Pro Kennex Black Ace Pro 97 2021

[Pneumated1]

TY P1.

vb, the handle mods I detailed above have worked out well on an L3 pallet. In all, it added ~7g to the handle and, with an over grip, brings the BA Pro to 6pts. hl. This is one plush frame, but somehow it maintains a very connected feel. Just as an experiment, I strung mine up with Multifeel 1.30/Ghost Wire 1.28 at 53/50, and I'll just add that this frame has some sneaky pop to complement its precision. I'd probably go 3-5# higher next time, but this one will play very plush even with a full bed of poly. I don't see it being string sensitive, so I'll test all my favorites. Probably going to pick up a second of these and try to make it my main frame. Is yours an L4? Is it noticeably rectangular in that size? I think if I pick up more BA Pros, I'll go L3 and reshape them.

I feel like it needs a gram each at 3/9, 5/7, and throat or top of the grip--just to balance out that swing weight just a bit, but it's plug-and-play for me so far.

 

[Tommy Haas]

If anyone needs a Vintage Pro kennex Black Ace 98, feel free to let me know

What are the specs? There have been a couple of reissues.

 

[vantage boy]

vb, the handle mods I detailed above have worked out well on an L3 pallet. In all, it added ~7g to the handle and, with an over grip, brings the BA Pro to 6pts. hl. This is one plush frame, but somehow it maintains a very connected feel. Just as an experiment, I strung mine up with Multifeel 1.30/Ghost Wire 1.28 at 53/50, and I'll just add that this frame has some sneaky pop to complement its precision. I'd probably go 3-5# higher next time, but this one will play very plush even with a full bed of poly. I don't see it being string sensitive, so I'll test all my favorites. Probably going to pick up a second of these and try to make it my main frame. Is yours an L4? Is it noticeably rectangular in that size? I think if I pick up more BA Pros, I'll go L3 and reshape them.

I feel like it needs a gram each at 3/9, 5/7, and throat or top of the grip--just to balance out that swing weight just a bit, but it's plug-and-play for me so far.

P1
dare i say it has a wood/graphite feel to it-sooo plush and i think the Kinetic really adds a nice punch of power-I have VS gut at 49lbs on mine and just LOVE the way my arm feels now (my Head PMP is a sweet plush frame also-just wanted a 16/19 pattern) Workmanship is outstanding also i have to say. My mistake on my question to you as i should have made it more clear. I like the grip shape on my PK PRO ,the racquet i really like is the PK 315 Ki tour its just the handle shape is a no go for me so I was asking if i bought a 4 1/4 could i make it feel like my Head PMP grip ship so i can get it to 4 3/8 size. TY for your help.

 

[Luis Re]

Arrived from TWE yesterday



324g strung (cyclone 1.20 @23kg) w/ overgrip. Pretty close to spec, maybe a gram under?

Will give it some time before deciding whether to keep. First impressions were good on serving and forehands from baseline. Noticeably less demanding than my prestige. Did not get many reps at net and did not manage to get comfortable with (OH) backhands. If this loses out to the Gravity Tour as my lighter backup frame, that will probably be why.

But it's early. I'll keep getting it some use over the next few weeks. For a flexy 97", it's got decent power (IMO). Definitely enjoy hitting forehands with it...

Hi. I have a Gravity tour. And I love it. But I Will try this couse i have a long time elbow pain. Can you compare it? Thanks all

 

[Pneumated1]

P1
dare i say it has a wood/graphite feel to it-sooo plush and i think the Kinetic really adds a nice punch of power-I have VS gut at 49lbs on mine and just LOVE the way my arm feels now (my Head PMP is a sweet plush frame also-just wanted a 16/19 pattern) Workmanship is outstanding also i have to say. My mistake on my question to you as i should have made it more clear. I like the grip shape on my PK PRO ,the racquet i really like is the PK 315 Ki tour its just the handle shape is a no go for me so I was asking if i bought a 4 1/4 could i make it feel like my Head PMP grip ship so i can get it to 4 3/8 size. TY for your help.

I would like to hit the QTours (300 and 315) before picking up another BA Pro. I'm hoping my preferences are clear at that point, and I suspect I'll be leaning more BA Pros, but we'll see. Regarding the grip size/shape, I'm not sure whether to get another L3 and build it up/reshape it like my first or go with my standard L4. I do not like Head's or Volkl's grip shape, so if it's like either of those, I should probably go L3. You have a suggestion?

