Official Dunlop iDapt Club 2014

sureshs

Bionic Poster
So I am at my local shop today and I hear about the first IDapt fail....."somebody reverse threaded the screws in a couple of racquets and now the heads are useless".

I guess someone turned the wrench the wrong way and reverse threaded the screws? Not sure exactly how this happened, but the store clerk told me one of their employees totally messed up and made two heads worthless. Strange huh? I guess people can find a way to mess up anything, no matter how simple it sounds.

This is exactly what I had alluded to earlier.

Once one of these part-time teenagers applied a new grip for me and later another stringer who was changing the OG pointed out how wrong it was. Recently, one of them peeled off a a strip from the leather grip while taking off the old OG and the shop owner had to point out that the OG needs to be applied carefully when leather grips are underneath.

Would you trust these employees to do the job right and apply Loctite? What if they forget to do it? What kind of safety issues will arise if you had the frame high up at the net in doubles partially in front of your face and the opponent hit a hard passing shot straight at the racket?

I think Dunlop needs to create a mail-in service where you send the rackets and they send them back after getting the work done by certified technicians.
 

JackB1

G.O.A.T.
they should sell them to me for cheap. I'm sure a buddy of mine can retap the threads and I can get a different screw to match and make it work! =p

hahaha. I think they sent them back to Dunlop for replacements.

nice try though :)
 

JackB1

G.O.A.T.
This is exactly what I had alluded to earlier.

Once one of these part-time teenagers applied a new grip for me and later another stringer who was changing the OG pointed out how wrong it was. Recently, one of them peeled off a a strip from the leather grip while taking off the old OG and the shop owner had to point out that the OG needs to be applied carefully when leather grips are underneath.

Would you trust these employees to do the job right and apply Loctite? What if they forget to do it? What kind of safety issues will arise if you had the frame high up at the net in doubles partially in front of your face and the opponent hit a hard passing shot straight at the racket?

I think Dunlop needs to create a mail-in service where you send the rackets and they send them back after getting the work done by certified technicians.

The Loctite is "pre applied" to the screw. They can't forget to do it.

That being said.....this might be a good one to take a "wait and see" approach on? :)
 

NSXER

New User
My other game is shooting competitive clay targets.

Here's about $40K in target shotguns that are totally adjustable
by the shooter to fit the shooter. No going back to the dealer
to make changes.

Recently I was in the market for a new racquet and considered the IDAPT because of perceived owner adjustability. After finding out the BS one needed to go through, I ordered a 2014
Wilson Pro Staff 95S today.

P1020503_zps682631e6.jpg~original
 

RollTrackTake

Professional
My local shop does not carry Dunlop so I can't demo then go back to the shop for changes. This precludes me from trying one out at the moment. At some point I'll send for one through an online retailer but that seems like such pain to get just a sleeve or grip changed. If TW let me demo 6 at a time I'd order today.
 

JackB1

G.O.A.T.
My local shop does not carry Dunlop so I can't demo then go back to the shop for changes. This precludes me from trying one out at the moment. At some point I'll send for one through an online retailer but that seems like such pain to get just a sleeve or grip changed. If TW let me demo 6 at a time I'd order today.

You can just pick the configuration you think would be best and try a demo out. At least you'll know if it's worth pursuing and fine-tuning. Once you are set, there isn't any need for more changes.
 

sureshs

Bionic Poster
You can just pick the configuration you think would be best and try a demo out. At least you'll know if it's worth pursuing and fine-tuning. Once you are set, there isn't any need for more changes.

I think the whole idea behind this is that you don't know when you are set, so you want to keep experimenting.
 

JackB1

G.O.A.T.
I think the whole idea behind this is that you don't know when you are set, so you want to keep experimenting.

not really. Its about having all your possibilites for grip, hoop size, length, etc.
on hand, so the shop can make up your preferred racquet without requiring a huge inventory.

You don't know your preferred head size by now? grip size? length?
 

sureshs

Bionic Poster
not really. Its about having all your possibilites for grip, hoop size, length, etc.
on hand, so the shop can make up your preferred racquet without requiring a huge inventory.

You don't know your preferred head size by now? grip size? length?

That is what I said before (about grip size).

Most people don't know their preferred length because they have never played with a longbody.

And even Federer does not know his preferred head size (he has changed it twice).

