Key Biscayne is actually off of Miami and not part of the Florida Keys, but it is a lot closer than Orlando.
I love the most random frame - Pro Kennex Kinetic Pro 7g
- Thread starter bluetrain4
- Start date
Key Biscayne is actually off of Miami and not part of the Florida Keys, but it is a lot closer than Orlando.
mikeler
Moderator
Do you have a place in South Florida where you can demo it or do you have to do it the KCraig way and get it shipped to you?
Power Player
Bionic Poster
Yep you are right..I don't know why I always confuse that!! Yeah Key West is a trek. I have been there once and remember the drive home was brutal..but what an awesome place.
mikeler
Moderator
Weiss Cannon B5E 17 mains at 52 and Babolat Xcel 16 crosses at 56 in 2 sticks.
Weiss Cannon B5E 17 mains at 52 and Dunlop Hexy Fiber 17 crosses at 56 in the 3rd stick.
I'm actually liking the setup better with the Hexy Fiber. Monster spin.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
I am taking a page from Mikeler here and will be stringing Hexy Fibre as well.
My setup (more strings come tuesday) will be Black Magic and Hexyfibre at 58#s.
My 2nd racquet will be Black Magic and Mantis Comfort Synthetic at 56#s.
I wanted to try this mantis out since I loved the feel, but I am hoping the Hexy Fibre wins the battle of the crosses.
My setup (more strings come tuesday) will be Black Magic and Hexyfibre at 58#s.
My 2nd racquet will be Black Magic and Mantis Comfort Synthetic at 56#s.
I wanted to try this mantis out since I loved the feel, but I am hoping the Hexy Fibre wins the battle of the crosses.
I have to check next week - there are a number of good locations but not sure they still carry it as its an older frame. Not sure I want to pay to have it shipped to demo but we'll see. Will also check with Drak if his place carries it
PP - I do the drive so often I can do it in my sleep and it doesn't bother me at all anymore except when I don't time it right and hit traffic in kendall on the turnpike.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
Yeah I bet it gets easier after a while..still tough, but what a view to drive in and out on.
You know what is interesting is that some retailers that sell PKs only sell the 5 and 7G still. I went and looked at a few and I am thinking the 7G may be their best selling racquet, but I could be wrong.
You know what is interesting is that some retailers that sell PKs only sell the 5 and 7G still. I went and looked at a few and I am thinking the 7G may be their best selling racquet, but I could be wrong.
bluetrain4
G.O.A.T.
Isn't it true that swingwights for extended-length frames can't be compared to their standard length counterparts?
Extending the length of a frame will automatically increase the SW if everything else remains the same, correct? But, that doesn't it mean that it will necessarily be harder to swing. A 330 SW on a 27.5 inch frame will not feel as hard to swing as a 330 SW on a 27 inch frame. These are my observations, not indisputable fact. I recall several extended length frames (like the Dunlop Hotmelt 200) which had seemiingly hefty SWs (high 330s, low 340s), but didn't feel cumbersome at all.
Extended versions almost always have higher swingweight than the comparable standard frame. They are also often more headlight (based on specs), without the feeling of being more headlight.
Extending the length of a frame will automatically increase the SW if everything else remains the same, correct? But, that doesn't it mean that it will necessarily be harder to swing. A 330 SW on a 27.5 inch frame will not feel as hard to swing as a 330 SW on a 27 inch frame. These are my observations, not indisputable fact. I recall several extended length frames (like the Dunlop Hotmelt 200) which had seemiingly hefty SWs (high 330s, low 340s), but didn't feel cumbersome at all.
Extended versions almost always have higher swingweight than the comparable standard frame. They are also often more headlight (based on specs), without the feeling of being more headlight.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
I agree with everything you said since my experience is the same.
Seems like another example of why XL length can be very advantageous.
Seems like another example of why XL length can be very advantageous.
