Nostradamus
Bionic Poster
Why is it that when Poly goes dead, it becomes super super stiff. and it loses power but MORE importantly it loses control big time. why is this ?
Mikeler's Polys
- Thread starter mikeler
- Start date
TRU PRO Official
Rookie
If durability is an issue you would probably be more happy with the "Dura"fluxx string. I am not sure if you played with Solinco Tour Bite in the past and experienced similar durability issues. If you liked the durability of that string, you probably like the durability from Durafluxx as well.
Our customers report similarities in the overall playability between these 2 strings as well but it seems that Durafluxx plays a bit softer.
One recommendation for stringing Firewire string sets and getting the highest durability out of the string is to avoid excessive string twisting during the stringing process!
mikeler
Moderator
It's probably all in your head.
I was pretty careful about the twisting. It broke on a main string not a cross. In general, shaped strings don't do very well in this frame. Twisted strings seem to have better durability. I was not a big fan of Solinco Tour Bite Soft but maybe the original version and Durafluxx are better. Thanks for the feedback.
"when poly goes dead"....
Yes, it loses spring, resilientcy, and feel.
Control is fine, but you have to remember, it's not new, so it won't hit quite as hard, so you have to live with maybe a 5% drop in pure power.
If you insist on hitting 100%, it might "lose power".
How many shots do with hit with "100%" power? For me, one first serve out of 10.
Yes, it loses spring, resilientcy, and feel.
Control is fine, but you have to remember, it's not new, so it won't hit quite as hard, so you have to live with maybe a 5% drop in pure power.
If you insist on hitting 100%, it might "lose power".
How many shots do with hit with "100%" power? For me, one first serve out of 10.
mikeler
Moderator
The XS was one of the few strings that hurt my arm, so I cut it out fairly quickly. I tried Beast out which is now named XP. That string was really not in my wheelhouse. I did like Prince Tour XC and Wilson RipSpin. Both were good at everything but great at nothing. Check out post #1 of this thread for links to all my reviews in this thread.
TRU PRO Official
Rookie
Tennis Warehouse offers some in depth articles about this issue:
- http://twu.tennis-warehouse.com/learning_center/deadstrings.php
- http://twu.tennis-warehouse.com/learning_center/deadstringsPart2.php
Enjoy!
Hi Mikeler,
Thanks for this thread, very insightful. If I generally play Blade 98S with Cyclone Tour 16 @ 57lbs, what would you recommend for the RF97A if I wanted to keep the same feel?
Since moving indoors, tried to increase to 59lbs initially, then back to 57lbs but with 4g 16L in the cross, this seems to help. I tried out a friends Prostaff 95 16x18 with 4g at 58, and really liked how stable the frame was with the extra weight. Felt I could hit a heavier ball, and not lose very much pace.
So now I have an RF97 (or 3), so looking to not have to tinker around for months like previously. I was thinking to keep the same setup 57 with Cyclone Tour /4g hybrid, because its supposed to be a fairly open 16x19.
The only other frame I play is the Blade 98 18x20, indoors have been playing Cyclone Tour at 56, well controlled, but miss the open pattern on serve and groundies. Hope to hear from soon!
Thanks for this thread, very insightful. If I generally play Blade 98S with Cyclone Tour 16 @ 57lbs, what would you recommend for the RF97A if I wanted to keep the same feel?
Since moving indoors, tried to increase to 59lbs initially, then back to 57lbs but with 4g 16L in the cross, this seems to help. I tried out a friends Prostaff 95 16x18 with 4g at 58, and really liked how stable the frame was with the extra weight. Felt I could hit a heavier ball, and not lose very much pace.
So now I have an RF97 (or 3), so looking to not have to tinker around for months like previously. I was thinking to keep the same setup 57 with Cyclone Tour /4g hybrid, because its supposed to be a fairly open 16x19.
The only other frame I play is the Blade 98 18x20, indoors have been playing Cyclone Tour at 56, well controlled, but miss the open pattern on serve and groundies. Hope to hear from soon!
mikeler
Moderator
I've never hit with either of those rackets so I'm hesitant to try and extrapolate my experience with a 16x16 Prince to yours.
Nostradamus
Bionic Poster
Got to hit with Razor Code Blue by Technifiber strung at 53 lbs on Aeropro drive. by far the BEST Code string from Technifiber thus far. beat all Black code and Red code.
Power level is Very high and yet mainstains very good control when freshly strung for about 2 hours. then it starts to lose tension. then It starts to lose some control and balls start flying little bit.
Spin department is Excellent. in league with RPM blast, perhaps better.
Feel is also pretty good for poly thus enables you to hit good volleys with depth. and power is also excellent on the volleys.
Serving power is good but control on the serve was bit disappointing. not sure if this was I was having bad serving day due to back flaring up during the match or what ? I have to try it some more to give better evaluation on this .
Matchball
Semi-Pro
I made the mistake and strung the carbon version of Razor code too tight. It didn't feel right at all, whatever you do keep the tension low.
Nostradamus
Bionic Poster
Was the control still good at really low tension though /??? I thought as the string lost tension, it lost control somewhat
Matchball
Semi-Pro
Didn't have a second set to experiment further; the price is too high IMO.
Tension selection is very frame specific.
