Bit the bullet and bought a 2012 PDR today

Bud

Bionic Poster
Damned impulse buys! :)

Replacing the synthetic grip with leather and then stringing it up with full natural gut to make it a bit more comfortable.

Will use it full-time for the next couple of weeks and then write a comprehensive review :wink:
 

Bud

Bionic Poster
Unstrung specs and QC

Frame QC is nearly perfect!

315g unstrung and 7 pts. HL. (exactly what's written on the frame)

Frame fit and finish is excellent. This 2012 model looks better than the 2009 GT, IMO.
 
Impulse buys can be dangerous. I was highly considering just spontaneously buying a few YT IG Rad Pros before play-testing them, now i'm really glad i demo'd them first. Hope you like them.
 

Bud

Bionic Poster
Impulse buys can be dangerous. I was highly considering just spontaneously buying a few YT IG Rad Pros before play-testing them, now i'm really glad i demo'd them first. Hope you like them.

I'm a Babolat guy and have been using APD's and PD's for years. I also owned a 2009 PDR+ which I felt was too stiff. Hoping this frame is a bit more comfy.
 

Chyeaah

Professional
I'm a Babolat guy and have been using APD's and PD's for years. I also owned a 2009 PDR+ which I felt was too stiff. Hoping this frame is a bit more comfy.

First thought is, your pro xD. Can you get those Clijsters down the line with the PD? Find it so damn hard, when i play with babs i just swing super hard down the T.
 

Bud

Bionic Poster
Strung 'er up

Head Rip Control 17 at 55/48

With a leather grip and strings - specs: 330g (11.6 oz.) and 5 pts. HL

I like frames right around 340g so I added 6g inside the buttcap and 4g at 3/9.

Final specs: 340g (12.0 oz.) and 7 pts. HL

Playing a few hours of doubles later tonight :)
 

Bud

Bionic Poster
First impressions

Played for 3 hours last night rallying and doubles (4.5-open)

The frame feels nearly identical to my slightly modified APD's (also 340g and 6-7 pts. HL. It's more comfortable than the last iteration (PDR GT). It's also more muted than any Babolat frame I've played with to date (could be the string - Head RIP Control). This is the first time I've used RIP in 3-4 years and I don't recall what it felt like in the past. I'll have to try it with all gut as well for a fair comparison.

Against big hitters, the frame is rock solid and doesn't experience any twisting on slightly off-center hits. It appears to be quite a bit more stable in the head as well (versus the last version). This frame feels more similar to the APD than the 2009 PD/PDR. It seems easier to obtain a bit more spin than the previous version (again, it may be the string).

Switching back and forth from the APD to the PD, as always, is nearly seamless being the head size and shape is identical.
 
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ArliHawk

Hall of Fame
I use an APDGT and like RIP okay. But what I really like is Prince Prmier Attack. Maybe that's worth a try in your pure drive.
 

bluetrain4

G.O.A.T.
I couldn't decide bwtween the new PDR and the new 2012 BLX 6.1. And, I'm not going to decide. LOL. I got the 6.1 yesterday and will get the PDR in a few weeks.

2012 is shaping up to be a good year for racquets.

Good luck with the PDR!
 

Bud

Bionic Poster
Played again with it today and the crappy leather Volkl grip started peeling off at the butt cap forcing me to switch back to my APD.

I knew when I installed it that it would most likely be a problem as the tape on the back sucks and was barely sticking to the pallet.

No more Volkl leather grips for me.. just the TW thin leather :)
 

The Wreck

Semi-Pro
Does it at least feel more solid than a standard APDGT? I love how my APD plays, but sometimes it just feels so hollow and unrewarding, and I was hoping this frame would be a remedy to that problem.
 

Dennison

New User
They have definitely fixed that. PDR feels a lot less hollow and less harsh with full poly then APDGT with full multi
 

Rozroz

G.O.A.T.
Where do you guys get money to spend like that? :confused:

Wish I have that kind of budget!

huh, you're kidding? 1 stick is my budget limit, i barely been able to afford it, but then i came here and everyone has like 7-8 racquets in their bag, switching between them all the time, each is strung with different strings..

this is MADNESS! i feel so POOR!
 

Chyeaah

Professional
i believe they have 7-8 racquets accumulated within 3-4 or so years?

i think i'll have around 10 within 5 years.
 

Chyeaah

Professional
They have definitely fixed that. PDR feels a lot less hollow and less harsh with full poly then APDGT with full multi

Both the old and new PDR are solid or thereabouts, the PD is the one which the hollow feel starts to annoy you.
 

Rozroz

G.O.A.T.
i believe they have 7-8 racquets accumulated within 3-4 or so years?


i think i'll have around 10 within 5 years.

