How thick is your MAX 200G? (poll, calipers required)

[Grafil Injection]

Excluding the tapered beam version, when comparing my large stable of 200Gs (and 300is) I find they have rather consistent beam widths between 21.4 and 21.8mm on the calipers. Furthermore, they are usually of constant width when measuring in three places (above handle, shoulders, top). Hence, I think we can say 21.6mm was the normal beam width.

However, I have two Graphite Injection models that are unquestionably thinner. One is 20.6mm, the other 20.7mm, so almost 1mm thinner, also along their whole lengths. They play just as solidly and have similar flex. The only difference I have noticed is their mould marks (at the bottom of the 'grommet' channel) says just 'V' rather than BV, CV, DV or EV that is shown on all my others.

Was this a different version? Perhaps related to the '24% less weight in the head' advert. I have not found any later versions that are thinner, so it appears to have been a temporary change.

It would be interesting to hear if anyone else has such a thin model. I'm fairly confident it couldn't be a QC issue, but a poll should reveal if there is a continuum or two distinct widths. Poll is set up to vote more than once if you have many copies, although I only included 4 of mine with the thin ones.

 

[Grafil Injection]

Just to refresh the poll request, here's a picture of one of my thin versions (20.7mm) in between two normal versions, with two tapered beam versions on the outside. You can see that the central one is clearly thinner all the way along, compared to the normal ones. Surely I haven't got the only ones in existence (?):

 

[teachingprotx]

Wow how interesting

 

[Grafil Injection]

Wow how interesting

It's mysterious. Definitely too big and continuous a difference to be QC. Although mine are straight, perhaps the thinner mould was quickly found to be more susceptible to warp, so they went back to the normal size.

In practice I was using them for a year or so without even noticing, but now, I do think they feel a touch nicer in hand and very slightly more aerodynamic, so I'd definitely look out for another.

 

[Kevo]

Just to refresh the poll request, here's a picture of one of my thin versions (20.7mm) in between two normal versions, with two tapered beam versions on the outside. You can see that the central one is clearly thinner all the way along, compared to the normal ones. Surely I haven't got the only ones in existence (?):

Is the thinner one lower in weight and/or swing weight?

 

[Grafil Injection]

Is the thinner one lower in weight and/or swing weight?

Both fairly normal weights at 366 and 368g strung for Ls. One is quite HL at 31.75, the other more normal at 32.25cm balance. Certainly not high SWs for MAX 200Gs. I guess mid 330s. I have a couple of normal width ones that play lighter though, so they're probably within the usual QC range.

 

[Grafil Injection]

I thought it useful to add pictures of a thinner beamed model of the MAX 200G. This one averages 20.6mm, including being just 20.5mm at the shoulders:

Compared to a normal model around 21.7mm:

Must have been a short-term experiment around 1986.

 

[d-quik]

Just to refresh the poll request, here's a picture of one of my thin versions (20.7mm) in between two normal versions, with two tapered beam versions on the outside. You can see that the central one is clearly thinner all the way along, compared to the normal ones. Surely I haven't got the only ones in existence (?):

Which ones play better? I fear mines may be one of the thinner ones

 

[Grafil Injection]

Which ones play better? I fear mines may be one of the thinner ones

As I mention above, I could hardly tell any difference regarding power, flex, control etc. It's only when I got nerdy to check all the widths I discovered the two thinner versions. Now that I know about them I can spot them quickly, but it makes no difference in play. Just, bouncing the ball on the side is a fraction less easy!

 

[d-quik]

hardly tell any difference regarding power, flex, control etc

In theory, if the bal/wt/sw/tw/rw/flex/etc are all the same, the thicker ones should be a tad more stable on off centre hits. Will ne hard to detect that with such a tiny sweet spot though.

 

[Grafil Injection]

In theory, if the bal/wt/sw/tw/rw/flex/etc are all the same, the thicker ones should be a tad more stable on off centre hits. Will ne hard to detect that with such a tiny sweet spot though.

Yes, the 200G is known for being one of the most stable rackets ever made, probably because it is 3-4mm wider than the majority of midsize rackets, and 5-15g (5-15sw pts) higher. Even these rare thin versions are 2-3mm wider than most contemporaries. It is also known for having a large sweet-spot for a midsize.

 

[d-quik]

one of the most stable rackets ever made

I just got one in mint condition last week when I found this thread and omg

I have not had a 200g SINCE 2009 man!!!

That is such an unacceptably long time! Very uncool. Much regret for not getting one sooner.

The weight just makes groundstrokes, volleys, and returns feel addictive (not hyperbole, I can NOT stop myself from thinking about it).

The heaviness is giving me some problems getting it up & around for serves, though.

NO FREE POWER but the freedom to take full cuts without fear of going long gives a visceral sense of satisfaction that just makes me want to get better with it.

It helps with making me play better actually.

Makes my 11.9oz regular racquet feel like a feather when I switch back and is a comically funny feeling.

I rarely have nostalgia or am reminiscent about the past because I've had such a ****ty life. This is one thing that has made me do it and I can't remember any other inanimate object doing this for me.