Thanks! I ended up playing Cyclone Tour / 4g @ 57, and at 58. My Cyclone Tour reel is almost done, contemplating getting another vs Genesis Typhoon!
mikeler
Moderator
I may go back to Cyclone Tour. The durability of the string is just outstanding. I probably got almost 15 hours on it before it snapped yesterday.
Nostradamus
Bionic Poster
mike after I used the razor code, I am feeling some pain on my wrist for the first time. is this also true for black code ??? not sure it it is a problem with all the code strings ???
mikeler
Moderator
Check post #1 for my black code review. Hint: You won't find it.
mikeler
Moderator
I ordered some Cyclone Tour yesterday and I'm glad I did. The 1.30 version of Typhoon didn't last any longer than the 1.26 version. In fact, they look like they are the same thickness. The 1.30 package just had a sticker on it that said 1.30. It looked like it had been stuck on to the 1.26 package. I broke two Typhoon string jobs last night, time to move on and rerate my list.
Hey mikeler,
You might want to order some more Cyclone Tour.
It's on Happy Hour sale at a crazy low price.
Oriental_Noodle
New User
oh man I missed the HH 
mikeler
Moderator
I saw that. I hit with Solinco Barb Wire last night. It was crazy good for about a set and then it was very good but the magic was gone. If I was a pro and only used a string for 9 games, that would be my "go to".
Last edited:
Nostradamus
Bionic Poster
To all the guys that tried the Technifiber Razorcode, Has any of you had arm or shoulder problems with this string ?
mikeler
Moderator
I did not have arm issues with it.
Nostradamus
Bionic Poster
What ? you told me you didn't get to hit with this poly yet.....? did you put up your review of this string ? I would love to see what you thought compared to some of the other popular polys.
mikeler
Moderator
Click to the first page of this thread. Goto post #1. See the current #12 on the list in that post. Then press the hyperlink to read the review.
mikeler
Moderator
Solinco Barb Wire 16
This one is a shaped and twisted poly that was not too bad to string up.
Tension it is strung: 60# on a lockout
Your regular string set up: Volkl Cyclone Tour 16 @ 60#
String pattern of your racquet: 16 x 16 (Prince Tour 100T ESP)
Power (or lack there of): Medium powered
Feel: Above average compared to most polys
Tension maintenance: Not measured, sorry.
Price: $11.50/set
Overall comments and feedback: See below
General: This string is pretty similar to Ytex Quadro Twist. One thing I noticed between this and my Cyclone Tour setup is how much heavier the Solinco strings are. They add noticeable weight to the frame.
Serve/Return of Serve: Real good spin on serves and my ace count went up on first serves. Returns were OK.
Strokes: The control and spin works for my game. Directional control was not quite as good as maybe some other polys. The last 2 nights I had my doubles partner and an opponent ask what string I was using after noticing the spin.
Volleys: Pretty good, but not the best.
Touch shots: My drop shots were good but not great.
Softness: My elbow was slightly tender after some matches.
Tension: 60# played great especially right off the stringer. I played 1 match right after stringing and had 1 of my best sets all year.
Durability: I would say I got about 6 or 7 sets of singles, a few sets of doubles and 30 minutes of just hitting balls before it broke. The string is quite thick so durability is pretty good.
Movement: Definitely noticeable string movement after a few sets.
Color: Another black bleeding string. ARRGH! Why can't they fix this?
Conclusion: This is a good string for me and once again the twisted polys seem best for my frame. Cyclone Tour is a little cheaper so I'll stick with that for now.
This one is a shaped and twisted poly that was not too bad to string up.
Tension it is strung: 60# on a lockout
Your regular string set up: Volkl Cyclone Tour 16 @ 60#
String pattern of your racquet: 16 x 16 (Prince Tour 100T ESP)
Power (or lack there of): Medium powered
Feel: Above average compared to most polys
Tension maintenance: Not measured, sorry.
Price: $11.50/set
Overall comments and feedback: See below
General: This string is pretty similar to Ytex Quadro Twist. One thing I noticed between this and my Cyclone Tour setup is how much heavier the Solinco strings are. They add noticeable weight to the frame.
Serve/Return of Serve: Real good spin on serves and my ace count went up on first serves. Returns were OK.
Strokes: The control and spin works for my game. Directional control was not quite as good as maybe some other polys. The last 2 nights I had my doubles partner and an opponent ask what string I was using after noticing the spin.
Volleys: Pretty good, but not the best.
Touch shots: My drop shots were good but not great.
Softness: My elbow was slightly tender after some matches.
Tension: 60# played great especially right off the stringer. I played 1 match right after stringing and had 1 of my best sets all year.
Durability: I would say I got about 6 or 7 sets of singles, a few sets of doubles and 30 minutes of just hitting balls before it broke. The string is quite thick so durability is pretty good.
Movement: Definitely noticeable string movement after a few sets.
Color: Another black bleeding string. ARRGH! Why can't they fix this?
Conclusion: This is a good string for me and once again the twisted polys seem best for my frame. Cyclone Tour is a little cheaper so I'll stick with that for now.
Tennisspieler
Rookie
Völkl Cyclone Tour vs. Solinco Tour Bite Soft vs. Tier One Firewire
Hi Mikeler, since I am using the same racquet as you, I thought I might post my experiences with some of the strings you have been testing in this racquet as well.
Some background: I am mainly a baseline player, 2hbh, fair amount of topspin on both wings, flat as well as kick serves. Think basically of a Ferrer-style of play. I am not in the US, but would guess my NTRP rating would be around 5.0-5.5.
