, people can buy the RDS001 for under $150.

I'd be willing to trade a brand new RDS001 for a brand new Asian K90 anyday.

BTW, even the US K90 sells for $199 while the RDS001 sells for $179 here at TW so I don't understand why you say the RDS001 is more expensive?

BTW2, where are you located and where can you get the Asian K90 "any time that you want"?

I'm in Singapore now. The small shops here have been loaded with K factors now, although the official stores don't have many yet.
In local currency, K90 sells at S$250 inclusive of strings while RDS001 here sells at S$270 after bargaining last few weeks I checked. I'm not sure Yonex will drop the price after K is released.

but i don't need anything else now, enjoying PS6.0 95.

 

[BreakPoint]

I'm in Singapore now. The small shops here have been loaded with K factors now, although the official stores don't have many yet.
In local currency, K90 sells at S$250 inclusive of strings while RDS001 here sells at S$270 after bargaining last few weeks I checked. I'm not sure Yonex will drop the price after K is released.

but i don't need anything else now, enjoying PS6.0 95.

Thanks, I see. Interesting that the K90 is cheaper than the RDS001 in Singapore but it's the opposite here in the U.S. S$250 (~US$164) for a K90, including strings sounds like a pretty good price.

There's a lot of demand on these boards for the Asian K90. You could probably do a lot of people here a favor if you were willing to ship Asian K90's from Singapore to the U.S.

BTW, I didn't realize that you're a PS 6.0 95 user. Yes, it's a great racquet. How do you like it and how long have you been using it? Did you buy it from TW as I doubt it's available in Singapore, right?

 

[tennis_hand]

Thanks, I see. Interesting that the K90 is cheaper than the RDS001 in Singapore but it's the opposite here in the U.S. S$250 (~US$164) for a K90, including strings sounds like a pretty good price.

There's a lot of demand on these boards for the Asian K90. You could probably do a lot of people here a favor if you were willing to ship Asian K90's from Singapore to the U.S.

BTW, I didn't realize that you're a PS 6.0 95 user. Yes, it's a great racquet. How do you like it and how long have you been using it? Did you buy it from TW as I doubt it's available in Singapore, right?

yes. it's weird, so i don't know what the Yonex guys here are doing. LOL. More ex than K90 and u expect to sell more?

I don't mind shipping over to the US for some guys, however, i have no idea what the shipping charge for a racket is, especially for a registered bulky mail.

I just started with PS 95 for over a month now. I bought from someone else 2nd hand here, virtually new everywhere except the bumper, about 1/2 the price of a new one on TW. I like its weight 346strung, but it does not feel heavy, more maneuverable than Asian N90(did a demo before i bought this PS) and N95(a beast to maneuver). A lot of feel as you said. The enticing factor is its weight and feel-light weight, which are what I looked for. My game has been improving steadily with this racket, so I gotta say it'll stay with me for a long time because no new rackets resemble it, even those new Wilsons. Additionally, it is made for a 1Hander with a short handle.

 

[fearless1]

You'd think Wilson would be smart enough to offer both versions worldwide so that ALL of its customers get to choose which version is best suited to their games. But nope. :sad:

Wilson can sell AK90 in US, but they'd have to change the markings (pj) of the racquet so it doesn't match the heavier "real" K90. The problem is, Wilson knows this would be risky since very few people may actually buy it. So instead, they market a K90 "Lite" for Asian target market. In other words, Wilson knows it's the Federer K90 pj of the lighter racquet that is going to sell it. Otherwise, AK90 could have also had a different pj altogether too.

And some here on TW forum rag on Wilson's marketing which apparently works very well!

 

[fearless1]

My sentiments exactly!! I couldn't have said it better myself.

Wow! You sound like one real hard core tennis player!

BTW, I don't think I could ever lift weights 10 minutes before I play tennis because I lose all control of my muscles right after lifting weights and I would have no coordination to properly hit my strokes at all. I used to lift some weights AFTER I play tennis, but I don't even do that anymore. Perhaps I should start lifting weights again? Hmmm.....

I don't have Jet's tennis credentials, but my K90 experience is very similar to his...

Earlier in the thread, you mentioned that, "some of the guys he plays against that are at the same level as him could not handle the heavier US K90." It would be reasonable to assume that these pros did what many K90 detractors here at TWf have also done: they merely demo'd K90 then summarily dismissed it. On the other hand, Jet himself says he "prepared for K90, I hit the gym...", customized the K90, had the sore arm/shoulder, etc.

