@@@@@The OFFICIAL Prince EXO3 Tour 100 Club@@@@@

[TheOneHander]

Even if I switch away from this frame I'll still be keeping one around. While I enjoy dabbling with other frames with higher power levels that produce equal amounts of (ridiculous) spin, I just can't use them because the Tour is so unique in comfort and feel. If I could, I'd jump ship to my PDRGT+ in a heartbeat, as the spin and power are off the charts. That being said, though, the Tour does everything (except for pure power) equally well or better and has the added benefit of its soft feel.

If I had to give you all a short version, I'd say that while I enjoy the extra pop of stiffer frames, the Tour just has that feel and arm-friendliness that I can't get rid of-and I don't think that's really a problem.

Hi All,

Last week I decided to go with the Tour Bite (@53) as many posters said it felt great on this frame.. and I must admit they are right.

The frame felt comfortable, great combination of power and spin. Felt very good from all areas of the court.

While I'm not going to comment on lead, as I prefer this stick stock, isn't TB great? I tried it at the same tension and it was phenomenal. Spin, just the right amount of give, (I don't get why this string is considered stiff-I remembered it being firm, but not outright stiff), and pretty good tension maintenence. I would have stuck with it if it didn't take an hour to break in. Have you had any similar experiences, by any chance?

 

[drak]

Not me! I'm in my 10th month with this frame and still loving it. I've moved off my original set up to natural gut/poly crosses and higher tension for the gut. The frame just begs you to knock the hell out of the ball.

I've been playing a bunch more, played last night indoors with the 5.0 boys. My "regular" 5.0 partner is an ex-D1 player who uses a Dunlop Biometric 300, all 10.9 ounces of it and I am loving my EXO3 Tour 100 Team, all 11.0 ounces

The EXO3 Tour Team, surprisingly, is a perfect replacement for a frame like the C10.

Rabbit, what tension are you stringing the gut mains and Poly cross?

Drak

 

[Rabbit]

Rabbit, what tension are you stringing the gut mains and Poly cross?

Drak

It's in my sig....58 mains (16L) / 55 crosses (18)

 

[Ross K]

I finally had a chance to hit with the 16 x 18 version of this frame with Prince Premier mains and Prince EXP crosses. Definitely a unique feel to this frame that is nothing like anything else I've picked up. The stock version is too light for me so I can understand why everyone talks about adding lead to the frame. It feels flexible but did not feel like it bent as much in the head as the C10 Pro. Overall, I don't think it is for me but I can understand why it has a huge following since it is so unique.

100 per cent agree with this. However, due to long-running issues with put away power/serve pop; because for I prefer other frames for more all court aspects (though not so much my game) and solidness; because I was just getting too frustrated consistently narrowly losing against players I'd normally narrowly beat with other frames; and because, well, I'm a hopeless racketaholic , I'm afraid my name can be removed from the membership as I have finally conceded defeat and have called it a day here.

 

[Rabbit]

100 per cent agree with this. However, due to long-running issues with put away power/serve pop; because for I prefer other frames for more all court aspects (though not so much my game) and solidness; because I was just getting too frustrated consistently narrowly losing against players I'd normally narrowly beat with other frames; and because, well, I'm a hopeless racketaholic , I'm afraid my name can be removed from the membership as I have finally conceded defeat and have called it a day here.

That's why they make more than one!

My power/serving issues were solved by two things. I tweaked my service motion a bit to 'encourage' swinging harder again and I switched to gut mains.

 

[mxmx]

Hi all

Be blessed...hope you had a great Christmas and new year.

Ok...so at last i have been playing rather extensively with my two exo3 tour 100 rackets. I put in babolat pro hurricane tour strings at 55lbs. On one of the rackets, i have placed 6g lead total at 3 & 9...as well as 3g total at bottom of handle under grip to counterbalance a tad. The other racket i have kept stock.

Here is my general review and rating:

First impressions:
The racket had a little more power than i expected at first. I could immediately play with the racket and had no problem adjusting to the feel, balance or anything else. I think this racket suits me well.

