pure control tour plus

Groundstrokes The Babolat Pure Control Tour deviates from the Pure Storm series in both name and performance. The addition of Flex Carbon produces a frame that plays with a comfortable level of flex without sacrificing power. Strung with a poly/syn gut hybrid at 57lbs, I found the Pure Control Tour to be very undemanding and super easy to play with, despite its almost 12 ounces (strung) static weight. From the first stroke, I had access to good amounts of power and spin. In fact, the Pure Control Tour is one of the more powerful racquets I’ve used in the “Player’s Racquet” category. Though I occasionally overhit the ball, I was able to relax and slow down my swing speed a couple of degrees without sacrificing much power. There is a decent amount of mass concentrated at the top of the hoop, but not so much that it decreases swing speed, or makes the head come through the ball too quickly. My only knock was that the size of the beam felt a little thick, and not a scalpel-like through the air, but I like the fact that it features a box beam design throughout the entire frame.

Volleys At the net, the Pure Control Tour offered plenty of stick to get the job done. I didn’t struggle with stability issues, thanks to the high static weight, and the stringbed had plenty of pop to put the ball away. The frame was comfortable without being mushy, and offered a nice connected feeling. While it isn’t as maneuverable as many lighter frames, I had no problem getting the racquet into position while under the pressure of a well-struck drive. Controlling the ball on touch shots was effortless. Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4

Serves Like on groundstrokes, the Pure Control Tour provides access to both spin and power on the serve. My favorite serve with the frame was the slice out wide on the deuce court (I’m a righty). The ball moved with good speed while sliding away from the returner and off the court. The slice up the T on the ad side also worked well, but it was not as easy to place as on the deuce court. Kick and flat serves were only slightly better than average, which surprised me based on how much spin and power I had gotten on other shots. I was expecting a more aggressive bounce on kickers, and a bit more power and precision on flats. Despite serving fairly well with the racquet, it felt a little clunky through the air, and more like a 100 square-inch than a 98 square-inch. Perhaps I just needed a little more time to adjust to the frame, but I was hoping for a little more.

Overall The Babolat Pure Control Tour is one of the easiest to play with “player’s racquets” on the market. For me, it walks the line between “player’s frame” and “tweener.” The listed 63 RA provides the right amount stability without being too stiff or flexy, and the sweetspot is forgiving. The 16x20 string pattern provides plenty of spin potential, and/or power (depending on the string set-up). If I were to switch to a Babolat frame, this would be the one. The frame is best suited for strong intermediate to advanced players.

About the Reviewer: Mitch Case is the PTR-certified Director of Tennis at Woodridge Lake in Connecticut. He is also a USRSA certified master technician.

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Babolat Pure Control Tour Racket Review

• Maneuverable
• Spin friendly
• On the light side

The Babolat Pure Control Tour lives up to its name, providing exceptional control with above average maneuverability and feel. Our playtesters found themselves in total command of their shots from all areas of the court. Little effort was needed to generate racket head speed, leading to lots of pace and spin. There were mixed feelings amongst our playtesters regarding where the Pure Control Tour performed the best, but they all agreed that it performed very, very well. Players looking for a control-oriented racket that's easy to swing will appreciate the precision and feel of the Pure Control Tour.

Overall - Score : 85/100

Groundstrokes - score: 84/100.

Our playtesters really enjoyed the Pure Control Tour from the baseline, particularly its level of precision and maneuverability. By offering lots of control this racket is inherently low on power. Most testers noted it was harder to produce a heavier ball on groundstrokes. Overall, they all enjoyed the excellent maneuverability, great control and nice crisp feel.

Volleys - Score: 84/100

The team found plenty of feel and control on their volleys with the Pure Control Tour. The plush feel offered comfort without leaving them feeling disconnected from the ball. While some of the players were impressed by how stable the Pure Control felt considering its swingweight, others wanted a little more weight to make it easier to hit penetrating, deep volleys.

Serves - Score: 81/100

The low swingweight and exceptional feel of the Pure Control Tour allowed most of our playtesters to serve really well. The low swingweight made it easy to attack the ball with pace and spin. Stronger serves will find ample room to add weight to the racquet so they can hit a heavier ball. Apart from the lightweight there were no complaints and our players enjoyed what this Babolat offered.

Serve Returns – Score: 81/100

There were mixed results for the team when it came to returning serve with the Pure Control Tour. Some playtesters really got dialed in, while others wished for a bit more heft for more stability and easier access to depth. Two testers felt this Babolat needed more power and thought a hybrid string would be the best match for this racket. The other two testers enjoyed the controlled response as it allowed them to swing aggressively and go after their shots.

Chris - "A fantastic racket! I loved the spin, control, feel and maneuverability. The balance felt great, and I loved how I could accelerate the racket through the ball for maximum pace and spin."

Mark - "I love the grip shape, along with just about every other aspect of this particular racket. The feel of it is deserving of the name. I was generating some excellent pace as long as I wasn't exhausted from too much play."

Troy - "Pure Control is a very fitting name, since I felt in command of the ball at all times. There was good stability during heavy exchanges. I like the feel of this racket more than the previous Pure Storm Tour."

Andy - "It has a nice crisp feel, it's maneuverable and surprising stable for its swingweight. I found excellent control and responsiveness as well, which kept me connected to the ball."

Chris - "None. This racket felt great, and I played very well with it in stock form. I could add some weight since I like heavy rackets, but there is really nothing wrong with this racket for me."

Mark - "We tested this racket with a polyester string. I would go to a poly mains / multifilament cross hybrid setup to incrementally add a bit of power to my swing."

Troy - "Not much, besides a slight lack of plow through. I would add lead tape to the hoop and then put on a leather grip. If I could get the swingweight to about 325 then this could definitely be a go-to racket for me."

Andy - "A little more weight would add enough power and stability to make it a super solid offering."

