Cleveland HiBORE XL and XL Tour Driver Review
Posted March 23rd, 2007 by Guest Author
The Cleveland HiBore has helped Jerry Kelly and Vijay Singh (among others) to compete on the PGA Tour, but how does it help us amateurs?
One of the first geometry-based drivers on the market, the Cleveland HiBORE has changed the shape of the tee game and set the tone for what has become a new era in driver head shape. Now in its second version, the HiBORE XL and XL TOUR attempt to prove once again that Cleveland is "Taking Distance Driven Geometry to a New Level."
The HiBORE XL gets a lot of attention. After all, a former #1 ranked golfer and two-time winner in 2007 plays it: Vijay Singh. As most of you know, Vijay ditched the original HiBORE last year in favor of the 460 Comp only to come back and win with the XL this year at the Mercedes Championships and the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Whether or not the original HiBORE was to blame for Vijay's down year in 2006 we may never know, but the driving show Vijay put on Sunday at the Arnold Palmer is proof that the HiBORE XL can earn its keep.
Of course, I am no Vijay Singh. I am a simple-minded golfer with a 5.4 index who gets off the tee fairly well with a slight fade. On average, I hit around five fairways and ten greens per round. The strength of my game is the tee ball while my achilles heel is my putting. I currently am playing a Titleist 983E with 8° loft and a stiff flex shaft.
Though this image may not show it, the Tour model, left, is a bit smaller than it's "normal" counterpart.
I was able to test out both the regular and Tour versions of the HiBORE XL, each with the Red "Tour Trajectory" shaft, and I've come out of the experience a fan.
Design and Technology
Cleveland touts the "Distance Driven Geometry" of the HiBORE XL clubhead. From their site: "[Distance Driven Geometry] moves weight lower and deeper in the clubhead. This optimized CG location aligns the Center of Gravity Projection with the COR Hot Spot in the center of the face, resulting in optimal conditions for greater overall distance." Of course, we all know this is straight out of the marketing department, but there is some truth to it.
It took surprisingly little time to get used to the "bullet" and "swooped back" look.
The HiBORE XL is a rather significant upgrade to the original HiBORE. Like the original HiBORE, the XL features a precision cast aerospace-grade ultra-thin titanium alloy body with a high-grade SP700 face titanium and follows the same general design, though the XL has a deeper face, which should allow you to tee the ball higher. Also, the squarer face (one of our larger complaints in last year's HiBORE review), and the black pearl finish really pull together the rest of the club.
This image shows you the difference in size between the "normal" model (left) and the Tour model.
In the image just above, note the longer body on the standard version, meant to increase stability on off-center hits (like the FT-i, the SUMO2, or the 907D1). The Tour model has a shallower body to allow for more workability.
Look and Feel
The first time you pick up a HiBORE XL you will first notice the clubhead. Yes, it's oddly shaped, but I found that the "bullet" and "swooped back" look at address gave me confidence standing over the ball. When you take your first practice swing, you'll discover the weight of the club. Both versions have a D5 swing weight - about two or three notches above the standard D2. Because of this, some of us may have to throttle down on the swing speed because the extra weight of the club will actually give you a bit more back.
If you are using the Tour version and you have a keen eye, the next thing you would notice is the 3° open face. I wasn't able to see it immediately, but upon comparing it to the regular HiBORE XL it is quite noticeable.
The soles of the clubs are a bit shiny but are actually quite sturdy in the fact that they do not scratch easily
Despite the super-shiny finish on the sole, and contrary to popular belief, the sole is not easily scratched. After playing with the clubs for several round as well as using them on mat and grass driving ranges, the scratches on the bottom of the club are very minimal. Another interesting tidbit I discovered was that the "sweet" spot of the club was not moved higher as most people believe. In fact, if anything, it has been moved a little lower than its predecessor.
The standard grip for each club isn't nearly as bad as most of the stock grips that come with drivers. In fact, I would be willing to say I wouldn't change this grip out until it was worn out. That is saying something as with every driver I have purchased, the first thing I do is change out the grip.
Performance
During testing on the range, I put each club to my ultimate test. With the Tour version, as stated, I hardly noticed the 3° open face. My very first swing with the Tour version resulted in a pure strike dead straight at my target. As I said at the beginning of this review, I normally play a fade, so this was a welcome surprise.
Once I hit a second ball with it, I noticed how loud the club sounded at impact. Don't let this deter you, however, as it isn't nearly as loud as some of the other drivers on the market. I believe the only reason I really noticed it was the close quarters of the driving range I was on as well as the almost lack of sound out of my Titleist.
