Review of BLX 90 Tour

[Number1BallBoy]

I will be comparing this to the Prestige Mid that I demoed. Both rackets were strung with multis. The Prestige Mid has NXT and the BLX KGut.

First impression, the paint job is actually not that bad in person. The overall design looks somewhat fugly but the quality of the paint job (matte) is quite nice. When I swung the racket, it swung far easier than I predicted. I expected quite some weight but it felt like a knife. For 12.5 oz, it swung very easily. The Prestige also swung nicely but at weight of 11.9 ish, it felt the just as nice as the BLX. When you tap on the hoop of the frame, the BLX is quite dense compared to the Prestige.



BLX - The groundies were solid but quite plush with a dab of mush in it. The sweet spot was quite large for a 90 and especially compared to YPM. THE YTPM was quite stiff when hit off center but not like the BLX. BLX had great accuracy and control when taking full cuts at the ball, better than the YTPM. You will get what you put in to this racket. I finally understand why pros just do not like all the gimmicks rackets nowadays have to offer. A simple stick, a consistent and predictable stick is all that is needed. I hit with a grip in between a semi-western and western. Spin production is quite nice if you swing through the ball. The YTPM spin production was just as good only if you hit it right. But I felt like the best part of this racket is playing defense. For a thin beam and small head sized racket, it can definitely go against big hitters. You won't get pushed around with this racket. The YTPM stock was getting pushed around when trying to defend. With some lead, it could be of better use. I feel the denseness of the BLX attributed to the ease of playing defense as the YTPM is not dense but stiff. The backhand for both rackets were similar but the BLX was better in defending heavy balls. I use a 1HBH and it is great to hit angles and you can just whip across the ball. Slices were great as well. Low with lots of spin. Both sticks were quite good at serving but not a blasting serve type stick. Great spin and excellent placement. Both sticks volleys were crisp but you have to keep your eyes on the ball. Overall, I was impressed with the BLX's directional control and accuracy as well as its ability to withstand heavy hitting. Don't be scared of the 90 in frame as after about 15 mins you will adjust to it. As for the YTPM, you will have to lead it up to make it feel solid. I think after that, it will be of personal preference between the BLX and the YTPM as they will be of similar caliber.

 

[Mick]

First impression, the paint job is actually not that bad in person. The overall design looks somewhat fugly but the quality of the paint job (matte) is quite nice.

i just got one from tw and i think the pj looks great -- much better than the pictures posted on the web

 

[callmethedoctor]

^good, I've been defending the BLX's paintjob for weeks now, lol

 

[michaelscoots]

BLX Paint

I demoed the BLX 90 a couple weeks back and i think the paint job is sick! They did an incredible job at updating the paint. And this coming from someone who likes classic / vintage things. It looks very contemporary and makes my K6.1 look dated. I also like that the paint job combines many of the colors used in the last few iterations of this stick. The Swiss flag right near Roger's signature is a nice touch too!

As for hitting, I felt the BLX 90 to be have a muted feel to it when compared to the K6.1. And it also felt a little easier to swing (it's a little more head light so it's a bit more maneuverable which is a nice bonus at the net). If I could have my choice I'd stick with the K6.1 b/c I like the feedback. However, my forearm tires after rallying hard for 2 hours with the K6.1. So my arm chooses the BLX 90. I actually had to take a break from the K6.1 and I ended up playing with the Kblade Tour (93). But, I've found that if I wrap my forearm (I use a velcro wrap that's meant/used to prevent tennis elbow), I don't experience the arm pain with the K6.1 and I just play better with it. So I ordered the BLX b/c I feel that long term (I'm not young anymore) it's a better choice. I thought I'd treat myself to some Babolat VS Gut (16g) as the first string job (with a few string savers in the sweet spot so they last me). Then I'll have a nice benchmark by which I can compare all others. If my arm can handle it, I'll probably try out Lux. ALU Rough in the crosses with Lux BB Original in the mains as the 2nd string job. I think the BLX 90 is muted enough that this shouldn't pose a problem. I didn't like the strings that came on the demo - Wilson Hollow Core Pro 17g. They were good at first then after the 3rd day they lost serious tension and were unpredictable. I should have my BLX Wednesday. I'll write back with my findings when paired up with VS Gut