I have been using different kinds of poly strings during the past years. For a longer period, Völkl Cyclone has been my go-to-string. Great spin, very good depth control, good tension maintenance and durability, decent feel for a poly string, fair price. I think there is a reason why this string is so popular, also among the TW playtesters.
I had a fling with Tecnifibre Black Code, and I liked it a lot. However, the performance of Völkl Cyclone was very similar, at a more attractive price point, so I kept using Cyclone.
I was using both strings in a stiffer tweener frame, and while the results were great, after a while my wrist and elbow couldn't take it any more. So I went through a phase of testing more arm-friendly racquets and softer strings. Finally, I ended up switching to the Prince Tour 100T ESP, using Solinco Tour Bite Soft 16 and Völkl Cyclone Tour 16. Thanks to this set-up, my wrist and elbow problems have gradually disappeared. As the Prince is so comfy and has such a large generous sweetspot, I can even try out firmer poly strings again, and lately I have been testing several sets of Tier One Firewire 130 mm.
Well, these are my findings, which I think reflect the feedback given by other testers as well*:
*Note: All strings were tested on clay (outdoor) and on carpet (indoor):
Solinco Tour Bite Soft 16:
This is a very soft, plush feeling poly string. During my first hitting session with Tour Bite Soft, I immediately sensed how much gentler this string feels on the arm compared to other poly strings. I heard a lot of good things about Tour Bite Soft before, and on court I could experience how much comfort this poly offers. The great thing about it is that the increased level of comfort doesn’t come at the expense of overall playability. Using Tour Bite Soft, I found a lot of the good characteristics which made the regular Tour Bite such a popular string. It provides huge spin, good control and lasts very long, even in my 16 x 16 ESP frame. It doesn’t quite give me the same command over my strokes like the regular Tour Bite or Völkl Cyclone, but honestly, it is very close. Given that players with sensitive arms like me can play this string without the shock and vibrations of firmer poly strings, this is quite remarkable. Tension maintenance was surprisingly good as well, though after about 7-8 hours of play I experienced some loss of control and balls began to fly on me. To be fair, in my Prince ESP racquet, even stiffer strings begin to lack in the control department after about 8-10 hours, so the difference wasn't that dramatic. On a side note, Tour Bite Soft gives a boost in power, so I raised tension by a few pounds to regain control. Having said that, I liked the added pop, which was particularly noticeable on my serves.
Conclusion: Solinco Tour Bite Soft offers lots of spin, good control, durability, some added pop, and loads of comfort. A perfect string for those who like plusher feeling strings or want something arm-friendly without sacrificing the performance of their beloved poly strings.
Völkl Cyclone Tour 16:
After my good experience with Tour Bite Soft I looked at the Völkl product range again and asked myself why I hadn't tried Cyclone Tour before, since this softer version of Cyclone would have been the first logical choice after I found that my sore arm couldn't cope with the regular version any more. So I ordered a couple of sets of Cyclone Tour, and I must say I loved it right away. It provides excellent spin and offers a well-balanced blend of control, power, comfort, durability and tension maintenance. It has all the virtues of Solinco Tour Bite Soft, and honestly I can play these to strings interchangeably. Cyclone Tour feels a bit crisper to me and holds its high level of playability a bit longer than Tour Bite Soft. Also, the Völkl string is more affordable, so it may be a better bargain. On the other hand, Tour Bite Soft has a bit more pop, feels more sling-shotty than Cyclone Tour. Both strings are ultimately very close in terms of feel, and at least for me, they offer the same level of comfort.
Conclusion: A great choice for those how like a modern, spin-friendly poly string and are looking for an increase in comfort without sacrificing control.
Tier One Firewire 130 mm:
Wow, this string is a completely different animal compared to Solinco Tour Bite Soft and Völkl Cyclone Tour. It is much firmer, thus rather comparable with the regular versions of Tour Bite and Cyclone.
The ball pocketing of T1 Firewire is outstanding. On each stroke, I can feel how the strings grab the ball, which is a very nice sensation. Control is excellent. Spin production is superb, and I can see why T1 Firewire ranks among the most spin friendly strings on the market. Hitting topspin groundies, short angles, kick and slice serves feels great with this string. The Prince Tour 100T ESP already is a super spin-friendly racquet, but with the T1 Firewire string in it the added action on the ball is clearly noticeable. I can see how my opponents struggle with the spin - they often misjudge the trajectory of my shots, and the unpredictable bounce of the ball hampers their timing.
Initially I was worried about the higher stiffness rating of T1 Firewire compared to the softer strings I have been using in the months before, and Firewire does indeed feel firmer. Fortunately however, so far I haven't noticed any sort of arm discomfort. Of course I can't verify whether this can be attributed to the string itself or whether my wrist and elbow have simply healed while using softer strings. Having said that, I am pleasantly surprised by the level of comfort I found testing T1 Firewire, and it manages to retain a certain lifeliness which I didn't observe in many firmer poly strings.
On the flip side, notching is evident after 2-3 hours of hitting already. The three sharp edges of the triangular string bite into each other. In an open string pattern frame like the Prince Tour 100T ESP, T1 Firewire will probably not last as long as a smooth round poly. Nevertheless, Firewire 130 mm seems to be quite durable and lasts anywhere between 6-12 hours for me. Also, overall playability and tension maintenance has been above average thus far.