From behind the clubs you are more easily able to see how Cleveland has moved weight behind the bottom half of the ball
Once I was comfortable with the clubs I hit each of them off the extreme toe and heel to see how they would perform. If you hit a ball off the toe with either driver, you know it. The clubs noticeably twist in your hands, but the ball is still launched at a reasonable angle and there isn't a huge loss of distance or accuracy. This is a huge bonus for me as if I mis-hit my current driver I am in the woods.
The balls I hit off the heel of the club produced quite a vibration of the club in my hands, but alas, the ball still went straight as an arrow. It did, however, reduce the total distance of the shot a bit (which really isn't that surprising).
Overall, both models produced an extremely consistent ball flight. As advertised, the Tour Trajectory shafts came through with a more penetrating ball flight than I am used to, which is definitely a good thing. The open face on the Tour version combined with the shallower profile allowed me to work the ball, while the elongated non-Tour version did quite well at keeping my drives straight.
One of the biggest benefits in purchasing a HiBORE, in my opinion, is the stock shaft. Cleveland has gone the extra step and has brought on Fujikura shafts as the standard for their clubs. They then go another extra step in providing two different types: Red - Tour Trajectory and Gold - Standard Trajectory.
Fujikura shafts, one of the better ones on the market, come standard with the HiBORE XL's
The clubs I tested both had the Red Tour Trajectory shafts in them and there was a noticeable difference in the ball trajectory over my current driver. With the Tour Trajectory shafts my ball flight was more penetrating and got more roll than what I currently get. Cleveland says the Red is designed for strong players with fast swing speeds. These shafts have a high kickpoint and low torque for trajectory control. The Gold has a lower kickpoint and an active tip section for increased launch angle, higher ball speed, and a smooth feel.
Extras and Specs
The HiBORE XL ships with one of two headcovers depending on whether you purchase the Tour or standard version. The Tour headcover is a bit nicer than the regular sock-type standard headcover. However, the Tour cover feels as though it has some strong cardboard inside it along with a magnetic strip that attaches to its mate on the other side of the cover after wrapping around the bottom portion of the shaft.
The headcovers are quite nice and the E-Z Grab feature allows you to pull off the headcovers with ease.
The Cleveland HiBORE XL is available in five lofts for righties (8.5°, 9.5°, 10.5°, 11.5°, and 16.0°). The Tour version is only available in three lofts (8.5°, 9.5°, and 10.5°). Lefties will find that the 9.5°, 10.5°, and 9.5° Tour versions are available. All versions are available with both the Red and Gold shafts.
In Conclusion
As a final rating I have to give the Cleveland HiBORE XLs a big thumbs up. Both clubs exceeded my expectations by delivering on the company's promises. I may not be hitting it thirty yards past my current driver, but is very noticeably straighter. I also found that with the HiBORE's I had more confidence over the ball, even after the "honeymoon" phase of having the drivers was over.
If you want a technologically advanced driver that, with it's new shafts, provides you with a more penetrating ball flight, you will definitely want to at least try out the HiBORE's.
This article was written by guest author Harry Solomon, an active member of our forum.
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Posted 23 Mar 2007 at 11:42am #
Good, concise article. I would have liked to have seen how this club would affect a more average golfers game, say someone with a 20+ handicap. Other than that, I think I might just go test one out myself.
Posted 23 Mar 2007 at 2:04pm #
Enjoy the article very much. I have at present using the old cleveland 460' and have done well until late where its seems i have lost some distance.
My question is which do your recommend, std or tour for a 65 year old with a 19 handicap, 17.6 course rating. I play with Titlest solo low compression ball and 9.5 std shaft ? Thanks
Posted 23 Mar 2007 at 2:44pm #
Interesting, previous reviews I'd read indicated a smaller difference between the original HiBore and the XL models. Having a slightly less closed face would certainly be a nice thing...
Posted 25 Mar 2007 at 8:42pm #
Hey Gene,
My first inclination was to tell you to go with the standard model, but your best bet would probably be to hit both of them on a launch monitor. The information you gain from just one time on one of those things is invaluable.
Good luck!
David
Posted 27 Mar 2007 at 3:37pm #
Great review and I couldn’t agree more with the findings. I put the HiBORE XL (stiff red shaft) non tour, in my bag about 1 week ago and couldn’t be happier. I am out hitting my TailorMade by a mile but more importantly I am able to hit longer AND ease off a little on the swing, which means more fairways hit. This really is a great club!!!
I took both the tour and the non-tour out for two rounds before buying, and to be honest the only difference I found was the $50 price tag. Also as far as the head covers went, I didn’t like the tour cover, I didn’t think it offered any shaft protection from scuffs and scrapes around the were the sock section is on the regular cover.
I love the club, and loved the review, great job.