 

[RDS001]

What are the specs? There have been a couple of reissues.

Racquet Name: Pro Kennex Black Ace
Head Size: 86 sq. in. /555 sq. cm.
Length: 27.00 inches / 68.58 cm
Strung Weight: 14.10 oz / 400 g
Balance: 4pts HL
Swing Weight: 396
Beam Width: 20.0 mm Tip/20.0 mm Shaft
Composition: 100% Ultra-High Modulus Graphite
Power Level: Low
Stiffness: 56
String Pattern: 16 Mains/19 Crosses
Main Skip: 7T,9T,10T,7H,9H,10H
String Tension: 60-70

 

[Tommy Haas]

@RDS001 those are the specs for real deal OG. Those specs are closer to old school wooden frames than modern frames. I'm not good enough.

 

[vantage boy]

I would like to hit the QTours (300 and 315) before picking up another BA Pro. I'm hoping my preferences are clear at that point, and I suspect I'll be leaning more BA Pros, but we'll see. Regarding the grip size/shape, I'm not sure whether to get another L3 and build it up/reshape it like my first or go with my standard L4. I do not like Head's or Volkl's grip shape, so if it's like either of those, I should probably go L3. You have a suggestion?

i really like this PK BA PRO offering and for me the grip shape on this model is fine. For you if you are gonna reshape id say 4 3/8 to build/shape up. Having hit the older PK 315 QTour i really liked the power it gave me and NOW that its a 60 ra instead of 63 im more interested in it, but that damn grip shape....

 

[Pneumated1]

i really like this PK BA PRO offering and for me the grip shape on this model is fine. For you if you are gonna reshape id say 4 3/8 to build/shape up. Having hit the older PK 315 QTour i really liked the power it gave me and NOW that its a 60 ra instead of 63 im more interested in it, but that damn grip shape....

Get a size down for the Q+ Tour 315, and message me. With as few as 8 pieces of 1" athletic/hockey tape, I can walk you through a one-size build-up that will give you a grip shape pretty close to Dunlop. But just sticking to the BA Pro isn't a terrible proposition

 

[vantage boy]

Get a size down for the Q+ Tour 315, and message me. With as few as 8 pieces of 1" athletic/hockey tape, I can walk you through a one-size build-up that will give you a grip shape pretty close to Dunlop. But just sticking to the BA Pro isn't a terrible proposition

TY very much-very true, happy either way.

 

[1990's Graphite]

 

[wassamara]

Finallyyyyyy

 

[scotus]

I guess I haven't watched review videos in a while. A couple of new faces.

 

[Pneumated1]

I've hit my BA Pro three times now, twice against a junior and once against an advanced player, and I'm not experiencing the 'low power' and 'small sweet spot' of those earlier in the thread and in the review, but we all perceive things differently I suppose. This is a long-dwell, slinger type of frame that I think creates more power for some styles than others. It came with Signum Pro Yellow Jacket (unknown gauge and tension), but I've since strung it with Multifeel 1.30/Ghost Wire 1.28 at 53/50, and I'd need to crank the tension of the latter up 3-5# in the summer. Gonna try full poly next, probably several of my favorites, including shaped mains/smooth cross hybrids, but I'm looking to go 53-55 on the mains with poly. Mid-tension (based on recommended tension range in the throat) is 57.5#. This one is so plush, I think it will accommodate higher tensions than most of us go with poly.

 

[JorisE]

Hi Black Ace Pro users, I'm considering a BAP too (now using a VCP 100). Any updates on your experience?

 

[mhkeuns]

Hi Black Ace Pro users, I'm considering a BAP too (now using a VCP 100). Any updates on your experience?

It is a great racket. It feels plush and soft, yet it offers lots of spin and control. The super thin beam is also very nice - to look at and hold.

 

[JorisE]

It is a great racket. It feels plush and soft, yet it offers lots of spin and control. The super thin beam is also very nice - to look at and hold.

Sounds good! What is your racket history and why did you choose the BAP?

 

[mhkeuns]

Sounds good! What is your racket history and why did you choose the BAP?

I‘ve always played with HL and heavy player’s rackets. I currently have the Blade 98 Pro 18x20, H19 18x20, Ultra Tour 18x20, Blade 98 V7 18x20. I really like the V7 Blade and the Blade Pro, but I play my best tennis with the ultra flexible H19. Having played with such a flexible frame got me interested in BAP. I couldn’t really pull the trigger because I didn’t like the PK frames I’ve hit with in the past. However, I hurt my arm pretty badly while lifting something that was too heavy and needed a frame that was lighter than what I had and much softer for the arm. The BAP fit the bill perfectly.