If I had one knock on T1 Firewire, it is the bright red color. I know this comes down to personal preferences, but a red string just doesn't look good in a racquet like my orange/black Prince Tour 100T ESP. It may sound a bit superficial, but to me the look of my tennis equipment does play a significant part in my choice of products. Like many people, I prefer more neutral colored strings, especially since racquets have become more and more colorful in recent years. I wish one day Tier One will offer their Firewire string in a more neutral color like black, gray/silver or natural/beige as well.
Conclusion: T1 Firewire offers great ball pocketing, control and spin. In fact, spin production is very impressive. Comfort seems to be good for a firm poly, tension maintenance is above average, durability is good despite the early notching.
Comparison:
Given the different characteristics of Solinco Tour Bite Soft and Völkl Cyclone Tour on one hand an Tier One Firewire on the other, comparing these strings is a challenging task. The different stiffness ratings just puts them into different categories of strings. Having said that, I will try to give a brief overall comparison:
Power: Solinco Tour Bite Soft >> Völkl Cyclone Tour >> Tier One Firewire
Control: Tier One Firewire >> Völkl Cyclone Tour >> Solinco Tour Bite Soft
Comfort: Völkl Cyclone Tour/Solinco Tour Bite Soft >> Tier One Firewire
Spin: Tier One Firewire >> Völkl Cyclone Tour/Solinco Tour Bite Soft
Feel: Tier One Firewire: pockety and crisp/firm/precise vs. Völkl Cyclone Tour/Solinco Tour Bite Soft: pockety and soft/plush/lively
Playability Duration: Tier One Firewire >> Völkl Cyclone Tour >> Solinco Tour Bite Soft
Durability: Völkl Cyclone Tour >> Tier One Firewire/Solinco Tour Bite Soft
Price Point: Tier One Firewire/Völkl Cyclone Tour >> Solinco Tour Bite Soft
So which string do I finally prefer? I need some more time with T1 Firewire to see how comfort and durability will be on the long run. But I really like that string. Meanwhile, I know both Völkl Cyclone Tour and Solinco Tour Bite Soft offer me options which my arm likes, however my opponents on the other side of the net don’t.
Hi Mikeler, since I am using the same racquet as you, I thought I might post my experiences with some of the strings you have been testing in this racquet as well.
Some background: I am mainly a baseline player, 2hbh, fair amount of topspin on both wings, flat as well as kick serves. Think basically of a Ferrer-style of play. I am not in the US, but would guess my NTRP rating would be around 5.0-5.5.
I have been using different kinds of poly strings during the past years. For a longer period, Völkl Cyclone has been my go-to-string. Great spin, very good depth control, good tension maintenance and durability, decent feel for a poly string, fair price. I think there is a reason why this string is so popular, also among the TW playtesters.
I had a fling with Tecnifibre Black Code, and I liked it a lot. However, the performance of Völkl Cyclone was very similar, at a more attractive price point, so I kept using Cyclone.
I was using both strings in a stiffer tweener frame, and while the results were great, after a while my wrist and elbow couldn't take it any more. So I went through a phase of testing more arm-friendly racquets and softer strings. Finally, I ended up switching to the Prince Tour 100T ESP, using Solinco Tour Bite Soft 16 and Völkl Cyclone Tour 16. Thanks to this set-up, my wrist and elbow problems have gradually disappeared. As the Prince is so comfy and has such a large generous sweetspot, I can even try out firmer poly strings again, and lately I have been testing several sets of Tier One Firewire 130 mm.
Well, these are my findings, which I think reflect the feedback given by other testers as well*:
*Note: All strings were tested on clay (outdoor) and on carpet (indoor):
Solinco Tour Bite Soft 16:
This is a very soft, plush feeling poly string. During my first hitting session with Tour Bite Soft, I immediately sensed how much gentler this string feels on the arm compared to other poly strings. I heard a lot of good things about Tour Bite Soft before, and on court I could experience how much comfort this poly offers. The great thing about it is that the increased level of comfort doesn’t come at the expense of overall playability. Using Tour Bite Soft, I found a lot of the good characteristics which made the regular Tour Bite such a popular string. It provides huge spin, good control and lasts very long, even in my 16 x 16 ESP frame. It doesn’t quite give me the same command over my strokes like the regular Tour Bite or Völkl Cyclone, but honestly, it is very close. Given that players with sensitive arms like me can play this string without the shock and vibrations of firmer poly strings, this is quite remarkable. Tension maintenance was surprisingly good as well, though after about 7-8 hours of play I experienced some loss of control and balls began to fly on me. To be fair, in my Prince ESP racquet, even stiffer strings begin to lack in the control department after about 8-10 hours, so the difference wasn't that dramatic. On a side note, Tour Bite Soft gives a boost in power, so I raised tension by a few pounds to regain control. Having said that, I liked the added pop, which was particularly noticeable on my serves.
Conclusion: Solinco Tour Bite Soft offers lots of spin, good control, durability, some added pop, and loads of comfort. A perfect string for those who like plusher feeling strings or want something arm-friendly without sacrificing the performance of their beloved poly strings.