But that is not how it is portrayed in the articles - you get the impression that the user can experiment.
 

JackB1

G.O.A.T.
That is what I said before (about grip size).

Most people don't know their preferred length because they have never played with a longbody.

And even Federer does not know his preferred head size (he has changed it twice).

But that is not how it is portrayed in the articles - you get the impression that the user can experiment.

Who said you can't experiment? Are u just trolling now? :mad:
 

sureshs

Bionic Poster
Who said you can't experiment? Are u just trolling now? :mad:

I can experiment with the help of the dealer by running to him every few days (and paying him every time). I wouldn't call that experimentation or much different from demoing different rackets. I wouldn't call it customization either.
 

PAPPY999

New User
We just ran a demo day with these frames. We had a great response from all levels. Most people commented on the solid feel of these racquets. Of course, the techies drooled over the "modular" aspect. I had people who did not want to put them down. Aside from the strangeness of putting the racquets together, they are great feeling frames. Very impressed...
 

JackB1

G.O.A.T.
We just ran a demo day with these frames. We had a great response from all levels. Most people commented on the solid feel of these racquets. Of course, the techies drooled over the "modular" aspect. I had people who did not want to put them down. Aside from the strangeness of putting the racquets together, they are great feeling frames. Very impressed...

Which model were most typical rec player liking the most? The 100 or the 105?

Also, I agree the racquet feel solid when put together. The question remains, how will they hold up over time?
 

sureshs

Bionic Poster
What is interesting is how Dunlop has abandoned flexier frames with RAs of 60 or 62. I think they are no longer considered competitive in today's hard-hitting game.
 

RollTrackTake

Professional
You can just pick the configuration you think would be best and try a demo out. At least you'll know if it's worth pursuing and fine-tuning. Once you are set, there isn't any need for more changes.

Personally I would want to try out the 98, 100 & 100S with different shock sleeves and lengths. Demoing from TW or another online retailer could take me up to 3 or 4 weeks just finding the preferred frame setup! If my local shop carried them the process could be a lot faster. IMO part of the idea & fun of the IDapt is being able to try out as many permutations as one is interested in. I'm willing to give it a shot but again not having the local option for quick turnarounds on a grip or shock sleeve change will deter me until I have more time to order from the internet.
 

yellowoctopus

Professional
Excerpt from the 'Made to order' article by Jon Levey

Players looking to add weight to the frame for greater stability and power will have a more old-school option. Silicone weights, at three grams per piece, will be offered for purchase with the racquets. Designated blast zones are marked at 2, 3, 9, 10, and 12 o’clock on the hoop to add weight for the desired effect, which can be balanced by adding weight to the handle underneath the grip. Or the grip can be replaced—just like any other grip—with a heavier leather grip. And since the handle is completely hollow, serious racquet techs can also shoot silicone in the handle to add weight, change the balance, and potentially absorb more vibrations. However, once that’s done, it will be nearly impossible to access the connection bolt, making it more of a permanent option.

article.jpg
 

PAPPY999

New User
Which model were most typical rec player liking the most? The 100 or the 105?

Most rec players love the 100s. A few decent 4.5 Sr. players like it as well. These are great frames regardless of any gimmicks. I hope they catch on.
 

JackB1

G.O.A.T.
Most rec players love the 100s. A few decent 4.5 Sr. players like it as well. These are great frames regardless of any gimmicks. I hope they catch on.

They don't seem to be setting the tennis world on fire yet. It will be tough for Dunlop to overcome the overall hohum reputation Dunlop already has. They probably would have made more $ selling off the patent to wilson or Babolat.

Tried the 105 yesterday and liked it a lot. Problem though was the 105 27.5 "has a very high swingweight (my demo measured 338 ) and the 27" was too light. If they made a 27.25" handle it would probably be perfect. Sure I could weight up a 105 27" but I like the extended length in this model. Have yet to try the 100.
 
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sureshs

Bionic Poster
Which pros will be using these frames?

Will they be using a PJ or will they really take a chance facing Karlovic's serve with a racket whose parts are joined by a screw?
 

tenniswagner

New User
First post and actually joined just to chime in on these rackets!

I am a teaching pro, former 5.0 with a few to many injuries and a few to many pounds to play at that level anymore, but I took the Force 98, 100, and the 98S out for a spin this week. Absolutely, loved the 98 demo (medium shock sleeve) and my students loved the 100. Not one person liked the 98S but all 3 rackets hit great.