The first serve: As expected, this is the department where this racket really lacks for me when it comes to power on either setups. With the lead setup, one has to almost have different technique to generate pace, as one would with the stock setup. I struggled so much with generating my own power with good technique, that i struggled clearing the net with the flat power serves. As soon as i went for more of a "Federer" type serve, the racket adjusted better. Direction is good, but power on flat serves is NOT what this racket is about. The racket serves better for doubles and it struggles with singles. score: 6

The second serve: This is the best shot of my game. I have no problems with this racket generating good second serves. The lead setup had more plough through, but i had more control and head speed on the stock racket. Accuracy good. score: 8.5

Forehand: Great control. Great feel. Moderate power which is okay. My forehand is my second best stroke, so i didn't need any time to adjust. I can play a good forehand with most rackets, so there wasn't much this racket could benefite above others. Nor dit it do itself any harm either. score: 7.5

Backhand:
Slice: Plays fine/good, hard to control at times (floats), but not as much as i struggled with the speedport black. Slice not as good as the kblade 98 though.
Double backhand: My main backhand: I hardly ever play this shot and will need to test this more. It seemed fine and errors on this stroke will probably be because of my own technique rather than the racket.
Single backhand: Ideal single backhand racket in my opinion.
score: 7

Return of serves:
Returns well...absorbs hard serves well. Great racket head speed so one has a easier time timing the ball.
score: 8

Volleys:
This part impresses me most with this racket. Racket is fast...has enough control for me...much more than expected. Thought people would hit through me. Even my worst shot, the high backand volley has drastically improved.
score: 8.5

Other:
Drop shots: are great, better than even the k-blade.
Lobs: are fine from what ive seen.
Overheads: Best overhead hitting racket ive ever had. Improved my overheads by 20% at least.
score: 8.5

Conclusion:
Great overall racket. Have no problems with this racket, except for the first power flat serve. It really is the only real problem i have with this racket. It has however forced my hand into other techniques and other type of serves to consider. I certainly have variation with this racket, except for real power. Lead does however not seem to be the solution for me on this racket. All the hype about lead does not weigh up to what the lead actually does. The lead made the racket have a funny feel i sometimes dislike. Whilst one may gain a "little more power", it is not enough to really take note of, especially compared to what one actually loses when adding lead. The racket feels much heavier with even small amount of lead i placed, but it does not justify itsself to be there in order to gain power - yet. I am still deciding on the lead and still giving it a try. I will however not be open to adding even more lead, as even the smaller amount has significantly altered the manueverability of this frame for me...much of it being the most important thing for me of this frame, so even more lead, will equal more discomfort. My arm also seems to tired much faster with the lead than without. I expected this frame to be more unstable, but the vibration or so called instability is something i started to like...one can feel the flex of the frame and it kind of gives one guidance of what you are actually doing when striking the ball.

More control than the speedport black, but less power.
Very similar to the kblade for me, except that its much more forgiving and thus overall better. Basically what i was looking for...except for the first serve which i wish was like the speedport black. Guess you can't win em all...

 

[drak]

Hi all

Be blessed...hope you had a great Christmas and new year.

Ok...so at last i have been playing rather extensively with my two exo3 tour 100 rackets. I put in babolat pro hurricane tour strings at 55lbs. On one of the rackets, i have placed 6g lead total at 3 & 9...as well as 3g total at bottom of handle under grip to counterbalance a tad. The other racket i have kept stock.

Here is my general review and rating:

First impressions:
The racket had a little more power than i expected at first. I could immediately play with the racket and had no problem adjusting to the feel, balance or anything else. I think this racket suits me well.

The first serve: As expected, this is the department where this racket really lacks for me when it comes to power on either setups. With the lead setup, one has to almost have different technique to generate pace, as one would with the stock setup. I struggled so much with generating my own power with good technique, that i struggled clearing the net with the flat power serves. As soon as i went for more of a "Federer" type serve, the racket adjusted better. Direction is good, but power on flat serves is NOT what this racket is about. The racket serves better for doubles and it struggles with singles. score: 6

The second serve: This is the best shot of my game. I have no problems with this racket generating good second serves. The lead setup had more plough through, but i had more control and head speed on the stock racket. Accuracy good. score: 8.5

Forehand: Great control. Great feel. Moderate power which is okay. My forehand is my second best stroke, so i didn't need any time to adjust. I can play a good forehand with most rackets, so there wasn't much this racket could benefite above others. Nor dit it do itself any harm either. score: 7.5

Backhand:
Slice: Plays fine/good, hard to control at times (floats), but not as much as i struggled with the speedport black. Slice not as good as the kblade 98 though.
Double backhand: My main backhand: I hardly ever play this shot and will need to test this more. It seemed fine and errors on this stroke will probably be because of my own technique rather than the racket.
Single backhand: Ideal single backhand racket in my opinion.
score: 7