Völkl Cyclone Tour 16:
After my good experience with Tour Bite Soft I looked at the Völkl product range again and asked myself why I hadn't tried Cyclone Tour before, since this softer version of Cyclone would have been the first logical choice after I found that my sore arm couldn't cope with the regular version any more. So I ordered a couple of sets of Cyclone Tour, and I must say I loved it right away. It provides excellent spin and offers a well-balanced blend of control, power, comfort, durability and tension maintenance. It has all the virtues of Solinco Tour Bite Soft, and honestly I can play these to strings interchangeably. Cyclone Tour feels a bit crisper to me and holds its high level of playability a bit longer than Tour Bite Soft. Also, the Völkl string is more affordable, so it may be a better bargain. On the other hand, Tour Bite Soft has a bit more pop, feels more sling-shotty than Cyclone Tour. Both strings are ultimately very close in terms of feel, and at least for me, they offer the same level of comfort.
Conclusion: A great choice for those how like a modern, spin-friendly poly string and are looking for an increase in comfort without sacrificing control.
Tier One Firewire 130 mm:
Wow, this string is a completely different animal compared to Solinco Tour Bite Soft and Völkl Cyclone Tour. It is much firmer, thus rather comparable with the regular versions of Tour Bite and Cyclone.
The ball pocketing of T1 Firewire is outstanding. On each stroke, I can feel how the strings grab the ball, which is a very nice sensation. Control is excellent. Spin production is superb, and I can see why T1 Firewire ranks among the most spin friendly strings on the market. Hitting topspin groundies, short angles, kick and slice serves feels great with this string. The Prince Tour 100T ESP already is a super spin-friendly racquet, but with the T1 Firewire string in it the added action on the ball is clearly noticeable. I can see how my opponents struggle with the spin - they often misjudge the trajectory of my shots, and the unpredictable bounce of the ball hampers their timing.
Initially I was worried about the higher stiffness rating of T1 Firewire compared to the softer strings I have been using in the months before, and Firewire does indeed feel firmer. Fortunately however, so far I haven't noticed any sort of arm discomfort. Of course I can't verify whether this can be attributed to the string itself or whether my wrist and elbow have simply healed while using softer strings. Having said that, I am pleasantly surprised by the level of comfort I found testing T1 Firewire, and it manages to retain a certain lifeliness which I didn't observe in many firmer poly strings.
On the flip side, notching is evident after 2-3 hours of hitting already. The three sharp edges of the triangular string bite into each other. In an open string pattern frame like the Prince Tour 100T ESP, T1 Firewire will probably not last as long as a smooth round poly. Nevertheless, Firewire 130 mm seems to be quite durable and lasts anywhere between 6-12 hours for me. Also, overall playability and tension maintenance has been above average thus far.
If I had one knock on T1 Firewire, it is the bright red color. I know this comes down to personal preferences, but a red string just doesn't look good in a racquet like my orange/black Prince Tour 100T ESP. It may sound a bit superficial, but to me the look of my tennis equipment does play a significant part in my choice of products. Like many people, I prefer more neutral colored strings, especially since racquets have become more and more colorful in recent years. I wish one day Tier One will offer their Firewire string in a more neutral color like black, gray/silver or natural/beige as well.
Conclusion: T1 Firewire offers great ball pocketing, control and spin. In fact, spin production is very impressive. Comfort seems to be good for a firm poly, tension maintenance is above average, durability is good despite the early notching.
Comparison:
Given the different characteristics of Solinco Tour Bite Soft and Völkl Cyclone Tour on one hand an Tier One Firewire on the other, comparing these strings is a challenging task. The different stiffness ratings just puts them into different categories of strings. Having said that, I will try to give a brief overall comparison:
Power: Solinco Tour Bite Soft >> Völkl Cyclone Tour >> Tier One Firewire
Control: Tier One Firewire >> Völkl Cyclone Tour >> Solinco Tour Bite Soft
Comfort: Völkl Cyclone Tour/Solinco Tour Bite Soft >> Tier One Firewire
Spin: Tier One Firewire >> Völkl Cyclone Tour/Solinco Tour Bite Soft
Feel: Tier One Firewire: pockety and crisp/firm/precise vs. Völkl Cyclone Tour/Solinco Tour Bite Soft: pockety and soft/plush/lively
Playability Duration: Tier One Firewire >> Völkl Cyclone Tour >> Solinco Tour Bite Soft
Durability: Völkl Cyclone Tour >> Tier One Firewire/Solinco Tour Bite Soft
Price Point: Tier One Firewire/Völkl Cyclone Tour >> Solinco Tour Bite Soft
So which string do I finally prefer? I need some more time with T1 Firewire to see how comfort and durability will be on the long run. But I really like that string. Meanwhile, I know both Völkl Cyclone Tour and Solinco Tour Bite Soft offer me options which my arm likes, however my opponents on the other side of the net don’t.
Tennisspieler
Rookie
Some pictures:
Solinco Tour Bite Soft (silver), Tier One Firewire (red), Völkl Cyclone Tour (black)
Solinco Tour Bite Soft (silver), Tier One Firewire (red), Völkl Cyclone Tour (black)
Tennisspieler
Rookie
More pics:
^^^ Solinco Tour Bite Soft
^^^ Tier One Firewire
^^^ Völkl Cyclone Tour
^^^ Solinco Tour Bite Soft
^^^ Tier One Firewire
^^^ Völkl Cyclone Tour
I'd like to tell you my last experiences.
Like Tennisspieler and Mikeler I use Prince ESP 100t and I'm 5.0 more or less. Since last two months I went to a full western grip on forehand and 2hbh both flat and with tospin, even if in the last times I'm getting great result using flat 2hbh because my opponents will receive very different shots depending if I hit forehand or backhand.
