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

[mcs1970]

I've been lurking around for 2 years. Posting for the first time.

I have the 18x20 version of this racquet (older model...2013..the gold and white). I'm a racquetaholic who has purchased many racquets over the past 2 years, since falling in love with Tennis after playing Racquetball for the past 15-20 years. Solinco Pro 10s, Prince Tour Diablo Mids ProStaff 85, Blade Lite...I've tried it all. Loved all of them but the ligther racquets were too light and the heavier ones were too heavy during match play. I thought the exo3 lacked power, especially since my regular partner is a 5.0 / 5.5 level player and hits some of the fastest, hardest serves/shots I've seen in rec level play, and so I kept searching for a heavier but still easy to swing racquet (the holy grail of racquets that we all try to find).

Strung this differently with Prince Syntehtic Gut 17 Duraflex at 45lbs and now this thing is a beauty. Great power with absolutely minimal effort on my part...just a relaxed smooth swing carries the ball deep wherever I want to put it. Serves have a lot of spin and kick. Slices also go deep. I'm playing with the stock version. I understand why some might feel the need for lead, but string this low at stock weight first and try it out. You'll get power without sacrificing any of the speed which this racquet has. If this thing can stand up to my partner's shots, I'm pretty sure it will be fine against 95% of the rec players on this forum. Against the remaining 5%... if they can hit deeper, harder shots than my partner consistently in a match play ...more power to them and just shake their hands after they've creamed you in match play.

 

[speedysteve]

I'm getting my 3rd exo3 tour.
Decided I want 2 for nat gut mains / multi or synth crosses, 2 different tensions and one for wet practise set up in all multi.
I've also got on the balance and weight I like most.
Settled on 350g and 9 points headlight. Done by Blutak in the handle.
Great to have 3 frames all the same weight and balance for consistent feel.

 

[GrandSlam45]

Has anyone tried stringing the 16x18 with a Kevlar hybrid? What's an optimal tension? I'd like to try it but worried about the arm-killing side effects.

 

[beepee1972]

Been a Prince fan ever since I started tennis again... having used the Prince O3 Tour Team 18x20, Speedport tour 16x18 (should have never sold those), and since a little over a year the latest Tour 100 16x18. Really love them, but not sure yet on the string setup. Sometimes a simple syngut at high tension (LxB = 27x28k), other times a soft poly at a little lower tension (LxB = 25x26k) seem nicer. Still hight tensions, even for my taste, but the O-ports take up a lot of kilo's when compared to normal grommets. The 27x28k variant still only leaves a DT of 34, which is what I prefer. Anyway, great rackets. But very interested in other user's string setup!

 

[aussie]

I've been lurking around for 2 years. Posting for the first time.

I have the 18x20 version of this racquet (older model...2013..the gold and white). I'm a racquetaholic who has purchased many racquets over the past 2 years, since falling in love with Tennis after playing Racquetball for the past 15-20 years. Solinco Pro 10s, Prince Tour Diablo Mids ProStaff 85, Blade Lite...I've tried it all. Loved all of them but the ligther racquets were too light and the heavier ones were too heavy during match play. I thought the exo3 lacked power, especially since my regular partner is a 5.0 / 5.5 level player and hits some of the fastest, hardest serves/shots I've seen in rec level play, and so I kept searching for a heavier but still easy to swing racquet (the holy grail of racquets that we all try to find).

Strung this differently with Prince Syntehtic Gut 17 Duraflex at 45lbs and now this thing is a beauty. Great power with absolutely minimal effort on my part...just a relaxed smooth swing carries the ball deep wherever I want to put it. Serves have a lot of spin and kick. Slices also go deep. I'm playing with the stock version. I understand why some might feel the need for lead, but string this low at stock weight first and try it out. You'll get power without sacrificing any of the speed which this racquet has. If this thing can stand up to my partner's shots, I'm pretty sure it will be fine against 95% of the rec players on this forum. Against the remaining 5%... if they can hit deeper, harder shots than my partner consistently in a match play ...more power to them and just shake their hands after they've creamed you in match play.