For weeks, I've been posting that to use US K90 or similar heavy racquet such as nCode90, one has to commit to the racquet, train with it on and off the court, and somewhat adapt to the racquet to be able to fully benefit from its strengths. Some of those posts were direct replies to yours. In terms of working out, I've already been a "gym rat" for years. Like Jet, I added lots of lead tape to US n90 and K90 to train with it and went through the sore arm/shoulder routine too. There are advantages to working at becoming a physically stronger player using a heavier racquet as opposed to taking the tempting route of staying "weaker" and settling for a lighter racqet.

Finally, the more one works out and becomes stronger, the easier it gets to quickly transition from gym to tennis court. The only exception to this may be lower body day. With legs that have been blasted at the gym, one can still hit groundstrokes fine but mobility is going to tank. Alternatively, one can play tennis first then hit the gym right afterwards. However, this will make for a pretty weak gym workout.

 

[jetlee2k]

I have not play with the HPS85 for awhile now like almost 8 years and I don't own HPS85 anymore so my view may not be accurate. I remembered that the volleys from HPS85 is alittle more punchier or stiffer than the K90. I felt the K90 alittle flex & the most foregiven racquet that I played with so far. With the K90, You must hit every shots. Yesterday I did not feel well when I hit with my customized k90 it felt it really really heavy. I tried some experimental shots with a pro player who came to Vietnam for the Challenger next week. I stood in the ad court slicing or spinning lob the balls back to my opponent. The other guy hit back to the ad court either with slice or hard spin shots. After 10 mins work out I felt most of my shots landed inches near by the baselines with nasty undercut or spins. I realized one thing that b/c with my low string tension (50lb) that gave me another attacking weapon with the K90.

Regarding the about heavy weight lifting, I said I could do even 10mins before a match without getting injure it does not mean I do it everytime I play. But I tried to do some warmup with weights before I play. It is very convenient for me since my club has a total fitness gym. I just walk in and do 10-15mins warmup work out.

This is my preference warm up work out. 5mins on the Power Plate to stretch up my body with the Powerball, then 5 mins on the shoulder include lateral, frontal raise, pull down & push up, then 5 mins on triceps, biceps and finnal with a 350Mhz Power ball when I walk onto the court. This is just my warmup exercise, i do a full workout in the morning already..

 

[jetlee2k]

I'd like to clarify one thing. For me, tennis is a running game not a power game. After playing tennis over 25 years, I realized one thing the legs play about 90% part of your strokes. To get more power from serve you have to bend your legs. To hit an accurate, powerful shots you must setup your legs, balance the body, getting to the ball early and etc.. so the legs, footwork are the most important thing. All of the heavy weight lifting & training is just an extra part to add on your game and to prevent injuries. I do not recommend to be a weight lifter to play the game but you have to be strong & fit in order to handle heavy racquet such as the K90

 

[BreakPoint]

Wilson can sell AK90 in US, but they'd have to change the markings (pj) of the racquet so it doesn't match the heavier "real" K90. The problem is, Wilson knows this would be risky since very few people may actually buy it. So instead, they market a K90 "Lite" for Asian target market. In other words, Wilson knows it's the Federer K90 pj of the lighter racquet that is going to sell it. Otherwise, AK90 could have also had a different pj altogether too.

And some here on TW forum rag on Wilson's marketing which apparently works very well!

Well, they sold the nCode 90 and the nCode 95 with essentially the same paintjob so that it confused everyone which is which. From a distance, I can't tell if someone is using a nCode 90 or a nCode 95 as they look the same. Same with the K90 and K95 except for the matte and glossy finishes. But in low light and from a distance, most won't be able to tell the difference anyway.

For the Asian vs. US versions, the weight differences are already indicated on the spec lables on the throat. Also, they have the grip size stickers on the beam that indicate "L' or "SL" for the US versions and "USL" for the Asian versions. ("L" = Light, "SL" = Super Light", "USL" = Ultra Super Light.)

And it's not like Wilson (and all other racquet companies) haven't done this before. When Wilson made all those tens of millions of wood racquets, they came in a choice of "Light", "Medium" or "Heavy" for weight choices for each model, just like you have a choice of grip size, and ALL the different weight choices used the same EXACT paintjob. You had to look at the sticker on the side to see what weight it was.

Can you imagine if Wilson only offered one grip size choice in the US and only one grip size choice in Asia? That's essentially what they're doing by segregating the weights by region. ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL. That applies to both grip size AND to weight. And saying that if the weight doesn't fit you that you should try a different model racquet doesn't fly. Do they tell you that if the grip size of this model racquet doesn't fit you that you should switch to a different model racquet instead? Of course not! They tell you to switch to a grip size of that same model racquet that fits you better.