I've been following your posts on this comparison. As I stated earlier, I demoed both the 5G and the 7G ultimately going with the 7g. The 5g had some questionable strings in it that made me wonder if this big difference in performance was in fact subject to the strings. Regardless, your comments about the 7G vs. 5G are in line with my experience as well. I love my 7G. Another thing, I purchased this racquet due to its elbow friendly nature and have recently strung it with a full bed of Alu Big Banger Rough....a poly, which is typically not the smartest move for those of us with tennis elbow. Even with that, this stick is still elbow friendly and much more the beast. I just love this stick!!!
Fuji
Legend
Hey all!
I've gotten a lot of arm problems lately, even with arm friendly strings. I have the Redondo mid, but I'm just not sure it's working out for me. I'll probably end up selling it right away here. I'm only down to my Prestige Mid, PSC6.1 and Max200G.
I've been looking at trying out some + sized frames. I'm 6'0 tall, so I don't really NEED extra reach, but it's always something that has intrigued me.
The two I have been looking at is the 7G and the PSTGT+. Has anyone hit with both and could compare?
-Fuji
I've gotten a lot of arm problems lately, even with arm friendly strings. I have the Redondo mid, but I'm just not sure it's working out for me. I'll probably end up selling it right away here. I'm only down to my Prestige Mid, PSC6.1 and Max200G.
I've been looking at trying out some + sized frames. I'm 6'0 tall, so I don't really NEED extra reach, but it's always something that has intrigued me.
The two I have been looking at is the 7G and the PSTGT+. Has anyone hit with both and could compare?
-Fuji
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Bud
Bionic Poster
My 7G's were also spot on at around 11.75 oz.
Excellent frame... slightly more powerful and less arm-friendly than its cousin the 5G.
- - -
BTW, if anyone needs grommets for these I have a whole bunch leftover from when I was using the 5G frames (owned 6 at one time)
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mikeler
Moderator
Fuji
Legend
Really?! Even though the 7G is 5 points stiffer, the kinetic technology really makes that big of a difference hey?
-Fuji
mikeler
Moderator
Frame and string stiffness are helpful starting points but they really have a long way to go in terms of accurately describing how a setup "feels". Take Mantis Comfort Synthetic as a string. I've playtested around 20 multis and this string supposedly has a stiffness of 175? It feels softer than some gut setups I've hit with.
The beauty of the 7G is that the power level plays like the stiffness indicated, but the comfort level is so good. Much better than any Babolat. It won't get much love on the boards, until a few people get some arm injuries and try it and then the "Wow" moment happens and you stop reading racket reviews.
Fuji
Legend
Wow! Well I think I've hit that point in my game. My arm is starting to just give out. Even the last few days I've been getting shoulder pains, (Which has never happened, and I played some pretty heavy shoulder prone injury sports when I was younger), I just think I'm at the point where I need to put my body above everything else right now! Not to mention the slew of elbow problems because of a bout with poly and a PD....
-Fuji
mikeler
Moderator
I too was worried about the stiffness rating but I can assure you the racket is super comfy.
Fuji
Legend
Great thank you!
I know you're the multi master, what multi would you recommend to go with the 7G? I like X1 Biphase, but I think it might be a bit too "stiff" of a multi? I'm willing to try anything!
-Fuji
mikeler
Moderator
Great thank you!
I know you're the multi master, what multi would you recommend to go with the 7G? I like X1 Biphase, but I think it might be a bit too "stiff" of a multi? I'm willing to try anything!
-Fuji
I'm finding MCS and Xcel to be TOO soft as a cross string in this frame. I'm digging Dunlop Hexy Fiber as a cross right now.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
I have both of those strings as well waiting to be strung as a cross and have a feeling the hexy fibre could be the way to go. If not, I will just go back to synth gut which I have always liked too.
Actually glad to be back to hybriding. As much as I liked full poly, it is just not worth the risk and headache of constantly wondering when the strings will die. Hybrids let me string at a higher tension and usually break right around when it's time for a restring. Plus the spin production is quite plentiful if you have a good string combo that doesn't move.