Return of serves:
Returns well...absorbs hard serves well. Great racket head speed so one has a easier time timing the ball.
score: 8

Volleys:
This part impresses me most with this racket. Racket is fast...has enough control for me...much more than expected. Thought people would hit through me. Even my worst shot, the high backand volley has drastically improved.
score: 8.5

Other:
Drop shots: are great, better than even the k-blade.
Lobs: are fine from what ive seen.
Overheads: Best overhead hitting racket ive ever had. Improved my overheads by 20% at least.
score: 8.5

Conclusion:
Great overall racket. Have no problems with this racket, except for the first power flat serve. It really is the only real problem i have with this racket. It has however forced my hand into other techniques and other type of serves to consider. I certainly have variation with this racket, except for real power. Lead does however not seem to be the solution for me on this racket. All the hype about lead does not weigh up to what the lead actually does. The lead made the racket have a funny feel i sometimes dislike. Whilst one may gain a "little more power", it is not enough to really take note of, especially compared to what one actually loses when adding lead. The racket feels much heavier with even small amount of lead i placed, but it does not justify itsself to be there in order to gain power - yet. I am still deciding on the lead and still giving it a try. I will however not be open to adding even more lead, as even the smaller amount has significantly altered the manueverability of this frame for me...much of it being the most important thing for me of this frame, so even more lead, will equal more discomfort. My arm also seems to tired much faster with the lead than without. I expected this frame to be more unstable, but the vibration or so called instability is something i started to like...one can feel the flex of the frame and it kind of gives one guidance of what you are actually doing when striking the ball.

More control than the speedport black, but less power.
Very similar to the kblade for me, except that its much more forgiving and thus overall better. Basically what i was looking for...except for the first serve which i wish was like the speedport black. Guess you can't win em all...

Perhaps you should try the "Rabbit gut/hybrid" for serves. I am going to string mine up in a few minutes with this combo and play this afternoon, I will report back on how it works, I agree that serving well (pace) with this frame is difficult so far.

Strung with Pac classic tourny Pro Gut 16 mains at 58lbs, crosses WC Scorpion at 56 (16 gauge -1.28)

Drak

 

[drak]

Perhaps you should try the "Rabbit gut/hybrid" for serves. I am going to string mine up in a few minutes with this combo and play this afternoon, I will report back on how it works, I agree that serving well (pace) with this frame is difficult so far.

Strung with Pac classic tourny Pro Gut 16 mains at 58lbs, crosses WC Scorpion at 56 (16 gauge -1.28)

Drak

Okay, have to say the gut mains/Poly cross hybrid added significant first serve pace. I did shorten my motion a bit and focused on racket speed, served well. I now need to give this racket a few weeks to see if I can adjust and like it overall. I'm just coming back from injury so I will give things time.

 

[mxmx]

Okay, have to say the gut mains/Poly cross hybrid added significant first serve pace. I did shorten my motion a bit and focused on racket speed, served well. I now need to give this racket a few weeks to see if I can adjust and like it overall. I'm just coming back from injury so I will give things time.

Thanks for the feedback. String options will be more limited for me than for some, due to costs, as well as actual availability. Are you speaking of natural gut, or synthetic gut?

I am thinking that the problem may be 20% technique and 80% toward the racket itsself. When i serve with good technique, the serve is not what i need. Only when i serve with excellent technique and timing, one or two serves would really fly with no effort. These serves are too few and far between for me and its hard maintaining that level of timing throughout. With the speedport black, it was much easier just swinging and getting pace, even with just good technique. Opponents would struggle with "just good technique" serves. With excellent technique, the serves was unstoppable with that racket. With the exo3, good technique is not good enough on the flat serve....it has to be excellent timed before it works.

On the other hand:
With the Federer type serve as well as the kick serve, this racket really shines.
I have developed so many variations of serves recently, that it is becoming confusing when to use them. The only variation i struggle with, is the flat serve. But as for kick 2nd serves (or 1st), i can serve in all directions using a backhand grip. For the Federer type 1st serves, i can also serve in all directions with great success using the continental grip. For the slice serve, which i need to perfect still, i am better on the deuce side serving up the t, or wide to the forehand.

I guess due to my height, i have to resort to adding spin no matter what to clear the net. Maybe with the speedport black i didn't notice the spin as much due to the extra pace that racket created, thus not truly being flat - but i don't think this was the case.

 

[drak]

Thanks for the feedback. String options will be more limited for me than for some, due to costs, as well as actual availability. Are you speaking of natural gut, or synthetic gut?