Comparing it to other racquets they've used, our testers said:

Chris : "This is my favorite Babolat racket ever. I loved the control and feel I found with it from all areas of the court. The head light feel and low swingweight was reminiscent of the Head YOUTEK IG Prestige Midplus. The old Dunlop Biomimetic 200 Plus offered similar access to spin on serves but not nearly as much feel and control as this racket. It has more touch and feel than previous Pure Storms and the old Pure Controls that preceded them. The previous offerings had me feeling a little disconnected from the ball (Pure Storm Ltd excepted), but this one offered a sublime connection."

Mark : "I can favorably compare the newer Pure Control Tour to frames like the Head Graphene Speed Pro, the Donnay Pro One 97, the Wilson BLX Blade 98 (18x20) the Prince Response 97 and the Yonex VCORE 97 (310g)"

Troy : "There are some definite similarities with its predecessor, the Pure Storm Tour, when comparing control and spin. I found the feel of this Pure Control Tour to be a little crisper, and I felt more connected to the ball than I did with the previous Pure Storm Tour, although the Pure Storm Tour had a bit more power and plow through, and a more muted feel. I found similarities with rackets like the Dunlop Biomimetic Max 200G, the Yonex VCORE Tour 97 (310g) and the Volkl Organix 10 (325). All of these had great control, feel and stability but were lacking some plow through. I am very swingweight-sensitive, and all these rackets have near identical swingweights."

Andy : "This racket is in the same weight class as the Head Graphene Prestige Pro, the Dunlop F3.0 Tour and the Babolat Pure Strike Tour. They are all modern-feeling control-oriented sticks with an emphasis on maneuverability. With a little more weight I could definitely get totally dialed in with the Pure Control Tour. Impressive playtest!"

Playtester Profiles:

Chris : 5.0 all-court player currently using the Wilson Six.One 95S. Chris uses a full-western forehand grip, has a fast swing style and hits a one-handed backhand.

Mark : 5.0 lefty all-court player with a one-handed backhand. He currently plays with the Wilson Steam 99S.

Troy : 5.0 lefty all-court player with a full Western Forehand and a two-handed backhand. Troy currently plays with a Wilson BLX Six.One 95.

Andy : Open level all court player with a semi-western forehand grip and a two handed backhand. Andy currently using a Wilson Blade 98 18x20.

Review date: January 2014. If you found this review interesting or have further questions or comments please contact us: [email protected] .

All content copyright 2014 Tennis Warehouse Europe.

Babolat Pure Control Tour Plus GT Tennis Racket

String upgrade options, mains string, crosses string, stencil upgrade.

Have your racket painted with one of our custom stencils. Choose 'No Thanks' to have the default manufacturers logo.

Only an extra half inch, for more spin and power.

As used on tour by Santiago Giraldo.

Pure Control Tour Plus GT is half an inch longer than the standard version but allows players to drive the ball harder, with more spin. Designed for players who like to take the ball on the rise, it allows players to control the ball more through greater flexibility.

Babolat Pure Control series fuses traditional elements with GT and Woofer technology to offer a unique solution of control and power for aggressive strikers of the ball. It features a traditional box frame favoured for control and precision. Furthermore, the frame is made from FlexCarbon , which uses lower density of carbon fibre for a flexible frame that delivers precision akin to old classic frames.

The shaft features Graphite Tungsten weave that provides enhanced feel and power. This next-generation material is also provides greater stiffness required for rackets to remain stable against power and speed of modern tennis game. Woofer technology in the frame meanwhile allows energy to travel more freely along the strings, which would otherwise be lost into the grommets, resulting in power level similar to larger head-size.

Specification

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Suitable for advanced/intermediate looking for plenty of power and spin. The slightly thicker beams (22mm to 24mm) and regular range of weights give the perfect mixture of power & control.

Thin beamed, heavier rackets for advanced players with good technique and power looking for more control from their racket.

These rackets are perfect for the budget conscious player, or players who do not play regularly, but need a racket for some occasional family games or holiday play. Suitable for beginners and Intermediate players alike.

Suitable for regular club players or improvers alike, these rackets suit players starting to play regular competitive or friendly tennis. Lighter weight.

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Babolat Pure Drive Tour Plus (+) Review

The Babolat Pure Drive Tour Plus is one of the most powerful rackets in the world.

Famously wielded by monster hitter, Andy Roddick, the extended length racket packs a brutal punch and delivers an unbelievably heavy ball.

Babolat’s 2018 update for the Pure Drive Tour Plus includes FSI Power Technology; boasting diamond shape grommet holes and wider string spacing.

This produces enhanced depth to push your opponent back due to a slightly higher launch angle off the string bed.

Babolat have also utilised a secret viscoelastic rubber, used in the space industry, to update their Cortex Dampening System.

The result is exceptional comfort and low levels of vibration for a stiff frame.

Weighing in at 315g with an extended length (extra half inch) handle, this racket feels like a real weapon in your hands. If there was a “Thor’s hammer” in the tennis world, then this would be it.

Tom took this one for a test drive! Let’s see what he thought…

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Groundstrokes

8 out of 10

Hitting a groundstroke with this racket made me feel I had been caught up in some mini explosion!

I was absolutely crushing my forehand and was able to generate a seriously heavy ball, bullying my opponent around the court and pressing them back with ease.

I say mini explosion, as the sound this racket produces when you connect with a good shot is truly spectacular! It really sounds like a gunshot!

On my backhand side, the  Pure Drive Tour Plus  was also a joy. I found the extended length of the racket gave me a welcome extra power boost and enhanced the stability through the stroke.

This was particularly noticeable on my return of serve.

Hitting the high backhand off a biting, kick serve can often prove to be a tricky shot for players at all levels.

However, I was delighted to discover that I could now get over these balls; the massive plow-through of the racket launching them back in devastating fashion.

On my forehand return, I found myself really teeing off…lol. I was having fun with novelty of the Pure Drive Plus’s exceptional power and was keen to see how hard I could hit the ball!