Actually glad to be back to hybriding. As much as I liked full poly, it is just not worth the risk and headache of constantly wondering when the strings will die. Hybrids let me string at a higher tension and usually break right around when it's time for a restring. Plus the spin production is quite plentiful if you have a good string combo that doesn't move.
tennis-kid
Rookie
With B5E mains I get about 12 hours out of the MCS crosses. More like 5 hours with a full job.
KCraig, that will be a good comparison. I've had a few opponents curse at me when I hit my Federer forehand squash shot for a winner. I only use it on that shot or for low approach shots/droppers. I prefer to shank the ball with a topspin forehand whenever possible though.
What does that mean " shank the ball"? Is that hitting the ball between your legs?
mikeler
Moderator
jorel
Hall of Fame
hopefully u dont shank the ball between ur legs
Fuji
Legend
LOL!
Thanks for all the help Mike! I'm actually borrowing the frame from a friend right now, and I think it's really sweet!!
-Fuji
mikeler
Moderator
Power Player
Bionic Poster
My new one should be here tomorrow from TW. I'm going Black Magic/Hexy Fibre. Can't wait to see how that little setup works.
mikeler
Moderator
Power Player
Bionic Poster
New 7G has arrived. I will be stringing it up with the hexyfibre/black magic combination of doom.
Kevin T
Hall of Fame
I'm curious if any of you 7g lovers also tried the Ki 5 x ? Exact same specs but as PK afficionados like myself know, the Ki 5 and 5g are very different animals. It seems opinions of the 7g/Ki 5x also point to two slightly different conclusions. I'm in the camp that the older (and $30 cheaper ) 5g/7g are better frames.
) 5g/7g are better frames.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
I stick with what works, but I have never tried any other PKs besides the 7g. It just fits my game so well. I read enough comparisons to the Ki that it sounds like Pro Kennex could not improve upon the 7G.
I think there are some guys that have tried both and hopefully they can provide you more info.
I think there are some guys that have tried both and hopefully they can provide you more info.
jorel
Hall of Fame
theres a review TW didI'm curious if any of you 7g lovers also tried the Ki 5 x ? Exact same specs but as PK afficionados like myself know, the Ki 5 and 5g are very different animals. It seems opinions of the 7g/Ki 5x also point to two slightly different conclusions. I'm in the camp that the older (and $30 cheaper
Kevin T
Hall of Fame
Yeah, I've seen it but am interested in board member opinions.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
Interesting TW Q&A:
Questions & Answers for ProKennex Kinetic Pro 7G Racquets
Question: How does the unique "moving mass" technology in Kinetic frames ultimately improve the racquets performance?
Answer: For this answer we'll go to the findings of Kennex which independently corroborated with the Sports Dynamics and Technology Laboratory at Massachusetts Intstitute of Technology. They found that the Kinetic offered (vs. racquets without the Kinetic system): a 20% improvement in shock reduction; a 43% enhancement of the vibration damping ratio; a 12-15% enlargement of the sweet spot and a nine-tenths increase in the center of percussion. Is all this true? From the feeling of these racquets, it seems to be. Our play tests found a very solid, yet forgiving line of racquets. These frames may be the best kept secret in the U.S. market.
Questions & Answers for ProKennex Kinetic Pro 7G Racquets
Question: How does the unique "moving mass" technology in Kinetic frames ultimately improve the racquets performance?
Answer: For this answer we'll go to the findings of Kennex which independently corroborated with the Sports Dynamics and Technology Laboratory at Massachusetts Intstitute of Technology. They found that the Kinetic offered (vs. racquets without the Kinetic system): a 20% improvement in shock reduction; a 43% enhancement of the vibration damping ratio; a 12-15% enlargement of the sweet spot and a nine-tenths increase in the center of percussion. Is all this true? From the feeling of these racquets, it seems to be. Our play tests found a very solid, yet forgiving line of racquets. These frames may be the best kept secret in the U.S. market.