Anyway, being a really tennis string-holic, I tested a lot of string on serveral frames, and I tested some strings on that frame too.
Despite my effort to improve my current setup, I've found that the best combo for me is Discho Iontec 1.35mm @ 24kg // 52lbs.
This string gives me the greatest confidence among any string ever tried. It is WAY softer than the tinner version 1.30mm, yep it's a strange behaviour but I have to string 1.30mm 1kg less to get same softness and power of 1.35mm.
So, with the 1.35mm I get:
-a lot of power from both side
-a LOT of spin with forehand and kick serve
-pin-point precision with backhand even if almost completely flat.
-4 hours of great play and other 2 hours of decent play. At sixth hour mark I feel the need to cut them, but I've tried to use them until breakage and it happens around 10th hour usually with a shank. However after the 6th hour I lose some spin, some power and some control. take into account that I hit VERY hard for my level of play.
I have tried 1.30mm iontec but I got no advantages over this one.
I have tried 1.35mm ionspin rough and despite my efforts to like it, I got weird, erratic behaviour: forehand sit too much(maybe too much spin) so my shots land short, while backhand goes too far. But worst case is on serve, my shots all land out of 1 meter. I should probably adapt to that string, but I'm looking for a string that adapt to my game and no viceversa, so I left this one.
-Tried solinco tour bite 16 (no soft) and it is a great string, with more spin than discho, but I tried it while playing with semi-western grip. I find that semi-western grip users, like me in the past, obeys to that equation: more spin=better.
I just wanted more, and more, and more spin, to get my forehand more, and more, and more confident.
When playing with full western grip, suddently that need disappear. You have all you spin you desire, even too much spin, so you need to "horizontalize" your shots to get depth.
In order to not lose depth, still retaining that massive spin created by combo full western grip + 16x16 racquet, I reached the interesting solution of very low string tension for a 16x16 pattern (52lbs, but I've played even at 49lbs- just lose some control on flat backhand).
So, what I'm saying?That with that grip, with that racquet, you simply do not need the spinniest string of the world, like with usual racquets/less extreme grips. You need the most confident string, the one that let you hit the lines still with that massive spin.And you need a power string, because if the string is too much low powered all those spin will let you settle too much, and in tennis depth is the MOST important parameter of your shots, even more important of power, spin and lateral control.
Long story short, with tour bite 16 I get similar performances of discho iontec but with a lot of more string-cost and with less feeling on volley/dropshot.
The combo of thin frame, 16x16 pattern, slick round string full of feeling is something I will never reach with other frames&strings. And some months ago I tried with all my efforts to go back to usual 16x19 racquet...nevermind, Prince 100t ESP + discho iontec 1.35mm is my tennis equipment nirvana!
P.S. 1.35mm iontec weight almost 1 gram more than 1.30mm and than various 1.35mm strings. And that's an advantage, because our beloved racquet miss some swingweight. I play with 2.5gr of lead on 12 and with that string that weight 17.5gr more or less, plus two overgrips on the handle, so I should be around 320sw and 330gr finished. Again, *for me*, best combo between manuvrability, stability, plowthrought, power, weight.
P.S.S. If I should dream, I'd like to have my actual racquet a bit stiffer, something like 66-68 RA instead of 61. I just feel I could make use of additional power if I had it. Some of you would probably recommend new prince 100t 16x16 pro, coz it seems stiffer, unfortunately i LOVE o-ports feeling. the ball get so nicely into stringbed w.r.t. traditional racquets. I'm damned. Damned to play with that racquet until my end....
Like Tennisspieler and Mikeler I use Prince ESP 100t and I'm 5.0 more or less. Since last two months I went to a full western grip on forehand and 2hbh both flat and with tospin, even if in the last times I'm getting great result using flat 2hbh because my opponents will receive very different shots depending if I hit forehand or backhand.
Anyway, being a really tennis string-holic, I tested a lot of string on serveral frames, and I tested some strings on that frame too.
Despite my effort to improve my current setup, I've found that the best combo for me is Discho Iontec 1.35mm @ 24kg // 52lbs.
This string gives me the greatest confidence among any string ever tried. It is WAY softer than the tinner version 1.30mm, yep it's a strange behaviour but I have to string 1.30mm 1kg less to get same softness and power of 1.35mm.
So, with the 1.35mm I get:
-a lot of power from both side
-a LOT of spin with forehand and kick serve
-pin-point precision with backhand even if almost completely flat.
-4 hours of great play and other 2 hours of decent play. At sixth hour mark I feel the need to cut them, but I've tried to use them until breakage and it happens around 10th hour usually with a shank. However after the 6th hour I lose some spin, some power and some control. take into account that I hit VERY hard for my level of play.
I have tried 1.30mm iontec but I got no advantages over this one.
I have tried 1.35mm ionspin rough and despite my efforts to like it, I got weird, erratic behaviour: forehand sit too much(maybe too much spin) so my shots land short, while backhand goes too far. But worst case is on serve, my shots all land out of 1 meter. I should probably adapt to that string, but I'm looking for a string that adapt to my game and no viceversa, so I left this one.
-Tried solinco tour bite 16 (no soft) and it is a great string, with more spin than discho, but I tried it while playing with semi-western grip. I find that semi-western grip users, like me in the past, obeys to that equation: more spin=better.