I was definitely trying to hit the ball too hard – but hey!

The great news is that you only need to swing 60-70% of your max to find more than enough power with this racket.

You’ll also be rewarded with a truly stable contact and the ability to plow through the ball without really trying.

It was certainly an ego-boosting experience to see my opponent running all over the court, breathless, while I simply redirected his power and wasn’t really trying!

These things wouldn’t have been possible to reproduce to the same extent with a more control orientated racket like the Head Radical.

You may have seen other reviews online talk about the Pure Drive Tour Plus’s manoeuvrability issues.

I prefer not to call them issues, as that implies something negative, but instead differences.

I must admit, it did take a little while to get used to the added handle length, as it slightly changes your contact point. I found this took around 5-10 minutes before I started to feel quite comfortable.

At 5 feet 9 inches tall (just…) I’m not very tall for a tennis player, so the extra length was very welcome indeed!

I noticed I was able to reach and send balls back into play that I was not able to with my conventional sized Wilson racket.

I should also point out that pretty much all the pros under 6 feet tall are using an extended length racket.

It’s a little bit of a taboo and I don’t know why, as the manufacturers could use these stats to help sell more rackets like this.

When researching this topic, we found the extended length users on the ATP Tour included…

David Ferrer, Diego Schwartzman, Leighton Hewitt, David Nalbandian, Kei Nishikori, Michael Chang, just to name a few. On the WTA tour, Dominika Cibulkova and Serena Williams.

Why do they need to? I hear you ask.

The extra leverage increases power, reach and also gives a greater margin for error on the serve due to a higher contact point.

During my playtest, I did notice that if I got lazy in my footwork, I would sometimes get caught out of position and the ball would launch.

You really have to be disciplined in your movement with the Pure Drive Tour Plus. The power of the racket is immense, but you also need the ability to control it.

For such a powerful racket, the Babolat Pure Drive Tour Plus offered reasonable control.

However, I sometimes missed the pinpoint precision of my Wilson RF 97.

With practice, I might be able to achieve this, but during the playtest I found it more difficult to hit my targets, even if the shots packed some serious mph!

I wish there was a racket that had all the power of this racket combined with all the control of my RF 97…

Unfortunately, this hasn’t been invented yet… and probably never will be!

9 out of 10

The serve was my favourite shot to hit with the  Pure Drive Tour Plus . The power really is phenomenal…

Similarly to the groundstrokes, it took several minutes to get used to the new timing challenges that the racket’s extra leverage brought.

Pronating with this racket felt a little strange to start with, but once I was dialled in, I felt like a living weapon standing behind the baseline!

On my flat serve, I was tapping into some monster mph.

It was a hot day, further enhancing the power, and the balls were really moving.

I wish we had our speed radar with us as I would have quite liked to clock the average speed of my first serves compared to my usual racket.

Normally I can get up to about 125 mph – but that is pretty much full throttle for me. I can serve the numbers someone like David Ferrer can, but am by no means as accurate.

With the Babolat Pure Drive Tour Plus, I felt I could find the 120 mph mark more consistently.

Additionally, these bigger serves were actually going in more often than normal too!

On my topspin serves, the ball was kicking like a buckaroo!

I was able to get massive topspin and sidespin and get the ball moving far outside of the court’s parameters.

I also found these serves to have a really aggressive kind of topspin that I hadn’t experienced before.

They really did bite into the court’s surface and shoot up with a massive amount of RPMs. I found a real joy in this – equal to that of hitting a booming flat serve.

As you know, this is supposed to be a balanced argument, but I really have nothing negative to say about this racket on the serve.

Big serving legend, Andy Roddick, played his whole career with this racket and the racket perfectly complemented his game. I can certainly see why he liked the Babolat Pure Drive Tour Plus.

5 out of 10

Before I even hit my first volley with the  Babolat Pure Drive Tour Plus , I could tell that this area probably wasn’t its “forte”.

However, I was pleasantly surprised as I found wonderful stability through impact.

I didn’t find amazing control, but then it wouldn’t be fair to expect that from a racket that is built primarily for power.

Since power and control are polar opposites, we’ll probably never have a racket that can perform both to their maximum effect!

Unless we find a way to re-invent the laws of physics… any takers do drop us an email!

On the overhead, this racket was superb, however.

Once I got the chance to take the ball out of the air in this way, it never came back. Hardly surprising considering the rating I gave it for the serve!

7 out of 10

This was a fascinating play test and a truly unique hitting experience.

It had such a profound effect on me to the extent that I am reconsidering changing my own racket.

As a shorter tennis player, an extended length racket like the Babolat Pure Drive Tour Plus could help increase my first serve % due to the higher contact point.

I can already hit the ball quite hard, so I am not really bothered about the additional power boost that also comes with the additional leverage.

It was fun to experience on the play test though!

Is the Babolat Pure Drive Tour Plus Right For Your Game? Find Out With a Custom Fitting!

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Nov 7, 2023 • Babolat Pure Aero

Babolat Pure Aero 98 (2023) Review

Looking for a high-performance tennis racket that will take your game to the next level? The Babolat Pure Aero 98 (2023) might just be the answer. In this review, we'll dive into the features and benefits of this popular tennis racket, helping you make an informed decision before your next…

Aug 31, 2023 • Babolat Dunlop Head Prince Wilson Yonex

Men’s vs Women’s Tennis Rackets: What’s the Difference?

Is there really a difference between men’s and women’s rackets? This is a commonly asked question that doesn’t have a very clear answer. Whilst there aren’t specific rackets that are designed for men or women tennis players, there are some trends in both the men’s and women’s games that make…

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ControlContact™ Tour A/S Plus

An excellent all-season touring tire with EcoPlus™ Technology that delivers long wear, reliable safety and exceptional wet traction. Available exclusively at Discount® Tire.