I always thought that when i switch to a new racquet it's because i can play
Better with a new frame. Otherwise, why change?
 

Bud

Bionic Poster
Just curious Bud, why the 7lb difference in mains/crosses? How does it affect the feel?

I string it so the mains are tight but also snap back into place (reason for lower tensioned crosses). I find that 8-10 lbs. of difference between mains/crosses accomplishes this. I also spray the stringbed with silicone after every time I play. All my strings (even non-poly) snap right back into place and require no straightening). There have been studies of what creates the most spin and it's the action of the mains stretching (upon ball impact) and then snapping back into place that is most effective.

Does it at least feel more solid than a standard APDGT? I love how my APD plays, but sometimes it just feels so hollow and unrewarding, and I was hoping this frame would be a remedy to that problem.

I've never thought the APD or PD felt or sounded hollow. They feel as solid as a rock (especially when you boost the weight up slightly). Many pros use both frames and they are good enough for those ladies and gents.

- - -

Peeling off the crappy Volkl leather grip and replacing with a TW thin leather so I can continue playing with the frame, tomorrow.

I may re-tape the back of the Volkl and use it on one of my used frames. The grip also has ZERO tack (even when slightly damp). I can't see how people like these things! By far the worst leather grip I've ever experienced.
 
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Bud

Bionic Poster
Both the old and new PDR are solid or thereabouts, the PD is the one which the hollow feel starts to annoy you.

It's the same frame with slightly more stiffness, mass and a slightly different weight distribution (and PJ). If one feels hollow to somebody, they'll both feel hollow.

Most frames these days are hollow shells (if you've ever seen one smashed). Very few modern frames have a foam core.
 
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I string it so the mains are tight but also snap back into place (reason for lower tensioned crosses). I find that 8-10 lbs. of difference between mains/crosses accomplishes this. I also spray the stringbed with silicone after every time I play. All my strings (even non-poly) snap right back into place and require no straightening). There have been studies of what creates the most spin and it's the action of the mains stretching (upon ball impact) and then snapping back into place that is most effective.

What kind of silicone do you use? Thanks
 

Bud

Bionic Poster
What kind of silicone do you use? Thanks

Can of spray silicone lube at Walmart. Usually found in the automotive section. Runs about $2.50 per can and last a long time. It's called CRC Heavy Duty Silicone Multi-Use Lubricant (red can with black cap).

gCwBG0RKVjUi-VEQX1JPQZWMBbawb5Rhr7nJeGGSOfD4OKAXfFojz3SA8sYAjRl6Rkx93UHsooJ-IXNopyahOYa1e144cGqj_Y0msoIPChUjYBNyMnHgytFcUhhdLG9XQFVECXablhhor_-4K_khq1TRJt6rpRByS16lqoKjFl4H-fawhxW6U0wPjDVGAARuTXrnAq_bP-uHMagARK8IA3ioZXf_2QFTyzUVpZ00LWCkN8yFWg9SKwGQX-PkKotmfrIvZ_uCx-HsQhHx7nCVT1YO9GNTnalTgvc9CGlizx6_O_E79zTvwB5OXZkXMAvifDndna-uEYplQQPCJQg16fp4zu3KJx7O-p1hJjYndmmO



Just a light spray over both sides of the string bed after every session. Then, move all main strings so the silicone gets under where the strings lie. I usually spray the frame while the stringbed is sitting over a piece of cardboard.. so the cardboard absorbs any excess spray.

Regardless of the string type, after about a week, they should snap back into place. If they have a slight texture, they still snap back but don't always perfectly re-align (I've noticed this with the RIP Control). The RIP is the first textured string I've used in years. I think after a week of hitting and spraying, even the RIP strings will re-align themselves.

It works great on full natural gut and non-textured gut/poly hybrids - which is what I've used for the past few years.
 
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Bud

Bionic Poster
Nice so far!

I'm really enjoying this frame. It feels more similar to the APD than it does to the last generation PD. IMO, It's a tiny bit more muted, with this new Cortex system.

Although my APD's (both GT and original non-cortex) are weighted and balanced the same as this Roddick, the Roddick definitely has more pop on every shot.

It's taken a few hitting sessions to find the balance between power and spin. Now that I've found it, I can really crank my FH with this frame.

As far as comfort, this frame is more comfy than the last Roddick. It feels less stiff. Again, very similar to the regular PDGT or 2010 APD.

Will give it another 1-2 weeks of full-time hitting with this frame before I decide on a permanent switch. Definitely no buyer's remorse here.
 

Nostradamus

Bionic Poster
Yea, i am still hitting with the Demo. and i can't help it but liking it. Crappy Addiction string is going dead on me fast. but the frame is still playing well. sign of Greatness.
 