I just wanted more, and more, and more spin, to get my forehand more, and more, and more confident.
When playing with full western grip, suddently that need disappear. You have all you spin you desire, even too much spin, so you need to "horizontalize" your shots to get depth.
In order to not lose depth, still retaining that massive spin created by combo full western grip + 16x16 racquet, I reached the interesting solution of very low string tension for a 16x16 pattern (52lbs, but I've played even at 49lbs- just lose some control on flat backhand).
So, what I'm saying?That with that grip, with that racquet, you simply do not need the spinniest string of the world, like with usual racquets/less extreme grips. You need the most confident string, the one that let you hit the lines still with that massive spin.And you need a power string, because if the string is too much low powered all those spin will let you settle too much, and in tennis depth is the MOST important parameter of your shots, even more important of power, spin and lateral control.
Long story short, with tour bite 16 I get similar performances of discho iontec but with a lot of more string-cost and with less feeling on volley/dropshot.
The combo of thin frame, 16x16 pattern, slick round string full of feeling is something I will never reach with other frames&strings. And some months ago I tried with all my efforts to go back to usual 16x19 racquet...nevermind, Prince 100t ESP + discho iontec 1.35mm is my tennis equipment nirvana!
P.S. 1.35mm iontec weight almost 1 gram more than 1.30mm and than various 1.35mm strings. And that's an advantage, because our beloved racquet miss some swingweight. I play with 2.5gr of lead on 12 and with that string that weight 17.5gr more or less, plus two overgrips on the handle, so I should be around 320sw and 330gr finished. Again, *for me*, best combo between manuvrability, stability, plowthrought, power, weight.
P.S.S. If I should dream, I'd like to have my actual racquet a bit stiffer, something like 66-68 RA instead of 61. I just feel I could make use of additional power if I had it. Some of you would probably recommend new prince 100t 16x16 pro, coz it seems stiffer, unfortunately i LOVE o-ports feeling. the ball get so nicely into stringbed w.r.t. traditional racquets. I'm damned. Damned to play with that racquet until my end....
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djNEiGht
Legend
Nice contributions!
For Tennissplier...if they all come down to a draw or you could be happy with any of the 3 in your reviews, pick the one that is easiest to string
I've yet to try Iontec so the reviews in this thread and fr Bhairava is helpful
I am still nursing my pinched nerve and my forehand (my weapon before). So very frustrating...I find myself running around and hitting my backhand. My serve is still good (when it's on) and starting to be a weapon.
For Tennissplier...if they all come down to a draw or you could be happy with any of the 3 in your reviews, pick the one that is easiest to string
I've yet to try Iontec so the reviews in this thread and fr Bhairava is helpful
I am still nursing my pinched nerve and my forehand (my weapon before). So very frustrating...I find myself running around and hitting my backhand. My serve is still good (when it's on) and starting to be a weapon.
mikeler
Moderator
Nice contributions!
For Tennissplier...if they all come down to a draw or you could be happy with any of the 3 in your reviews, pick the one that is easiest to string
I've yet to try Iontec so the reviews in this thread and fr Bhairava is helpful
I am still nursing my pinched nerve and my forehand (my weapon before). So very frustrating...I find myself running around and hitting my backhand. My serve is still good (when it's on) and starting to be a weapon.
My 2 cents is that Solinco Tour Bite Soft is just too "launchy" for me. I've had 2 injuries and a long vacation that have lowered my level the 2nd half of this year. I just bought a bunch of Cyclone Tour to use for awhile. I'll probably start play testing again during the new year but I just need to get my game back right now.
Tennisspieler
Rookie
That's what I tried to describe using the term "sling-shotty". IMHO it's not necessarily a bad thing, it depends on your personal preferences. Those who are looking for some added pop in a poly string will find it here. Those who prefer a slightly crisper feel, may take a look at Völkl Cyclone Tour. Again, comfort is the same, at least for me.
It's a great string. Huge spin potential, lots of bite, good control, very predictable response, good tension maintenance and durability, fair price.
The twisted shape seeems to help both in terms of spin production as well as durability. The edges grap the ball very well and obviously produce lots of RPM, while the twisted shape apparently reduces interstring friction and notching compared to non-twisted shapes polys.
Get well soon!
Great reviews , thanks a lot. I went two sets of Ripspin 1,30 in less than 45 minutes each indoors on Friday as I ran out of the 1,35.
Then I picked up an ESP strung with Luxilon savage lime 1,27 which has been lying around for more than 3 months, crossed with babolat synthetic gut 1,3. Sunday evening and I broke the cross string for the first time and the savage after +3 hours still looks fresh with minimal notching. Apparently the savage is shaped, but I´m really impressed with the durability so far.
Anyone else tried the Savage ?
Then I picked up an ESP strung with Luxilon savage lime 1,27 which has been lying around for more than 3 months, crossed with babolat synthetic gut 1,3. Sunday evening and I broke the cross string for the first time and the savage after +3 hours still looks fresh with minimal notching. Apparently the savage is shaped, but I´m really impressed with the durability so far.
Anyone else tried the Savage ?
Tennisspieler
Rookie
Tier One Firewire
^^^ Just a quick update to my posts #1828-1830 above.
Played two competitive matches with Tier One Firewire 130 in my open pattern Prince Tour 100T ESP and really liked it.
