As a dedicated pickleball enthusiast who enjoys exploring the ins and outs of new gear, I recently got my hands on the Ronbus R1.16 Raw Toray T700 Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle, and I couldn’t wait to put it to the test. With a focus on improving my game, particularly in the areas of control and spin, I was eager to see if this USAPA-approved paddle could meet my expectations.
From the get-go, I appreciated the unique features this paddle brings to the court. With its textured surface designed for maximum spin and the 16mm polypropylene honeycomb core that promotes shot consistency, I was hopeful it would enable me to execute my favorite topspin serves and dinks. The extra-long handle was also a game-changer for my two-handed backhand, which has always been my preferred shot.
During my testing, I found the paddle excelled in soft shots like dinks and drop shots. The exquisite control allowed me to place the ball exactly where I wanted, constantly forcing my opponents into difficult positions. As M noted in their review, this is indeed a control paddle with a softer feel, making it wonderful for delicate placements at the net.
On the flip side, while the paddle shines with spin and control, it does seem to lack the put-away power that many players might expect. I noticed that, especially on overhead shots, it didn’t deliver the same level of authority as some of the heavier paddles I’ve used in the past. It’s a minor sacrifice for the exquisite control it offers, but if you’re someone who relies on heavy overhead slams, this may not be the perfect fit.
Another aspect worth mentioning is its grip. While I did appreciate the octagonal shape with a circumference of 4.25”, several reviewers found it somewhat lacking. I personally didn’t mind it too much, but I can see where a more ergonomic or textured grip could enhance overall playability. One suggestion that may improve the paddle further is to replace the grip with one that meets your personal preferences, which could cost relatively little.
The price point of this paddle is also worth discussing. Many reviews praised its value for money, and I wholeheartedly agree. For a paddle of this quality, featuring durable raw Toray T700 carbon fiber construction, the cost is quite reasonable. As noted by other players, it feels premium without the exorbitant price that often comes with top-tier paddles.
After extensive testing, I can confidently say that the Ronbus R1.16 meets, if not exceeds, my expectations in terms of control and spin. It has significantly improved my game, particularly in soft play scenarios like dinks and strategic drop shots. However, the performance in power shots could leave some players wanting, and the grip may need some personal customization for maximum comfort.
In summary, if you’re looking for a paddle that offers remarkable control and spin while excelling in soft game scenarios, the Ronbus R1.16 is a fantastic option to consider. Just be mindful of its limitations in power accompanying certain shots. I wholeheartedly recommend it for players looking to hone their skills and explore the art of spin in pickleball.
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