Any flexible racquets, ~11.7oz., 16x19, that are also medium powered?

time_fly

Hall of Fame
Try the racquet finder tool ... I found 4 matches to your criteria. None are "medium" powered but three are "low to medium". These are the Yonex DR 98, Head Graphene XT Prestige S, and Tecnifibre TFight DC 315 Ltd. (16x19). Come to think of it I don't think I've ever seen a racquet labeled as "medium" or "high" powered. I'm sure there must be some but they must be ultra-oversized department-store grade crud.
 

myke232

Semi-Pro
Thanks all, I have and will check all of those out. Guess it's time to demo them, reading reviews there is always good and bad!
 

fuzz nation

G.O.A.T.
Flex about 58-62.
Weight 11.5 - 11.9 oz.
16x19

All seem to be low powered...

Do they seem to be low powered based on your own trials with them on the courts or from what you've gathered in reviews?

Just wondering about that because the issue of "power" is tricky - it can mean different things to different folks. One racquet might be stiff and lively with rather explosive response at contact. That racquet would be thought to "have a lot of power". But another that's more mellow and controlled could allow some hitters to swing big and "play with power" while still keeping the ball in the court.

If you're looking for a frame that has more of that explosive response along with some flex, I agree with the suggestion in post #2 for the Yonex DR 98. Some frames with the combo of a firm hoop and flexible throat can be ideal for combining measures of "pop" and softness, but it's never easy to get it all in one package. The square-ish Yonex head shape has always given me the impression that they play bigger than a more traditional oval-shaped racquet with the same head size. Bigger, at least for me, translates into greater liveliness and inherent power.

I'm a happy Volkl nerd and I have a pair of their Organix 10 325g's in my bag - I customized mine to dial in my preferred fit. This racquet also has that firm hoop/softer throat layout and their current version of that frame is the V-Sense 10 325g. Although it lists at 12 oz., it's also somewhat HL and shouldn't be too much of a tree branch. If you want some power, especially in a softer racquet, you'll likely get that with a little extra beef. This Volkl could be worth a look.
 

myke232

Semi-Pro
Do they seem to be low powered based on your own trials with them on the courts or from what you've gathered in reviews?

Just wondering about that because the issue of "power" is tricky - it can mean different things to different folks. One racquet might be stiff and lively with rather explosive response at contact. That racquet would be thought to "have a lot of power". But another that's more mellow and controlled could allow some hitters to swing big and "play with power" while still keeping the ball in the court.

If you're looking for a frame that has more of that explosive response along with some flex, I agree with the suggestion in post #2 for the Yonex DR 98. Some frames with the combo of a firm hoop and flexible throat can be ideal for combining measures of "pop" and softness, but it's never easy to get it all in one package. The square-ish Yonex head shape has always given me the impression that they play bigger than a more traditional oval-shaped racquet with the same head size. Bigger, at least for me, translates into greater liveliness and inherent power.

I'm a happy Volkl nerd and I have a pair of their Organix 10 325g's in my bag - I customized mine to dial in my preferred fit. This racquet also has that firm hoop/softer throat layout and their current version of that frame is the V-Sense 10 325g. Although it lists at 12 oz., it's also somewhat HL and shouldn't be too much of a tree branch. If you want some power, especially in a softer racquet, you'll likely get that with a little extra beef. This Volkl could be worth a look.
I am using the specs on TW for the power level. I haven't tried any of the racquets yet. Of course your assessment of power being tricky and examples are spot on. The Yonex DR 98 has all I am looking for spec-wise, but I have read some rather shaky reviews about it. I have also never liked the look of the shape of the head but could probably get over that if I had to.

Prince Textreme Tour 95 - String with Natural Gut mains & Poly Crosses.
Cool, the Prince Textreme Tour 95 is at the very top of my list along with the Head XT Prestige Pro. They both have all the specs I am looking for but are considered low powered. Although I don't use poly due to elbow issues; I use synthetic gut strung at around 50-52.

------------

The interesting thing is that almost all the heavier (>11.5) racquets are low powered. The lighter racquets are higher powered due to faster swing speed, yet they would get pushed around playing someone with a lot of power... so it's a bit a catch 22.

I am a 4.5 player, but in my late 40's and only weigh about a buck fifty, so I'm thinking a low-medium powered racquet would help me generate more power. But I like a heavier racquet right around 11.7 or so.

Currently I'm using a Head Youtek Speed MP 300g, but with tape at 3 and 9 to get it up to about 11.6 oz strung.
 

TennisCJC

Legend
Try Yonex DR98 stock. I demo-ed it and I think it is an excellent racket.

Or, get a Volk 10 series 295 and lead it up a bit. This is what I do. I like the Volkl 10 295 leaded up slightly better. It is a little stiffer too but still very comfortable racket. You could also try Volk 10 325. I've played the organix, super G and will play the v-sense model in the future.