 

[samster]

As for hitting, I felt the BLX 90 to be have a muted feel to it when compared to the K6.1. And it also felt a little easier to swing (it's a little more head light so it's a bit more maneuverable which is a nice bonus at the net). If I could have my choice I'd stick with the K6.1 b/c I like the feedback. However, my forearm tires after rallying hard for 2 hours with the K6.1. So my arm chooses the BLX 90. I actually had to take a break from the K6.1 and I ended up playing with the Kblade Tour (93). But, I've found that if I wrap my forearm (I use a velcro wrap that's meant/used to prevent tennis elbow), I don't experience the arm pain with the K6.1 and I just play better with it. So I ordered the BLX b/c I feel that long term (I'm not young anymore) it's a better choice.

I used K90s for about 18 months and what you wrote here were my exact feelings as well after hitting with the BLX 90. I found the BLX 90 slightly softer feel, a little more maneuverable, and a little bit easier to swing compared to the K90. The BLX 90 is still a demanding frame but just a tad more forgiving. I think the K90 hits a heavier and more damaging ball still.

 

[claub]

Very informative review. Thanks.

 

[jpasquito]

Good review. I agree with the assessment. Long term, this racquet is better for your arm with a near insignificant loss in the weight of shot.

 

[morten]

hm.... i may have to try it... But will it replace my ps85... doubt it, K90 was not even close..

 

[michaelscoots]

I used K90s for about 18 months and what you wrote here were my exact feelings as well after hitting with the BLX 90. I found the BLX 90 slightly softer feel, a little more maneuverable, and a little bit easier to swing compared to the K90. The BLX 90 is still a demanding frame but just a tad more forgiving. I think the K90 hits a heavier and more damaging ball still.

Agreed, I noticed it mostly on my one handed bkhand...seems I had a split second longer to prepare with the blx. Play with it for a full hitting session and you forget it's muted...coming from the k90 it takes very little time to adjust.

How do you like the Volkl 10 mid? I demo'd that stick when I demo'd the blx90. It felt very easy to hit any shot. Coming from a k90 though it felt just a tad too flexy to me. But I didn't spend too much time with it. Where do you see it's strenghts and weaknesses? I'm curious.

Thanks,
Michael

 

[samster]

Agreed, I noticed it mostly on my one handed bkhand...seems I had a split second longer to prepare with the blx. Play with it for a full hitting session and you forget it's muted...coming from the k90 it takes very little time to adjust.

How do you like the Volkl 10 mid? I demo'd that stick when I demo'd the blx90. It felt very easy to hit any shot. Coming from a k90 though it felt just a tad too flexy to me. But I didn't spend too much time with it. Where do you see it's strenghts and weaknesses? I'm curious.

Thanks,
Michael

Hi Michael, below is my review comparing BLX 90 to my regular stick, PB 10 Mid.

I got a chance to hit with the BLX 90 for 90 minutes today. Started off rallying with 2 other players for 30 minutes then took a 1 hr. lesson with my coach.

First Impression (BLX 90):

Nice cosmetics, like others have mentioned, looks better in person than the pictures on TW. I immediately felt the heft of the frame, as my regular frame (PB 10 Mid) weighs 16 grams less.

Groundstrokes:

Compared to the PB 10 Mid, I would say that the K90/B90 hits a heavier ball provided that the user has the time/footwork to setup the shot. However, I had a harder time with the K90/B90 when I try to impart more wrist into the ball (ie. hitting late or out of position shots). I find the PB 10 Mid is just more user friendly for me and allows me to have more variety with my groundstrokes. This may simply be that the K90/B90's weight is a little too much for this player.

Volleys:

Backhand volleys were a dream with the BLX 90. Just get the racket in front and the frame does the rest. Directional control is excellent. Forehand volleys were a little tougher for me as the frame is not as maneuverable as my Volkl. Again, if the user is prepared and has decent volley technique, the BLX90 will not let you down. This is an excellent volleying frame, just like the PB 10 Mid.