If they can offer different grip sizes of the same model racquet using the same paintjob, there's no reason they can't offer different weights of the same model racquet using the same paintjob. I mean most other companies already offer lighter versions of many of their racquets, and mostly worldwide, like Yonex, Head, Dunlop, Fischer, Volkl, Babolat, Tecnifibre, etc., so why can't Wilson?

 

[fearless1]

I have not play with the HPS85 for awhile now like almost 8 years and I don't own HPS85 anymore so my view may not be accurate. I remembered that the volleys from HPS85 is alittle more punchier or stiffer than the K90. I felt the K90 alittle flex & the most foregiven racquet that I played with so far. With the K90, You must hit every shots. Yesterday I did not feel well when I hit with my customized k90 it felt it really really heavy. I tried some experimental shots with a pro player who came to Vietnam for the Challenger next week. I stood in the ad court slicing or spinning lob the balls back to my opponent. The other guy hit back to the ad court either with slice or hard spin shots. After 10 mins work out I felt most of my shots landed inches near by the baselines with nasty undercut or spins. I realized one thing that b/c with my low string tension (50lb) that gave me another attacking weapon with the K90.

Regarding the about heavy weight lifting, I said I could do even 10mins before a match without getting injure it does not mean I do it everytime I play. But I tried to do some warmup with weights before I play. It is very convenient for me since my club has a total fitness gym. I just walk in and do 10-15mins warmup work out.

This is my preference warm up work out. 5mins on the Power Plate to stretch up my body with the Powerball, then 5 mins on the shoulder include lateral, frontal raise, pull down & push up, then 5 mins on triceps, biceps and finnal with a 350Mhz Power ball when I walk onto the court. This is just my warmup exercise, i do a full workout in the morning already..

Thanks for clarification jet. For the benefit of others...where tennis and a full workout are likely to occur on the same day, it is best to have at least a few hours time separation between the workouts. Like you, I hit the gym earlier in the day (morning in your case) and save tennis for later in the afternoon or evening. However, occassional demands at work prevent the gym workout earlier in the day and I end having to do the full gym workout (not just a warmup) right before tennis. Fortunately, the only problem I have on the tennis courts is some mild cramping in the pecs and triceps for about 10 minutes before everything is A-OK (ie, I'm hitting the ball perfectly fine as if I didn't do the full gym workout).

 

[fearless1]

Well, they sold the nCode 90 and the nCode 95 with essentially the same paintjob so that it confused everyone which is which. From a distance, I can't tell if someone is using a nCode 90 or a nCode 95 as they look the same. Same with the K90 and K95 except for the matte and glossy finishes. But in low light and from a distance, most won't be able to tell the difference anyway.

For the Asian vs. US versions, the weight differences are already indicated on the spec lables on the throat. Also, they have the grip size stickers on the beam that indicate "L' or "SL" for the US versions and "USL" for the Asian versions. ("L" = Light, "SL" = Super Light", "USL" = Ultra Super Light.)

And it's not like Wilson (and all other racquet companies) haven't done this before. When Wilson made all those tens of millions of wood racquets, they came in a choice of "Light", "Medium" or "Heavy" for weight choices for each model, just like you have a choice of grip size, and ALL the different weight choices used the same EXACT paintjob. You had to look at the sticker on the side to see what weight it was.

Can you imagine if Wilson only offered one grip size choice in the US and only one grip size choice in Asia? That's essentially what they're doing by segregating the weights by region. ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL. That applies to both grip size AND to weight. And saying that if the weight doesn't fit you that you should try a different model racquet doesn't fly. Do they tell you that if the grip size of this model racquet doesn't fit you that you should switch to a different model racquet instead? Of course not! They tell you to switch to a grip size of that same model racquet that fits you better.

If they can offer different grip sizes of the same model racquet using the same paintjob, there's no reason they can't offer different weights of the same model racquet using the same paintjob. I mean most other companies already offer lighter versions of many of their racquets, and mostly worldwide, like Yonex, Head, Dunlop, Fischer, Volkl, Babolat, Tecnifibre, etc., so why can't Wilson?

Not that it's relevent to AK90...I don't think Wilson seriously considered giving n90 vs n95 different pjs for the sole purpose allowing for ease of differentiaing similar racquet models from a distance (although there have been many times I wish they had when I've watched nCode 6.1 users!).

Grip size analogy kind of stretching it BP, especially considering different grip sized racquets are a reality for [most] all racquets in all markets.

Yes, I know that in general, "one size doesn't fit all". However, what I've been saying all along doesn't quite apply here. All I've been saying is there are advantages to learning to play with the heavier stick and that K90 is far more readily available for US buyers, which you appear to be. So, under the current circumstances, one could sort of just "go with the flow".

