Chris & Andy - Alu Power vs Cyclone Tension?

[LIONZ]

I'm a former D1 player and I've been using Ali Power 16L at 53lbs. Trying Cyclone 17 at 53lbs. Both strings are 1.25mm. The main reasons for change are cost (I'm breaking strings before I would cut them out) and some perceive Cyclone to be a little easier on the arm.

Cyclone feels a bit different, but I generally like it. That said, the launch angle with Cyclone may be a bit higher and the string may be a little more lively. I've been hitting more balls long in the first few sessions.

What is your experience when moving from Alu Power to Cyclone? Do you tend to string the Cyclone tighter than Alu Power? Maybe try 55? Or, sHould I just 'work it out' over a few weeks while keeping the tension at 53? I'm not one to tinker with my setup a lot as I'm looking to keep things pretty constant.

Just looking to benefit from your experience. Any suggestions are appreciated.

Thanks.

Dave

 

[TW Staff]

What color Cyclone are you using? The orange and yellow colors are a tad livelier. For a more controlled response use the black color. Cyclone is also slightly softer than ALU Power so it will not feel as firm and control oriented. You are going to get slightly more dwell time which is leading to that higher launch angle on your topspin groundstrokes.

A quick and easy fix would be to either switch to the 16 gauge version which wont be as lively or just bump up 2lbs in tension.

Personally I'd try the black in 16g at your regular 53lbs first and see how that goes. If that's not the ticket then make the slight adjustment in tension and you should be locked in and good to go.

Cheers,
Chris, TW

 

[LIONZ]

Thanks Chris. I'm using the black. Have a few more sets of 17, but then I might try the 16. Do you see any spin difference between the gauges?

 

[TW Staff]

I think what lacks from the bite of going to a thicker gauge you'll get back by being able to take a bigger cut at the ball. That will likely be more noticeable during tighter match situations when you feel confident to stay on the gas more with a more controlled string. When just hitting and feeling free, you should be able to take advantage of the thinner gauge a little more. Either way the difference is not that much.

Cheers,
Chris, TW