Tried the KPS 88 and still prefer the PS 85

[bruno hau]

Played a set with the new KPS 88 (Sampras' new racket) and was not very impressed with it. Plays similar to the old PS85 (same flex with a little more power and more solid feel at impact).

However it is heavier (12.3 oz unstrung vs old 12.0 oz) and not as headlight (8pts I think vs 12pts on old PS85). So I had a little problem generating racket head speed from the baseline and it was not as quick at the net.

I'd be sticking with my old PS85s because the PS85 is lighter, more headlight balanced, and the headsize & throat are smaller...all means more racket head speed.

 

[gsquicksilver]

i'm a long time user of the ps85 since 1995 and i can't wait to demo the kps88 to see if i'll be sticking to my ps85's or switching.

 

[Mick]

the KPS 88 may not appeal to some PS 85 users but at least it is a lot more affordable than a new PS 85

 

[VGP]

I'd love to try this racket out, but I don't think I'll be getting one soon. For those who've read my opinions on the kPS88 this might come as a surprise.

When I choose a frame I feel like I've gotta "gel" with it. I've read a lot about the kPS88 and the more time passes probably the best I'll do is get one for fun but not fully switch. This is even before I pick one up.

The problems (as silly as some may sound) I have with it are:

1. I'm not a fan of the paintjob. I know they tried to keep the classic red/yellow stripes, but don't like the kFactor appointments. I really hate the "lazy S" in the Pro Staff.
2. I don't like the shortened bumperguard. Since I don't like adding head tape, this is kinda a bummer.
3. as bruno hau mentioned, I don't like the broader throat (necessary for the bigger headsize, but still).
4. No trap door for easy tailweighting. I'd have to undo the leather grip to make it more headlight....something I know that I'll do. Funny how Sampras' frames have it....
5. the price tag. I know that it'll be the standard new racket price, but I've got four recent Chinese PS85s that I'm using at the moment. Buying more of a "similar" enough frame isn't justified to me (or my wife) at the moment.

I guess I'm in a negative state of mind.....we just had to replace our water heater for our house.....

Hey, perhaps when I actually see it I'll warm up to it.

 

[goosala]

What will MSRP be on the new KPS88?

 

[matchmaker]

Played a set with the new KPS 88 (Sampras' new racket) and was not very impressed with it. Plays similar to the old PS85 (same flex with a little more power and more solid feel at impact).

However it is heavier (12.3 oz unstrung vs old 12.0 oz) and not as headlight (8pts I think vs 12pts on old PS85). So I had a little problem generating racket head speed from the baseline and it was not as quick at the net.

I'd be sticking with my old PS85s because the PS85 is lighter, more headlight balanced, and the headsize & throat are smaller...all means more racket head speed.

You know, this might be a minor detail, but it really bugged me on the K90 that the throat would not lie comfortably in my hand, the head also seemed very wide for a mid and that box beam was extremely wide too. In comparison to my Wilson Reflex mids and my PC600 the racquet felt clumsy for a mid.