It’s interesting to note that the BAP looks a lot like the thinned out Blade 98. They both have the similar beam structures.

Though the BAP isn’t my preferred 18x20 string pattern, the control is really great. It also is really stable and doesn’t get pushed around.

 

[Pneumated1]

Hi Black Ace Pro users, I'm considering a BAP too (now using a VCP 100). Any updates on your experience?

I agree that it's a great racquet, probably the most flexible and plush I've ever hit. Somehow it maintains notable feel and stability with all of that flex. Although I hit with plenty of spin, I don't brush or clip the ball thin. I 'pressure' the ball a bit more, and the dwell/pocketing of the BA Pro creates a naturally heavy ball for me. I've read the review and other people's thoughts on the frame, and I don't follow the common 'control over power' theme with this one. I find it to be one of those frames where when I'm on, I'm hitting the ideal, deep, heavy ball, but if my timing is off, it can sail. I'm willing to accept that for the ball quality I've gained with this one.

It's a solid all-court frame. I hit laser bh slices with it (while my favorite shot with it is my topspin bh--1hbh). And it's surprisingly solid and thumpy at net. Sometimes I feel like I'm playing with a 99" the sweet spot is so generous.

Sometimes I wish it was a fraction more direct (which is why I'm intending to hit the Q+ Tour/Pro 315), but then it would lose its identity. There's always a compromise, and I can live with that one.

Also, I bought an L3 and built the grip up with athletic tape, but I really think this one needs a leather grip, so I'll likely trade/sell this one and get my standard L4 and put leather on it. And I feel a little lead in the throat and maybe bottom of the hoop would optimize the racquet for me. It's a little polarized for me, so I'll tinker with that to see where the boundaries exist.

 

[Pneumated1]

I‘ve always played with HL and heavy player’s rackets. I currently have the Blade 98 Pro 18x20, H19 18x20, Ultra Tour 18x20, Blade 98 V7 18x20. I really like the V7 Blade and the Blade Pro, but I play my best tennis with the ultra flexible H19. Having played with such a flexible frame got me interested in BAP. I couldn’t really pull the trigger because I didn’t like the PK frames I’ve hit with in the past. However, I hurt my arm pretty badly while lifting something that was too heavy and needed a frame that was lighter than what I had and much softer for the arm. The BAP fit the bill perfectly.

It’s interesting to note that the BAP looks a lot like the thinned out Blade 98. They both have the similar beam structures.

Though the BAP isn’t my preferred 18x20 string pattern, the control is really great. It also is really stable and doesn’t get pushed around.

I came from years with the TC95 18x20 to the Ultra Tour briefly to the Ultra Pro 16x19 and to this BA Pro. I'd love to get my hands on an H19 18x20/16x19, but I'm liking this BA Pro more than any I've listed, with the TC95 a close second. I noticed you sold your Q+ Tour Pro 315 'limoncello.' Does it compare to the BA Pro? I'm especially interested in feel, control/power.

 

[mhkeuns]

I came from years with the TC95 18x20 to the Ultra Tour briefly to the Ultra Pro 16x19 and to this BA Pro. I'd love to get my hands on an H19 18x20/16x19, but I'm liking this BA Pro more than any I've listed, with the TC95 a close second. I noticed you sold your Q+ Tour Pro 315 'limoncello.' Does it compare to the BA Pro? I'm especially interested in feel, control/power.

I still have one Q+ Tour 315, which I find it a great classic feeling player’s racket. It feels more stiff than the BAP but is still really comfortable. It’s just that BAP is more fun to hit with its unique feel. The ball just sinks in and fires back shots that are both powerful and accurate. It does not get pushed around. I think both are great at spin and control, but the BAP feels a lot easier to swing.

 

[JorisE]

Sounds like a lot of happy BAP users, thanks for your feedback!

I tried the Q+ Tour Pro 315 (the old one) and also the BA 300 some months ago. I liked the Tour but didn't like the old Head style palet / grip. The BA 300 really didn't work for me (I preferred the solid feeling and balance of the VCP 100).

I still have my old Head Radical Liquidmetal MP which I really like. But the racket gave me TE unfortunately. And after I got used to more common palets, the grip started to work against me too.