Definitely, don't play/feel like 11.2 ounces when strung and I would probably add another .2 ounces if I decide to go with the stick. My wife, who is pickier than me with rackets loved the 100 and she can rally like a decent 4.0.

ONE EPIC ISSUE: after a couple mishit shots all 3 rackets loosened up at the hex bolt and would wobble. If Dunlop isn't selling the tool to fix this (or releasing the hex bolt sizing) these rackets are an absolute no go. My students all loved the rackets but every single one said they wouldn't buy them if they couldn't quickly fix the bolt.

Not sure if anyone else has had this issue but all 3 demos exhibited this flaw. Big, big issue if this happens with potential sales
 

JackB1

G.O.A.T.
First post and actually joined just to chime in on these rackets!

I am a teaching pro, former 5.0 with a few to many injuries and a few to many pounds to play at that level anymore, but I took the Force 98, 100, and the 98S out for a spin this week. Absolutely, loved the 98 demo (medium shock sleeve) and my students loved the 100. Not one person liked the 98S but all 3 rackets hit great.

Definitely, don't play/feel like 11.2 ounces when strung and I would probably add another .2 ounces if I decide to go with the stick. My wife, who is pickier than me with rackets loved the 100 and she can rally like a decent 4.0.

ONE EPIC ISSUE: after a couple mishit shots all 3 rackets loosened up at the hex bolt and would wobble. If Dunlop isn't selling the tool to fix this (or releasing the hex bolt sizing) these rackets are an absolute no go. My students all loved the rackets but every single one said they wouldn't buy them if they couldn't quickly fix the bolt.

Not sure if anyone else has had this issue but all 3 demos exhibited this flaw. Big, big issue if this happens with potential sales

That is exactly my biggest fear with these racquets. If this happens enough and word of mouth gets out about this flaw, these things are history. You would think the TW playtesters would have had this issue too though, since they playtest these racquets for weeks and weeks. Can't believe you had this issues on 3 racquets during one week of demoing? I am going to purposely see if I can recreate this issue next time I demo one of these.
 
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wolfinsignia

New User
demoing the 98 racquet with soft standard length. and it plays amazingly. but like other people state, i fear of the failure of the screw. would be more than happy to purchase this racquet if it was a whole piece. although, i've been mishitting it like crazy, i wonder why mine hasn't wobbled. it has everything i like from babolat and head and leaves behind the parts i hate. only exception is that it has a bit higher power than i would like, the racquet definitely ups my game in all the basic fields but it lack pin point precision when i need it most, but i am sure that if i were to give it more time and played around with the setup i am sure i can dial it in. am really leaning towards buying the racquet.
 

JackB1

G.O.A.T.
demoing the 98 racquet with soft standard length. and it plays amazingly. but like other people state, i fear of the failure of the screw. would be more than happy to purchase this racquet if it was a whole piece. although, i've been mishitting it like crazy, i wonder why mine hasn't wobbled. it has everything i like from babolat and head and leaves behind the parts i hate. only exception is that it has a bit higher power than i would like, the racquet definitely ups my game in all the basic fields but it lack pin point precision when i need it most, but i am sure that if i were to give it more time and played around with the setup i am sure i can dial it in. am really leaning towards buying the racquet.

Problem with this thing is you are totally reliant on the person assembling it correctly for you. They are supposed to use a NEW screw EVERY time a racquet is assembled, since the new screws have pre applied locktite on them. If the person assembling it doesn't tighten it correctly or uses a "used" screw, you may be screwed...literally.
 

sureshs

Bionic Poster
Problem with this thing is you are totally reliant on the person assembling it correctly for you. They are supposed to use a NEW screw EVERY time a racquet is assembled, since the new screws have pre applied locktite on them. If the person assembling it doesn't tighten it correctly or uses a "used" screw, you may be screwed...literally.

I assume that this early in the game, tenniswagner who would have gotten a frame with a new screw? How many old screws would have been collected by now?
 

sureshs

Bionic Poster
First post and actually joined just to chime in on these rackets!

I am a teaching pro, former 5.0 with a few to many injuries and a few to many pounds to play at that level anymore, but I took the Force 98, 100, and the 98S out for a spin this week. Absolutely, loved the 98 demo (medium shock sleeve) and my students loved the 100. Not one person liked the 98S but all 3 rackets hit great.