Posted 28 Mar 2007 at 2:26am #
Regarding the question about whether this driver might be suitable for a higher handicapper: I took up golf in mid-life last year, playing budget clubs. Got bitten by the bug; since starting in February 2006 I must have played 45 rounds. This year I decided I wasn't going out with anything but good equipment. Went to a fitter and hit TaylorMade, Ping, Callaway, Cleveland, Nike, Mizuno. I was shocked, but the HiBore XL had me blasting it. I was so impressed I tried the 3 wood and the HiBore iron set. Incredible. I bought the whole iron set, 3 to PW, plus D wedge, 3 wood and driver, as well as CG11 sand and lob wedge. I finished last season with a 28 handicap and difficulty breaking 100. Since buying these, I've shot in the mid to upper 90s, taking 4 to 6 strokes off my game, and it's still early. My only disappointment is the wedges; right now I've put my Titleist Vokey Oil Cans back in my bag for sand and lob because the Clevelands can't touch the feel. Anyway, there's my long-winded answer. As a high handicapper, I never thought I'd have a bag dominated by Cleveland; I didn't think they had a reputation for game improvement clubs. Far as I'm concerned, they do now.
Posted 02 Apr 2007 at 10:11am #
i can't imagine how this club feels, if the first hibore was amazing i can't imagine this one
Posted 02 Apr 2007 at 8:41pm #
Very true. Solidly built and just does what it is made for.
Posted 06 Apr 2007 at 5:26pm #
I have been golfing for about 18 yrs and have hit a number of different clubs. The Cleveland Hi Bore XL has been the greatest addition to my bag. I was normally a mid to low 80's golfer and now I am a mid to high 70's golfer. My biggest problem was being able to get off the box not any more now I am confident on were my ball is going and another plus is I also gained about 20-30 yards more in distance. I give the Hi Bore XL a #1 rating best driver on the market.
Posted 07 Apr 2007 at 11:58am #
This was a great review! This is my 3rd year playing and wanted to replace my Ping G2 driver w/a 15.5 loft. I had to get used to the lower loft on my XL (10.5) but I have now played 3 rounds and can't believe my fade has all but diasppeared and that I have gained at least 15 yards on what used to be my avg of 200-215 yard tee shot, and have only missed the fairway once. LOVE the club, am now looking at the hibore irons to help me break 90 on a more consistent basis. Would recomend to any hi to mid handicapper.
Posted 08 Apr 2007 at 10:06am #
I've been banging the 'bore for about 6 months and this review is spot on. Easy to hit, and when you strike it toe or heel and cringe because you feel the grip twist, you are shocked to look up and see it's going straight as ever, just not as far.
Great "thok" sound instead of the typical 'ping', which sounds like a ricochet...ricochets don't go straight! Can't wait to try their irons. Is this legal?
Posted 12 Apr 2007 at 4:05am #
I am in the market for a new driver, and this one has caught my eye! I am currently in an area where a swing analyzer is not available. My question is for those who have played this club. What shaft do you reccomend for someone who is pretty consistent in the mid 80's with about a 260yd drive with a average to higher swing speed. My trajectory is average.
Posted 12 Apr 2007 at 10:47am #
coastie said on April 12, 2007:
I would have to say a stiff shaft if you really do hit 260. This club might up your shot trajectory a little bit and keep with the same loft. Stiff would be the right one for you.
Posted 12 Apr 2007 at 12:56pm #
coastie said on April 12, 2007:
I would recommend the red shaft to you. I switched from a TM R5D, 10.5 degree, aldila stiff and have seen a huge difference in both carry and roll. The gold shaft has an active tip and I swing the driver averaging 110mph and I just launched the ball too high for my liking. The red gave me the trajectory I was looking for, lower with more roll.
Try the red, stiff, 9.5 (same specks that I went with) and try not to laugh too much when you watch the first few balls fly off the face.
Posted 12 Apr 2007 at 3:19pm #
Hey guys thanks for the quick replies. Any help I can get is tremendous. Being in the Middle east there arent too many shops around let alone courses. But when I get back I really want to have some new sticks waiting. The only one I am missing is the driver.
Posted 12 Apr 2007 at 6:52pm #
Just one more thing. u still have to practice a bit. no driver ever will
always 
be a perfect shot
Posted 13 Apr 2007 at 1:44am #
DEFINITELY the red shaft for you. I don't swing as fast so I went with the gold, which suits me fine. Related comment: For anyone who might be thinking about getting a 3 wood HiBore to go along with the driver, think about an Aldila shaft. I went with it on the recommendation of my club fitter, who said he thought I should get the Aldila because I have trouble getting the ball in the air with a 3 wood. At first I hated it, or thought I did. Lots of shots seemed to balloon. After a couple weeks, though, my trajectories started to drop and become more penetrating. Just had to get used to it; felt kind of whippy at first. Oh, and even when they do go high? Funny, but I'll get down to my ball and find that what I thought was a bad shot traveled 200 yards or so!
