Quick question about the new grommet situation with the most recent rackets from Yonex. With the new grommet layout (ie more gromets, not so many shared ones) on all of the new rackets, what is the main purpose of this. Is it 1) to get more power 2) to hold tenion better/allow a higher tension string 3) to make it easier to string 4) reduce racket damage If someone could shed some light, or point me in the direction of where this has been discussed before, that would be appreciated. Thanks.
FYI, 1) yes, but not too much. it allow the string move easier near the top of the frame. give you minor increase in transfer of power. 2) yes/no. yes, it helps to hold tension better. no because more holes, frame is weaker -> not as durable under high tension. 3) a big yes. less share holes makes much easier to string. also 1 less cross to deal with. 4) see #2. racquet is weaker because of more hole (in theory and saw issue with AT800s and early ns8000 and ns7000.
To expand upon Steven's summary, the new grommet system addressed the issue of frames snapping at 2 and 10 o'clock which seemed to be the most common location for damage. The new system avoids having five consecutive shared holes in that region; there are now only two shared holes seperated by a single-pass hole. As for stringing... yes, it's MILES easier.
