Volkl Powerbridge 8 - Playtest review

[Uncle Emmitt]

thanks couch and NBM,

Probably gonna try PB 8 next since yall are so high on it. Interesting that the grip might be a little diff. Arm feeling better but am interested in your string NBM. I have hit with the becker pro and it felt similar to me to dnx 8 but the strings were loose and moving all over the place.

PB 8 looks pretty cool too.

 

[rlau]

Hi Couch,

Thanks for the additional info.

rlau: The PB8 is definitely worth a spin. What racquet are you currently using?

I am currently using the DNX 9 as my main racquet.

 

[couch]

Hi Couch,

Thanks for the additional info.



I am currently using the DNX 9 as my main racquet.

Doh! I knew that from your sig.

I liked the DNX 9 but eventually went back to my Tour 8s. Seemed like I had trouble finding the right string combo and tension in the DNX 9. The DNX 9 is a great "in-between" racquet if you're looking for something in a player's mold but a little lighter.

I think you'd like the PB8 if you're looking for a racquet with a little more power and are more of a baseliner. If you're more of an all-courter the DNX 9 would probably work better for you. With my limited experience with both racquets that would be my two cents.

 

[nickarnold2000]

Is the PB8 more or less powerful than the BP?

 

[couch]

Is the PB8 more or less powerful than the BP?

I would say the PB8 is slightly less powerful than the BP but that is from limited demo experience with both frames and different string setups. NBMJ may be able to answer this a little better.

 

[Shangri La]

I hit with the Becker Pro the other day and it was surprisingly nice. This PB8 sounds even more attempting. How well does PB8 volley? and it serves big like the PD I assume?

 

[NoBadMojo]

Couch nailed this...that's what good players who understand gear do...simple and concise...and accurate.

 

[Uncle Emmitt]

PB 8 power level comapred to BB pro and dnx 8???

 

[Uncle Emmitt]

teaching all day today at newks and gonna use dnx 8 strung at 60 with conquest ( strung it less $$ since it's a demo and loose for me since I'm teaching all day with it ) will hit a little with it today and then probably get back with NBMJ couch and others about these comparisons.

 

[couch]

PB 8 power level comapred to BB pro and dnx 8???

I would say they are all in the same ballpark as far as power with little difference between them. If I had to rank them I would say the BP is the most powerful followed by the DNX8 and then the PB8. Again, I played with different strings and tensions in all three.

If you like the DNX8 I think you will like the PB8 even more. The PB8 just felt a little more solid to me.

Good luck.

 

[goober]

Does anyone know if BB or Volkl will be coming out with 27.6 inch length models in the US for the PB8 or the BB Pro models? They seem to be going away from these length racquets except for the OS models.

 

[Uncle Emmitt]

thanks couch,

gonna check it out

 

[rlau]

how to mitigate the power of this racquet?

the way to control power is with spin.

In terms of string tension and type of strings, what would be advisable to mitigate the power level of this stick?

I suppose a higher tension (26-27 kg) and a topspin enhancing string on mains combined with a soft multifilament string on crosses? If so/not, any suggestions or recommendations.

I have just ordered the PB8 in Germany today and intend to string it myself (I still have to buy a stringing machine though).

 

[NoBadMojo]

In terms of string tension and type of strings, what would be advisable to mitigate the power level of this stick?

I suppose a higher tension (26-27 kg) and a topspin enhancing string on mains combined with a soft multifilament string on crosses? If so/not, any suggestions or recommendations.

I have just ordered the PB8 in Germany today and intend to string it myself (I still have to buy a stringing machine though).

Spin comes <in very large part> from high batspeed and good technique and clean ball striking....cant buy that anywhere...gotta earn that.

Strings could contribute a little. Wouldnt suggest a soft multi anywhere in the setup..those tend to be jumpy.

you may want to try something like isoSpeed Control Classic <not the new one> if you wish to tame the power.