I am thinking that the problem may be 20% technique and 80% toward the racket itsself. When i serve with good technique, the serve is not what i need. Only when i serve with excellent technique and timing, one or two serves would really fly with no effort. These serves are too few and far between for me and its hard maintaining that level of timing throughout. With the speedport black, it was much easier just swinging and getting pace, even with just good technique. Opponents would struggle with "just good technique" serves. With excellent technique, the serves was unstoppable with that racket. With the exo3, good technique is not good enough on the flat serve....it has to be excellent timed before it works.

On the other hand:
With the Federer type serve as well as the kick serve, this racket really shines.
I have developed so many variations of serves recently, that it is becoming confusing when to use them. The only variation i struggle with, is the flat serve. But as for kick 2nd serves (or 1st), i can serve in all directions using a backhand grip. For the Federer type 1st serves, i can also serve in all directions with great success using the continental grip. For the slice serve, which i need to perfect still, i am better on the deuce side serving up the t, or wide to the forehand.

I guess due to my height, i have to resort to adding spin no matter what to clear the net. Maybe with the speedport black i didn't notice the spin as much due to the extra pace that racket created, thus not truly being flat - but i don't think this was the case.

Natural Gut as in Pacific Classic for the main strings.

Drak

 

[mxmx]

Natural Gut as in Pacific Classic for the main strings.

Drak

Hmmm...natural gut lasts me one day...My experience of it is that its the least durable string out there, as well as the most expensive...

 

[Rabbit]

I guess due to my height, i have to resort to adding spin no matter what to clear the net.

I'm 5'7" and don't have to do that! People of average height can serve big, it just takes practice. Don't give up!

Natural Gut as in Pacific Classic for the main strings.

Drak

Yes, my current "Go To" is Classic although I am testing other Pacific gut grades at present. I find Classic to be more than adequate though.

Okay, have to say the gut mains/Poly cross hybrid added significant first serve pace. I did shorten my motion a bit and focused on racket speed, served well. I now need to give this racket a few weeks to see if I can adjust and like it overall. I'm just coming back from injury so I will give things time.

I guess I should expound on my "tweak". With the C10 I had gotten into a habit of both arms being a little too close in motion. In other words, I didn't give myself enough of a lapse between my tossing arm and swinging arm to generate enough racquet head speed to really hit the ball. In my view, this was a consequence of two things, 1) the weight of the C10 doing enough of the work for me that I didn't have to, and 2) just a bad habit crept in.

After recognizing this, I've made a conscious effort to, without a hitch, stagger my arms a little, put my toss a little higher, to allow greater racquet head speed. The results have been more than favorable.

 

[TheOneHander]

mxmx, I want to add that you've got a crapton of lead on your racquet. 9g is a lot of lead to start with, and not a little amount at all. Try a similar configuration with 3g or less, and see if the subtle differences make serving easier for you. Your starting point for lead was much too high.

 

[mxmx]

I'm 5'7" and don't have to do that! People of average height can serve big, it just takes practice. Don't give up!



Yes, my current "Go To" is Classic although I am testing other Pacific gut grades at present. I find Classic to be more than adequate though.

I will rather go to lower tensions, than switch to hybrid/gut to create some power....as i need to consider costs and i don't own a stringing machine. I am currently full poly at 55...sometimes it is as if i play better as my strings lose tention and has formed their grooves.

I guess I should expound on my "tweak". With the C10 I had gotten into a habit of both arms being a little too close in motion. In other words, I didn't give myself enough of a lapse between my tossing arm and swinging arm to generate enough racquet head speed to really hit the ball. In my view, this was a consequence of two things, 1) the weight of the C10 doing enough of the work for me that I didn't have to, and 2) just a bad habit crept in.

After recognizing this, I've made a conscious effort to, without a hitch, stagger my arms a little, put my toss a little higher, to allow greater racquet head speed. The results have been more than favorable.

Whichever route i take, i will need to keep my 2nd serve and 1st serve tossups as close as possible, as i mix my serves up so that my opponents don't know what to expect. Sometimes i use a high powered kick for the 1st when they expected a flat and so forth. I extensively camouflage my tossups between 1st and 2nd as much as i can.

On another note, speaking of serve technique....I am considering changing my service motion at the feet, but will first have to do research weather it would be recommended.

Currently:
my feet are almost shoulder width when i serve > weight from back foot, to forward foot > jumping predominantly from front foot > landing on front foot (left foot).