Dr98 and volkl 10 series are excellent and worth a demo.
 

fuzz nation

G.O.A.T.
I am using the specs on TW for the power level. I haven't tried any of the racquets yet. Of course your assessment of power being tricky and examples are spot on. The Yonex DR 98 has all I am looking for spec-wise, but I have read some rather shaky reviews about it. I have also never liked the look of the shape of the head but could probably get over that if I had to.


Cool, the Prince Textreme Tour 95 is at the very top of my list along with the Head XT Prestige Pro. They both have all the specs I am looking for but are considered low powered. Although I don't use poly due to elbow issues; I use synthetic gut strung at around 50-52.

------------

The interesting thing is that almost all the heavier (>11.5) racquets are low powered. The lighter racquets are higher powered due to faster swing speed, yet they would get pushed around playing someone with a lot of power... so it's a bit a catch 22.

I am a 4.5 player, but in my late 40's and only weigh about a buck fifty, so I'm thinking a low-medium powered racquet would help me generate more power. But I like a heavier racquet right around 11.7 or so.

Currently I'm using a Head Youtek Speed MP 300g, but with tape at 3 and 9 to get it up to about 11.6 oz strung.

I agree with that catch-22 you mentioned here.

The notion of compensating with faster swings when playing a lighter racquet is based on the assumption that a player can magically alter his/her swing speed. Maybe some can, but some cannot. I've talked with more than just one or two players over the years who have run into injuries in the wake of switching into a substantially lighter alternative, so I often jump into discussions on the boards here when this topic comes up.

While I think we're at risk of over-swinging too much when we switch to a racquet that's perhaps 1.5 oz. lighter than what we're accustomed to playing with all the time, I think that it's not unreasonable to get a solid bump in quickness or ease of handling when switching off to something that's only a couple tenths of an ounce less hefty (assuming that the balance, etc. are roughly the same).

If you go searching for a little more free power and you don't want a light racquet that feels unstable, I'd say don't be afraid of some of the options that seem borderline heavy for you. That's as long as you don't have let's say a shoulder issue that limits the static weight that you can manage. I say this as a 51-year-old who has been accustomed to racquets of the heavy, head-light variety pretty much forever.

A somewhat heavy racquet can also be surprisingly manageable as long as it has a comfortable amount of head-light balance. I'm no gorilla or even an avid gym rat, but my regular players weight 12.6 or 12.8 oz. Hefty and stable enough to make me happy, but these also balance at about 10 pts. HL.

Not asserting that you need what I use, but I've found that even a frame weighing perhaps 11.6 oz. can be too sluggish for me if it only has something like 5 or 6 pts. HL balance. Just something that may help you with getting a decent fit with a semi-heavy rig that gives you enough authority on your shots. If it's not as easy to handle as you want, consider adding weight to the handle to get a more familiar, cozy balance.
 

anhboa2

Rookie
Flex about 58-62.
Weight 11.5 - 11.9 oz.
16x19

All seem to be low powered...


Of course low stiffness makes them low power but @11.9oz they’ll all have enough power.
For today modern games 11.9oz is almost enough to hit with anyone, hard hitters or elastic pushers lol

Personally i would prefer sticks with lower total weight with less headlight, that’s when a racket has enough weight on the ball and is light enough to not slowing you down at the net. Especially helpful when you are not that big and strong and done enough physical training, then be wise choosing your weapon.
 

prjacobs

Hall of Fame
I think that string type and tension can create a really wide range of power levels, obviously tailored to your particular stroke mechanics.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
 

myke232

Semi-Pro
The Prestige Pro is 11.7oz, 7 pts HL, with a SW of 331 and is 'low' powered.

The Prestige S is 11.5oz / 4 pts HL, with a SW of 321 and is 'low-medium' powered

But one might think based on those specs the Pro would generate more power. But how can it be more HL but have a higher SW?
 

anhboa2

Rookie
The Prestige Pro is 11.7oz, 7 pts HL, with a SW of 331 and is 'low' powered.

The Prestige S is 11.5oz / 4 pts HL, with a SW of 321 and is 'low-medium' powered

But one might think based on those specs the Pro would generate more power. But how can it be more HL but have a higher SW?

Simple example: try to put 10gr of lead tape on 2 identical rackets, 1 @ 12 o’clock the other @ 6. The one has lead @ 12 will have significantly higher sw despite having same static weight and balance.
 

mnttlrg

Professional
Flex about 58-62.
Weight 11.5 - 11.9 oz.
16x19

All seem to be low powered...

Low flex = low powered.