Overhead:

Here the PB 10 Mid takes the cake in my playtest. Getting the frame into position to hit the overhead is just so much easier for me compared to the Wilsons due to the less weight. While carrying 16 grams less fat, I mean weight, the PB 10 Mid is a very stable frame. I still have not figured out how Volkl did this.

The BLX 90, again, was maneuverable enough allowing me to hit effective overheads. However, my arm was getting more tired as the playtest continues.

Serves:

My serves are a little heavier with the BLX 90 but I had trouble sustaining the delivery over time as my arm seems to tire out with the BLX 90. Control and placement are excellent with Wilson and Volkl. On the other hand, my hitting partner noted that serving with the PB 10 Mid came very natural whereas I tend to try to muscle the ball more with the Wilson. I don't feel my arm tiring out as easy with the Volkl.

Summary of the BLX 90:

In summary, I feel the BLX 90 is slightly easier to use compared to the K90. It also provides better shock/vibration dampening. I think the BLX 90, like the K90, is a dangerous weapon in the right hands. For me, I would have to use it for a solid month or so before getting used to the weight and not fatigue out after 90 minutes.

On the other hand, I can hit several hours with the PB 10 Mid before my arm and shoulder get tired. At this point, I believe the PB 10 Mid is a better fit for my game. I do enjoy the BLX 90 but I think the user will need to play tennis several times a week to develop a consistent game with the BLX 90.

 

[michaelscoots]

Hi Michael, below is my review comparing BLX 90 to my regular stick, PB 10 Mid.

Thanks for sharing you perspective. I do recall that on serve I couldn't get it going with the Volkl, but I only served about 6 or 8 balls.

Also, I occasionally rally with a player who hits a super hard/fast forehand (like Andy Roddick serve speed fast). The Volkl with me "at the wheel" was twisting on impact, and I never get this with the K6.1 (never feel torsion on solid or even just off sweet spot hits). But, again, I didn't play too long with the Volkl. I will say that on regular/fast shots it hung in there nicely and I was able to hit a very fast but low paced ground stroke in return. It was also extremely comfortable as you noted. I wouldn't mind trying it again with my regular strings. But right now I'm back in the zone with my K6.1 and I'm looking to run the BLX90 through the paces later this week

 

[LafayetteHitter]

I just received my 2nd one today. Stringing it tonight. The first one came with Hollow Core in it so I played with it for a few days until I felt like stringing it today. The Hollow Core string had a bit of a tinny feel to it so i'm hoping getting away from this hollow core trash will help. I've never used Hollow Core but from what i've read I did not expect much. I actually feel the racquet could use a tad more plow through so I may add 6grams in the handle and 3 grams and 3 and 9. Has anyone customized yet?

 

[aimr75]

I actually feel the racquet could use a tad more plow through so I may add 6grams in the handle and 3 grams and 3 and 9. Has anyone customized yet?

Its a bit surprising to me for people to say a racquet like the blx90 needs more plow through.. and that they need lead added to this frame..

 

[LafayetteHitter]

Its a bit surprising to me for people to say a racquet like the blx90 needs more plow through.. and that they need lead added to this frame..

Well I am coming from the Speed Pro which has a bit higher swingweight and imo more plow than the BLX90. The BLX 90 swings quite a bit lighter.

 

[michaelscoots]

Hey gang,

I just wanted to write back with an update. I had demo'd the BLX90 with Wilson Hollow Core Pro 17g string and I wasn't wild about the string. At the time, I felt my K6.1 played better, however, it was still harder on my arm. I did feel the BLX was a little easier to maneuver, esp on my 1HBH and volleys. And of course, was much easier on my arm and overall energy level.