I am considering chaning it to:
Feet shoulder width or slightly narrower > back foot move toward front foot whilst in motion > jumping with both feet > landing on front foot.

The reason im considering this change, is that it may cause me to naturally turn my hip more forward....and it will cause less stress on my left knee due to both legs doing the jump work. It should also cause more of a forward motion, as well as more extended reach....cause how i understand it, is that when both feet are spread apart, it lowers you overall...when theyre together, you reach higher. My balance seems good enough that i have even considered starting with a narrow stance, except that one loses the rocking motion for power. Does this make sense and which service action do you guys prefer?

 

[mxmx]

mxmx, I want to add that you've got a crapton of lead on your racquet. 9g is a lot of lead to start with, and not a little amount at all. Try a similar configuration with 3g or less, and see if the subtle differences make serving easier for you. Your starting point for lead was much too high.

I think i agree 100%

The lead tape i have, forced my hand a little...as they weigh 1.5g each strip...so on each side two strips are needed.

I am considering the following setups:
On my existing leaded racket which has 3g at 9 and 3g at 3 (as well as 3g in handle), I will change it to 1.5g at 9 and 1.5g at 3, keeping the 3g in handle

or

take off the lead at 3 & 9....keep the 3g in handle...and place 3g at 12...my groundies work fine with either lead or unlead....maybe at 12 it will help my serve.

 

[loosegroove]

Hey guys. I've been playing with this racket with full synthetic gut for a while but would like to give poly/co-poly a whirl. Can peeps recommend an inexpensive poly or co-poly with good pop that is relatively comfortable/soft? I plan on hybriding it with OGSM or Supex Spiral Flex. I suffer from wrist tendonitis from time to time (usually it's exacerbated by tennis, especially days I'm off and hitting mishits, if I'm behind a computer for long hours). So I'd like some thing decently comfy. I'm considering BHBR or Polystar Energy. Any other options to consider? Thanks!

 

[klementine]

^ Polystar energy is so soft.. it is literally unplayable. Comfortable? yes... but a comfortable mess.

I enjoy(ed) M2Pro in the exo3Tour, for a soft... but responsive feel, great power. BBO was(is) absolutely great in the exo3T. Especially strung at 50lbs. Really, all the 'harsh' polys worked great in this frame at 50 or under.. PHT.. Alu.. etc..

Since the frame is so flexible and comfy, I found that stiff polys, strung low were absolutely delicious (in terms of feel) and the softer, newer co-polys (beast,rpm,sppp..) were kind of lack luster.

 

[corbind]

Hey guys. I've been playing with this racket with full synthetic gut for a while but would like to give poly/co-poly a whirl....I suffer from wrist tendonitis from time to time (usually it's exacerbated by tennis, especially days I'm off and hitting mishits, if I'm behind a computer for long hours)....Any other options to consider? Thanks!

I read, and re-read your post. The only options I can think of at the moment are:

1. Until you do not have wrist tendonitis, no poly for you. I have tendonitis in my left wrist from years of playing guitar 2-3 hours a night for years with no days off. Took 2 years off because I could not turn a door knob and it still hurts. Poly will only make tendonitis worse and is that extra spin worth it?

2. Because you have tendon damage from over-use, get some natural gut hybrid of full bed. It is superior to all other strings as far as elasticity which lessens the shock you get in your hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder. That takes priority. No, you won't get monster poly spin but you'll save your wrist. ;-)

 

[mxmx]

Okay...so i halved my lead at 3 & 9 this weekend...It made a difference, but still it is as if lead has too much response on groundstrokes especially.
Yes it creates depth...but i definately lose confidence on the groundstrokes control wise. I do not feel as if i can take a full swing at the ball. Natually, i feel more at ease with the stock racket.

So i decided to take off all the lead of my rackets. It is just confusing me as there are too many variables. I should be focusing on my game and technique rather than the racket as much. I'd rather improve my groundstrokes and serve with two of the same rackets via technique, as to having two different frames with one having lead and whatnot.

In essence, i do not have enough time to worry about playing around with lead any further. Lead feels funny anyways. I cannot explain it. It takes away vibration, but maybe also feel and definately racket head speed, with which i create control via spin and confident strokes.

I'd rather lose the (extra) power i wanted on the serve and have consistent groundstrokes, than having huge serves with bad groundstrokes.

Anyone experienced anything similar?