Not implying anything about you, but it seems to me that lots of people around here declare racquets as too powerful, when the reality is they dont know how to use them (create spin for control). Creating spin is <by far> the #1 thing my lessons ask me to help them with

 

[rlau]

Hi NBM,

Not implying anything about you, but it seems to me that lots of people around here declare racquets as too powerful, when the reality is they dont know how to use them (create spin for control). Creating spin is <by far> the #1 thing my lessons ask me to help them with

Thanks, I tend to play with plenty of spin already, so that shouldn't be too much of a prolem. I have bought the racquet unstrung, which is why I asked for some advice regarding tension and strings.

 

[NoBadMojo]

Hi NBM,



Thanks, I tend to play with plenty of spin already, so that shouldn't be too much of a prolem. I have bought the racquet unstrung, which is why I asked for some advice regarding tension and strings.

gotcha...i tend to take the opposite approach tending to play lower powered frames and amping up the power level to the right place by using a more powerful string setup. this has sted me well over the years as i've never had any serious issues in my upper body.

 

[rlau]

i tend to take the opposite approach tending to play lower powered frames and amping up the power level to the right place by using a more powerful string setup.

So you opt for lower tensions and harder strings? Poly's?

 

[Uncle Emmitt]

rlau,

can you compare pb 8 with dnx 8 or PDR

 

[rlau]

Hi Uncle Emmitt,

rlau,

can you compare pb 8 with dnx 8 or PDR

No, sorry, I never played with one of those frames. And I have not yet received my PB8 either, since I ordered it only yesterday (and still have to decide on getting a stringing machine).

Actually, I was waiting for a comparative review from your side

 

[Seacoast Stringer]

gotcha...i tend to take the opposite approach tending to play lower powered frames and amping up the power level to the right place by using a more powerful string setup. this has sted me well over the years as i've never had any serious issues in my upper body.

That's good advice for long term arm health IMO..^^^^^^

 

[NoBadMojo]

So you opt for lower tensions and harder strings? Poly's?

no...using mid tension w. a powerful setup in a low powered racquet..see my signature pls.

That's good advice for long term arm health IMO..^^^^^^

thanks...i hope this precludes some people from having problems down the road

 

[Uncle Emmitt]

rlau,

I liked dnx 8 but would add a little lead and am hitting w/ aerogel 500 tour this weekend.

I hit w/ bb pro too and even leaded up some felt light to me but demos always are strung looser than I play w/ and a softer string than I play w/ so its hard to compare.

For teaching I like to use a multi softer string but for playing I like lux or PHT with a softer cross.

Reasons :

1. strings don't break near as often, crosses always break before mains even if it's an 18 gage. Otherwise they always break within a week or a few days.

2. they don't move around much at all. W/ that string pattern 16 x 18 the strings to me move crazily if it's a multi. I hit with lots of topspin though.

3. def get more spin and as NBMJ puts it , the ball has an uncanny knack for staying in, or dropping in.

4 if you have any arm probs stick to a softer string but if not ( and you're willing to workout at the gym ) I would try a softer co poly like PHT or someting similar 16 or 17 gage and a softer string on the crosses like xcel or nxt. I'm using ultimate duo on my PDR and it feels really good.


If you strengthen shoulders and arms it really helps you from getting probs from poly unless you have arm probs already.

 

[Shangri La]

NBMJ, do you hit with 1hbh? just wanted to understand your comments better on more hl frames suit backhand and volley better. thanks

 

[NoBadMojo]

NBMJ, do you hit with 1hbh? just wanted to understand your comments better on more hl frames suit backhand and volley better. thanks

yep..i'm a one.

 

[rlau]

PB8 vs T8

Hi NBMJ,

yes, the PB8 has more power than the becker pro and is the best 8 series since the Tour8 although it it is a diff type of racquet than the T8. I'll post more on this later

I could obtain an unused T8 relatively cheap, so I would be interested in a comparison between the T8 and the PB8 (and possible also the DNX 9, which I currently play with).

TIA,

rlau

 

[couch]

Hi NBMJ,



I could obtain an unused T8 relatively cheap, so I would be interested in a comparison between the T8 and the PB8 (and possible also the DNX 9, which I currently play with).