Well, I now own the BLX90 and had it strung with Babolat VS Gut 16g. I figured this would be a good benchmark / starting place to test the frame with and then compare other strings against it. I gave it a good workout this past Friday, and all I can say is "WOW"! This is the frame I've been searching for all along. And with the gut strings you can really hit any shot. I was most blown away by very low approach touch shots - I had so much feel and placement with this frame combined with gut. I had my K6.1 on hand and this time around the BLX90 was the better playing stick which had more control. And again, I really could tell a big difference on my 1HBH. I felt that I could get prepared that much earlier and when swinging through the ball I felt that I didn't have to work as hard (perhaps b/c of the lower swing weight and perhaps the fact that it's a tad bit less stiff than the K6.1). Either way, it feels lighter in hand then the K6.1.

My hitting partner and I got into some great rallies. And I felt like it was the best I had played in a while. At one point when we met at the net he said "this is amazing" to me. And this only reaffirmed the connection I was feeling with this racquet. I then had him try the BLX90 (he uses the old AeroPro cortex and loves the K6.1 but it's too hard on his arm). He was hitting really well and consistent, and I noticed his ball was landing and jumping (not high, just faster as it hit) and this wasn't the case with his other stick. He then tried the K6.1 and wasn't as consistent...it was too much for him.

I really think this is a great stick for those who love the feel of the K6.1 but who may have experienced arm pain and/or felt that it was too heavy. Like with the K6.1, you obviously need proper preparation and technique. I can honestly say, this is it for me!

 

[sunnyIce]

New BLX90 in the house!

Yeah just got mine from tw this weekend. Looks pretty nice. I can vouch for the fact that its not as awful as it seemed on photos. At the same time though, it looks nice in person but nothing too great. The gold decals are amazing but the candy stick coloring is very weird.

It came in at 11.9 oz, 307 SW, 12.25 HL. Added a tournagrip to the leather and just finished stringing with BAM.

Looks to be swinging nice so far. Yet to play with it. Was hoping to do so tonight, did not happen. Hopefully within the next couple of days.

The cosmetic finish is ok. there appears to be a few air bubles 'caught' under the paint, couple of pinholes in the paint along the grommet area, and one very small paint chip with a pinhole underneath. Not biggies and was told this shouldnt affect the performance, so we shall see.

 

[MrFlip]

First thing I loved about this racquet was its manueverability compared to the K90. When I was playing more often I had no problem with the K90 mind you. But now that im starting to play more I miss the feel of the K90 on a really really solid shot; basically the plowthrough isnt there in the BLX90 as it is in the K90. Overall I'd take the BLX90 though purely because I can generate more of everything on my shots due to the swingweight being recuded.

 

[jpasquito]

Plowthrough felt pretty much the same for me. A tiny tiny bit flexier and softer at contact but, the racquet definitely produced the same solid shots I've come to know with my K90. I would say that the racquet was simply a touch more comfortable overall than the K90. It probably added some years to my tennis life in terms of joint damage.

 

[Jaewonnie]

Never mind

 

[sunnyIce]

not hit with it yet. darn it!

any more quick reviews from you guys?

 

[sunnyIce]

SW is more manageable it seemed like with the BLX compared to my k90s. it still pretty much plays like the k90. not really that diff. maybe just a tad bit softer, but still has enough crispness for me.
i agree to previous observations that it does seem less polarized. one weird thing i noticed was i hit some odd shots with it. i was late and hit near the throat and of course the ball rocketed off. felt like i started swinging and the racq took half a second to cath up. my brain was all confused lol.

groundstrokes were really nice actually. i had a lot more control compared to my previous hits with k90. but my K90 is weighted up more, so its harder to consistently harder to maintain form there. blx90 was easier, probably becuase of slightly less weight and SW. but both bh and fh are good. slices were good. pretty happy there. didnt serve. hit a few that looked ok. not enough weight.
most disappointed at this point with the volleys. did not do well there. i may need some gms at 3/9, but i dont want to increase weight. maybe a diff string setup will help. but i did not really like how it performed at the net too much. also the 3/8 grip may have been a factor. or the tournagrip. kept spinning a bit in my hands.

 

[sunnyIce]

oh and its definitely lower powered compared to the k90.