 

[Champs990411]

Yes, I used to have 3&9 lead in addition to a grip sleeve and a leather grip. 12.5 oz. Was extreme. Down to just the leather (and a touch of lead at 12 on one of my sticks for balance) and I'm more concerned with dialing my game than dialing the racket. It's really paying off. Playing very well and not thinking about tinkering is refreshing.

 

[mxmx]

Thats good to know. I really almost have regrets having tried lead at all because by now, i would have been far more accustomed to the stock setup.
But in the same breath, I am also glad i tried lead, cause it was the first time i have felt its effects. Its good to know its there when needed.

I think i will only try lead again once i have had these rackets for quite some time and almost outlived them.

 

[mxmx]

I have a question on the exo tour...

Due to the flex of the racket....is it possible that the ball can create backspin on the serve (and the frame bend so that the ball angles upward)...

and sidespin (and the frame bend so that the ball goes more to the right) on a forheand?


Or is the dwell period of the ball on a racket far too short for that to happen?

 

[rlau]

I have a question on the exo tour...

Due to the flex of the racket....is it possible that the ball can create backspin on the serve (and the frame bend so that the ball angles upward)...

and sidespin (and the frame bend so that the ball goes more to the right) on a forheand?


Or is the dwell period of the ball on a racket far too short for that to happen?

Due to the flex and soft string bed, the EXO3 Tours have a pretty long dwell time. Although the closed pattern frame offers great slice on groundstrokes (I never slice my serve) it requires pretty weird technique to achieve what you describe, I'd say. Unless I'm misunderstanding you.

 

[mxmx]

on a rigid frame, the dwell time is short...and the frame does not bend as much. The ball is not altered in direction due to the short dwell time, and non flex of the frame.

On a flexed frame, the ball dwells longer. As the racket flexes, the ball arguably leaves the strings whilst the frame is not at its original face angle. A powerful shot would arguably have more flex and thus change the direction the ball would travel.

I don't know how else to explain my question. Its not about technique....but rather regarding the influence of flex on the ball...especially hitting higher up on the stringbed.

 

[Dgdavid]

Lead first time out?

Hi all,

I have an Exo3 Tour 100 coming on Monday and never hit with one (one of three I am demoing). A guy who knows the rackets I have come from very strongly recommended it and is very confident it will be "the one" for me but said:

"before you hit it, put 5G in the throat because that is what most people do on this racket. best to hit first like this rather than stock".

Normally I would try any racket stock as would he so I thought this was an interesting comment. I have been guilty of not giving rackets enough of a chance playtime wise before. Any views in here? Is there a wider than normal consensus on the best lead set-up for this racket or is it each to their own test preference as usual?

Also, I have never leaded at the throat before but assume it will add to the power without otherwise changing the fundamental rackets characteristics? My current racket is an IG Speed 300.

Thanks

 

[TheOneHander]

Long story short, he's wrong. I don't know where he got his figure from but it certainly isn't the case around here Try the frame out stock, and if you find some characteristics you don't like (serve may be difficult-a gram or two at 12 can help), then add some lead. There was a lot of lead discussion in this thread a couple months back, I'd dig through these pages to see some opinions. It's really up to you how much and where you add the lead, although I recommend smaller amounts to start.

Happy demoing!

 

[Dgdavid]

thanks OneHander, much appreciated.

 

[jk175d]

Hi all,

I have an Exo3 Tour 100 coming on Monday and never hit with one (one of three I am demoing). A guy who knows the rackets I have come from very strongly recommended it and is very confident it will be "the one" for me but said:

"before you hit it, put 5G in the throat because that is what most people do on this racket. best to hit first like this rather than stock".

Normally I would try any racket stock as would he so I thought this was an interesting comment. I have been guilty of not giving rackets enough of a chance playtime wise before. Any views in here? Is there a wider than normal consensus on the best lead set-up for this racket or is it each to their own test preference as usual?

Your friend is right to reccomend the racquet but his claim on the lead in the throat is bogus. Best to start stock like you are inclined to do. Aside from that I've been using the EXO Tour for almost a year and have followed all the threads here, I honestly don't remember anyone ever talking about lead only in the throat. It's going to come down to preference as usual but if anything, there has seemed to be a lot of support for adding lead to 12 o'clock on this frame, particularly to benifit the serve. But start stock and see what you think.

This frame is very head light so I don't know why anyone would start with lead in the throat. Your friend must be thinking of a different stick!

My only other advice is to give this frame some time. It feels quite different than most other racuets. For myself when I demoed it the first time I was hitting great with it but the feel was so muted that I wasn't convinced it was the right frame. It took coming back to it a couple of times to get used to it.