Very similar to my setup. I use a full bed of Isospeed Professional 17 @ 46 in my EXO3 Tour 100 18x20. I have 2g in total at 9 & 3 and find this setup gives me enough power to go with the control, comfort and feel of the stick. Because of the dense pattern there is very little string movement and of course to a recovering TE sufferer like me, the softness of the strings and the low tension together with the 52 RA of the frame means virtually no vibration is transmitted to the elbow. Truly a remarkable racquet.

I also string my newer Tour 100 16x18 with the same setup and it is equally as comfortable with a bit more power but a little less control. The racquet I use in those conditions when I crave a little more put away power and am prepared to sacrifice a little control and make a few more errors.

 

[beepee1972]

I have written a little about my experiences so far in this post: http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/index.php?threads/prince-tour-100-16x16-versus-prince-classic-graphite-100-16x18.535499/#post-9537677

 

[B Cubed]

I have actually been playing with the PCG for about a year now. I love it, but I've come to terms with where I am in life (older than I was when I was younger ) that I need more hit through power without sacrificing control. I've ordered a new Tour (although 18x20), and I'm coming back to it this weekend. I'll be re-reviewing this thread to look up ideas for different string jobs.

Question for all: Do any of you find that Polys on ports feels like too much is going on? I got used to the ports previously, so I'm not worried about it, but I feel like between the ports, the flex AND the sliding of Polys it would just feel like too much going on.

 

[mikeler]

I have actually been playing with the PCG for about a year now. I love it, but I've come to terms with where I am in life (older than I was when I was younger ) that I need more hit through power without sacrificing control. I've ordered a new Tour (although 18x20), and I'm coming back to it this weekend. I'll be re-reviewing this thread to look up ideas for different string jobs.

Question for all: Do any of you find that Polys on ports feels like too much is going on? I got used to the ports previously, so I'm not worried about it, but I feel like between the ports, the flex AND the sliding of Polys it would just feel like too much going on.

I switched from the Exos to the Tour 100T ESP almost 2 years ago. I have to string full poly high otherwise there is not enough feedback for me.

 

[B Cubed]

Good to note. I had PSGDF 17 in my last Tour, and it felt pretty damn good.

 

[B Cubed]

I notice people are definitely modding their sticks here. I got a new Tour 18x20 the other day. Played with one before. I've got a leather grip on it, and I put two 1/4 lead strips on each side of the inside of the throat close to the head for stability. This thing is definitely heavy now. I'll be interested to see how it feels next time I'm out.

 

[johnson89]

What strings do you suggest me for my Prince Tour 16x18?

I'm an aggressive heavy spinner looking for some middle price strings. My first option is Solinco Tour Bite (probably 1.30mm, that's 16g) stringed to 22-23kg (48.5-50.5 lbs). I like shaped strings (previously used Tornado).

Do you suggest me any other strings in this price area?

 

[DonDiego]

Any of you guys play with the Tour 100T, or Exo Tour team?
I've always liked this version, since it's a bit stiffer than the regular Tour, and the beam is also a bit thicker. Some weight in the handle and a few grams of lead on the hoop makes it a very comfy and versatile racquet.

 

[B Cubed]

So is anyone on this list wondering if the whole Port Tour series will be going away?

 

[john749]

I'm looking for soft strings for my Prince Tour 100 16x18. Hybrid, but rather full bed string in high 40s. My game is offensive spin. Should get thicker string (1.30 at least), because I usually broke Tornado 17 on my Juice 100 in a few hours. My selections so far are:
- Head FXP Tour 16
- Weiss Cannon Explosiv! 1.30
- Head RIP Control 16
- Wilson Sensation 16
- Prince Synthetic Gut Duraflex 16
- Prince Premier Control 15 or 15L
- Prince Premier Touch 15 or 15L

http://twu.tennis-warehouse.com/learning_center/reporter2.php

They all got nice stiffness and decent spin. And yes, I know these are just numbers. FXP Tour is by far the most expensive in my country. What do you suggest me?

What about some no-name companies like Pro's Pro? I've been using their Hexaspin Twist and it's pretty much the same as Tornado, only 3 times cheaper. Are Pro's Pro syntethic strings any good? Maybe as soft as the ones I mentioned before? Softness and good spin are the qualities I'm looking for....

 

[mikeler]

Prince Premiere Control is great for the price here in the USA.

