Dunlop’s latest Biomimetic 4.0 line is chuck-full of playable features, and it includes 3 different racquets: the F4.0 Tour, the M4.0 and the S4.0 Lite. We’ll be doing a review on each of these, and today we’re starting off with the lighter frame, the M4.0.
Design and Frame
The M4.0 is similar to the F4.0 Tour in looks, but vastly different in design and play-ability. The racket is made from a combination of premium graphite and Biofibre, which is stronger than steel and lighter than carbon, which results in a cleaner, more solid hit. The M4.0 has an open 16×19 string pattern and an enlarged sweet spot guaranteed by the TruOval shape that makes it more forgiving as well as provides extra power and more access to spin. The frame itself is extremely responsive, powerful and maneuverable. Having said that, you do lose a little stability and control with the M4.0.
Groundstrokes
The M4.0 weighs in at around 10.8 ounces strung and has 100-sq inch head, making the sweet spot generous. This lends itself to a lot of power, especially those with compact swings. If you’re the sort of player that takes a big cut at the ball, the M4.0 may be a bit cumbersome.
The M4.0 is well balanced, meaning that the distribution of mass feels good, both at the head and at the base (grip). Again, this makes it a nice option for fast-swing players because the head of the racquet is coming around quickly, providing a good, quick strike at the ball.
Top-spin is key with this racquet. It gives you a lot! That’s because of the aforementioned design. Additionally, because of the M4.0’s light weight, along with the ability to swing swiftly, this gives the racquet good whip on the the stroke and on the ball.
Serves
Serving with the 4.0 is a treat. You can accelerate the racquet with ease, which is nice for aggressive shot-makers. Flat serves come very intuitively, while we found a slice serve out wide didn’t give us quite the cut we wanted. Still though, this racquet whips explosively through the strike zone, which definitely helps when more power is needed.
At the Net
At net, the M4.0 is quite maneuverable and comes around fast enough to punch the ball with authority. It also gives you some extra power and pop with the volley, with less give and more commanding return power.
Bottom Line
The M4.0 has a light, static weight, which leaves room for players to adjust the racquet at the head or handle with some lead tape. And, the softer response of the M4.0 will allow players to choose less powerful string set-ups without risking too much discomfort. With its lively and somewhat-spin-friendly response, the M4.0 is a great option for intermediate players looking for a user-friendly stick with a fast swing.
The M4.0 retails for around $179
Check out the video review from our friends at Tennis Warehouse…
http://youtu.be/1Nka2oWaJdo