Again, the ball pocketing is remarkable, you can feel how the strings bite into the felt and grab the ball. Spin production and depth control are excellent, so I was confident to hit hard without worrying that balls might be sailing long. What strikes me is the above average tension maintenance of T1 Firewire: Even after several hours of match play I couldn't notice any significant loss of control, despite some heavy hitting. Consistency is clearly one of my favorite aspects of this string.
Also, I am still satisfied with the level of comfort. I have experienced no wrist or elbow pain thus far, and this is the first firmer poly I have been trying since coming back from a period of arm troubles which made me switch to softer poly strings in recent months.
So at the moment I am really digging that string.
^^^ Just a quick update to my posts #1828-1830 above.
Played two competitive matches with Tier One Firewire 130 in my open pattern Prince Tour 100T ESP and really liked it.
Again, the ball pocketing is remarkable, you can feel how the strings bite into the felt and grab the ball. Spin production and depth control are excellent, so I was confident to hit hard without worrying that balls might be sailing long. What strikes me is the above average tension maintenance of T1 Firewire: Even after several hours of match play I couldn't notice any significant loss of control, despite some heavy hitting. Consistency is clearly one of my favorite aspects of this string.
Also, I am still satisfied with the level of comfort. I have experienced no wrist or elbow pain thus far, and this is the first firmer poly I have been trying since coming back from a period of arm troubles which made me switch to softer poly strings in recent months.
So at the moment I am really digging that string.
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BorderLine
Rookie
I like PPC.
Should I go with that for my cross with B5E or try Thunderblast?
Are these similar?
Thx a ton
Should I go with that for my cross with B5E or try Thunderblast?
Are these similar?
Thx a ton
mikeler
Moderator
PPC might be a little too soft as a cross for my liking but maybe it will work for you.
BorderLine
Rookie
Thanks...that is helpful because I don't like too soft...I will give Thunderblast a go...how do Cyclone and B5E compare and contrast...last question I promise...
mikeler
Moderator
Cyclone is like a thicker version of B5E. Note that I'm talking about regular Cyclone and not Cyclone Tour.
BorderLine
Rookie
Is there much variation in hybrid setups?
My few test have all felt about the same.
My few test have all felt about the same.
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mikeler
Moderator
I think there is more difference in hybrids than full poly setups because there is a greater variation with multifilaments than polys IMHO.
BorderLine
Rookie
Kudos to Mikeler - once again he gives a great recommendation - thank you Mikeler - you save me time, money, and make me smile - nothing better than a good setup at a good price.
B5E mains with Thunderblast @ 55# was incredible all around for me. It was my first poly hybrid that had good feel and a nice sweet spot.
I was very surprised by the solid, muted, and smooth feel. It felt like a slightly firmer and crisper full bed of RIP Control that had more spin, power, and consistency than RIP. Most poly setups have a sharp, nasty, and brittle feel to me and this didn't.
The power and trajectory were both moderate. The only possible thing I might could say that could be better would be the directional control. It could be me or my stick too. I may be able to hone it in with some more play with it.
I will string again if the longevity is good and I will probably try it at 53# to see if I can get a tad more power, pocket, and even more of the good feel.
B5E mains with Thunderblast @ 55# was incredible all around for me. It was my first poly hybrid that had good feel and a nice sweet spot.
I was very surprised by the solid, muted, and smooth feel. It felt like a slightly firmer and crisper full bed of RIP Control that had more spin, power, and consistency than RIP. Most poly setups have a sharp, nasty, and brittle feel to me and this didn't.
The power and trajectory were both moderate. The only possible thing I might could say that could be better would be the directional control. It could be me or my stick too. I may be able to hone it in with some more play with it.
I will string again if the longevity is good and I will probably try it at 53# to see if I can get a tad more power, pocket, and even more of the good feel.
BorderLine
Rookie
What should I try string wise to see if I can get more directional control?
Change cross or main? What string might offer more directional control versus the b5e or thunder?
Change cross or main? What string might offer more directional control versus the b5e or thunder?
mikeler
Moderator
Maybe try Cyclone or Cyclone Tour in place of B5E?
Muppet
Legend
Try increasing the tension of your cross string by one pound. This will narrow the sweet spot a little and improve accuracy.
BorderLine
Rookie
Been playing some Cyclone 18 @ 59# in the mains and Forten Sweet 17 @ 57# in the crosses. That tension was way too high the first 2 hours, but now it is just perfect. I am at about 7 hours and it is just great at everything and I love the feel and sound.
The sweet spot is huge, it is consistent, and solid.
My depth control has never been better and the directional control is good.
Everything is good, but my serves, volleys, and overheads couldn't be any more crisp and solid.
Whack and watch it dive at the base line...finally got me a setup.
And this cost less than $6 in string...
The sweet spot is huge, it is consistent, and solid.
My depth control has never been better and the directional control is good.
Everything is good, but my serves, volleys, and overheads couldn't be any more crisp and solid.
Whack and watch it dive at the base line...finally got me a setup.
And this cost less than $6 in string...
Nostradamus
Bionic Poster
very strange. this Razor code in hybrid with Gut does not work well,,,,,Too powerful. if I go to 65lbs, that might be too much too tight.
djNEiGht
Legend
I found a pretty similar set up...and I don't know why I don't play it more. Guess just always interested in trying different strings.
Cyclone 17 at 50# on the mains, Volkl Classic Syn Gut 17 52# on cross, constant pull.