Anyway, your statement about "different weight choices using the same EXACT paintjob" is really what you want. Have you notified Wilson of your desires for this in US market?

Curious: If Wilson releases med wt K90 for US markets but with different paint job, will you buy it or still buy AK90 instead?

 

[BreakPoint]

Grip size analogy kind of stretching it BP, especially considering different grip sized racquets are a reality for [most] all racquets in all markets.

Different weight choices were a reality for ALL racquets during the wood era and still are for many models of racquets, just like different grip sizes are, so I don't think it's stretching it.

Yes, I know that in general, "one size doesn't fit all". However, what I've been saying all along doesn't quite apply here. All I've been saying is there are advantages to learning to play with the heavier stick and that K90 is far more readily available for US buyers, which you appear to be. So, under the current circumstances, one could sort of just "go with the flow".

One can also learn to play with a smaller or bigger grip size as well, so would you advocate Wilson making just one grip size available and then just asking people to "go with the flow"?

Anyway, your statement about "different weight choices using the same EXACT paintjob" is really what you want. Have you notified Wilson of your desires for this in US market?

They already make different weight choices using the same exact paintjob, e.g., PS Tour 90, nCode 90, nCode 95, K90, etc. They just don't distribute the different weight versions worldwide like they should. They are made side by side in the same factory in China. All I'm asking them to do is to ship both weight versions worldwide (at least to the U.S.).

Curious: If Wilson releases med wt K90 for US markets but with different paint job, will you buy it or still buy AK90 instead?

I don't care about the paintjob, I just want the racquet that I'm the most comfortable playing with. I would have to try both to see which one I like better.

 

[fearless1]

Different weight choices were a reality for ALL racquets during the wood era and still are for many models of racquets, just like different grip sizes are, so I don't think it's stretching it.

One can also learn to play with a smaller or bigger grip size as well, so would you advocate Wilson making just one grip size available and then just asking people to "go with the flow"?

They already make different weight choices using the same exact paintjob, e.g., PS Tour 90, nCode 90, nCode 95, K90, etc. They just don't distribute the different weight versions worldwide like they should. They are made side by side in the same factory in China. All I'm asking them to do is to ship both weight versions worldwide (at least to the U.S.).

I don't care about the paintjob, I just want the racquet that I'm the most comfortable playing with. I would have to try both to see which one I like better.

...a long time ago in a tennis galaxy not too far away...

There was a time when terms and concepts such as swing wt, center of percussion, coefficient of restitution, stiffness rating, etc where unheard of in the racquet industry and perhaps for almost all of the general tennis playing playing population too. Those where the days of wood (and steel) racquets. And like you have already mentioned, many models where released in L/M/H wts. They also came in different grip sizes too, but there was no mention whatsoever of swngwt, RDC, etc. That was the standard and practice back then.

Grip size is like sizing for clothing, tires, serving of fries at McDonald's, etc. On the other hand, wt for racquets is a "performance spec". You are trying to force an analogy where one doesn't exist between grip size and racquet wt. Today, things are mostly different. A change in any of the racquet's performance specs generally means a different racquet model, one with slightly different markings at the least all the way to a very different paintjob at the most. This is today's standard and business practice and it doesn't matter if the same Chinese worker is putting the finishing touches on both the AK90 and US K90s. The days of single model (pj's) in L/M/H wts are mostly if not totally gone altogether. But this reality doesn't seem to matter to you. You've already stated you want different performance specs (lighter AK90) but you want the EXACT paintjob of US K90.

...but then you say you don't care about the paint job.

In my prior post, the question I was actually trying to ask is, "if Wilson released AK 90 to US markets but with different markings, would you still buy it?" In my mind, the "med wt K90" is a current model AK90. I'm inclined to think that there would be no need for you to perform comparison demos since the racquets would be identical except for pj.

Examination of your other threads and posts on this subject matter indicate you would like to see Wilson's marketing dept make changes that I think are unrealistic. In any event, you found a solution in AK90 which saves you the trouble of having to adapt to the heavier US K90.

 

[BreakPoint]

There was a time when terms and concepts such as swing wt, center of percussion, coefficient of restitution, stiffness rating, etc where unheard of in the racquet industry and perhaps for almost all of the general tennis playing playing population too. Those where the days of wood (and steel) racquets. And like you have already mentioned, many models where released in L/M/H wts. They also came in different grip sizes too, but there was no mention whatsoever of swngwt, RDC, etc. That was the standard and practice back then.

And what does any of this have to do with not offering racquets in different weight options like they used to? Like I said, why not stop offering different grip size options, too, then?