Posted 13 Apr 2007 at 11:23am #
I bought the Hi Bore XL a week ago to replace my Cleveland 460 Comp which I absolutley loved, so it was a difficult purchase to make. I am a 4 handicap and my previous club was 9.5* with the S stock black fuji shaft. I thought the 9.5 Tour model with the stiff red shaft would be the perfect club; however, to the suggestion of some forum peeps, I went to the local Golf Galaxy and had a Ball Launch Monitor session done just to make sure. I couldn't have been more off! The club that fit my club head speed (about 104) and entry angle (fairly low) was the 10.5 S gold shafted standard model. That combination brought my launch angle up a couble degrees to 14-15* and my spin rate into the high 2000s where the red shaft was leaving me around 10* and spin rates only in the 1000s. So, just because you have a good club head speed doesn't mean you need the red shaft! With the possible combination of two heads, two shafts, and three or four different flexes for each shaft, I highly reccomend getting an analysis to find which driver matches your swing speed and entry angle. Oh and by the way, this thing crushes the ball. I couldn't be happier with my purchase.
Posted 14 Apr 2007 at 11:22am #
Jared M. makes a really good point and I wish I'd thought through my response a bit more before I posted. Launch angle is a factor; I'd forgotten there are guys out there with fast swings who are hitting regular shafts. I also wanted to post to share something I saw in the new Golf Magazine: Tests of various clubs including the HiBore driver, HiBore hybrid and so on. I don't know what's going on at the magazine; do they have a bias against Cleveland? The mag's own tests showed the HiBore being longest, yet the top star rating on distance went to Cobra. Now how does THAT happen?
Posted 14 Apr 2007 at 8:53pm #
Is their much difference in hitting the 10.5 red stiff or the 9.5 red stiff? Anybody out there test this or give an indication.rick was wondering.
Posted 17 Apr 2007 at 12:18am #
In regards to type casting swing speed to this club - I thought I would share my experience concerning this. I swing approximately 105-110, and I was previously hitting the Adams Redline RPM 10.5 with the Adlia NV stiff shaft. I hit it well but tended to miss too many fairways and was in the market for a new club. I just got the Hi Bore XL with the gold shaft and a 9.5 head. I hit this club better than any other driver I have ever tried. I hit regularly 260 yards and out of the box I hit my first 5 drives 270 or more and hit 3 out of 5 fairways. The two that were not in the fairway were blatant miss hits, but they were still long and very playable. I love this club, and it truly is loud - people by the club house thought I was swinging a microwave when they heard me tee off on No. 1 tonight. It is loud, straight, long and fun to hit. Highly reccomend.
Posted 17 Apr 2007 at 9:50am #
rick said on April 14, 2007:
Obviously, one degree wouldn't make a huge difference, however, as I said before, I think anyone considering this club should get a ball launch monitor session set up somewhere. I say this because a 10.5* head is slightly more forgiving than a 9.5* head; that is a given, but also because a 10.5* head may also be longer depending on your swing.
If the ball launch monitor doesn't fit into you schedule, or you just don't want to do one, I would go with the 10.5*. The red stiff shaft is a low launch as is.
Posted 18 Apr 2007 at 5:44am #
i am a 21 handicap who currently uses a Titleist 975d.
When i was at the driving range last night i got to hit Hibore Xl with the standard shaft. I was carrying the ball about 20 - 30 yards farther than my current driver (yes - i know its old) but it was also dead straight - but it is not infallible - i did hit one slice and one hook out of 12 balls(my fault not the clubs).
The sound is very loud in a driving range when you catch it sweet (but a better noise than the Callaway ft-i and Nike sumo 2). Off center hits are loud as well and you get feedback through the club.
but in conclusion its an ANIMAL of a club and i will be buying one very soon indeed
Posted 18 Apr 2007 at 11:09am #
Is the new XL different/better enough from the older Hybore to consider an upgrade?
I play last-year's Hybore, 10.5* customized with an Accra shaft. Best driver and shaft I've ever had. I do not get my clubs for free like Mr. Singh.
Posted 18 Apr 2007 at 12:09pm #
Russ G said on April 18, 2007:
They're quite different, really. Almost night and day. But c'mon, if you like your current driver, follow the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" thought pattern. Keep using it.
Posted 26 Apr 2007 at 7:09am #
I have just got back from a demo day at the local range.
Went down to try 695 irons.