The only way to even try to get around this is to try a thicker beam, and/or go lighter and use an extended length, which will then feel
like the same weight.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 

myke232

Semi-Pro
Simple example: try to put 10gr of lead tape on 2 identical rackets, 1 @ 12 o’clock the other @ 6. The one has lead @ 12 will have significantly higher sw despite having same static weight and balance.
Ok right, I see what you are saying. Actually I was focusing more on the 7pts HL for the heavier racquet vs. 4pts HL for the lighter one. Wouldn't the 7pts HL one be easier/faster to swing in theory?

Low flex = low powered.

The only way to even try to get around this is to try a thicker beam, and/or go lighter and use an extended length, which will then feel
like the same weight.
Yeah, I hear you... I want the flex, with some weight and also medium power, but I don't think it exists in one racquet...

Prince Textreme Warrior 100. No search further
Cool, I have looked at that and am intrigued. But it's only 11.14oz strung, stiffness of 66, and 16 x 18. So a bit on the lighter side and a bit stiff. But like was said above may need to go stiffer to get the extra power...
 

mnttlrg

Professional
Not sure if you fully read my post, but you can add a huge amount of power to any set of specs by getting an extended length. Even 27.25 is enough to see a major upgrade in power. 27.5 is another stratosphere in blasting potential.

But if you go longer, you will want a lower static weight so it will feel the same as what you like now in terms of swing weight, etc.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 

mnttlrg

Professional
I have a friend who still hits at a college level with a Tour Diabolo. It's set up for major control and spin, with a hair of extra length for lots of added power. Great frame!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 

mnttlrg

Professional
Another great frame that two of my other friends use is the K Blade Team. Great flexy control / spin with an extra .25 for lots of power.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
Another Yonex DR 98 fan here. It feels very flexible and meets your other 2 criteria. The quoted strung weight on TW is 11.5oz. I put a leather grip on mine and Wilson Pro Sensation overgrip. I just weighed it at 12.25oz. It still feels very manoeuvrable. I liked it so much I got another one – just in case.
 

mnttlrg

Professional
The more I check out this racquet the more intrigued I'm becoming... wonder why they went with 16x18 instead of 19...
It hits more beginnery that way. I don't know how you went from your original description to wanting that particular frame, but that Warrior hits very stiff like a Pure Drive, just with a bit more control.

The old TT Warrior is closer to your desired specs.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 

stephenclown

Professional
Oh wait 100 inch might not worry you. Low stiffness i automatically just though of midsize as its what I use.

Look into the Angell TC100 63RA 16x19. Apparently this thing is an absolute beast with power. Similar to pure drive levels of power but with open string pattern for spin. Flexible, solid as a rock and brilliantly engineered.

I have ample power from my TC95 16x19, really a huge amount on tap. But the TC100 is unlocked much easier and more forgiving.

I had to cut gut 48/45 alu rough cross out of my TC95... The power was too much.
 

irdave

New User
Simple example: try to put 10gr of lead tape on 2 identical rackets, 1 @ 12 o’clock the other @ 6. The one has lead @ 12 will have significantly higher sw despite having same static weight and balance.

Hey bud. Balance isn't the same. Weight is the same, but balance is way different. Source; T = F x d. You're changing the distance by 12"? That's a big change in torque, so big change in balance.


OP; get the stick you like and tune it with the strings and some lead- easy to make more or less 'power.'
 

Irvin

Talk Tennis Guru
Flex about 58-62.
Weight 11.5 - 11.9 oz.
16x19

All seem to be low powered...
You can't eat your cake and have it too. The flex (and weight) in a racket has a lot to do with the rackets power. The stiffer the frame the higher the power because less energy is lost with the frame flexing. On the other hand the string also has a lot to do with power. Maybe when you find your flexible frame you can match it up with a power string you like.
 

Irvin

Talk Tennis Guru
Come to think of it I don't think I've ever seen a racquet labeled as "medium" or "high" powered. I'm sure there must be some but they must be ultra-oversized department-store grade crud.
ProKennex Ionic Ki 20 PSE (medium - high)
Wilson Ultra 108 (medium - high)
Prince Textreme Premier 120 (high)
Babolat Aero 112 (medium - high)
 

myke232

Semi-Pro
It hits more beginnery that way. I don't know how you went from your original description to wanting that particular frame, but that Warrior hits very stiff like a Pure Drive, just with a bit more control.
I know it doens't really fit my specs. But it is low-medium power. And maybe the extra stiffness which lends to it's power will be ok if I string it down at like 50lbs. Possibly add some lead if need be. Although I am trying to find a racquet at my desired weight without lead.

check out the new Technifibre 315 LTD 16x19 - fits the range you are looking at, and has a decent amount of pop.
Specs look great on that! But ouch that paint job, not sure if I can handel that... Seriously when I look down I want to like what I see aestheticly... lol

You can't eat your cake and have it too. The flex (and weight) in a racket has a lot to do with the rackets power. The stiffer the frame the higher the power because less energy is lost with the frame flexing. On the other hand the string also has a lot to do with power. Maybe when you find your flexible frame you can match it up with a power string you like.
True. Or maybe I could go the opposite, a bit stiffer frame with lower string tension...

