Strings break at top of Prince O3 Speedport Black

50_fortylove · 2012-05-15, 18:52

Hi,
I've noticed that after stringing these racquets, the strings have a tendency to fray and break near the top of the frame because there is no protection from scraping the frame against the court, etc (which scraps the strings too).

What is the best protection against this? Besides, using headguard tape, is there a preferred method. Do the string inserts that they sell protect against this? Using plastic tubing?

Thanks.

GLM_PHILLY · 2012-05-16, 05:53

I use a little tape to protect the area at 1 and 11 . With multis I also tube at the top if players are hitting shots high.

stringwalla · 2012-05-25, 00:01

Just another example of poor Prince engineering. I had this complaint in my shop this week for that frame. We replaced the bumper to temporarily appease the customer.

I've seen the pros ask for tubing at the top. It's a pain to get it perfectly even all the way across (aesthetically pleasing, but not necessary for protection)

GLM_PHILLY · 2012-05-25, 18:40

I feel that the ports at 12 and 6 do not effect the play and feel as the 3 to 9 axis does. I only recommend the hybrid with ports along the 3 to 9.
I have used this tech since it was release, and while there are points I don't like with the design of the bumper from 10 to 2 o'clock, I know players wit"modern" strokes do seem to hit high in the string face and break early. I don't have trouble with the Prince players over the beauty of the tubing. Generally they are just happy to have the problem addressed.
Perhaps the new owners will refine the upper hoop. One can hope.