 

[dman72]

Has anyone tried stringing the 16x18 with a Kevlar hybrid? What's an optimal tension? I'd like to try it but worried about the arm-killing side effects.

Late reply here, but the arm killingness of Kevlar is greatly exaggerated. First of all, you can string Kevlar very low and it doesn't have the drawbacks of other strings, ie the trampoline effect, because it has zero elasticity. Secondly, Kevlar has a naturally dampened feel because of the way it is constructed. the amount of vibration in a full poly or poly/syngut frame is much higher than a frame with Kevlar in it. I play with no dampener with a Kevlar hybrid, would never think of it with poly or syn gut because the thing vibrates like a tuning fork.

Try it, just start out at low tensions. I string my Tour ESP pro with Kevlar mains/poly crosses at 58 and 62 lbs. My NXG the same setup usually 52 and 58 or something like that.

 

[B Cubed]

I think I might be coming back to the Tour... I think I've missed the flex and plowthrough

 

[Mac33]

I used the Prince Exo 3 Tour a few years back for a month or two.

Think it was the 18 by 20 version with Cyclone at 50

First tried it with no added weight--- felt it lacked power especially on off centre strikes.

A feel to die for though!

Then tried it again with around 18g of lead added around the hoop only.

Much bigger sweet spot for sure.

If you like taking a huge cut at the ball--- this frame rocks like no other.

The spin generation from the super flexy frame (TW rated its flex at 52) will arc the ball like no other.

Are TW still selling this frame as I cannot see it there on their website.

If anyone can provide a link thanks. I'm desperate to find one for sale.

 

[jonestim]

I used the Prince Exo 3 Tour a few years back for a month or two.

If anyone can provide a link thanks. I'm desperate to find one for sale.

It was replaced by http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Prince_Tour_100_18x20_Racquets/descpageRCPRINCE-PT1H18.html . Almost the exact same spec - just a hair stiffer. 56 is still one of the softest on the market, just not 52.

And I believe that racquet is going away soon.

 

[Mac33]

Thanks,but I really want the Exo 3 Tour.

I've looked on e-bay etc and second hand they are as rare as hens teeth.

The new price is like 300 Aus dollars including delivery!

Anyone got one for sale?

 

[john749]

Thanks,but I really want the Exo 3 Tour.

I've looked on e-bay etc and second hand they are as rare as hens teeth.

The new price is like 300 Aus dollars including delivery!

Anyone got one for sale?

I've been selling my Exo3 Tour 16x18 for almost a year in my country (Europe is my country ) and nobody want it. Yes, it's grip 4, but price is only 50€ and it's practically new.

Prince Premiere Control is great for the price here in the USA.

I've heard you're the man when it comes to strings.

Prince Premier Control isn't avaliable in here. Ordering and shipping would cost me 170€. How would you rate some of Pro's Pro strings vs PPC in terms of softness? PP softest are Gutex, Kingut, Torpedeo, Hex Multi, Hitec Multifiber and Hot Stuff (Pro's Pro told me so). These are really cheap. I wasn't disappointed switching from Tornado to Hexaspin Twist. Don't know why should be different with soft nylon strings.

Is PPC really that better? I don't want to spoil my self with expensive strings, but on the other hand if it is so soft I'd go for it. Health FTW.

 

[john749]

Where did you put lead tape? I put 8 grams on 2 and 10.

 

[Mac33]

Bought two of the Prince Tour frames 16 by 18 with Cylone at 40 pounds on special from TW.

It does feel almost identical to the Exo Tour 3.

Difference for me.....much larger sweet spot and therefore more power.

Absolutely in love with this frame!

The Exo 3 Tour may have a little higher arc than the newer model Tour,which should result in slightly more control.

The flex of the Tour still feels super soft. Do not notice any difference there.

 

[beepee1972]

I just places 8 grams (4 on each side) at 2 and 10 and another 6 grams roughly at the top of my grip. Aim was to add another 15 grams and keep the balance more or less the same. Will try soon how that goes!