Using your parameters, four rackets came up:
  • Prince Textreme 95 - power level low
  • Yonex EZone DR 98 - power level low-medium
  • Head Graphene XT Prestige X - power level low-medium
  • Tecnifibre TFight DC 315 Ltd. (16x19) - power level low-medium (link is broken, but racket exists)
From the TW Racquet Finder
Cool, thanks. All those are under consideration...
 

Irvin

Talk Tennis Guru
True. Or maybe I could go the opposite, a bit stiffer frame with lower string tension...
That's true but string tension actually has little to do with power. If you want more power from the string bed you should be looking to change your string.
 

ed70

Professional
Angell TC95 and TC97 - unfortunately the 16x19 layup in the 97 is different to the 18x20. Using 18x20 atm and its unbelievable.

Have you tried the 16x19 tc97? Ive been using for over a year and it's an incredible frame, I think there's far to much over analysing of frames and taking one persons views as being gospel. Layup to my knowledge is how the materials are placed and mixed together in the mold? All I can say is besides a tiny Xtra control on the slice backhand side wth the 18x20, I found more power, spin control, depth and winning shots with the 16x19, also the 16x19 plays softer. Just my opinion!
 

stephenclown

Professional
Have you tried the 16x19 tc97? Ive been using for over a year and it's an incredible frame, I think there's far to much over analysing of frames and taking one persons views as being gospel. Layup to my knowledge is how the materials are placed and mixed together in the mold? All I can say is besides a tiny Xtra control on the slice backhand side wth the 18x20, I found more power, spin control, depth and winning shots with the 16x19, also the 16x19 plays softer. Just my opinion!

Interesting, the layup in the 18x20 is meant to be more crisp and connected to the ball from what I hear. Most similar frame to the PT630 on the market. Not sure how different they are to be honest, if they are close it may be worth it. Wish they were same layup though, andy murrays frame is pretty interesting.

I have the 16x19 tc95 which has ample spin so trying the 18x20 was a solid choice imo. See what I prefer more. When I can get around to it I will probably purchase more of these frames. Will likely include a TC90 and TC97 16x19 first. I am addicted to their feel, spin, power and maneuverability.
 

tennisjon

Professional
Yonex DR 98 and just add a little lead at 3 & 9 and it gets a lot of power. Also, Pro Kennex racquets. Their stiffness might say 67 but they play like 62. I am extremely sensitive to stiff frames and they aren't an issue. I would also try Prince Textreme Warrior. It plays softer than flex suggests.
 

mavsman149

Hall of Fame
Tecnifibre TFight 315 LTD 16 Mains, it is incredible! I'm sure the new LTD that just got released is incredible too, although I've yet to hit with it.
 

myke232

Semi-Pro
Thats what lead tape is for. You can customize it how you please.
I know, and I am using lead tape on my racquet currently. But I really want to try to get a racquet that is already at my ideal weight/specs without the need for tape...
 

tennisjon

Professional
I know, and I am using lead tape on my racquet currently. But I really want to try to get a racquet that is already at my ideal weight/specs without the need for tape...
I have never understood why anyone would not want to make their racquet feel exactly how they want it to feel. There are limited choices out there and nothing is perfect the way it is. Certain manufacturers essentially build a frame that is meant to be easily customizable so you aren't stuck with something that is off.
 

WestboroChe

Hall of Fame
I am using the specs on TW for the power level. I haven't tried any of the racquets yet. Of course your assessment of power being tricky and examples are spot on. The Yonex DR 98 has all I am looking for spec-wise, but I have read some rather shaky reviews about it. I have also never liked the look of the shape of the head but could probably get over that if I had to.


Cool, the Prince Textreme Tour 95 is at the very top of my list along with the Head XT Prestige Pro. They both have all the specs I am looking for but are considered low powered. Although I don't use poly due to elbow issues; I use synthetic gut strung at around 50-52.

------------

The interesting thing is that almost all the heavier (>11.5) racquets are low powered. The lighter racquets are higher powered due to faster swing speed, yet they would get pushed around playing someone with a lot of power... so it's a bit a catch 22.

I am a 4.5 player, but in my late 40's and only weigh about a buck fifty, so I'm thinking a low-medium powered racquet would help me generate more power. But I like a heavier racquet right around 11.7 or so.

Currently I'm using a Head Youtek Speed MP 300g, but with tape at 3 and 9 to get it up to about 11.6 oz strung.
Prince Tour 100 also fits the bill. There are 3 models but they are all fairly flexible and medium powered IMO.
 
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