I hope that the BAP will give me the solid feeling and forgiveness of the VCP 100 (the green one) with improved comfort. Also hoping to improve my OHB with the BAP. Since the weight and balance are not that far off compared to the Radical MP, I think it can be winner. The BAP seems to be a great serving racket too (don't really like the VCP100 for serving).

Looking forward to the demo (it's underway)

 

[scotus]

It would be great if PK makes an extended-length version of Black Ace or Black Ace Pro.

 

[JGads]

It would be great if PK makes an extended-length version of Black Ace or Black Ace Pro.

If only. A 27.3 or 27.5 BAP would be ridiculous. Thankfully they’re already making the best XL in the game right now so can’t fault them.

 

[Pneumated1]

Sounds like a lot of happy BAP users, thanks for your feedback!

I tried the Q+ Tour Pro 315 (the old one) and also the BA 300 some months ago. I liked the Tour but didn't like the old Head style palet / grip. The BA 300 really didn't work for me (I preferred the solid feeling and balance of the VCP 100).

I still have my old Head Radical Liquidmetal MP which I really like. But the racket gave me TE unfortunately. And after I got used to more common palets, the grip started to work against me too.

I hope that the BAP will give me the solid feeling and forgiveness of the VCP 100 (the green one) with improved comfort. Also hoping to improve my OHB with the BAP. Since the weight and balance are not that far off compared to the Radical MP, I think it can be winner. The BAP seems to be a great serving racket too (don't really like the VCP100 for serving).

Looking forward to the demo (it's underway)

It's been years since I hit a LM Radical, so I won't even speak to it. As far as your VCP 100 vs. BA Pro? I suspect the feel will be quite different. I'd expect a much firmer, more direct response from the VCP 100. I'd say the BA Pro is solid for what it is, but that depends on your definition and preferences. And the VCP 100 will win for forgiveness I suspect, but I can almost guarantee you'll love hitting your 1hbh with the BA Pro. Overall, whether you prefer the BA Pro over the VCP 100, I have my doubts but am now admittedly curious how it turns out.

 

[JorisE]

Ok, just came back from the court after my first games with the BAP. Serving went well and I loved it when I hit the ball exactly in the sweet spot. But I made more mistakes than usual and lost 6 games in a row.

Then I switched to my other demo: the new VCP 97 (310 gram). Bingo! Felt good from the first hit and I played better tennis immediately. Probably because I'm used to the VCP line but this also is an improvement to my VCP100.

I must say that the strings in the BAP demo didn't help. Can not read the name of the string but they moved a lot and didn't bite the ball. The VCP was brand new with new Poly Tour Rev strings (which I like).

Will give the BAP another chance in a day or two.

 

[JorisE]

Update: the BAP demo came with Babolat Xcel black... Flexy frame + flexy string = trampoline.

That explains why I was hitting long and why I was missing bite and control with this BAP. Really want to try with a good poly.

 

[Niko H.]

Ah yeah I see it. Man the paint job looks great, but I haven't quite enjoyed the kinetic sand stuff. Just got irritated by the sound, even if the feel wasn't that bad

You only hear them when you shake racquet. Not when you are hitting. One of the best looking racquets, in my opinion. Real players racquet. Its a better version of a Wilson Blade.

 

[mhkeuns]

Strung mine with RPM Blast 17G at 45lbs. What a sweet stick. It isn’t just a control racket. It is such a deceptively powerful stick that it is great for exchanging hard ground strokes and ending the point with pin-point cross-court winners. Also, pushing opponents back with heavy topspin shots is as simple as using those 100” tweeners because it is so easy to generate racket head speed. I‘d recommend stringing the BAP with a full bed of poly to get the most out of the racket, Any other set up might make the racket feel disconnected and cause the trampoline effect due to the frame being extremely soft.

 

[Pneumated1]

Strung mine with RPM Blast 17G at 45lbs. What a sweet stick. It isn’t just a control racket. It is such a deceptively powerful stick that it is great for exchanging hard ground strokes and ending the point with pin-point cross-court winners. Also, pushing opponents back with heavy topspin shots is as simple as using those 100” tweeners because it is so easy to generate racket head speed. I‘d recommend stringing the BAP with a full bed of poly to get the most out of the racket, Any other set up might make the racket feel disconnected and cause the trampoline effect due to the frame being extremely soft.