 

[beepee1972]

Must admit, I like it very much. Much more stable, especially on my forehands and overheads. I do still notice a lack of power on services, when I compare them with other racquets with the same weight. But hey... you can not have it all. But still continuing my search for a comfortable racquet with traditional grommets

 

[tata]

Been away from this forum for some time now. i still have an exo 18x20 in my bag as a back up. I have been swinging the classic response 97 for a good year and a half now. Broke the strings on the response the other night and took out the exo. Reminded me why I never sold this frame and kept it as back up. Quick through the air, great directional control. It also reminded me this thing needs lead in the head. I had put 6 grams under the handle for more whip and weight but the head definitely needs something behind it for more weight and penetration. My original set up was 3g each at 3 and 9 with the 6g under the handle. I removed the lead off the head as I preferred it more whippy but now going back it feels like the lead needs to come back on.

This time I added 1.5g each at 2 and 10. I thought this time I add half the weight compared to before but move it up a bit to compensate. Thoughts? At this stage I think i prefer a little more weight and penetration in the shot than stability. However, not sure if the weight added is sufficient to give noticeable improvement. Worst case scenario I can always revert back to the trusty 3 and 9 locations.

 

[zerojoshua]

Been away from this forum for some time now. i still have an exo 18x20 in my bag as a back up. I have been swinging the classic response 97 for a good year and a half now. Broke the strings on the response the other night and took out the exo. Reminded me why I never sold this frame and kept it as back up. Quick through the air, great directional control. It also reminded me this thing needs lead in the head. I had put 6 grams under the handle for more whip and weight but the head definitely needs something behind it for more weight and penetration. My original set up was 3g each at 3 and 9 with the 6g under the handle. I removed the lead off the head as I preferred it more whippy but now going back it feels like the lead needs to come back on.

This time I added 1.5g each at 2 and 10. I thought this time I add half the weight compared to before but move it up a bit to compensate. Thoughts? At this stage I think i prefer a little more weight and penetration in the shot than stability. However, not sure if the weight added is sufficient to give noticeable improvement. Worst case scenario I can always revert back to the trusty 3 and 9 locations.

Maybe 1.5 at 2 and 10 ish

 

[mmille24]

Does anyone have a comparison between the EXO3 Tour 100 vs the newer version (Tour 100 18x20)?

 

[B Cubed]

I haven't played with the EXO3 Tour, but all the comparisons I heard, user and TW is that the Tour 18x20, is a little more stiff (but not much 56/57) has more mass in the hoop for plowthrough (very stable), and has more pop (I think its power level is under appreciated).

 

[tennis1111]

I would say pop is similar but control is better with newer version.

 

[Mac33]

If there's one frame in the world that needs weight added to it--- it's the Exo 3 Tour.

When I first tried it,I thought it was the worst pro frame ever for penetration.

My friend then added something like 18-20g to the head only--- and the sweet spot and power increased out of sight!

I think I'm going to add around 10g of lead to my Prince Tour 100 16 by 18--again in the head only.

It does need that little bit more pop,otherwise it feels perfect.

 

[Surion]

If there's one frame in the world that needs weight added to it--- it's the Exo 3 Tour.

When I first tried it,I thought it was the worst pro frame ever for penetration.

My friend then added something like 18-20g to the head only--- and the sweet spot and power increased out of sight!

I think I'm going to add around 10g of lead to my Prince Tour 100 16 by 18--again in the head only.

It does need that little bit more pop,otherwise it feels perfect.

I don't know, I have a friend playing the 100 Tour and he crushes that ball!
Awesome.

 

[mmille24]

Agreed. When I take a good swing, the ball flies with the Tour 100 18x20. Love this racquet and have tried so many. Anyone try putting a leather grip on it?

 

[JohnBPittsburgh]

Yes, so far that is all I have done to mine. I really don't think I am going to add weight to the hoop. It just feels perfect with the leather on (Prince calfskin, I have posted pics all over the place, it looks awesome). It transmits a little more feel to the frame, which to me, is perfect. It also added a little bit of weight in the handle, and I like headlight frames.

 

[B Cubed]

Yes, so far that is all I have done to mine. I really don't think I am going to add weight to the hoop. It just feels perfect with the leather on (Prince calfskin, I have posted pics all over the place, it looks awesome). It transmits a little more feel to the frame, which to me, is perfect. It also added a little bit of weight in the handle, and I like headlight frames.