 

[Grafil Injection]

I just got one in mint condition last week when I found this thread and omg

I have not had a 200g SINCE 2009 man!!!

That is such an unacceptably long time! Very uncool. Much regret for not getting one sooner.

The weight just makes groundstrokes, volleys, and returns feel addictive (not hyperbole, I can NOT stop myself from thinking about it).

The heaviness is giving me some problems getting it up & around for serves, though.

NO FREE POWER but the freedom to take full cuts without fear of going long gives a visceral sense of satisfaction that just makes me want to get better with it.

It helps with making me play better actually.

Makes my 11.9oz regular racquet feel like a feather when I switch back and is a comically funny feeling.

I rarely have nostalgia or am reminiscent about the past because I've had such a ****ty life. This is one thing that has made me do it and I can't remember any other inanimate object doing this for me.

Stick with it and after 2-3 months you won't even notice the weight. MAX 200G starts good, and just gets better.

 

[d-quik]

Stick with it and after 2-3 months you won't even notice the weight. MAX 200G starts good, and just gets better.

Usually when I play I complain a lot (but don't give up, momma raised a complainer, not a quitter). It is either "ahh too late", "ahh weird bounce", "ahh so deep" (referring to the incoming shot), or something along those lines. I usually have a scowl on my face from being so

With the 200g, I have the dumbest grin on my face even when I'm making mistakes. Unlike my regular racquet, it tells you exactly how you messed up, so even mistakes are a rewarding/educational experience.

Anyways, my sacrilegious question is: have you had any (good) experiences putting a poly or poly hybrid in it at all? The original strings in here from 40 years ago kind of gets displaced against heavy spin players.

Appreciate any feedback possible and apologies for oversharing. People I know in real life doesn't seem to get why I'm so happy because they never played with anything smaller than 95 and think I am crazy so I have to be extra annoying to internet ppls. This racquet is kind of making me lose my sanity.

 

[Grafil Injection]

Usually when I play I complain a lot (but don't give up, momma raised a complainer, not a quitter). It is either "ahh too late", "ahh weird bounce", "ahh so deep" (referring to the incoming shot), or something along those lines. I usually have a scowl on my face from being so

With the 200g, I have the dumbest grin on my face even when I'm making mistakes. Unlike my regular racquet, it tells you exactly how you messed up, so even mistakes are a rewarding/educational experience.

Anyways, my sacrilegious question is: have you had any (good) experiences putting a poly or poly hybrid in it at all? The original strings in here from 40 years ago kind of gets displaced against heavy spin players.

Appreciate any feedback possible and apologies for oversharing. People I know in real life doesn't seem to get why I'm so happy because they never played with anything smaller than 95 and think I am crazy so I have to be extra annoying to internet ppls. This racquet is kind of making me lose my sanity.

Don't worry, it's a normal MAX 200G experience: 'This racket feels unbelievable, so nice!" - Andy Murray 2026.

I have tried a couple of polys in mine. They definitely work well, with decent spin, and the feel is ok at first. But over time the feel is just not as pleasant as a syngut or multi. It adds a bit of a metallic sound. If you did go for poly, a soft one would be my thinking. Despite the 18x20 string-bed, my recommendation is a medium-thick syngut, like 16 gauge. Although, perhaps a hybrid would be best if you are used to polys. I have thought about that myself, but not tried it yet. Something like Poly Tour Drive Soft (in yellow) x Tourna Syngut, might be worth trying and it would retain the classic colours. Kevlar is also quite nice, in a slightly different way too.

 

[teachingprotx]

The max 200g is just too heavy for my old ass.
I love the feeling of how it hits on contact . I tried it once with prince problend at 38lbs it was nirvana. Felt like what tennis should feel like forever in heaven

 

[Grafil Injection]

The max 200g is just too heavy for my old ass.
I love the feeling of how it hits on contact . I tried it once with prince problend at 38lbs it was nirvana. Felt like what tennis should feel like forever in heaven

You've got a 200G L/Junior though right? They're sublime too.

 

[d-quik]

tried it once with prince problend at 38lbs it was nirvan

They're sublime

Are the copper colored "cork" thingies needed for the centre 10 mains or optional?

Are the plastic tubes around both the top (12 o clock) and bottom (6 o clock) middle 10 mains necessary?

 

[michael valek]

Don't worry, it's a normal MAX 200G experience: 'This racket feels unbelievable, so nice!" - Andy Murray 2026.

I have tried a couple of polys in mine. They definitely work well, with decent spin, and the feel is ok at first. But over time the feel is just not as pleasant as a syngut or multi. It adds a bit of a metallic sound. If you did go for poly, a soft one would be my thinking. Despite the 18x20 string-bed, my recommendation is a medium-thick syngut, like 16 gauge. Although, perhaps a hybrid would be best if you are used to polys. I have thought about that myself, but not tried it yet. Something like Poly Tour Drive Soft (in yellow) x Tourna Syngut, might be worth trying and it would retain the classic colours. Kevlar is also quite nice, in a slightly different way too.

agree - poly seems like a good idea until you realise that there really is no point, the poly will be wasted as you cant really hit with the amount of spin required to make it work. better to use syngut and just redirect / club away. basically imagine playing cricket but with a tennis racket. same goes for the max200g's first cousin, slazenger phantom, which hits even better in my opinion, especially on serves.