Totally agree. I hit with my fifteen-year-old son mostly, and he's telling me I've never hit a heavier ball. The occasional flier is a compromise I'll take and on me with timing. This frame just carves the ball out wide off either wing, as you say. I agree about the full bed of poly. I'm thinking full bed of Cream next around 48#, but I do wonder how the racquet would respond to full gut or a gut/poly hybrid with the gut in the upper 50s.

 

[curtstead]

Any PK BAP users in here with a OHBH? Thoughts? My demo arrives on Monday, really looking forward to trying this. I'm coming from the RF97, so pretty pumped to try out this stick. I also use Solinco Hyper-G 17, usually strung around 55#. Have been demoing so many freaking rackets over the last couple of months (Vcore, VCP, Pure Strike, Radical Pro, VCell 320 to name just my most recent ones), but this thread is giving me hope.

 

[Pneumated1]

Any PK BAP users in here with a OHBH? Thoughts? My demo arrives on Monday, really looking forward to trying this. I'm coming from the RF97, so pretty pumped to try out this stick. I also use Solinco Hyper-G 17, usually strung around 55#. Have been demoing so many freaking rackets over the last couple of months (Vcore, VCP, Pure Strike, Radical Pro, VCell 320 to name just my most recent ones), but this thread is giving me hope.

I hit a 1hbh. It's my better wing, and this one inspires confidence coming through/over the ball yet hits bullet slices for me. Depending on how big you are off the ground, this one will accommodate Hyper-G at 55#. I have Cyclone Black 1.30/Ghost Wire 1.22 in mine at 53# currently. Interested how the BA Pro compares to the V-Cell 10 320 for you.

 

[MishitWinner]

I'll have to follow this one. Was surprised BA Pro didn't get more love at launch, and sort of got scared off it. I am going to play my first league match of the season in about an hour with my V-Cell 10 320. Descriptions above of BA Pro are surprisingly similar to how I feel about V-Cell, except stiffness.

The same sort of heavy ball, feeling of command, etc is there. But the PB10 Mid is my all-time favorite, and the 10RA difference has led to me sailing a lot of volleys. Don't think I've ever had a racquet that got the ball off the strings so fast, but it still feels plush. I'm the rare young guy with an Eastern forehand/OHBH, and it gives me insane topspin.

What I miss is the solid 'thud' on volleys. Not a good frame for taking pace off, which is usually my match game. Junk balls, slice, serve & volley. If I don't really punch the volley or I take it late, the stiffness+hoop flex makes it a rocket launcher.

 

[mhkeuns]

Any PK BAP users in here with a OHBH? Thoughts? My demo arrives on Monday, really looking forward to trying this. I'm coming from the RF97, so pretty pumped to try out this stick. I also use Solinco Hyper-G 17, usually strung around 55#. Have been demoing so many freaking rackets over the last couple of months (Vcore, VCP, Pure Strike, Radical Pro, VCell 320 to name just my most recent ones), but this thread is giving me hope.

I also have OHBH and the Blade Pro 18x20 was my main stick. The BAP is really a great all-around frame that is actually quite easy to use. I love hitting the cross court topspin backhand with the Black Ace Pro.

 

[Gee]

Totally agree. I hit with my fifteen-year-old son mostly, and he's telling me I've never hit a heavier ball. The occasional flier is a compromise I'll take and on me with timing. This frame just carves the ball out wide off either wing, as you say. I agree about the full bed of poly. I'm thinking full bed of Cream next around 48#, but I do wonder how the racquet would respond to full gut or a gut/poly hybrid with the gut in the upper 50s.

Always tempted to try the BAP myself when I read your posts like this one. How does the BAP compare to the TC95 16m and Wilson UT?

 

[Jimb33]

Always tempted to try the BAP myself when I read your posts like this one. How does the BAP compare to the TC95 16m and Wilson UT?

Anyone shed any light on how it plays compared with the c10 pro?

 

[mhkeuns]

Anyone shed any light on how it plays compared with the c10 pro?

Though C10 Pro is a great stick, I feel that the BAP is more forgiving being lighter, more maneuverable and just as powerful , if not more. The BAP also feels like it pockets the ball more and feels a lot more flexible.

 

[curtstead]

I'll have to follow this one. Was surprised BA Pro didn't get more love at launch, and sort of got scared off it. I am going to play my first league match of the season in about an hour with my V-Cell 10 320. Descriptions above of BA Pro are surprisingly similar to how I feel about V-Cell, except stiffness.