Agreed, done the same, feels awesome.

 

[speedysteve]

I have one with the posh leather grip (forget the name) and 2 more weighted to the same. 2 are Nat gut / multi hybrids and one is full synth.
Like them all.
I tried lead 9 / 12 / 3 but found it lowered my racquet head speed a tad (must be getting old).

 

[tata]

I have one with the posh leather grip (forget the name) and 2 more weighted to the same. 2 are Nat gut / multi hybrids and one is full synth.
Like them all.
I tried lead 9 / 12 / 3 but found it lowered my racquet head speed a tad (must be getting old).

Similar dilemma to me right now. Wanting plow and penetration but also wanting to keep it as headlight since I like to hit through the ball with a contact point relatively in front. Even though it is my back up frame now I feel some day I might want to use it. Perhaps on a clay day since i feel this thing is really good for long grinds from the back court.

 

[zielicki]

Why are all the young club players use Beast XP with Tour 100? Is there any string similar only cheaper? The new Tour XP is a bit expensive and Beast XP is hard to get over here.

I tried Wilson Sensation 16, but it's not the same as Beast. I really like the pocketing feeling with Beast, which I don't get with Sensation (50.5/51.5 lbs - 23/23.5 kg).

 

[Mac33]

Finally got round to adding 8g of weight to my Prince Tour 16 by 18.

4g each at 10 and 2 o'clock.

The difference it makes is huge.

Much more power - but the frame still produces that high arc and insane spin.

Can feel my backhand cross court has much more pace on it especially.

Lost the first set with my Redondo MP 6-1 and was leading 5-4 when we had to stop with the Prince Tour.

I am a very flat hitter and I dump so many balls into the net with other frames.

With the Prince Tour I don't really even need to remember to lift the ball - the higher deflection of my Prince Tour strung with Cyclone at only 40 ilbs does it for me.

Without added weight up high in the frame - this frame like the Exo 3 Tour - is a bit of a toy really.

With added weight - you get a great balance between control and power.

 

[JohnBPittsburgh]

I ended up adding weight to the hoop I have to agree, it transforms it to another level of greatness. Sweet frame. Added lead the entire length of the bumperguard on both sides of the grommets.

 

[zielicki]

I've seen a lot juniors playing with this racket. Hardly anyone of them uses lead tape (one had it about 8g on 10 and 2 o'clock).

Why is so? Is this because racket is less powerful any they can generate more speed?

I don't know....

 

[JohnBPittsburgh]

Everyone is different, and has different playing styles. I am of the opinion that the best way to find what works for you is to try it yourself. I put the lead tape on because it adds power and comfort, while opening up the sweetspot. But if someone just picked up the game, and tried my frame, I think they would hate it.

 

[Mac33]

Played another 2 sets today with my Prince Tour 16 by 18 strung with Cyclone at 40 ilbs.

The added 8g of lead tape started coming loose in the second set which was a bit annoying!

After testing countless frames and I do mean countless - I reckon this ones by far the best!

Without the added 8g high up on the hoop - I simply would not use it.

It gives a much more satisfying thud on contact with the ball - never mind the increase in ball speed it offers.

If I had to criticise this frame it would be on volleys. I find it hard to hit a volley FLAT with this frame.

Playing a comp next month - confident I will play above my normal level with this frame - will see.

Agree with the testers on TW reviews - but again - the feel is so much more satisfying with that added weight high up in the hoop.


Spencer - "The comfort, control and consistency."

Chris - "I liked the soft feel, even though it took a slight adjustment. The comfort is excellent and makes even very firm polys feel decently forgiving. I also found this racquet to be very spin-friendly."

Troy - "One of the most forgiving players' frames on the market. I was getting a ton of spin, and this is probably the most arm-friendly racquet on the market."

Andy - "Very comfortable and spin-friendly. It felt great on groundstrokes and returns."