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Babolat Pure Drive Tour Plus Review

I’ve been testing the 2018 Babolat Pure Drive Tour Plus lately and wanted to write and record a review of this powerhouse of a tennis racquet. So…this is the Tennsnerd review of the Babolat Pure Drive Tour Plus.

Obviously, an extended racquet isn’t for everyone, but I think it’s definitely a good idea to try one if you haven’t done so before and the Babolat Pure Drive Tour Plus is a great place to start.  Let’s look at the different factors of this racquet.

What’s new between the previous version and this 2018 one? Well, something Babolat calls FSI Power which features diamond shaped grommet holes and wider string spacing. Does this work? Yes, this edition of the Pure Drive actually provides more spin on your shots which frees you up to swing a bit more freely. The extra spin is definitely needed since this stick doesn’t run low on power!

Another addition to the 2018 edition of the Babolat Pure Drive Tour Plus is the Cortex Pure Feel which is a viscoelastic rubber material for a more muted and comfortable feel. You will notice the Cortex Pure Feel in the small wart-sized dots on various areas of the frame. Does this increase the comfort level which has always been somewhat of an issue with the stiff Pure Drive racquets?

I think also the extra weight of the Tour version compared to the standard Pure Drive contributes to the comfort since the racquet is more stable and won’t suffer from the same vibrations as the lighter racquet.

However, the Pure Drive is not a bad racquet to volley with as it is stable and provides good and direct feedback on short swings. It’s also an absolute beast to serve with and I don’t think I’ve ever hit harder practice serves with a racquet before. The ball just explodes of the string bed and makes you wonder if you’re the new, significantly shorter version of Ivo Karlovic.

Below you have the specs for the racquet. Make sure to follow us on YouTube , Facebook  and Instagram . And as always, thanks a lot for reading Tennisnerd.

If you buy a racquet from our friends at  All Things Tennis , you will get 5% off and a free string upgrade if you use the code: TENNISNERD at checkout.

Babolat Pure Drive Tour Plus Specs

Jonas has been known as "tennis nerd" mainly for his obsessing about racquets and gear. Plays this beautiful sport almost every day.

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First off thanks so much for contributing so much tennis knowledge I love your reviews and your writing!

I got to hit with this PD Plus racquet for about 3 hours today and really liked it. It’s a beast and It outgunned my VCORE Pro 97 330 that I normally hit with.

Being more of a Yonex guy over Babolat, I noticed the specs are VERY similar to the Yonex VCORE 305, Except for the extra length. If you look at the VCORE Plus, it’s SW goes beyond what the PD+ is. Did Babolat make something magical here?! Would extending the grip on the VCORE 305 feel similar?

I really wish Yonex would make a Plus in all their racquets.

Thanks, Ryan

Hi Ryan, Thanks a lot! That is surely a beast. I think the Yonex extended racquets are excellent and slightly softer than the Babolat so either if you go VCORE plus or Ezone plus, I am sure you will be happy. Extending the grip is possible but not that easy.

Regards / Jonas

PS. If you feel like my advice is really useful, please consider becoming a patron for $2 at patreon.com/tennisnerd and get exclusive content every week. DS.

what strings would you recommend me for this racquet? I’m looking for durability and some comfort too. Thanks man, great reviews you make!

Regards, Frank.

Hi Frank, Thanks. I would go for a softer poly like Solinco Tour Bite Soft or Yonex Poly Tour Pro (1.25 gauge) at 55 lbs. If you need more control, try Solinco Confidential 1.25 at 54 lbs but that is a bit stiffer.

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Babolat Pure Control Tour Plus Tennis Racquet

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• Durability: Babolat Pro Hurricane
• Playability: Babolat Xcel
• Hybrid: Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour 16 - Babolat Xcel

Midwest Sports only ships Babolat products to domestic addresses in the U.S. and U.S. Territories.

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Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus Review: An Excellent All-Season Touring Tire

When it comes to performance tires, Continental is a brand that is trusted by many drivers. Their latest offering, the Control Contact Tour A/S Plus, promises to deliver exceptional performance and handling in all weather conditions. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the features and performance of this tire to see if it lives up to its claims.

Continental is a German tire manufacturer that has been in the industry for over 150 years. They are known for their high-quality tires that offer superior performance and safety. The company has a strong focus on innovation and continuously strives to improve their products.

The Continental Control Contact series is a line of tires designed for passenger cars and SUVs. These tires are known for their all-season performance and durability. The Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus is the latest addition to this series and is designed to provide drivers with a comfortable and safe driving experience.

Ready to redefine your winter experience ? Dive into our Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus Review, your guide to unmatched confidence and adventure on all-season terrain . Elevate your driving game and conquer every season with ease.

Get $70 Back via Mail or Up to $100 When You Use Your Bridgestone Tire Rack Credit Card Valid till October 31, 2023 Available at TireRack.com

Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus

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The Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus is a performance tire that is designed to deliver exceptional handling and performance in all weather conditions. Here are some of its key features:

Touring All Season

• EcoPlus™ technology for exceptional fuel efficiency
• Shorter stopping distance on wet roads
• Extended tread life for lasting performance
• Symmetrical five-rib tread design for everyday touring
• Low rolling resistance without sacrificing traction or comfort
• Full-depth siping for reliable grip in wet or light snowy conditions
• Comfort band absorbs shocks for a smooth and comfortable ride

Key Features of the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus Tire:

Discover the outstanding features that make the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus the go-to choice for dependable all-season touring, performance, and fuel savings. Whether you’re driving a family vehicle or a commuter car, this tire is tailored to meet your needs .

EcoPlus™ Technology: Experience superior fuel efficiency and shorter stops on wet roads, thanks to the innovative EcoPlus™ technology. With Tg-F polymers and advanced +Silane additives, this tire not only saves you money at the gas pump but also extends tread life.

Symmetrical Five-Rib Tread Design: The tire’s symmetrical five-rib tread design is crafted for everyday touring and driving. Ideal for sedans of all sizes, small CUVs, and minivans, it ensures a smooth and controlled ride for various vehicle types.