TIA,

rlau

You just can't beat the good ol' Tour 8. I've been playing with it since it came out a few years back. As NBMJ stated it's a little different animal than all the Pure Drive type racquets. It's from a completely different mold since it's an extended length racquet (27.6") and is straight-beamed.

The Tour 8 is great for two-handed backhands with the extra length and is great for serves. I tend to think it's more of a baseliner's racquet that offers great spin off both sides especially when strung with a poly or poly hybrid. I think you will definitely have to control the power with poly and topspin. I don't think they are quite as powerful as the PD's and I personally think the Tour 8s have a more solid feel than a lot of the newer PD clones without being harsh on the arm. Actually, when the Tour 8 is struck cleanly, to me anyways, there's not another racquet that feels quite as good. There are still a good number of guys I play with that play with the Tour 8 still.

Anyway, just my take on the racquet. If you can get one at a good price I would jump on it.

 

[rlau]

Hi Couch,

You just can't beat the good ol' Tour 8.<snip>

Thanks for sharing your view on the T8. So you have demoed the PB8 and stuck with the T8?

What would you consider to be the main differences between the PB8 and T8 in terms of playing characteristics? Which racquet is better at what?

 

[couch]

Hi Couch,



Thanks for sharing your view on the T8. So you have demoed the PB8 and stuck with the T8?

What would you consider to be the main differences between the PB8 and T8 in terms of playing characteristics? Which racquet is better at what?

Yes, I have stuck with my Tour 8 after hitting with the PB8. I've been hitting the Tour 8s since they came out and really haven't been able to change since I've become so accustomed to them. I really think the T8s are the perfect stick for me and my game. I have about 10 of them so I probably won't switch anytime soon.

I think the main advantage the T8s have is the extra length for 2hbh and serves. The extra length gives me more reach and leverage on the 2hbh which I like a lot. I also love the straight-beam of the tour 8s. I grew up playing with POGs and just seem to like a straight-beam type racquet.

Of all the new "8" versions lately I liked the PB8 the best though. Seemed to have a more solid feel than the DNX8 and just the overall "swing" of the PB8 felt better to me than the Becker Pro.

Hope that helps a little. I really don't spend a lot of time demoing. I tend to get the new sticks from my shop and hit them a few times and just stick with my Tour 8s. But like I said, if you can get a Tour 8 for a great price I would jump on it. The only bad thing is they are hard to find and if you like it as much as me you might be in trouble. ;-) There was a used one on the bay the other day that was up to $66 with two days left so they are going for a decent amount when they are showing up on the bay. Anyway, good luck on your search.

 

[NoBadMojo]

Hi NBMJ,



I could obtain an unused T8 relatively cheap, so I would be interested in a comparison between the T8 and the PB8 (and possible also the DNX 9, which I currently play with).

TIA,

rlau

Unless you absolutely cant find anything in the current crop of racquets or must have extended length, as nice as the T8 plays, I always like to recommend people buy something current. Racquets fatigue over time, hard to find replacements, etc, and there are many many current nice offerings out there these days

I spent a few months w. the dnx9 and would still be using it because the specs are perfect for me and the things performed great on all the shots <i'm an all courter>, but I never did completely warm to the ball feel..it's a very solid racquet and feels solid, but not quite right <for me>

Couches explanation of the T8 is on the money. People seem to get addicted to the T8 and never leave...It leans more towards a baseliner and a two fister and serves lights out.

 

[rlau]

Hi NBMJ,

Racquets fatigue over time.

Wat exactly do you mean by that? Do imply that they detiorate over time? Are you referring to used (second-hand) racquets or unused racquets as well?

I could obtain an unused T8, and I am thinking of getting that as a replacement for my Yonex RDS002, which is currently my spare racquet. But maybe I should just wait until I get my PB8 and see how that works out.