Hit a 907D2 9.5* Aldila Proto S which was good, but then tried the XL 9.5* with Fit On Gold R. Hit one, then some more thinking it was pretty good. It just got better, and the Pro came over to ask my opinion.I said just watch this, and hit 5 or 6 great shots, and he just laughed and said, "thought you would like it".
Am going to buy one!
Posted 30 Apr 2007 at 7:19pm #
Great driver! I tried the high-end drivers from Titleist, Callaway, Ping, Nike and Taylor Made. I was hitting off a mat into a net. The Hibore XL felt the best, but I liked the set-up and appearance better than the others too. Took it out onto the course and it felt even better. Straightest and longest I have ever driven. It has given me lots of confidence in my driving game.
The $299 price point, makes this the best value in drivers, for me.
I love this club!
Posted 03 May 2007 at 10:56am #
At the driving range, I tested the Hibore XL with the gold shaft, both stiff and reg., and the red shaft, both stiff and reg. I hit the red/stiff best so that's the one I purchased, w/ 10.5. I've used it now for over one month, and I've found my driver at last. I purchased the original Hibore, the most accurate driver I've ever hit, but was disappointed by its lack of distance, especially into the wind. The new Hibore XL is nearly as accurate and the distance problem is solved. I'm rarely ever get into trouble off the tee. I've spent too much on drivers for several years: Titlest 983K, TaylorMade r7, orignial Hibore, Callaway FT-3, and now this. But, I've found my driver at last. This is a keeper.
Posted 04 May 2007 at 6:57pm #
I typically shoot in the low to mid 90's. I just played my first round with the HiBore XL (yellow shaft) 11.5 degree and I've never been more confident in my drives. I play with some guys who sky the ball and they were always able to get over trees on the egde of some dog legs which puts them in superb position for their second shot. With this club I can now do the same and had my first eagle putt as a result (although I ended the hole with a birdie). After that, I was sold. The club looks, feels, and sounds great and I recommend the curious ones out there to check it out on the course.
Posted 05 May 2007 at 8:20am #
Nice job on the review! I have tried the Hi-Bore XL Pro on the range and on the course. Normally a 45 inch shaft tends to keep me in the right rough. I have a 6 handicap and decent swing speed but I have had trouble finding a 45 inch shaft with the right combination of torque and stiffness. I have been on launch monitors and at the range with various other drivers and shafts with limited results. The first thing I noticed when swinging the XL Pro was the weight (D-5) which is about 8 swingweights heavier my other driver. (I butt trimmed my existing driver shaft to 44 inches to make it lighter and tighter.) However, even though the XL Pro was considerably heavier it flew straight and true with a small draw and a piercing ball flight. Comparing it to my other driver, (454 Callaway Pro with a 44 inch 3.2 gold shaft) it seemed to fly farther and a bit lower. The weight and length of the XL Pro forced me to ease up a bit as I allowed the clubhead to catch up. When I took the XL Pro to the course the next day I waited until the middle of the round when I was swinging well and hit my driver first and then the XL Tour. I pounded my driver down the middle and got up with the XL Pro and pounded it down the middle as well. From the tee box I could see that the XL Tour had gone farther but the uphill slope of the fairway prevented a complete view. Satisfied that I had hit both clubs equally well I went to the fairway to see the results. The XL Pro had gone 24 yards farther than my other driver. Now, given that the XL Pro is an inch longer and 8 swingweights heavier, my results are not surprising. However, what is unusual is the fact that I not only hit it down the middle but with it's 3 degree open face I had drawn the ball. Every time I have hit the XL Pro it has produced a casual draw or a dead straight piercing ball flight that looks like it will never stop rolling when it comes down. In conclusion, I love the ball flight and the extra length of the Hi-Bore XL Pro but I am not sure that I can swing a D5 driver for 36 holes. I am not sure that after a long day on the links I will be able to get the clubface squared up at impact. I am also not sure that butt trimming this club will have the same glorious effects that it had on my other driver. Only time will tell.
Posted 07 May 2007 at 11:06am #
TGARD?
What is the XL PRO? Are you taking about a RED shaft or is this another version in addition to the XL and the XL TOUR?
Posted 07 May 2007 at 12:07pm #
I just Purchase the HiBORE XL.9.5. on the 4th May 2007. what the article written is total a truth facts.. 279 yd..!!!!!!
When looking at my driving distance...They intend to change their driver to HiBORE... but they dont like the shape of the HiBORE ... They told me that the shape look bit Odd. I told them.. T
The loud sound at sweet Spot.. make you feel very confident that the ball is playing fly high and stright... Even you hit outside the Sweet Spot Still.. The Ball fly high but the distance reduce to 230 to 250 yd..