Low Rolling Resistance: Benefit from a unique tread compound that achieves low rolling resistance without compromising traction or comfort. This feature is especially valuable for those seeking an optimal balance between fuel efficiency and performance.

Full-Depth Siping: Navigate wet or lightly snowy conditions with confidence, thanks to full-depth siping that provides reliable grip. This tire is engineered to handle a variety of weather conditions, ensuring safety in diverse driving scenarios.

Comfort Band: Enjoy a comfortable ride even on bumpy roads, courtesy of the comfort band designed to absorb shocks and bumps. Your journey becomes a pleasure as this tire enhances the overall comfort of your driving experience.

Choose the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus for an exclusive option that excels in safety, tread life, and wet traction. It’s the perfect fit for most drivers, including electric vehicle owners, seeking a well-rounded tire for all their driving needs .

Here are the pros and cons of the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus tire to help you make an informed decision when considering this tire for your vehicle:

• Outstanding fuel efficiency with EcoPlus™ technology
• Extended tread life for long-lasting performance
• Low rolling resistance without compromising traction or comfort
• Reliable grip in wet or light snowy conditions with full-depth siping
• Comfort band absorbs shocks for a smooth ride
• May not perform optimally in heavy snowy conditions

Navigating winter’s challenges with poise, the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus tire undergoes a meticulous examination in this comprehensive review. Crafted with precision, this tire employs advanced technology , including the EcoPlus™ system, featuring Tg-F polymers and +Silane additives. These components not only contribute to fuel efficiency but also elevate braking performance on wet surfaces, ensuring a secure winter drive .

In snowy terrains, the Control Contact Tour A/S Plus showcases its prowess with a symmetrical five-rib tread design, enhancing stability and grip. Full-depth siping, a subtle but impactful feature, provides consistent traction in varying winter conditions. While excelling in lighter snowy scenarios, users may find the tire’s limitations in extremely harsh conditions.

This thorough analysis unveils the nuanced performance of the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus in winter settings, offering drivers a balanced solution for their cold-weather journeys.

Drive confidently even in the rain with the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus. On wet and slippery roads, this tire is like a reliable friend. It uses fancy technology, called the EcoPlus™ system, with special Tg-F polymers and +Silane additives, making it more than just a tire – it’s an excellent gripping experience.

The tire has a special design with five ribs on the tread that keeps you stable on slippery surfaces. There’s also something called full-depth siping, like a hidden superhero in the tire’s toolkit, ensuring you always have good traction, even if the roads are like watercolor paintings.

Imagine the road turning into a watery stage, but with the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus, your car becomes the expert dancer, moving gracefully through the wet performance. This review is like telling a story about a tire that turns tough conditions into a place where it shows off its skills.

Embark on a seamless on-road journey with the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus. This tire doesn’t just roll; it glides, courtesy of its innovative features. The symmetrical five-rib tread design isn’t just a pattern; it’s a conductor orchestrating stability and control, turning your drive into a refined performance .

Engage with the road confidently , as the EcoPlus™ technology, adorned with Tg-F polymers and +Silane additives, transforms the mundane drive into an extraordinary experience. Your vehicle becomes a maestro on the asphalt stage, dancing through the contours with precision and finesse.

In the realm of the on-road performance , the Control Contact Tour A/S Plus is a silent storyteller, weaving narratives of safety, comfort, and reliability. This review unfolds the tale of a tire that elevates your on-road experience, turning each journey into a harmonious symphony of performance and control.

Venturing into off-road terrain? The Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus is your trusted companion for on-road excursions, but when it comes to off-road adventures , it takes a step back. This tire excels in urban landscapes and highways , delivering a smooth, comfortable ride with its symmetrical five-rib tread design and advanced EcoPlus™ technology.

However, the Control Contact Tour A/S Plus is not tailored for the rough and unpredictable conditions of off-road driving. Its design prioritizes on-road performance, ensuring stability, control, and a refined experience. If your journey involves the beaten path, rocky trails , or muddy escapades, you might want to consider a tire explicitly designed for off-road endeavors.

In this comprehensive Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus Review, we spotlight its strengths on the road, recognizing its limitations when the asphalt ends. Choose wisely, and let your tire match your adventure .

Take the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus on a muddy road and see how it handles. Our review shows that while it’s great on regular roads, it faces challenges in mud. The tire is designed for stability on regular surfaces, which can make muddy paths a bit tricky.

Even though the Control Contact Tour A/S Plus works well on normal roads, it’s smart to be careful on muddy paths. If you often go off-road into muddy areas, you might want to check out tires made specifically for those conditions. Choosing the right tire is like picking the right music for your adventure – it’s all about finding the perfect match.

When it comes to the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus tire’s treadwear and warranty, here’s the breakdown:

Up To 80K Limited Warranty: The Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus takes durability seriously, offering an impressive up to 80,000-mile limited warranty. This means that drivers can enjoy an extended period of reliable performance before considering a replacement. The robust construction and advanced materials contribute to the tire’s longevity, providing peace of mind for those seeking a long-lasting investment.

60 Day Trial: Delving into customer satisfaction, Continental stands by the Control Contact Tour A/S Plus with a 60-day trial period. This unique offering allows drivers to experience the tire’s performance firsthand. If, within 60 days, the tire doesn’t meet expectations, customers have the flexibility to make an informed decision and explore other options.

3 Year Roadside Assistance: Enhancing the overall ownership experience, the Control Contact Tour A/S Plus comes with a generous 3-year roadside assistance package. This means that in case of emergencies or unforeseen situations on the road, drivers can rely on Continental’s support for tire-related issues. It adds an extra layer of security, underscoring Continental’s commitment to customer satisfaction beyond the road’s smooth stretches.

These warranty provisions offer a level of protection and assurance for your investment in the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus tire , ensuring that you have coverage for various aspects of tire wear and performance.