Nostradamus

Bionic Poster
Can of spray silicone lube at Walmart. Usually found in the automotive section. Runs about $2.50 per can and last a long time. It's called CRC Heavy Duty Silicone Multi-Use Lubricant (red can with black cap).

gCwBG0RKVjUi-VEQX1JPQZWMBbawb5Rhr7nJeGGSOfD4OKAXfFojz3SA8sYAjRl6Rkx93UHsooJ-IXNopyahOYa1e144cGqj_Y0msoIPChUjYBNyMnHgytFcUhhdLG9XQFVECXablhhor_-4K_khq1TRJt6rpRByS16lqoKjFl4H-fawhxW6U0wPjDVGAARuTXrnAq_bP-uHMagARK8IA3ioZXf_2QFTyzUVpZ00LWCkN8yFWg9SKwGQX-PkKotmfrIvZ_uCx-HsQhHx7nCVT1YO9GNTnalTgvc9CGlizx6_O_E79zTvwB5OXZkXMAvifDndna-uEYplQQPCJQg16fp4zu3KJx7O-p1hJjYndmmO



Just a light spray over both sides of the string bed after every session. Then, move all main strings so the silicone gets under where the strings lie. I usually spray the frame while the stringbed is sitting over a piece of cardboard.. so the cardboard absorbs any excess spray.

Regardless of the string type, after about a week, they should snap back into place. If they have a slight texture, they still snap back but don't always perfectly re-align (I've noticed this with the RIP Control). The RIP is the first textured string I've used in years. I think after a week of hitting and spraying, even the RIP strings will re-align themselves.

It works great on full natural gut and non-textured gut/poly hybrids - which is what I've used for the past few years.

WOW, the creativity of this man never seize to amaze.:)
 

Bud

Bionic Poster
Another great day hitting with this frame!

Everything just works :)

Think it's time to retire the APD's
 
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Bergboy123

Semi-Pro
I'm also thinking of switching from my APD's to the new PD. I'm on a short budget though, plus progressing through college, so I'm scared to go buy one yet. I'm enjoying this thread!

The reason that I'm wanting to switch is because with my APD's I feel like I'm getting to the point where I really want and need more pop on my groundstrokes, as well as my serve. I want to be able to ace people and hit winners easier, and I'm hoping the new PD will give me that little boost I need.
 

Bud

Bionic Poster
I'm also thinking of switching from my APD's to the new PD. I'm on a short budget though, plus progressing through college, so I'm scared to go buy one yet. I'm enjoying this thread!

The reason that I'm wanting to switch is because with my APD's I feel like I'm getting to the point where I really want and need more pop on my groundstrokes, as well as my serve. I want to be able to ace people and hit winners easier, and I'm hoping the new PD will give me that little boost I need.

I'd suggest you give one a try, then. The tiny bit of extra pop on every shot is addictive :)

I always preferred the APD over the PD as it just seemed to work better with my game. I'd try a PD then go back to the APD and would feel the world was right again. However, this frame is different than past PD's. It feels so close to the APD with some more pop on every shot.

I'll most likely buy a second one within the next week and will string it with full natural gut to rule out any potential string effect from the RIP Control.

So far, no shoulder, wrist or elbow issues. Either they softened this frame a bit or the new Active Cortex is dampening it a bit more.
 

Bergboy123

Semi-Pro
I'd suggest you give one a try, then. The tiny bit of extra pop on every shot is addictive :)

I always preferred the APD over the PD as it just seemed to work better with my game. I'd try a PD then go back to the APD and would feel the world was right again. However, this frame is different than past PD's. It feels so close to the APD with some more pop on every shot.

I'll most likely buy a second one within the next week and will string it with full natural gut to rule out any potential string effect from the RIP Control.

So far, no shoulder, wrist or elbow issues. Either they softened this frame a bit or the new Active Cortex is dampening it a bit more.

Bud that sounds great. This is encouraging to me to go ahead and buy one. I'll probably still demo first though
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
Bud I'm going to grab a pd plus and throw rip control 16 gauge in there. How does the rip feel for you in it? I feel like it could be a perfect match since it will save my arm and still provide spin and control.
 

Bud

Bionic Poster
Bud I'm going to grab a pd plus and throw rip control 16 gauge in there. How does the rip feel for you in it? I feel like it could be a perfect match since it will save my arm and still provide spin and control.

It's been years since I've used it. It's softer than I recall and gives nice spin (I always spray the stringbed with silicone after every session). However, I can't tell if the muted feel of this frame is due to the frame characteristics or the RIP Control string.

I'll string up the next frame with natural gut so I can get a good feel for the frame characteristics apart from the string.
 

klementine

Hall of Fame
^ Bud... first of all.. How's it going?