Kevin T
Hall of Fame
Along with a ton of other tennis players, I can give a big thumbs up to the kinetic tech. I never had a so much as an elbow/shoulder twinge until I started to play racquetball and squash regularly, usually during the summer heat of Charleston, SC. I was using all Wilson frames back then (which are notoriously stiff rball and squash frames). I borrowed a guy's PK kinetic rball racquet and the rest is history...no more elbow pain. I started using PK tennis and squash frames soon after. I've dabbled in Fischer tennis racquets lately but always seem to go back to PK.
I haven't used the 7g very much but you guys certainly have me interested.
jorel
Hall of Fame
based on that review..i would never waste my time and try the KIX plus
Kevin T
Hall of Fame
I hear ya. Personally, I like the Ki 5 but I think most PKers prefer the original 5g. I think I'll give the 7g a long demo thanks to this thread.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
Just watch your feet..stay on your toes and get used to the spacing. It just takes a little time to get used to, but for me the XL gives a lot of advantages.
Thought I would post my initial impressions of the 7g.
I am a former satellite/challenger player who played in the mid 90's, now playing at the 5.0 level. I have been playing with the Prince Diablo Mid for quite some time. There have been many other "flings" along the way, but I always come back to the diablo due to the heavy ball I can hit with it off both sides and the weight and jump I get on my kick serve. My sticks are 360 grams strung, I use Genesis Typhoon at 56 lbs. I've been frustrated in the last couple of years with the very bad quality control coming from Prince, my last batch of racquets were all over the map with weight and swing weight, so I am motivated to find my new weapon.
So I read this thread as well as the feedback for this stick, so I bought one to try. Put leather on it, 10 grams in the handle, and strung it with typhoon at 58 lbs. Hit off the ball machine last night, and I can say I am very impressed. Pace and spin were easy to attain, especially on the forehand, my backhand was fine, but it felt like my hand was on the grip ever so slightly, probably due to the different grip shape. I only hit about 200 balls, but came away impressed both with the performance and the comfort. All in all, I was able to just pick it up and hit good shots right off the bat, which is a good sign.
Tonight I am hitting with my regular hitting partner who was a D1 player in his day, he knows my game as well as anyone, so I am interested in his feedback. I will update tomorrow.
I am a former satellite/challenger player who played in the mid 90's, now playing at the 5.0 level. I have been playing with the Prince Diablo Mid for quite some time. There have been many other "flings" along the way, but I always come back to the diablo due to the heavy ball I can hit with it off both sides and the weight and jump I get on my kick serve. My sticks are 360 grams strung, I use Genesis Typhoon at 56 lbs. I've been frustrated in the last couple of years with the very bad quality control coming from Prince, my last batch of racquets were all over the map with weight and swing weight, so I am motivated to find my new weapon.
So I read this thread as well as the feedback for this stick, so I bought one to try. Put leather on it, 10 grams in the handle, and strung it with typhoon at 58 lbs. Hit off the ball machine last night, and I can say I am very impressed. Pace and spin were easy to attain, especially on the forehand, my backhand was fine, but it felt like my hand was on the grip ever so slightly, probably due to the different grip shape. I only hit about 200 balls, but came away impressed both with the performance and the comfort. All in all, I was able to just pick it up and hit good shots right off the bat, which is a good sign.
Tonight I am hitting with my regular hitting partner who was a D1 player in his day, he knows my game as well as anyone, so I am interested in his feedback. I will update tomorrow.
mikeler
Moderator
KCraig will be able to expound more on the Diablo but I think he was having the same types of issues with Prince's QC. The racket already feels very head light so I can't imagine what it feels like with even more weight in the handle.