Unlocking the mysteries of Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus maintenance is like deciphering a code for tire longevity. This tire, renowned for its performance, graciously provides indicators guiding you through its care.

Tread Wear Bars: Embedded within the tread pattern are wear bars, subtle signals that reveal the tire’s health. As the tread wears down, these bars become visible, indicating a potential need for replacement. Keep an eye on these guardians of longevity as they subtly hint at the tire’s condition.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): A tech-savvy feature in the Control Contact Tour A/S Plus, the TPMS diligently monitors pressure. When a significant drop occurs, it signals a potential issue. Regularly checking and maintaining the recommended pressure ensures not just optimal performance but also extends the tire’s lifespan.

By deciphering these maintenance indicators, you embark on a journey of tire care mastery, ensuring that the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus remains a reliable companion on every road you traverse.

Discovering the road nuances of the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus doesn’t include the feature of being a run-flat tire. While this tire boasts advanced technology and durability , the label “run-flat” isn’t part of its repertoire.

If you’re seeking a tire that lets you glide a few extra miles post-air loss, you might want to explore dedicated run-flat options. Always consult the latest specifications or a tire professional for the most accurate details on the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus and its evolving features.

Indulge in the serene symphony of the road with the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus. This tire masterfully orchestrates a harmonious driving experience, excelling in both road noise control and comfort performance. The advanced engineering of the Control Contact Tour A/S Plus goes beyond the ordinary, employing innovative techniques to dampen noise and vibrations, ensuring your journey is a tranquil escape.

As you traverse diverse terrains, from highways to city streets, the meticulous design of the Control Contact Tour A/S Plus shines, prioritizing not only performance but also an unparalleled level of comfort. Say farewell to intrusive road noise and embrace the luxury of a smooth, quiet ride – a signature feature of the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus.

As of the available information, the price range for the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus falls between $81.00 and $192.00.

It’s important to note that tire prices can vary based on factors such as size , retailer, location, and promotions.

Before making a purchase, consider checking with different sellers and also inquire about any additional services they may offer, such as installation and warranty coverage. Additionally, be sure to verify the latest prices and deals, as they may change over time.

Videos created by Discount Tire

How good are Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus?

The Continental VikingContact 7 tires are excellent for winter driving. They deliver outstanding traction and control on snowy, icy, and wet roads, making them a reliable choice for challenging conditions.

Is Continental a Chinese tire?

No, Continental is a German tire manufacturer, known for its high-quality and innovative tire products. It is not a Chinese tire company.

Are Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus a good winter tire?

Yes, the Continental VikingContact 7 is an excellent winter tire. It’s designed for optimal performance in snowy, icy, and wet conditions, providing outstanding traction and control, making it a top choice for winter driving.

Embarking on the journey through our Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus Review, it’s clear this tire is not merely rubber meeting the road; it’s a symphony conductor orchestrating a harmonious drive. The tire’s innovative EcoPlus™ technology , with Tg-F polymers and +Silane additives, stands out, saving not just fuel but transforming every drive into an eco-friendly adventure.

The symmetrical five-rib tread design takes center stage, exhibiting prowess on everyday terrains. It’s a dance of stability and control, offering a driving experience that transcends the ordinary. Full-depth siping becomes the unsung hero, ensuring a grip that adapts to wet or lightly snowy conditions seamlessly.

Our comprehensive review reveals a tire that excels in safety, tread life, and wet traction. The Control Contact Tour A/S Plus emerges as a well-rounded option, extending its embrace to a variety of vehicles, including electric ones. It’s not just a tire; it’s a commitment to performance, comfort, and efficiency.

In conclusion, the Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus Review echoes a tire that doesn’t just navigate roads; it transforms them into canvases of exceptional performance, urging drivers to redefine their journey, one mile at a time.

If you’re interested in exploring other Continental tire options , check out our comprehensive reviews of their various offerings. Continental’s commitment to quality and performance shines through in their diverse range of tires .

• Continental Extreme Contact Sport Review
• Continental Viking Contact 7 Review
• Continental Pure Contact LS Review
• Continental Control Contact Sport SRS+ Review
• Continental Control Contact Tour A/S Plus Review

The Tire Reviews Team

Rev up your knowledge with The Tire Reviews, your one-stop pit stop for swift and concise tire reviews. We cut through the noise, delivering the lowdown on treads that matter. Whether you're chasing performance or seeking a smooth commute, join us as we navigate the world of tires.

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Dunlop Srixon CX 200 + Racquet Review

With the Dunlop Srixon CX 200+ , Dunlop adds an extended-length option to the CX family. Boasting the highest swingweight out of all the CX racquets, this 200+ comes fully loaded with plow through and stability, which made our team of playtesters excited to get on the court with it. With a relatively thin 21.5-mm beam and a comfortable 66 RA (Babolat RDC), this racquet offers a crisp feel at impact and helped our playtesters load their groundstrokes with mass and power. Meanwhile, the 16x19 string pattern ensures enough access to spin to keep balls loaded with bite. The CX 200+ felt a bit demanding at the net, but what it lacked in maneuverability it made up for in stability and reach. Although some struggled a bit when returning serves with this extended racquet, most of our team noted how aggressive their serves were and how they could start points on the attack. Advanced players looking to deploy big groundstrokes and even bigger serves will want to give the CX 200+ a demo.

• Plow through
• Demanding to swing

Bottom Line

The Dunlop Srixon CX 200+ is a weapon from the baseline and delivers big serves, but it can feel hefty to swing and is best suited to advanced players.

Groundstrokes - Score: 86

With a strung weight of 11.4 ounces and a swingweight of 340, the Srixon CX 200+ can feel heavy to swing, but it's very stable and will reward players who can handle it. Out of all the CX 200 racquets, Chris found this extended-length version to offer the most plow through. He explained, "The added length gave this racquet a hefty swingweight, which was perfect for pounding groundstrokes. The downside was that it took a little more time to set up shots properly. On the upside, it felt more forgiving than the Wilson Ultra 95, which has a similar swingweight, is a quarter-inch shorter and has a slightly smaller headsize. I also thought the CX 200+ had vastly better comfort and feel. Getting spin out of the Srixon CX 200+ proved easy, which helped add control to all of that power. I liked the response of the racquet on my backhand slice the most. The added length gave me lots of leverage to find depth effortlessly. I had plenty of control and feel on my slice as well, which made me feel very dialed in. I was able to mix deep backhand slices with short angles and drop shots to keep my opponents on their toes."