 

[NoBadMojo]

Hi NBMJ,



Wat exactly do you mean by that? Do imply that they detiorate over time? Are you referring to used (second-hand) racquets or unused racquets as well?

I could obtain an unused T8, and I am thinking of getting that as a replacement for my Yonex RDS002, which is currently my spare racquet. But maybe I should just wait until I get my PB8 and see how that works out.

sure..they wear out especially if restrung frequently...they become dead, dull and vague feeling, and flex more. especially those older 'classic' racquets. seems as though many people dont notice the decreased performance. the newer <well made ones> are far less subject to fatigue, but still do fatigue in time

 

[couch]

Hi NBMJ,



Wat exactly do you mean by that? Do imply that they detiorate over time? Are you referring to used (second-hand) racquets or unused racquets as well?

I could obtain an unused T8, and I am thinking of getting that as a replacement for my Yonex RDS002, which is currently my spare racquet. But maybe I should just wait until I get my PB8 and see how that works out.

Not to speak for Mojo but when racquets are used the materials will break down over time and the racquet will lose some of it's original playing characteristics. Older racquets will be less stiff and less powerful than when they were new. The harder you hit, the tighter you string, if you string often, all will affect the life of a racquet. If the T8 you are looking at is brand new then it shouldn't be a problem. The problem lies when you try to find another T8 and it's used. The two T8s may play a little differently.

As far as getting the T8, I guess it depends on what you're looking for and how much $$ you have. If $$ isn't an issue then get the T8 just knowing that you might like it and have trouble getting others. They do show up on the bay but are becoming more and more scarce. That's why I've stocked up over the last few years. And take into consideration the PB8 and the T8 are different animals. They are in the same class (what I'd call players' tweeners) but play differently.

Good luck. I don't think you can go wrong though with either or both racquets.

 

[HappyLefty]

Compare PowerBridge 8 with C10 please,

NBM, could you please compare these two racquets in terms of comfort, power and spin potential?

Thanks for your kindness!

 

[rlau]

Hi Couch,

<snip>
Good luck. I don't think you can go wrong though with either or both racquets.

Thanks for the additional information.

Best regards,

rlau

 

[rlau]

Quick update:

Looks like I will be getting my PB8 by the end of the week.... Looking forward to finally holding it in my hands and trying it out......

Also, I got my Tour 8 last week and will be stringing it probably Saturday.

 

[NoBadMojo]

NBM, could you please compare these two racquets in terms of comfort, power and spin potential?

Thanks for your kindness!

boy those are two really different types of racquets. c10 more comfortable, PB8 lots more power, both are very good at spin..the PB8 spins more from the more open pattern and slightly larger head and the c10 pro from being lots more headlight.

 

[couch]

Quick update:

Looks like I will be getting my PB8 by the end of the week.... Looking forward to finally holding it in my hands and trying it out......

Also, I got my Tour 8 last week and will be stringing it probably Saturday.

Man, you're playing with fire stringing up that Tour 8. You're gonna love it and wish you could find more of them. I think the PB8 is a great alternative though so you really can't go wrong. Have fun and keep us posted on what you think.

 

[Shangri La]

Can anyone compare the comfort level and maneuverability of the PB8 and B Pro?

I had a brief hit with the PB8 and it felt stiff and boardy - the string was NXT 16 (at 57lb I believe). The Becker Pro (strung differently) on the other hand was nice and comfortable. For reference I've hit with PD/K95/etc and didnt find them to be overly stiff at all. The only reason I can think of is the string/tension but NXT 16 @57 doesnt sound to be too much.

Besides, the PB8 swung pretty cumbersome whereas the Becker Pro swung smoother, granted the PB8 was about 1.5pts less HL but I never have maneuverability issues with other similarly weighted and balanced frames. I really expected a lot from the PB8 but the hit certainly wasnt the best. That said, the PB8 did hit a more solid ball and had more feel to it than the BPro and that to me is a big big plus.

 

[rlau]

Man, you're playing with fire stringing up that Tour 8. You're gonna love it and wish you could find more of them. I think the PB8 is a great alternative though so you really can't go wrong. Have fun and keep us posted on what you think.