Definitely, don't play/feel like 11.2 ounces when strung and I would probably add another .2 ounces if I decide to go with the stick. My wife, who is pickier than me with rackets loved the 100 and she can rally like a decent 4.0.

ONE EPIC ISSUE: after a couple mishit shots all 3 rackets loosened up at the hex bolt and would wobble. If Dunlop isn't selling the tool to fix this (or releasing the hex bolt sizing) these rackets are an absolute no go. My students all loved the rackets but every single one said they wouldn't buy them if they couldn't quickly fix the bolt.

Not sure if anyone else has had this issue but all 3 demos exhibited this flaw. Big, big issue if this happens with potential sales

The article says they made extra sure this is not going to happen. But if the job is delegated to the usual pro-shop employee, often a part-time student, it raises big concerns of safety especially for advanced players like and you and college players and pros. That is why I asked if any pro would be actually using this kind of frame against Isner or Karlovic.
 

JackB1

G.O.A.T.
I assume that this early in the game, tenniswagner who would have gotten a frame with a new screw? How many old screws would have been collected by now?

No because he was using demos. They probably don't waste new screws every time they change a component on the demos. That's probably why they had issues with the demos. They also probably all came from the same shop. I'm willing to bet the shop employee didn't use new screws on the demos.
 
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JackB1

G.O.A.T.
The article says they made extra sure this is not going to happen. But if the job is delegated to the usual pro-shop employee, often a part-time student, it raises big concerns of safety especially for advanced players like and you and college players and pros. That is why I asked if any pro would be actually using this kind of frame against Isner or Karlovic.

A pro wouldn't use a frame like this. Pros have frames custom made for them, so I'm sure if a Dunlop sponsored Pro liked one of these frames, they would have Dunlop make them one that is all one piece or more permanently attached.
 

JackB1

G.O.A.T.
Another potential issue I just thought of with these racquets, is resale value. Only someone with a nearby tennis shop with a certified Dunlop dealer would want to buy a used one, since they may need to change a component or get a new screw put in. On the positive side, if the used racquet isn't your gripsize, you can easily change it.
 

wolfinsignia

New User
Another potential issue I just thought of with these racquets, is resale value. Only someone with a nearby tennis shop with a certified Dunlop dealer would want to buy a used one, since they may need to change a component or get a new screw put in. On the positive side, if the used racquet isn't your gripsize, you can easily change it.

from what i have heard, dunlop is planning to sell the patent hexwrench in a kit at some point. it probably won't happen till months down the line, but i can't see it being any cheaper than 100 which may not be worth it.
 

sureshs

Bionic Poster
A pro wouldn't use a frame like this. Pros have frames custom made for them, so I'm sure if a Dunlop sponsored Pro liked one of these frames, they would have Dunlop make them one that is all one piece or more permanently attached.

Most pros do not have frames custom-made for them. Only the top ones and a few others do. And on the flip side, many top pros use stock frames that they just add lead to.

I would like to know if any pro is ready to use this 2-piece frame just as a rec player is supposed to use it. If Dunlop claims that any pro is using one of these iDapt frames but it is actually not assembled like the ones being sold, I don't know what to think.
 
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mmk

Hall of Fame
Most pros do not have frames custom-made for them. Only the top ones and a few others do. And on the flip side, many top pros use stock frames that they just add lead to.

I would like to know if any pro is ready to use this 2-piece frame just as a rec player is supposed to use it. If Dunlop claims that any pro is using one of these iDapt frames but it is actually not assembled like the ones being sold, I don't know what to think.

Well, there are pros using one brand painted to look like another, so I won't be shocked if this happens. But, I'd be surprised if they get any pro to use even an iDapt paintjob.
 

JackB1

G.O.A.T.
Well, there are pros using one brand painted to look like another, so I won't be shocked if this happens. But, I'd be surprised if they get any pro to use even an iDapt paintjob.

Not gonna happen.

The whole idea behind the iDapt, is to bring to the everyday consumer what the Pro's already have. A Pro can already order a racquet to whatever specs he/she wants. There is no reason for a Pro to use an iDapt racquet. Not sure why
Sureshs doesn't get this???...then again it makes perfect sense :)
 

sureshs

Bionic Poster
Not gonna happen.