"This might just be the racquet I've been dreaming of over the past year," began Michelle . "It checks all the right boxes for me. It's stable and loaded with plow through, power and control. I loved how beastly the Prince Beast 100 LB was when we playtested it, but it was just too much at times. I have been pining for an extended-length Wilson Pro Staff RF97 Autograph, knowing that probably will never happen. Then I heard about this Srixon CX 200+ and had a feeling I would like it. Off the ground, I could really penetrate through the court, and my opponents felt the heft pushing them back. The 340 swingweight felt fairly manageable most of the time. Even if I caught the ball late, the racquet was so stable I could still hit a decent shot to keep me out of trouble. I could work the point and take my time to attack the right shot because my rally balls were deep, so I never felt rushed or forced to attack too early. The 16x19 string pattern was nice as well; I could get some good spin and arch on the ball when needed. Even my slice shots were penetrating the court and staying low. I thought I had my trusty RF97 in hand at times; this racquet was just as effective!"

Troy also thought the Srixon CX 200+ packed loads of plow through and offered a responsive feel. He said, "I have playtested a lot of extended-length racquets recently, and this CX 200+ tops the charts when it comes to feel and control. It played like a player's racquet should when it came to control and feel, and it offered some added punch from the extra length and swingweight. I could pancake the ball when I flattened out my shots, and I had enough control to keep it in the court. The high swingweight and balance made it a bit difficult to generate spin on running forehands. When I had time to set my feet and step into my shots, I was able to hit heavy, penetrating balls. As Chris would say, the backhand slice was very 'dirty' and stayed low and deep on my opponents. The flex of this racquet felt nice and firm, but it still maintained good comfort thanks to the Sonic Core with Infinergy. I would likely try tail-weighting this racquet with some Tennis Warehouse Tungsten Putty to make it more head light."

Since the CX 200+ is a new racquet in Dunlop's line, Mark brought the CX 200 Tour (16x19) along to get a comparison from the baseline. He detailed, "The difference in stability and power was evident within a half dozen swings compared to the already-stable CX 200 Tour (16x19). Deep shots with lots of topspin required little effort with this CX 200+. I found myself using my slice backhand more than usual, and I was able to change directions with it effectively. I definitely put the new CX 200+ in the guilty pleasure category."

Volleys - Score: 80

Our team liked how solid and stable the Srixon CX 200+ felt on volleys. Troy always appreciates racquets that have enough mass and swingweight to block volleys back with little work, and he found this racquet to epitomize that. He described, "Similar to the Wilson Pro Staff RF97 Autograph, the racquet did the work no matter how hard the ball was drilled at me, as long as I met the ball out in front. On the flipside, the maneuverability wasn't great. Whenever I had to react quickly I would choke up on the handle for a little more speed. The relatively thin beam provided a lot of feel, and I executed drop volleys confidently. There was plenty of power on tap when I needed to put a volley away."

"Although the extra length of this racquet challenged and hindered my return of serve, those same traits complemented the majority of my volley attempts," added Mark . "The extra half inch in length helped afford me a high degree of stability."

Chris really appreciated the feel and comfortable response at net. He said, "I was able to place my volleys very well with this racquet. Getting depth was also easy thanks to the power offered up by the added length. Anything left hanging could quickly be volleyed away with the CX 200+. The power level of the racquet also helped add some extra juice on overheads."

Michelle found the net to be a bit of a challenging area with the CX 200+. She said, "It wasn't very maneuverable up there. I focused on keeping the racquet up and out in front at the net, but I found it to be a bit demanding at times. I was playtesting the Pure Aero Tour at the same time and had the opposite experience; I felt like I couldn't miss a volley with the Aero Tour, which made the CX 200+'s shortcomings on volleys stand out more. I did manage to get some good touch and drop volleys with this racquet, though, and the reach and stability were appreciated."

Serves - Score: 87

The Srixon CX 200+ was a weapon in the hands of our playtesters on serves. Michelle described, "While I may have had some issues with maneuverability at net, there were no problems to report when serving. Sometimes extended-length racquets can take a bit of an adjustment period, but I was dialed in from the start with the CX 200+. I have been focusing a lot on executing certain parts of my serve better, which helped me feel confident serving with this racquet. Not only was I able to hit my targets with force, but I also felt confident and consistent. If my mechanics were correct, both my first and second serves were very effective. I felt precise and in control of the point. I recall really enjoying the Beast 100 LB on serve, but I also remember struggling at times because the swingweight is 11 points higher. I experienced less struggle and more success with this racquet."

Troy loved the extra reach and plow through he got on flat first serves. He explained, "The response with this Dunlop Srixon CX 200+ was very similar to the Yonex VCORE 98+ in regards to generating power on my serves. The upside with this racquet was I felt a bit more connected to my targets and found a nice blend of power and precision. Although my flat first serves were very effective, I initially struggled to generate topspin and hit effective kick serves. It was a bit cumbersome for me to access extra spin from my wrist snap, and I tended to hit my spin serves long. I dialed in my range, but there was a definite adjustment period. Maybe with some added weight in the handle the more head-light balance would help with this issue."

The serve was Mark's favorite shot to hit with this racquet. He said, "My serve velocity did not increase much, but I was able to begin points with an extremely consistent and reasonably effective delivery. That helped make the rest of the point a little easier to construct."