 

[JohnBPittsburgh]

I finally got my grommet sets for this frame today!!! I plan on putting the lead under the bumper (it needs restrung). Glad you are enjoying the frame. I would suggest hunting down grommets if you plan on sticking with the frame. I have a feeling they are going to be gone soon. It was difficult, and I was actually told they didn't have them. Then the next day I saw a tracking number and they were on their way. The code is TX250B (black ported inserts that come stock. If you want to get crazy any TX250 will fit. Some are string holes which gives it more feel)

 

[j100]

I finally got my grommet sets for this frame today!!! I plan on putting the lead under the bumper (it needs restrung). Glad you are enjoying the frame. I would suggest hunting down grommets if you plan on sticking with the frame. I have a feeling they are going to be gone soon. It was difficult, and I was actually told they didn't have them. Then the next day I saw a tracking number and they were on their way. The code is TX250B (black ported inserts that come stock. If you want to get crazy any TX250 will fit. Some are string holes which gives it more feel)

JohnB, would you be willing to share where you got the grommets from?
I've been searching for a set and it is very hard to find...

 

[JohnBPittsburgh]

Prince I can ask if there are more, or TW might be getting them in as well (I am sure I am not special) I know they were waiting for them for a month at least. I got them for the 16x18 pattern (I did search far and wide for them!) I am a distributor though, you can't just call up Prince and get them You might want to ask TW if they are getting any of them in, in the "ask TW" thread.

 

[j100]

Prince I can ask if there are more, or TW might be getting them in as well (I am sure I am not special) I know they were waiting for them for a month at least. I got them for the 16x18 pattern (I did search far and wide for them!) I am a distributor though, you can't just call up Prince and get them You might want to ask TW if they are getting any of them in, in the "ask TW" thread.

Thanks for your response. I was told before by TW that this item was discontinued, but I just posted a question in the forum you suggested anyways, hoping for the best.
I'm actually looking for a set for the Tour 100 16x18, but I believe the EXO3 grommets/guard is the same (TX250).
If you can get your hands on more of these, you might be able to turn a good profit buying and re-selling them...I would for sure buy one if you had extras for a reasonable price and I know many others are looking for these...believe it or not, I've ran into a seller that quoted $50 for a set of these...which of course I passed on.
Shame on Prince for discontinuing these so quickly (if what I was told is true) on one of their more popular rackets.

 

[JohnBPittsburgh]

I will send an email and see if they have any left over that I can grab up. I am not sure what I paid for them...but I know it was reasonable. But yes, any TX250a, b or c will fit. Someone tried charging me $50 for O3 White grommets!! I laughed and bought 8 O3 Whites, for a tiny bit more

 

[Mac33]

Took the 2 strips of 4g of weight (at 10 and 2 oclock) off my Prince Tour today - it was not sticking properly.

Replaced it with 6 strips of Babolat lead weight totalling 18g - 3g each strip.

Two strips,one either side at 12 o'clock and the other four at 10 and two o'clock.

It played like a dog!

Ball trajectory was off the charts much lower.

RHS was less - as in much less. Power overall was less. Simply was not strong enough to wield the too head heavy stick.

On one low ball played to my forehand - I tried to whip it up and over - ball went half way up the net.

After 3 games I took the 6g off at 12 o'clock and what a difference!

Much higher arc in trajectory. Ball was dipping better too indictating i was getting more spin. Able to whip up and over the low balls again.

Comparing the 12g of added weight i had today - with the 8g I had previous - at this stage I prefer the lower amount.

At my normal RHS I believe I get more power with the lesser weight.

However,when I consciously swung out that little bit harder with the 12g of added weight and manage to get the racquet moving fast - I have clearly got more power with the heavier weight.

Going to leave the 12g of added weight on for now. Need to do more testing against my other friend who gives me a much tougher game.

For the last 10 minutes I swapped frames over with my friend and played a 10 point tie- break. He uses the 325g unstrung PK Q Tour.

I was really surprised as previously I thought the PK Q Tour was the most powerful players frame I've ever used.

It felt boardy with the 18 by 20 string pattern,the head felt a lot smaller and most of all it felt a lot stiffer.

I was clearly getting more power out of the Prince Tour 16 by 18.

This frame can deliver serious power - but for me only with added weight high up on the hoop.

My friend also commented how big the sweet spot the Prince Tour had.

 

[speedysteve]

After a bout of arm problems (re-occuring G.E.).
I'm going to put a full bed of Pacific Tough gut on one of mine EXO3's. Not strung too tight either!
That will make her a bit more head heavy