 

[loosegroove]

If any of you dudes with a 16x18 with 4 1/2 grip decided to move on and want to unload one, please drop me a line. I need an extra frame. Everyone seems to be using a 4 3/8 these days.

 

[mark1]

I am using this frame now in 18x20. Great frame for me. I think that the only slight modifications id ever like to make would be slightly varying the string tension and type.

I love the combo of big sweetspot, great control, 100sq in headsize and flexibility in a frame. Also the low swingweight and relatively heavy static weight.

 

[forthegame]

Got one for a demo session. Been keen to try one for some time (targeting the Team though). I think I've got the 16x18. Don't usually demo but it's free so why not. Will try to keep y'all updated.

 

[forthegame]

^^^
Hit with the EXO3 Tour 16X18 today. I don't think it's for me. Felt heavy and seemed to swing heavy. Probably more suited to a stronger player.
Didn't gel with it but going to hit with it again tomorrow to give it another chance.

 

[TonLars]

Hello club members,

Im going to demo a 16x18 in the next day or so. I did try it for an hour a while back and thought it was nice at the net, and pretty comfortable on groundstrokes. However, I thought it had a very different feeling on serve, and overall got the impression that it was probably too low powered on serves, returns and putaway forehands. But im going to give it another try since Im looking for a racquet switch possibly.

Any ideas on where and how much lead to put on the head that I might try? If I solve the serve and return issues I may have to join.

 

[Hominator]

Hello club members,

Im going to demo a 16x18 in the next day or so. I did try it for an hour a while back and thought it was nice at the net, and pretty comfortable on groundstrokes. However, I thought it had a very different feeling on serve, and overall got the impression that it was probably too low powered on serves, returns and putaway forehands. But im going to give it another try since Im looking for a racquet switch possibly.

Any ideas on where and how much lead to put on the head that I might try? If I solve the serve and return issues I may have to join.

I have 1" of 1/4" lead tape at 10/2. Seems to help. Might be a good place and amount to start.

 

[Nikae]

Yeah, 3 & 9 or 10 & 2 worked best for me. I tried lead at 12, the place where I usually lead all my other rackets, but it didn't work out.

 

[Orion3]

Now got 5g at 12 and 2g on the grip.

Loving it - given me real depth on my groundstrokes with all the spin I need to keep control of the all.
Great for serving too!

 

[gregor.b]

Hello there Tour users. Can anyone tell me if there is much of a difference between the 2 different string patterns. I am a fairly strong player and hit with moderate spin but am over 40 and getting to the point where I need a little help from the racket. Also I am currently out with an arm problem and this is pretty much the softest racket I could find. Any info is welcome.
Cheers, Greg.

 

[maggmaster]

Yea the 16 by 18 hits a bigger, spinnier ball. The 18 by 20 lacks something of the feel in my opinion. I have 3 16 by 18s and had 2 18 by 20s, go for the open pattern hands down. This is of course one guys opinion.

 

[alika]

Finally settled on a racquet and it's called the EXO3 Tour!

I can say I did my due diligence and tested/demoed most brands of racquets out there. Some didn't like on the first hit, some after a week, some even a year. I had the EXO3 Tour for only a few months but I can honestly say it's the best racquet that does everything well. Serves, groundstrokes, volleys...all with more power and control.

I have 2 EXO3 Tour...joining the club!

 

[Chyeaah]

I can say I did my due diligence and tested/demoed most brands of racquets out there. Some didn't like on the first hit, some after a week, some even a year. I had the EXO3 Tour for only a few months but I can honestly say it's the best racquet that does everything well. Serves, groundstrokes, volleys...all with more power and control.

I have 2 EXO3 Tour...joining the club!

More Power? What did you use before?

Had a hit with it today with poly strung low idk, random persons racquet who let me try it. It felt wierd different to so many racquets i've tried. I put it down after 5 minutes beacuse i couldn't hit a ball near the baseline without a super high trajectory.

 

[Amp1]

I bought an 18x20 and had my first hit with it today. The balls were flying a bit for me(the racket is strung with Multi)
Have been playing with Youtek radical and Yonex 98D recently. Am a flat hitter who uses a bit of spin. At first I had to go back to Yonex. The balls were either hitting the net or flying a bit on me.

After the set took it out for a hit. The racket is way more comfortable than either of my stock rackets. After reading the forum was expecting an underpowered racket, but was surprised to find the same level of power as the radical. Wasn't an issue at all. Less vibration than 98D, and Radical.