The same sort of heavy ball, feeling of command, etc is there. But the PB10 Mid is my all-time favorite, and the 10RA difference has led to me sailing a lot of volleys. Don't think I've ever had a racquet that got the ball off the strings so fast, but it still feels plush. I'm the rare young guy with an Eastern forehand/OHBH, and it gives me insane topspin.

What I miss is the solid 'thud' on volleys. Not a good frame for taking pace off, which is usually my match game. Junk balls, slice, serve & volley. If I don't really punch the volley or I take it late, the stiffness+hoop flex makes it a rocket launcher.

Hopefully I’ll be able to share insights that you’re looking for, because I’m also young (is 30 still considered young? ), and also hit with an Eastern Forehand and a 1HBH. Pumped to get this demo.

 

[curtstead]

I also have OHBH and the Blade Pro 18x20 was my main stick. The BAP is really a great all-around frame that is actually quite easy to use. I love hitting the cross court topspin backhand with the Black Ace Pro.

As if I needed more excitement.

As a 3.5/4.0 player, my favorite pattern is cross court backhand since so many people at rec level are uncomfortable there. If this is a good stick for that, amazing.

My concern is coming from a stiffer frame like the RF97 to a very flexible one like the BAP. I hit with my friends Wilson Clash for 10 minutes roughly 3+ months ago, and I really didn’t like it, felt like I was swinging a rubber band. Had many more issues with the racket though, wasn’t just flex.

Also only been playing for a little over 2 years, and while I’ve progressed pretty fast, I still have probably no idea what actually suits my game and messing with customization of rackets. Probably get terminology wrong all the time, but regardless, looking forward to trying this.

TLDR, can’t wait to try but scared of the flex here.

 

[Pneumated1]

Always tempted to try the BAP myself when I read your posts like this one. How does the BAP compare to the TC95 16m and Wilson UT?

What is this new racquet in your signature?? The BA Pro is more forgiving than either the TC95 or UT, imo. It reminds me a little of the K7 Lime, but that one was just overly muted and numb whereas the BA Pro is just very flexible but with better 'feel' than the Lime. It's a muted frame, but there's connection there for me, much more than with the Lime. Like the UT, I get the sense that all of the flex is in the throat because the head plays more stable than you'd expect. And when I found out that the twist weight of the BA Pro is 15.1, that makes sense. So, flexy throat with a stable, responsive head, and lots of dwell/pocketing. Personally, I get TC95 power levels with it but feel more in control than with the Angell. I feel like it would be close to your fine line of muted/flexible, so I don't know if you'd like it or not.

 

[Gee]

What is this new racquet in your signature?? The BA Pro is more forgiving than either the TC95 or UT, imo. It reminds me a little of the K7 Lime, but that one was just overly muted and numb whereas the BA Pro is just very flexible but with better 'feel' than the Lime. It's a muted frame, but there's connection there for me, much more than with the Lime. Like the UT, I get the sense that all of the flex is in the throat because the head plays more stable than you'd expect. And when I found out that the twist weight of the BA Pro is 15.1, that makes sense. So, flexy throat with a stable, responsive head, and lots of dwell/pocketing. Personally, I get TC95 power levels with it but feel more in control than with the Angell. I feel like it would be close to your fine line of muted/flexible, so I don't know if you'd like it or not.

The Diadem Elevate FS 98. Yet another great racquet. I think you'll like this one as well. ;-) By the way @galapagos just wrote his review about this one.

That sounds very promising. I always am afraid the Kinetics system will mute the feel too much but if the connection is much better than with the Lime and no lack of power in spite of the low RA then I'am really interested in the BAP. Now I still need to overcome that rattle sound and find one.

 

[Pneumated1]

The Diadem Elevate FS 98. Yet another great racquet. I think you'll like this one as well. ;-) By the way @galapagos just wrote his review about this one.

That sounds very promising. I always am afraid the Kinetics system will mute the feel too much but if the connection is much better than with the Lime and no lack of power in spite of the low RA then I'am really interested in the BAP. Now I still need to overcome that rattle sound and find one.

I honestly don't notice or think about the maraca sound unless I'm joking about it with other players. Others have said it, and I find it true. This one definitely has power and much open string bed than the Lime. Considering it has the same thumpy power of the TC95 (with more dwell and flex), it's more control-oriented overall, so I call that a wash.