I also purchase HiBORE W3 and HiBORE 2i Hybrid... Both Superb clubs... This two club.. Save my 2nd stroke to the Green. 3W at the fairway.. and 2i in the rough.
FEEL IT TO BELIEVE IT...
Iron CG2 4-PW, 60deg Tour Action
Posted 07 May 2007 at 4:12pm #
My bad. I was talking about the red shafted Hi-Bore XL Tour in my previous post. As a follow up on my post, recently, I took my 10.5 degree red shafted Hi-Bore driver to the course and then the range for a final determination. I found the D-5 swingweight hard to practice with for any length of time due to my personal swing characteristics. The good shots that I hit were the earliest ones before the round and during the round. After the round it just seemed too heavy for me. I guess that I am more of a "hitter" than a "swinger". I can't imagine using it for a full round and certainly not for 36 holes or more. I imagine that my swing speed is considerably slower with this club and as it starts to feel heavier I may start to press a bit. If I decide to butt trim it to bring down the swingweight, I will fire out another post.
Posted 08 May 2007 at 6:46am #
Well I finally got my Hi-Bore XL 9.5 gold shaft today. Straight down to the range together with my other driver (FT3 9.5 Tour with Proto By You 70 shaft).
First few hits as a warm up were nothing special, so tried the FT3 to compare distance and direction. Must have been having an ordinary day, as the FT3 was definitely shorter and more prone to reacting to a bad swing, with a fade and some snap hooks.
Back to the XL, and after a few shots started to hit high straight balls into a head wind from the left.
The XL is certainly easier to keep straight in these conditions, with a higher proportion of "sweet spot" shots, and also has the bonus of producing a more pleasant sharp sound than the "corky"FT3.
Happy to say it seems to be what I hoped for. Now i just need to get back to the swing I had when I demoed the XL.
Will update when I have played a few rounds.
Off next week to play Kauri Cliffs in New Zealand, and then a week later off to Scotland, Ireland and England, to play my favourite Links courses.
Posted 10 May 2007 at 9:46pm #
Question: This is my first year really golfing just learning the game. I bought the Hibore xl 10.5 in a Regular shaft "gold" - beacuse that's what I was told to get. I've been averaging around 280-285, but the ball has been soring extremely high and it feels like the club face is going to come off. I went in today and tried a the same club in a Stiff flex "gold" and 9.5 degree at my course today (demo). Most of my drives were easily over 300 had one land on the green that was 319 and another just shy of 335 yds. My question is should I go with gold or red shaft? We didn't have any that I could try with the red shaft. Not sure if I would benefit with the red shaft or not - any ideas?
Posted 11 May 2007 at 7:38am #
Instinct2 said on May 10, 2007:
I really dont think you need to change the shaft to red. The distance you are getting now is even more than some tour pros. If the red shaft were to get you more distance, it would be on average of 5 yards at best. What you have now is probably your best bet. I sure hope thats 335 yrd DOWN THE MIDDLE or else you could be in some deep stuff going that far off line
Posted 11 May 2007 at 8:46am #
I really dont think you need to change the shaft to red. The distance you are getting now is even more than some tour pros. If the red shaft were to get you more distance, it would be on average of 5 yards at best. What you have now is probably your best bet. I sure hope thats 335 yrd DOWN THE MIDDLE or else you could be in some deep stuff going that far off line
Thanks Phil, I went in and just swapped clubs with the clubhouse this morning. They told me the same thing after the pro watched me drive both. There was at least 30 yard difference with the 9.5 loft and stiff shaft. I couldn't hit 290 with 10.5, but it was easy to go over 300 with the 9.5 this morning on the driving range. The 330 was a little right, ha!
Posted 11 May 2007 at 10:38am #
Upgraded from the "old" Hibore to the XL based mostly on this review and comments here! Swapped the custom shaft from my old Hibore so that my new set up is an XL 10.5* with and Accra SC 75 shaft. After a few swings on the range and a few holes yesterday, it has an impressive, high and long flight and the balls rolled out when they finally landed. Length wise- it is consistantly as long as the best shots I hit with the old model. I hit one sweet-spot-hard-swing shot that I thought would have be longer than I've ever been and it just short of a bunker that I have reached with the old Hibore when I hit it perfectly. Straight when you hit it well. It is not magic. A really bad swing still gives a really bad result -- only longer than the bad shots with the old model. One aweful misshit carried a 230 yard bunker and duckhooked it's way back into the fairway another 20 yards. If you didn't see the shot, you'd have thought "nice drive."
As mentioned in other people's comments, this baby is long on misshits and if you are wild, you will be a long way from your target.