 

[Grafil Injection]

Are the copper colored "cork" thingies needed for the centre 10 mains or optional?

Are the plastic tubes around both the top (12 o clock) and bottom (6 o clock) middle 10 mains necessary?

I don't think power-pads in the throat bridge are necessary (or common). The plastic throat grommet set is already pretty robust.

Most 200Gs have the plastic tubing in the top for the centre 8-12 strings, and at the bottom two strings either side of throat. I don't think they are necessary as I have seen a few without them that played fine, but just a sensible precaution.

 

[d-quik]

Something like Poly Tour Drive Soft (in yellow) x Tourna Syngut

What do you think of a "champion's choice alternative" where you put a multi/syngut main with a round/textured (but not shaped) cross?

Having a tough time picking between full bed multi, syngut full bed, or poor man's champion's choice.

perhaps a hybrid would be best if you are used to polys

I wouldn't say "used to", no. I know I play way better with polys but I have way less fun doing it. Not a fan. I have heard great things about poor man's CC though

 

[michael valek]

synthetic gut - its what the racket was designed for, or of course full gut..

 

[Grafil Injection]

What do you think of a "champion's choice alternative" where you put a multi/syngut main with a round/textured (but not shaped) cross?

Having a tough time picking between full bed multi, syngut full bed, or poor man's champion's choice.


I wouldn't say "used to", no. I know I play way better with polys but I have way less fun doing it. Not a fan. I have heard great things about poor man's CC though

I like Poor Man's CC in various modern sticks, but haven't tried it in a MAX 200G yet. Things like RPM Team x Sensation in a PS97, Element x NXT in a 6195 and PTP x Rexis in various Yonexes, have all worked well. As I mention above, if you like polys, then a multi or syngut hybrid should reduce the slightly weird poly feel I got from a full bed. Actually, a hybrid of syngut x multi might be good too.

As @michael valek said, full bed syngut is going to be closest to what most of the original ones were strung with. I have used PSGO, PSGD and Tourna Syngut and they were all good.

 

[michael valek]

if you try to rafa the ball, you'll soon stop. try to jonny mac the ball instead.

 

[d-quik]

if you like polys

I don't!

They make me play better, but isn't as fun, though. Not worth it for me since I am not trying to win tournaments/ladders or anything.

 

[Grafil Injection]

I don't!

They make me play better, but isn't as fun, though. Not worth it for me since I am not trying to win tournaments/ladders or anything.

Modern synguts are probably a bit firmer than the 1980s legends like Hy-O-Sheep and Superlastek, so I'm going to try syngut x multi next time I restring one.

 

[travlerajm]

I thought it useful to add pictures of a thinner beamed model of the MAX 200G. This one averages 20.6mm, including being just 20.5mm at the shoulders:

Compared to a normal model around 21.7mm:

Must have been a short-term experiment around 1986.

I would guess this spec tweak was the sort of micro-tweaking brands do every time they update a model hoping to boost sales. When a tweak seems to get a favorable response in reviews or sales numbers, it sticks. When it doesn’t, they revert back to the previous design.

 

[Grafil Injection]

I would guess this spec tweak was the sort of micro-tweaking brands do every time they update a model hoping to boost sales. When a tweak seems to get a favorable response in reviews or sales numbers, it sticks. When it doesn’t, they revert back to the previous design.

Yeah, it's a weird one because there are far more normal width Graphite Injections, so it must have been only for a few months. Perhaps the thinner outer mould was more fiddly to position the melt-core into. If the internal wall thicknesses are the same (which they probably are), then a thinner external width implies that the melt-core would have to be 1mm thinner too. Perhaps that was too fragile, so they went back to the original moulds.

 

[Grafil Injection]

if you try to rafa the ball, you'll soon stop. try to jonny mac the ball instead.

Or Andy Murray the ball.

 

[retrowagen]

Perhaps the “skinny” Max came from a brand new mould in 1986, one which had not yet been subject to tens of thousands of IMF heat cycles? Or, was QC in West Yorkshire industrial factories on a Monday morning or Friday afternoon in 1986 as bad as we think it could possibly have been? 40 years on, who knows?

 

[Grafil Injection]

Perhaps the “skinny” Max came from a brand new mould in 1986, one which had not yet been subject to tens of thousands of IMF heat cycles? Or, was QC in West Yorkshire industrial factories on a Monday morning or Friday afternoon in 1986 as bad as we think it could possibly have been? 40 years on, who knows?

Lol, yeah perhaps they often got their flared collars trapped in the mould when making the thicker ones!

That's one reason I put the poll up. If there was a smooth distribution of examples from 20.5mm to 21.75mm, mould expansion would be an option. But so far 95% of the ones I've measured are 21.5-21.75, and 5% are a clear 1mm thinner, so I don't think it was that.

Upon further inspection I can see that the edge markings round the hoop are actually slightly different, suggesting a different mould, like the lack of V code too.

 

[retrowagen]

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