 

[MishitWinner]

I honestly don't notice or think about the maraca sound unless I'm joking about it with other players. Others have said it, and I find it true. This one definitely has power and much open string bed than the Lime. Considering it has the same thumpy power of the TC95 (with more dwell and flex), it's more control-oriented overall, so I call that a wash.

Hi P1. I also really like the TC95, but had a V2 320g that had to have been close to 340sw. Best serves and slices I've ever had. But too much for doubles, and I don't like his 16x19 so much. You think the power is similar? What do you think was the RA of your strung TC95? Is the BA Pro more or less open in the mains than K7 Red?

Decided I need to go back to more flexible racquets after my last two matches. The new Prestige seems like a great option, but I don't know how I feel about $260 for a racquet.

 

[AA7]

@Pneumated1 or anyone else (@taylor15 ?)

Apologies if you guys already done this... Could you compare UP (i am guessing you all weighted up to mid to high 320s SW) and BA Pro? Control and stability specially.. I don't care about free power as long as there is access to plow on demand...

Thanks!

 

[ChrisG]

I honestly don't notice or think about the maraca sound unless I'm joking about it with other players. Others have said it, and I find it true. This one definitely has power and much open string bed than the Lime. Considering it has the same thumpy power of the TC95 (with more dwell and flex), it's more control-oriented overall, so I call that a wash.

I really didn’t need to read this haha !
I live the TC95 but a bit more control while retaining the same power could be just perfect

 

[Pneumated1]

Hi P1. I also really like the TC95, but had a V2 320g that had to have been close to 340sw. Best serves and slices I've ever had. But too much for doubles, and I don't like his 16x19 so much. You think the power is similar? What do you think was the RA of your strung TC95? Is the BA Pro more or less open in the mains than K7 Red?

Decided I need to go back to more flexible racquets after my last two matches. The new Prestige seems like a great option, but I don't know how I feel about $260 for a racquet.

Let me be clear. Yes, I think the power levels are similar, but a lot of that depends on your mechanics. You've probably noticed that most of the reviewers of the BA Pro knocked it slightly for lack of power. It's simply not my experience because while I hit with plenty of spin, I don't brush the ball much. I'm more through it, call it 'pressuring' or whatever, and the exaggerated flex/dwell of the PK creates surprising pop on some shots. But overall, the racquet plays more control oriented than the TC95 16x19 and closer to my TC95 18x20, both of which had a uniform flex and a bit less dwell. This PK seems to flex noticeably in the throat (just a guess based on perceptions) while the hoop feels noticeably stable. It's measured at 15.1 twistweight, which is shocking with this flex.

The flex of my TC95 18x20s were listed at 63 RA but felt more like 60-61 to me. And sorry, but I've never seen a K7 Red up close, so I don't know about its spacing, but the PK is somewhat open but evenly spaced with 8 mains in the bridge (if that matters)

@Pneumated1 or anyone else (@taylor15 ?)

Apologies if you guys already done this... Could you compare UP (i am guessing you all weighted up to mid to high 320s SW) and BA Pro? Control and stability specially.. I don't care about free power as long as there is access to plow on demand...

Thanks!

Hey, man! Hope you're well. Comparing the BA Pro to the UP ... haha. The BA Pro comes with the snow plow attached (328-330 sw), while with the UP it's a separate but required purchase (lead). The UP always felt firmer with noticeably less pocketing. In the end, it's probably why I let mine go. It just didn't help out an aging player enough.

I really didn’t need to read this haha !
I live the TC95 but a bit more control while retaining the same power could be just perfect

I have no interest in playing the role of the Pied Piper here. I'm surprised by the power levels of the BA Pro, but many are finding it underpowered, so playing style/mechanics surely explain the differences of opinion. I put the BA Pro and TC95 in similar categories for power and versatility, but for me the biggest and most important difference is just how much more forgiving the BA Pro is. But if Paul made a true TC98 with the layup of the current 95, I'd likely choose it over the BA Pro.

 

[AA7]

Hey, man! Hope you're well. Comparing the BA Pro to the UP ... haha. The BA Pro comes with the snow plow attached (328-330 sw), while with the UP it's a separate but required purchase (lead). The UP always felt firmer with noticeably less pocketing. In the end, it's probably why I let mine go. It just didn't help out an aging player enough.

Hey man! all well thank you sir. Hope all great for you as well!

You had me at snow plow! god damn it...I must give it a shot then.... control good? I was looking at the pictures string pattern is not too open (I think I counted 8 mains in the throat)... I like my launch angles not too high... if it's in the similar category to v7 18m with a bit easier to wield and easier access to top spin and not real compromise on control then I am game!