Posted 21 May 2007 at 10:23pm #
Just got one this week and at first It felt totally different from my Ping G5, plus I had to tee it a bit lower. But once I hit it a couple of times, I nearly drove a 305 yard par 4 to the green by a few feet and didn't even hit it hard at all. My worse mis-hit went 190 and stayed in play.
in fact, I had sevreal 280-300 yard drives in the fairway and I normally average 250 yards. The scary thing is, the less power you give it, the further it seems to go. I am excited about this club and can't wait to get back out there and out-drive everyone with ease. it is like a drive explosion and the ball is gone.... really gone. Best driver I ever had once you get used to it.
Posted 22 May 2007 at 9:55am #
I agree with Art that best results come from smooth swings -- high with nice roll and very long. When I try and hit it hard and hit the sweet spot it tends to ballon really high. Of course, I'm sure most of that is the archer and not the bow.
The flight I want is much higher than most guys think is optimum and this club delivers. I've been coached and fitted to believe that my high ball is my longer ball. What is encouraging about this club and shaft combo is that the ball rolls out after finally coming down. I'm guessing that much of the height is from launch angle and not excess spin. Stats: 100-105mph swing speed. 10.5* with Accra SC 75 shaft.
Posted 25 May 2007 at 7:11am #
I currently hit a 9.5 Titleist 905R with an Aldila NV 65 Stiff shaft. I wasn't even looking for a new driver until I gave the Hibore XL a try on the range when my Dad got a shot from the local prop shop. All my clubs are Titleist and I am a bit more traditional in terms of having a matching set from the driver down to the putter.
The model i tried was the 9.5 degree XL with the Fujikura Gold shaft in Stiff. I hit it a few times and they were so long and straight compoared to my normal drives I thought it must be a fluke. Went back to the Titleist and drives were back to normal length, maybe 240 - 245 carry with 10 - 15 yards roll. With the Cleveland my carry was 250 - 260 and I got way more roll, on average 25 - 30 yards, but sometimes up to 50 yards. Bear in mind the range was very firm that day.
I can honestly say I am amazed. My swing speed is 105mph - 110mph and I get through the ball well. My main issue with most of the drivers is too much spin on the ball causing it to balloon and drop down with not too much roll. The Hiobore XL somehow manages to reduce the spin and rather than dropping like a rock, it just keeps on going. The most impressive past is the extra roll I get.
I would have thought at my swing speed the red would have been better but to be honest I get better results of the yellow shaft and putting ego aside will stick with it. Going to take it out for a round this afternoon - really looking forward to it.
In summary, scary long and very straight too - even my rubbish hits were comparatively decent to what they would have come out with on the Titleist. I have always been a Titleist man but reluctantly I have to say that this driver puts them to shame. To be fair I have not tried the 907 D1 or D2 yet but at £179 this is a good deal whatever way you look at it.
Try one is all I can say, especially if you tend to get a lot of spin on your drives causing them to balloon and robbing you of distance. You will truly benefit but get fitted for the right shaft. I am a regular guy who never writes reviews but just had to give my side this time as it really is a great club.
Posted 27 May 2007 at 10:27pm #
I've been reading all these positive reviews on the Cleveland Hibore XL and was wondering if some of you could give me some advice on this driver?
First, let me say that I have a slow swing speed (76 with a 6 iron). I just purchased the hibore iron set (all hybrids) and like them very much and would like to purchase a matching driver and possibly 3 wood.
Question: Would I do better with the 11.5 with a senior flex, or is the swing weight still D5? Also, are these a draw bias club or offset?
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
BTW- my current driver is a Jack Nicklaus that came with the set (10.5 regular flex, and only around 200yrds, mostly slicing!)
HELP- and thank you!
Kevin
Posted 29 May 2007 at 7:57pm #
Purchased an XL Hibore 9.5 with a regular shaft in March. Prior to this I hit a Callaway 2 wood off the tee. I could never control a driver and sacrificed distance for accuracy off the tee. I hit the 9.5, 11.5 and 16 at a local demo days. I actually hit the 9.5 better than the other two. The ball jumped off the face. Since then I've played several rounds including my league. What a difference!! I'm hitting second shots from places I only used to wish for. As long as I make a nice slow backswing, the club will perform. I used to drive the ball 220-230 with the 2 wood. Now I'm 250+ with no loss of accuracy. Part of this may be new club confidence but there is no disputing the results. I recently shot a personal best 37(2 over) due primarily to the drives. (my iron were on as well). I'm totally sold on this club. Best $270 I've invested in a golf club.
Posted 30 May 2007 at 12:45am #
One word unbelievable. I'm a 5 handicap and have been playing my titleist 975j-vs for several years and did not want to give it up but after hitting the hibore xl tour I had no choice. I went from my 975 at 8.5* to the hibore tour at 9.5* and added about ten yards with a little less draw and the ability to hit a easy fade when needed. Happy as can be and handicap going down real soon.
