Posted by Welcome to my review of the newest Head Radical Pro, I have also reviewed the MP version of the Radical if you want to check that out (press here). The Radical line is made for the all-court-player and is therefore the most versatile and all-round frame in Head’s line-up. By all-around I mean that many different type of players will enjoy this racquet and can use it in different and in equal efficient ways. The previous Radical models have been the same except for weight and balance but this model has changed with a different beam layup. Let’s look at the specs so you know what I mean.
Specifications:
- Head size: 98 in² or 632 cm²
- Length: 27 inches or 68.5 cm
- Weight unstrung: 315 g or 11.1 oz
- Weight strung: 332 g or 11.7 oz
- Balance: 315 mm/9 pts HL
- Swingweight (strung): 330
- String Pattern: 16/19
- Beam Width: 20/21.5/21 mm
- Stiffness: 65 RA
- Power level: Low (CPI 200)
- Strings: Head Hawk 1.20mm at 53lbs or 24kg
As you can see the beam has changed and have gotten a bit thinner, the middle part of the racquets is now 21.5 mm instead of 23 mm which the MP still has. The general effects of these changes are an increased amount of control and improved feel. The power level is also listed at 200 CPI (Control Power Index) which is comparable to the Prestige MP (200 CPI) and Gravity Pro (200 CPI). It is definitely a controlled frame that demands a lot from the user but it is still a modern spin friendly racquet and not like the Prestige or Gravity. Compared to the MP it is more controlled and more demanding.
I felt while playing that it was bit too heavy or too slow for me, I could generate good power and spin but when time was limited I didn’t get enough maneuverability. This made it feel slow and somehow made me feel slower on court overall. The good thing about this was the incredible stability provided on contact and the follow through after contact. When moving your feet correctly and when you made time for yourself to hit the ball cleanly the stringbed feels very predictable and solid.
So this racquet will be for a versatile player who likes to grind at the baseline but also comes forward to finish of the point with some extra touch. Primarly for a more advanced player who can handle the weight and swingweight with correct technique. The static weight won’t be a problem for a lot but the swingweight can create more trouble, that was the case for me. If i forgot to mention something or if you have any questions make sure to ask me in the comments and I will answer you as fast as possible.
That would be all for this review, don’t forget to watch the video review that includes some live gameplay and to check out my Instagram and YouTube channel! Have a great day, bye!
Tennisrally 