 

[MishitWinner]

Let me be clear. Yes, I think the power levels are similar, but a lot of that depends on your mechanics. You've probably noticed that most of the reviewers of the BA Pro knocked it slightly for lack of power. It's simply not my experience because while I hit with plenty of spin, I don't brush the ball much. I'm more through it, call it 'pressuring' or whatever, and the exaggerated flex/dwell of the PK creates surprising pop on some shots. But overall, the racquet plays more control oriented than the TC95 16x19 and closer to my TC95 18x20, both of which had a uniform flex and a bit less dwell. This PK seems to flex noticeably in the throat (just a guess based on perceptions) while the hoop feels noticeably stable. It's measured at 15.1 twistweight, which is shocking with this flex.

The flex of my TC95 18x20s were listed at 63 RA but felt more like 60-61 to me. And sorry, but I've never seen a K7 Red up close, so I don't know about its spacing, but the PK is somewhat open but evenly spaced with 8 mains in the bridge (if that matters)



Hey, man! Hope you're well. Comparing the BA Pro to the UP ... haha. The BA Pro comes with the snow plow attached (328-330 sw), while with the UP it's a separate but required purchase (lead). The UP always felt firmer with noticeably less pocketing. In the end, it's probably why I let mine go. It just didn't help out an aging player enough.



I have no interest in playing the role of the Pied Piper here. I'm surprised by the power levels of the BA Pro, but many are finding it underpowered, so playing style/mechanics surely explain the differences of opinion. I put the BA Pro and TC95 in similar categories for power and versatility, but for me the biggest and most important difference is just how much more forgiving the BA Pro is. But if Paul made a true TC98 with the layup of the current 95, I'd likely choose it over the BA Pro.

Thanks for the response. I hit a lot harder in general with small headsize, especially the TC95. Got my serve over 100mph for the first time with that one.

There's just this confidence at groundstroke contact I get with a ~95" that large heads don't have. Maybe it's just swingweight. The exception being the TT 100p, but every 2019 Textreme racquet I've tried gave me shoulder pain. No idea why since no other racquet does that regardless of stiffness, weight, etc, and it is immediate the first time I serve.

I really wish Angell would do an 18x20 TC100. That racquet was a dream to hit with, but if I just sort of threw it in front of a heavy ball to redirect flat (like I would with TT 100p), it could either be a "wow" shot or just fly despite feeling exactly the same.

Anyway, think I'll pick up a BA Pro once I sell a few of the ones I have in my closet. I always convince myself I need a 100" racquet to keep up, enjoy benefits, realize my bread and butter shots aren't as good, rinse & repeat. So a flexy racquet with stability of Textreme line and higher than average power seems like the jam.

 

[MishitWinner]

I mean, the BA Pro has higher power ratings than most racquets in the sweet spot. I've always wondered about TWU and PK racquets though. A lot of their tests are done on stationary racquets. It's been scientifically shown that Kinetic tech benefits power, but that assumes a racquet moving forward to contact.

On the other hand, if the Kinetic tech is having an effect in tests, maybe that explains how a flexy, thin-beam, small head racquet can have such a high twistweight.

 

[Pneumated1]

Thanks for the response. I hit a lot harder in general with small headsize, especially the TC95. Got my serve over 100mph for the first time with that one.

There's just this confidence at groundstroke contact I get with a ~95" that large heads don't have. Maybe it's just swingweight. The exception being the TT 100p, but every 2019 Textreme racquet I've tried gave me shoulder pain. No idea why since no other racquet does that regardless of stiffness, weight, etc, and it is immediate the first time I serve.

I really wish Angell would do an 18x20 TC100. That racquet was a dream to hit with, but if I just sort of threw it in front of a heavy ball to redirect flat (like I would with TT 100p), it could either be a "wow" shot or just fly despite feeling exactly the same.

Anyway, think I'll pick up a BA Pro once I sell a few of the ones I have in my closet. I always convince myself I need a 100" racquet to keep up, enjoy benefits, realize my bread and butter shots aren't as good, rinse & repeat. So a flexy racquet with stability of Textreme line and higher than average power seems like the jam.

Someone actually measured the TC95, maybe it was Paul himself, at 95.4 sq. inches. The BA Pro is 97, but it feels a lot more forgiving than 1.6 sq. inches.