Now I just need to figure how to adjust the trajectory. An suggestions will be welcome

 

[jk175d]

More Power? What did you use before?

Had a hit with it today with poly strung low idk, random persons racquet who let me try it. It felt wierd different to so many racquets i've tried. I put it down after 5 minutes beacuse i couldn't hit a ball near the baseline without a super high trajectory.

it definitely feels different than most other racquets. imo it's one that take longer than 5 minutes to get the feel for. Though my first demo experience was that even though it felt weird, I hit great with it. It may not be for you though, nothing wrong with that.

 

[adso1973]

Well, I'm still deciding whether this is or is not for me.

Definetelly, for better or worse, matches seem to be more even than with other frames, the ones I used to easily win, are still win, but not as easy and the ones I used to loose, I win but on the hard way.

I improved my defensive game but that seems to deteriorate my offensive game. I can keep the ball in play longer, return more balls when i'm being attacked, but winners are more out than in.

As a result, can't feel confident with this frame and I start to miss shots and avoid going for winners even when that's the way to go and just try to keep the ball in the court.

Results are results and I win more matches with this one, just can't play the way I like, so I'm currently considering whether keep on trying or getting back to my RDIS 100MP.

Anyone felt simillar?

 

[Power Player]

Yes, I played more defensive but it was easy to stay in a point. My serve was not very great and I missed winners I usually nail.

Anyway, I still have an EXO, but I have 2 Wilsons that seem to suit my game better.

I didn't care as much about this stuff when my wrist was messed up..the EXO really helped me out, and I still have one for that reason. a great stick if your arm is worn down or injured.

 

[adso1973]

Thanks Power player, one of the frames I'm also considering is the BLX 6.1 as I played with the HPS6.1 and I miss it... but I need to recover from my TE before doing so.

 

[Power Player]

Thanks Power player, one of the frames I'm also considering is the BLX 6.1 as I played with the HPS6.1 and I miss it... but I need to recover from my TE before doing so.

Thats what I use, and I think the way to go is to keep the stringbed softer. String at 55 or under on poly or hybrids. Doing this has kept my wrist happy.

 

[forthegame]

Had another hit with the 16x18 EXO3 Tour. Still felt sluggish but I must say it seemed to excel at volleys! I was doing pretty well in the volley drills today, something I usually suck at.

Will play with it some more but not for me I think.

 

[TonLars]

Had a hit tonight with the 16x18, strung with alu power 16L at 52. I think I need to string it 3-4 pounds higher at least. Its a very comfortable racquet but at that tension it was surprisingly too powerful on groundstrokes when accelerating. I added lead at 3 and 9, 2 four inch 1/4" strips at each.

It produces the most spin of any racquet Ive played with I think. Volleys seemed unstable on hard incoming balls, but has a good sweetspot and manuverable. I didnt get a chance to serve or return with it today and those are 2 issues I remember having with this racquet. If I can reign in the groundstrokes a little, and serve and return fairly well with it, then the volleys will be a non-issue.

 

[Nikae]

Had a hit tonight with the 16x18, strung with alu power 16L at 52. I think I need to string it 3-4 pounds higher at least. Its a very comfortable racquet but at that tension it was surprisingly too powerful on groundstrokes when accelerating. I added lead at 3 and 9, 2 four inch 1/4" strips at each.

It produces the most spin of any racquet Ive played with I think. Volleys seemed unstable on hard incoming balls, but has a good sweetspot and manuverable. I didnt get a chance to serve or return with it today and those are 2 issues I remember having with this racquet. If I can reign in the groundstrokes a little, and serve and return fairly well with it, then the volleys will be a non-issue.

How much lead is that, in grams? Read comments of other users, everyone is saying how great this racket is for volleys, I feel the same way!
I have 3g of lead tape at 3 and 9 o'clock.
Now, flat serves could be a problem, not for me though, because I am kinda short, 5'9, so I mostly hit slice/topspin serves which is ok because all my tournaments are played on clay.
Return of serves is decent, not as good as with other/stiffer rackets.

 

[mxmx]

Okay...so this racket is impressing me more and more in stock form...won a match whilst severely injured. Control and spin is just great with this racket...and as someone has said before..the racket should do the work for you. On the serve, my power has gone down, but my variety, accuracy and spin has increased.

My game had/has to adjust to a more spin and persentage orientated mentality, as opposed to more flatter powered strokes. One needs patience with this racket whilst in the rally...