Dunlop Aerogel 4D 100--Thoughts?

[BU-Tennis]

To start off, I prefer longer, loopy strokes (2HBH) where I drive through the ball and hit relatively flat. I use an eastern forehand and hit very similar to Federer, with a straight arm at contact. I like to slice my way to the net often, and I am an avid doubles player as well.

So, with that said, has anyone used the Dunlop Aerogel 4D 100 before? I know its a little light compared to how I like to play, but I am planning on adding some lead tape in the head to move it to a more even balance, which I prefer, or maybe keeping balance the same but just weighting it up a little.

The 90 inch head doesn't worry me much. I have used Roger's frames before and contact was a problem just the overall weight became an issue.

 

[blipblop]

I ... hit very similar to Federer...

Orly? I beat Federer last week. Just kidding, I'm being a jerk. I'm sure you mean your stroke mechanics are similar.

Keep in mind, according to many on this forum, Federer uses polarized rackets. You may want to try that out if you swing similarly.

Why not try the Bio 100? It's already heavier, and I think the Biomimetic Line is a pretty good one. What are you using now?

 

[BU-Tennis]

Ugh...yes I mean my stroke mechanics are similar, definitely not the results.

I know polarized means weight distributed at the ends, but I'm not sure how to tell if a racquet is or isn't polarized. But if I add weight I do plan on adding at 12 o'clock and at the cap.

I looked at the Bio 100 but some reviewers did not like it as much, plus I want more room for customization...and the 4D is cheaper .

Right now I'm just switching around every two weeks trying to get back into the swing of things while not playing too much over the past few years since I finished playing in college. Currently I'm using an old Roddick Pure Drive+, and while its ok the head size and beam width make it feel sluggish to me. I have to say though, my favorite racquet to hit with has been the nTour, but its just too light so I am trying to find something similar to this.

 

[gloumar]

I got two 4D 100s, plays nicely ! Bio is given for 61 in stiffness, so the 4d is a little stiffer with 63 or 64, as I can remember...

Overall, the racket is demanding but very very precise, and quite comfortable for a tight stringbed. A true pleasure when you find the zone, and very cool to serve with (wouaw).
The spin ability is good too ! You have to drop tension a bit to find some power back, because it's very low powered compared to the Fed's ProStaff Tour 90

I only remember having big issues with my poor 1hbh with this tiny head Quite a nightmare ! My level is not good enough for this frame, for sure...

But go for it, you'll love it !

 

[dadozen]

There's a huge thread about the 100 series. Check it out:

http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/showthread.php?t=211949

 

[The Dampener]

Yes, check out the thread recommended. It's got lots of great info.

And don't be fooled by specs. I own 2 versions of the 100, and I've played all three. The Bio, in my opinion, is the least responsive of the lot. Most users I've crossed paths with—and I've crossed paths with many—seem to give a slight edge to the 4D.

As for your style of play—and I'm just basing this on your description since I haven't seen you play—it seems the 100 would suit you well. First, it's very control oriented—many users describe it as "a scalpel." So chipping your way to the net with the 100 is pretty easy. But it's also more powerful that the 90" head would indicate, especially if you string low. I know, sounds a little counterintuitive. But the 100 doesn't quite subscribe to conventional wisdom.

I'm just one guy, though. So do your homework.

Lastly, if you decide to give the 100 a try, and you use a 1/4 grip, contact me. I might be able to help you out. I have a closet full of original AGs and 4Ds.

God luck!

 

[Drewery_1hb]

Yes, check out the thread recommended. It's got lots of great info.

And don't be fooled by specs. I own 2 versions of the 100, and I've played all three. The Bio, in my opinion, is the least responsive of the lot. Most users I've crossed paths with—and I've crossed paths with many—seem to give a slight edge to the 4D.

As for your style of play—and I'm just basing this on your description since I haven't seen you play—it seems the 100 would suit you well. First, it's very control oriented—many users describe it as "a scalpel." So chipping your way to the net with the 100 is pretty easy. But it's also more powerful that the 90" head would indicate, especially if you string low. I know, sounds a little counterintuitive. But the 100 doesn't quite subscribe to conventional wisdom.

I'm just one guy, though. So do your homework.

Lastly, if you decide to give the 100 a try, and you use a 1/4 grip, contact me. I might be able to help you out. I have a closet full of original AGs and 4Ds.

God luck!

Nice discussion, guys!

Hey Dampener,

Still have some of those old AGs or 4Ds stashed away? email me @ dwdrewer at uwaterloo dot ca if you think you have some available!

 

[shaneno]

i had this racket for a while... LOVE IT!!! only thing i didn't like that it was way to Light.. i just try making as heavy as the fed racket, so i just play with the fed racket ... Which fed racket u used?

To start off, I prefer longer, loopy strokes (2HBH) where I drive through the ball and hit relatively flat. I use an eastern forehand and hit very similar to Federer, with a straight arm at contact. I like to slice my way to the net often, and I am an avid doubles player as well.

So, with that said, has anyone used the Dunlop Aerogel 4D 100 before? I know its a little light compared to how I like to play, but I am planning on adding some lead tape in the head to move it to a more even balance, which I prefer, or maybe keeping balance the same but just weighting it up a little.

The 90 inch head doesn't worry me much. I have used Roger's frames before and contact was a problem just the overall weight became an issue.