I have always liked a very headlight balance coupled with a high static weight. Don't forget that adding weight to the handle does not impact the swingweight all that much, so the swingweight feels the same, to me there's just more "punch" when you add weight. The 7g swings lighter than my diablo's do, it's 10 grams lighter, but I seem to get the same weight of shot.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
Sparky awesome stuff, I am interested in seeing how it goes for you tonight.
mikeler
Moderator
I really like the stock version of this frame so I probably won't try out your setup but that is interesting. For some reason, the PK replacement grips really appeal to me as well so I don't think I want to rip them off just yet.
rfprse
Professional
I've been demoing this racquet. I'll stick with it a few more days, but it's been disappointing so far. Maybe, it is due to the extra length, but I am not sure if it is the case.
The general feeling of hitting with this racquet is that it does not seem to bite the ball. I cannot figure out what is the cause of this. Probably, not the swing weight, since I don't have any problem with those with higher swing/or static weight. My strokes even with PS 6.0 85 had better action, let alone 6.1 95's. Not sure it's the extra length. It does demand the adjustment of timing and spacing, still it should not affect the way racquet feels even when the timing and spacing is right. Maybe, caused by crappy strings?
My hunch is that this racquet might be a little too light. Maybe, adding some weight to the upper hoop area might give a little more oomph and better feel. But this might make the racquet too cumbersome with its extra length and big head size. Maybe, this racquet is simply not for me.
The general feeling of hitting with this racquet is that it does not seem to bite the ball. I cannot figure out what is the cause of this. Probably, not the swing weight, since I don't have any problem with those with higher swing/or static weight. My strokes even with PS 6.0 85 had better action, let alone 6.1 95's. Not sure it's the extra length. It does demand the adjustment of timing and spacing, still it should not affect the way racquet feels even when the timing and spacing is right. Maybe, caused by crappy strings?
My hunch is that this racquet might be a little too light. Maybe, adding some weight to the upper hoop area might give a little more oomph and better feel. But this might make the racquet too cumbersome with its extra length and big head size. Maybe, this racquet is simply not for me.
tennis-kid
Rookie
You two guys are praising 7g tremendously. Let's see it truely deserve that praise.
I am ordering demo rackets tomorrow morning. And I will test them from Monday - Friday. I have one week off Yay!
I am ordering demo rackets tomorrow morning. And I will test them from Monday - Friday. I have one week off Yay!
If you are used to playing with Wilsons, my guess is that you are used to a stiff frame and it is too flexy for you.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
Yep no racquet is for everyone. It's just impossible. If you are coming from the Wilson PS, than that is a big change. The 7G is a modern racquet meant for big hitting with spin. I am not sure your stings or tension, but I can give you some reccomendations to try.
The 7g fascinates me, even in it's tension range..it goes up to 68#s..I love that. reminds me of the old days when my old Head said I could go up to 72#s..you just don't see that as much anymore.
I think this racquet is going to reward a person that likes the Djokovic/Agassi style driving topspin or the more extreme Nadal low to high. Not sure if it is going to be a dream for a flatter hitter due to the power, but it possibly could at the right tension.
But when you say it doesn't bite the ball, that is interesting because for me it does. The Pro Staffs do have a more open pattern though, and you may prefer that. I personally like to hit deep and through the court and use so much spin naturally that an open pattern can sometimes make it harder for me to do that.
Update:I hit with my regular hitting partner last night. Let me preface this by saying it was brutally hot, air temp was 96 at 6pm, court surface was frying pan hot. So I hit with the 7g and the diablo mid, switching back and forth every 15 minutes or so. Still impressed with the ball I was hitting with the 7g, but my hitting partner said the weight of shot was quite different, in that the 7g ball was fast and spinny, but not all that heavy. He further commented that I was easier to hit against when using the 7g, even though the ball was slightly faster.
I am certainly not drawing any conclusions as of yet, the conditions were tough, and I wasn't hitting all that well. I really like the 7g's response and feel, but if I can't produce the same ball quality, I can't change. Just have to suffer through Prince's poor QC.
I am certainly not drawing any conclusions as of yet, the conditions were tough, and I wasn't hitting all that well. I really like the 7g's response and feel, but if I can't produce the same ball quality, I can't change. Just have to suffer through Prince's poor QC.