Just like on volleys, Chris didn't need to make any adjustments to find his groove when serving with this racquet. He said, "I served well, and I loved the power I could generate with the CX 200+. I definitely felt more aggressive on my service games with this racquet in my hands. The CX 200+ offered easy access to spin, and my slice serve was working well. I liked my serve down the T with this racquet too. I found solid pace and felt like I could hit a flatter, faster serve without losing much in the way of consistency."

Returns - Score: 83

The higher swingweight of the Srixon CX 200+ helped our playtesters block back big serves and redirect power, but in some cases it was a little demanding. When returning, Chris could feel the length of the racquet working against him a little. He said, "At times it just felt like I had a lot of racquet to get around my body. I got more used to the CX 200+ as the test wore on, and my sense of the racquet's maneuverability improved. As from other areas of the court, I enjoyed the power level of the racquet. I could drive the ball with solid pace and add spin to keep shots under control. Even on compact block returns, the Srixon CX 200+ seemed to offer a little more leverage to punch the ball with depth."

"Returning with an extended-length racquet is sublime," added Michelle . "That extra half inch made me feel like I could counter any serve given to me. With this racquet in hand, I really couldn't do wrong. I could block back big serves and take bigger cuts off weaker ones. I loved drilling returns down the line or deep cross court. Although I couldn't dip angles as effectively due to the higher swingweight and extra length, I still felt effective pulling my opponents off the court with power and precision. Even on the toughest serves that took me off my center, this racquet was stable enough to let me stab at the ball effectively."

Troy continued to take advantage of the CX 200+'s stability and plow through while returning. He noted, "With a short, compact swing, this racquet provided easy depth on my returns. Anytime my opponent brought the heat and I had little time to react, I could chip the ball back for an effective reply. My two-handed backhand returns gained a boost in power and depth. When I had time to take a backswing on my forehand returns, I punished the ball and put my opponent on their back foot. it was a bit more difficult to flick my wrist and hit a lob return when I was in a defensive position on returns, but there was enough comfort built into this racquet that it was comfortable when absorbing the pace of hard-hit serves."

This was the one shot where Mark felt the extra length of the CX 200+ was working against him. He concluded, "I was relegated to carving under the ball more often than over it. The extra reach was valuable in terms of dealing with wider serves, but overall I was challenged returning serve with the CX 200+ more than I'd prefer to admit."

Overall - Score: 84

Chris - "I love the power, feel, comfort and spin. This Srixon CX 200+ feels great on my backhand slice, and I often find myself dictating play with that shot."

Michelle - "This racquet is solid and stable, and it packs loads of plow through. It's fun to swing and attack with."

Troy - "Out of the extended-length racquets that we currently carry, this CX 200+ has the most feel and control. When hitting hard, flat groundstrokes, this racquet really mashes the ball! It's very stable on returns and volleys."

Mark - "This 98-square-inch racquet results in a level of power that is similar to that of a heavier racquet with minimal sacrifice of maneuverability. I have to say that the Sonic Core technology used to reinforce the frame at the ten and two spots of the hoop was favorable, especially when ball contact is off center or toward the tip of the frame."

Chris - "It takes some adjustment to maneuver the Srixon CX 200+ , especially against opponents who hit with lots of pace."

Michelle - "The Srixon CX 200+ can be a little hefty and demanding at times, but it's still easier to swing than the Prince Textreme Beast Pro 100 Longbody."

Troy - "When I was hitting on the run this racquet was a bit cumbersome at times. I would likely add some weight to the handle to help make this racquet feel more head light."

Mark - "For whatever reason, the new CX 200+ does not hide its length as well as some other plus-length frames I have played with, and I occasionally experienced some maneuverability issues, mostly with my return of serve."

Comparing the racquet to others they've tried, our testers said:

Chris - "The Dunlop Srixon CX 200+ reminds me of the Babolat Pure Control Tour Plus. The Dunlop has a similar feel and also rewards with lots of controllable power, comfort and spin. Compared to the Wilson Ultra 95 that we recently tested, this CX 200+ offers more comfort and feel. It maneuvers similarly, but is a tad more forgiving on off-center shots."

Michelle - "Honestly, this Srixon CX 200+ played like an extended Wilson Pro Staff RF97 Autograph. It has the same stability and plow through but is just a tiny bit more demanding. We just recently finished up the playtest of the Pure Aero Plus, and that racquet is just a lot easier to swing, which doesn't mean this CX 200+ is bad. I actually like a racquet I have to work a bit harder to use. I also want to compare the CX 200+ to Prince's Beast Pro 100 Longbody. That racquet was also pretty beefy, but it could be tough to control at times. I found this Dunlop to have more built-in control compared to the raw power of the Beast Pro."

Troy - "The CX 200+'s maneuverability was very similar to the Yonex VCORE 98+, but this racquet possesses more control and feel. This CX 200+ reminds me of the Babolat Pure Control Tour Plus, with a slightly firmer and more predictable response."

Mark - "At this time, the new Dunlop Srixon CX 200+ sort of stands alone. That said, the Wilson Ultra 95 CV is going to be somewhat close, even though it exhibits a 27.25-inch length and slightly tighter 16x20 pattern. The Yonex EZONE 98+ and VCORE 98+ feature similar weights, lengths and swingweights."

(Scores are determined by averaging individual play test scores)

Playtester Profiles

Chris: 4.5 all-court player currently using the Tecnifibre TFlash 300 PS. Chris uses a full-western forehand grip, has a fast swing style and hits a one-handed backhand.

Michelle: Open level baseline player with a semi-western forehand and a two handed backhand. She currently plays with the Wilson Pro Staff RF 97 Autograph.

Troy: 5.0 lefty all-court player with a full Western Forehand and a two-handed backhand. Troy currently plays with a Yonex VCORE Pro 97 (330).

Mark: 5.0 lefty all-court player with a one-handed backhand. He currently plays with the Prince Phantom Pro 93P.

Review date: April 2019. If you found this review interesting or have further questions or comments please contact us. All content copyright 2019 Tennis Warehouse.