The whole idea behind the iDapt, is to bring to the everyday consumer what the Pro's already have. A Pro can already order a racquet to whatever specs he/she wants. There is no reason for a Pro to use an iDapt racquet. Not sure why
Sureshs doesn't get this???...then again it makes perfect sense :)

Pros can use whatever they want. My question was: will Dunlop claim that they are using iDapt rackets? If so, will they be the screwed ones?

And no, the idea behind iDapt is not to bring to the consumer what the pros have. Most pros do not have enough clout to order their own frames, and they don't need to decide on normal vs extended length or try 432 variants. They just take stock ones and add lead, change the grip, etc. An occasional Federer or Djokovic may have the clout to get custom frames.
 
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JackB1

G.O.A.T.
Since you already (think you) know everything, then why do u keep filling up this thread with stupid questions? Obviously you are anti-Dunlop and you just keep posting annoying comments here that help no one.

So tell me then, what new technology or invention have YOU come up with lately, since you're so much smarter than everyone else?
 
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sureshs

Bionic Poster
Since you already (think you) know everything, then why do u keep filling up this thread with stupid questions? Obviously you are anti-Dunlop and you just keep posting annoying comments here that help no one.

So tell me then, what new technology or invention have YOU come up with lately, since you're so much smarter than everyone else?

I am not smarter than everyone else, just smarter than you.

Don't like it, feel free to exit the thread.

I am not a hero-worshipper of any racket company and have no stake in them. But yeah I would like consumers to be well-informed.
 

JackB1

G.O.A.T.
I am not smarter than everyone else, just smarter than you.

Don't like it, feel free to exit the thread.

I am not a hero-worshipper of any racket company and have no stake in them. But yeah I would like consumers to be well-informed.

If a consumer want to be well informed, I'm sure they will look to you :roll:
 
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LeeD

Bionic Poster
If a PRO or a solid 5.5 player were to order this racket, what's to stop him from having the parts BONDED permanantly to each other, using high end construction cements that are stronger than the individual parts?
No need to CHANGE any parts, for high level players aren't trying different grip sizes, weights, or colors.
 

sureshs

Bionic Poster
If a PRO or a solid 5.5 player were to order this racket, what's to stop him from having the parts BONDED permanantly to each other, using high end construction cements that are stronger than the individual parts?
No need to CHANGE any parts, for high level players aren't trying different grip sizes, weights, or colors.

Would it void the warranty? Not that it is a big concern.
 

Six-4

New User
Epic Fail ...

Being a bit of a nerd, I always tinker with my toys to make them work better.

When I first read about iDapt and viewing the TW videos, I was to excited to buy some and "play" with the various setups. But after reading this thread, I have to say I'm bitterly disappointed.

iDapts' are a good idea that is poorly implemented and will be an epic fail. Dunlop's product marketing group were probably a bunch of engineers and lawyers more concerned about corporate liability than real product innovation or customer responsiveness.

Thinking about writing an email to Dunlop about ideas and marketing for iDapt 2.0 but not sure if I'm wasting my time.
 

JackB1

G.O.A.T.
Being a bit of a nerd, I always tinker with my toys to make them work better.

When I first read about iDapt and viewing the TW videos, I was to excited to buy some and "play" with the various setups. But after reading this thread, I have to say I'm bitterly disappointed.

iDapts' are a good idea that is poorly implemented and will be an epic fail. Dunlop's product marketing group were probably a bunch of engineers and lawyers more concerned about corporate liability than real product innovation or customer responsiveness.

Thinking about writing an email to Dunlop about ideas and marketing for iDapt 2.0 but not sure if I'm wasting my time.

I kind of feel the same way. I don't see this idea succeeding with the current gameplan. It seems like the retailers are excited about this idea way more than the consumers. Less inventory needed and more options, etc. But if people don't buy them, then what good is a fancy store display?

I agree that this is a great idea that is poorly implimented. Dunlop should have sold the idea to Wilson, Head or Babolat. I'm sure they would have done a better job with it.
 
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sureshs

Bionic Poster
I think the 2-piece problem is very difficult to solve. That is why custom racket companies like Vantage and Angell don't provide this facility. The only 2-piece racket I know of was the Wilson Triad, which separated the head from the shaft using a polymer for shock absorption.
 
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