Grip size is like sizing for clothing, tires, serving of fries at McDonald's, etc. On the other hand, wt for racquets is a "performance spec". You are trying to force an analogy where one doesn't exist between grip size and racquet wt. Today, things are mostly different. A change in any of the racquet's performance specs generally means a different racquet model, one with slightly different markings at the least all the way to a very different paintjob at the most. This is today's standard and business practice and it doesn't matter if the same Chinese worker is putting the finishing touches on both the AK90 and US K90s.

If weight is a "performace spec" then so is grip size. Let's face it, if anyone can learn to play with a heavier or lighter racquet then I think it's a lot easier to learn to play with a larger or smaller grip size. As a kid, I played with a 4 5/8 grip and never had a problem with it even though I was much smaller. Now I play with a 4 1/2 because it suits me better.

The days of single model (pj's) in L/M/H wts are mostly if not totally gone altogether.

But why? Is there a good reason for it? And what would you call the K95 Team, Fischer M-Speed Pro #1 Light, Volkl DNX 10 Light, etc.?

But this reality doesn't seem to matter to you.

But it's NOT the reality. The reality is that Wilson makes a lighter K90. They just don't distribute it here. BIG difference.

You've already stated you want different performance specs (lighter AK90) but you want the EXACT paintjob of US K90.

Can you name another racquet that is exactly the same as the K90, with all the same exact specs (e.g., 90 head, PWS, box beam, 18mm width, open pattern, ProStaff feel, short handle, etc.), except for the weight and balance, but with a DIFFERENT paintjob sold in the U.S.? If there is, tell me, and I'll buy 3 of them right now.

...but then you say you don't care about the paint job.

No, I don't. If I did, I wouldn't be interested in the K90 at all.

In my prior post, the question I was actually trying to ask is, "if Wilson released AK 90 to US markets but with different markings, would you still buy it?" In my mind, the "med wt K90" is a current model AK90. I'm inclined to think that there would be no need for you to perform comparison demos since the racquets would be identical except for pj.

But I have yet to play with an Asian K90, that's why I need to compare it. Perhaps I still like my Asian nCode 90 better.

Examination of your other threads and posts on this subject matter indicate you would like to see Wilson's marketing dept make changes that I think are unrealistic.

What changes? Wilson already makes this racquet and sells them by the boatload in Asia. They are made in the same factory as the standard K90. All they need to do is to stick a few thousand of them in the same container as the standard K90 when they ship them over here from China. How hard is that? Somehow Wilson's marketing was able figure out how to market a lighter version of the K95 18x20 by selling a K95 Team. I think they can also figure out how to sell a lighter K90 as well.

BTW, have you ever played with an Asian K90 or Asian nCode 90? If not, then how do you know how similar or different it is from the standard versions?

 

[fearless1]

Hmmm...I have to learn how to do segmented quotes...

Oh man...OK...

And when you where a child, you wore your dad's much larger clothing out into the real world thinking this would make you grow or mature faster...right? "Let's face it", sizing is not a performance spec, certainly not by design, certainly not like wt, bal, stiffness, etc.

It doesn't matter if Volk, Fischer, or XYZ Racquet company is doing anything in particular. The REALITY is Wilson's AK90 exists (as you keep pointing out) but NOT for US market by intent (what you don't point out).

"Can you name another racquet that is exactly the same as the K90, with all the same exact specs (e.g., 90 head, PWS, box beam, 18mm width, open pattern, ProStaff feel, short handle, etc.), except for the weight and balance, but with a DIFFERENT paintjob sold in the U.S.? If there is, tell me, and I'll buy 3 of them right now." Well...you say this...knowing such a dupllicate AK90 racquet doesn't exist in the US...so this statement is meaningless since it's not possible to prove. You can do better than this BP! However, there should be other racquets similar enough to AK90 that you can try and adopt...

Yes, exactly, "what changes?" You really think it's a simple matter of Wilson simply sticking a few thousand of them in the same container as std K90...", that nothing else that would be privy only to Wilson matters??

No, I haven't played with any versions of Asian 90s. I'm sure I would play fine with them and maybe buy some too if readily avaible in US. But, my not having played with them is not relavent to issues dealing with Wilson's marketing and distribution practices.


Look....I'm really on your side with this. Having more options is generally better than less. However, IMO, you are making over simplified assumptions while in a knowledge vacum. Do some research and to the best of your ability, FACTUALLY determine what's driving Wilson's current market strategy, legal/copywrite limitations, trade restrictions, etc then offer a REALISTIC solution that they can implement. Anything else is really BS.