2ndly, how do strings that don't have a tendency for movement react with the silicone spray treatment? I assume it would also help with the longevity of multis/syn.guts?

I use to be counter-productive at times, lightly sanding polys that didn't move. Didn't help spin but it did help in the power department as the strings ended up thinner.
 

Bud

Bionic Poster
^ Bud... first of all.. How's it going?

2ndly, how do strings that don't have a tendency for movement react with the silicone spray treatment? I assume it would also help with the longevity of multis/syn.guts?

I use to be counter-productive at times, lightly sanding polys that didn't move. Didn't help spin but it did help in the power department as the strings ended up thinner.

It's great. Even the slightly textured RIP Control mains are now snapping right back after a week of playing and spraying :) They are very soft/mushy so it's taken some time for the silicone to do its thing.

After every session, I lightly spray both sides of the stringbed and move all mains to make sure they are skating on a thin layer of silicone. I also make sure all crosses are parallel. As the mains slide against the crosses and notch, the crosses will no longer move. Then as you continue spraying, the silicone makes its way into the notches in the mains.

My APD's are strung with natural gut that's been in them for months. If you know NG, it generally resists fluid movement (especially after wearing in a bit) and does not snap back into place. It's a struggle to constantly straighten the stringbed. With the silicone, the gut mains in my APD's snap back into place just like poly and require no straightening.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
It's been years since I've used it. It's softer than I recall and gives nice spin (I always spray the stringbed with silicone after every session). However, I can't tell if the muted feel of this frame is due to the frame characteristics or the RIP Control string.

I'll string up the next frame with natural gut so I can get a good feel for the frame characteristics apart from the string.

Well I can tell you that the setup I demoed had synth gut and it was crisp, but still muted in a good way. A nice balance of both.

Also tried standard length with RPM blast and that had a nice muted but crisp feel as well..not nearly as crisp as the syn gut, but the racquet still had that pure drive feel to it.

Did you still have a little crispness to the frame? I think Rip is a great option for spin hitters who want to use a stiff frame like the PD.
 

Hominator

Hall of Fame
I'd suggest you give one a try, then. The tiny bit of extra pop on every shot is addictive :)

I always preferred the APD over the PD as it just seemed to work better with my game. I'd try a PD then go back to the APD and would feel the world was right again. However, this frame is different than past PD's. It feels so close to the APD with some more pop on every shot.

I'll most likely buy a second one within the next week and will string it with full natural gut to rule out any potential string effect from the RIP Control.

So far, no shoulder, wrist or elbow issues. Either they softened this frame a bit or the new Active Cortex is dampening it a bit more.

Bud - did you experience arm pain with your APDs? Trying to gauge the arm-friendliness of this new PDGT. Thanks for your thoughts.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
Bud - did you experience arm pain with your APDs? Trying to gauge the arm-friendliness of this new PDGT. Thanks for your thoughts.

I will give you feedback on this the more I use mine as well.

Off the bat, I would suggest very soft poly or a multi like RIP.

No pain with full RPM blast in the demo, but I would not want a poly in there that was close to death..this is just me being safe though. I did not feel and discomfort.
 

bluetrain4

G.O.A.T.
Bud, the specs were pretty close to TW's posted specs?

There seems to be a considerable discrepancy between TW and some other sites as to the specs. 11.9 oz strung and 328 SW is a lot different than 11.6 oz strung and 315 SW.
 

Bud

Bionic Poster
Bud, the specs were pretty close to TW's posted specs?

There seems to be a considerable discrepancy between TW and some other sites as to the specs. 11.9 oz strung and 328 SW is a lot different than 11.6 oz strung and 315 SW.

The specs of my frame were spot on with what is printed on the frame.

Frame specs (unstrung): 315g and 7-8 pts. HL.

Without any extra weight and strung (17g Head RIP Control), mine frame is 330g and 4-5 pts HL. (11.65 oz.). I then added 6g inside the buttcap and 4g at 3/9 for a total of 340g and about 7 pts. HL
 
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Hominator

Hall of Fame
I will give you feedback on this the more I use mine as well.

Off the bat, I would suggest very soft poly or a multi like RIP.

No pain with full RPM blast in the demo, but I would not want a poly in there that was close to death..this is just me being safe though. I did not feel and discomfort.

Cool, looking forward to it - thanks.
 
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Hominator

Hall of Fame
No pain with NG. Some arm tightness when using poly if I keep it in for more than a week.



I'll post one a bit later :)

Thanks, Bud. I just received one. Mine strung with a multi, dampener and Wilson Shock Shield grip comes in pretty heavy at 12 ounces, though the grip is pretty heavy.

Doubt that I'll switch from my Volkl X10 325, but it should be a fun hit!
 
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