Will do, thanks.

 

[rlau]

I flunked the backhand test w. this racquet. The sliced backhand just didnt do much and i dont like non headlight racquets for hitting over the backhand or volleying....dont think i am alone here. if I were to use this frame I would wrap a bunch of lead around the grip cuff collar

I have hit with this frame for a couple of hours now. I am also having some trouble hitting a consistent topspin backhand, and slice was not great either.

Do you think putting two small lead strips at the top of the handle would help? Is that what you mean with grip cuff collar? English is not my native language, so excuse me for asking.

 

[NoBadMojo]

I have hit with this frame for a couple of hours now. I am also having some trouble hitting a consistent topspin backhand, and slice was not great either.

Do you think putting two small lead strips at the top of the handle would help? Is that what you mean with grip cuff collar? English is not my native language, so excuse me for asking.

thats a good and easy thing to try. yes, top of the handle underneath the rubber band. put enough lead to get the swingweight and balance you like...hopefully you'll be able to get both right for you.

 

[jrb6060]

Volkl Power Bridge 8

I was thinking about trying a PB8 demo and stumbled upon this 2-months idle thread looking for reviews. Perhaps I can resurrect it? I'm 46, 6'2" 220, and have won 85% of my matches playing 4.5 doubles for the last 5 years... and am just starting to hit again after disc replacement surgery (ACDF C6/7) in October '08.

Racket history:
1985-99: Kennex Graphite Destiny
1999-2002: Babolat Pure Drive
2002-current: Volkl Tour 8
I've strung my own rackets (Ektelon Model H) for 30+ years and currently use 18g Gamma Synthetic at 60lbs, but have been experimenting for the last year with Luxilon ALU Power Rough (16g) and Timo (17g). The Lux hits great the first 2 or 3 times, but stretches to the point where the 2nd serve and big forehands become harder to control. The Gamma 18g breaks every 4-5 hours of court time, but frequent re-stringing is not a bother, and it costs just $4/set. The Luxilon gives me 12-15 hours of court time, but I usually end up cutting it out before breaking due to tension loss. The thinner 18g synthetic allows extra bite, especially when going aggressively after kick 2nd serves and mid-court balls where you need to get it up and down quickly. It breaks long before tension loss becomes an issue. I'm re-stringing about 30 times per year (four Volkl Tour 8s).

For 15 years, the KGD served me well (pun intended). Had 6 of them at one time, but eventually they disappeared, so I had to look elsewhere. The specs and newness of the Babolat Pure Drive looked perfect, so I decided to take a chance. Moya was the only big-time pro using the BPD at that time, and they were not even sold in the US yet, but a teaching pro/friend in Switzerland (who coached and traveled with Courier pre-Higueras) mailed 2 of them to me for a very good price. The BPD hit great and was lighter than the KGD. Winners felt possible from even the most defensive positions. Eventually, though, I realized that the BPD had a bit too much power for my game, so went looking again and settled on the Volkl Tour 8 based solely on the specs ... similar to the BPD but with a thinner beam. The Tour 8 has been perfect for 6 years, but as Mojo noted, they eventually weaken and lose a bit of punch, especially after dozens of re-stringings each.

The specs on the PB8 look like a good fit considering my love of the Tour 8, which has become nearly impossible to find new. Occasionally, a used one pops up on ****, but that process is time consuming, and you never know what you're getting with a used frame. If I get around to trying the PB8, I'll post a review. And if anyone out there knows of any low-mileage or new Tour 8s for sale, please let me know

 

[Peter Szucs]

I have had a chance to demo the PB8 for an extensive hit yesterday and i have to say that i really recommend this racquet.
I think Volkl created a frame that adds more from everything than its competitors of the 'Pure Drive type' of racquet category.. ie PD, AG500, Head Extreme etc. Its a solid, very stable, smooth feeling racquet that gives you all the power you would ever need in a controlable and arm friendly package (most comfortable stiff raquet i ever tried)