Posted 07 Jun 2007 at 7:52am #
Hi all,
Seeking a high MOI driver, I tested TM Superquad, Cobra Speed LD, Callaway FTi and Cleveland HiBore XL.
Nothing (super) special with them in the range, all them straigth (the FTi short!!) but the XL was a cannon.
Yesterday asked it to a friend, and went onto the course for test, only for two holes for time reasons.
First : short par 4, 310 ft, sweet swing, and right in the middle with 80 ft to pin. Gap wedge, putt and birdie.
Second : long par 4, 389 ft up, with dodleg, hdcp 4 of the course and hard to reach in regulation. Said "let´s go a bit harder and see". Flied until the 100ft red mark!!! Whoaw!! And rolled. Buddies asked to trie it and all made +40 ft from theirs previous shots. Wedge, putt, and birdie again.
Needless to say it´s in my bag, replacing my FT3.
Posted 18 Jun 2007 at 10:50am #
i buy a cleveland hibore xl gold stiff shaft. i'm around 82 and my swing is about 98 /100 MPH with driver.
i don't like the tip active that is on this shaft , before i had a driver with a grafalloy blu stiff and i think fine.
I wish to change the shaft , but i think that the red one is too much harder for me.
What you think about aldila nv 65 s shaft on this head ?
Posted 19 Jun 2007 at 10:05am #
Carlo,
You shoot 82 or you are 82 years old? If 82 years old and 100 MPH swing speed, you are my hero.
What don't you like about the "tip active?" Too high? Too much spin? Just a feel thing?
If you still have the grafalloy shaft and liked it, try putting it in the new XL. I love my XL with my "old" Accra shaft.
Posted 20 Jun 2007 at 10:31am #
Hi Russ,
really I am 82 year old …………….(no my score are about 82 , I am 48 year old) .
But I do not like tip active because the tip of gold shaft is too much soft and when I shot I feel that the head is not square but a little behind , so my ball goes on the right.
I think because my swing is too much faster then regular.
But with my graffaloy with a cobra head (370 volume) do not happen .
Probably the kick of my shaft was middle/high while this is middle/low.
What do you think ?
Posted 20 Jun 2007 at 1:05pm #
Carlo, I am not a club-fitter. Still, since you liked your old shaft, I recommend that you put your old graffaloy shaft in (if the hosel fits) and try it. Having someone swap-out the shaft would be affordable and then you'd have data to choose another shaft if you don't love it. Option 2 would be to pay for a real fitting with multiple shaft options. I have about the same swing speed (95 - 105) and love my Accra SC 75 in the XL.
Posted 21 Jun 2007 at 6:03am #
Thanks for advice .
i'll try XL with my shaft.
Posted 23 Jun 2007 at 9:16am #
I am a 10 handicap golfer who tends to hit everything high. I have not had a chance to try the XL or XL Tour yet but they sound pretty good from the reviews. My clubhead speed is 100-105 with the driver but the trajectory is usually the problem. Even hitting 8.5 degree drivers the trajectory still gets up to around 15 which is to high for my clubhead speed. I think the main cause is to much backspin. Do you think the 8.5 Tour with the red shaft in regular flex would work for my swingspeed. I have tried a 905 R (went straight up) and a FT5 Tour (didn't really like the feel).
Thanks
Posted 25 Jun 2007 at 11:37am #
If you mean that your launch angle is 15*, that number is calculated without spin -- the angle the ball leaves the tee. If you have a 15* luanch angle with an 8.5* driver, I'd wonder if your swing could use a tweek. Somehow you are creating more loft on your driver than you want. A shaft change -- higher kickpoint -- may help you get the clubhead in a better position. And, less spin may make a 15* launch angle work great. These hybores are made to send the ball high. May not be your club.
Posted 26 Jun 2007 at 10:35pm #
I just purchased the XL Tour , I Love Cleveland, but hated the HiBore. The New HiBore is a big difference, I normally have a draw to my shot, Which I love, but I can get a little to much, and then its trouble. The open face corrects that draw. I now hit it straight or a very slight draw. My drive is last not really lost any distance in comparison to my Launcher Comp. I have noticed a lot more consistency in shot type.
Posted 26 Jun 2007 at 10:38pm #
Greg, If you are hitting the bALL TO HIGH, TRY MOVING THE BALL FURTHER BACK FRIOM YOUR FRONT FOOT. dO VERY SMALL MOVES, FOR TOO MUCH WILL RESULT IN EVEN WORSE SHOTS. sO MOVE IT BACK AN INCH OR TWO AND SEE HOW THAT WORKS
Posted 06 Aug 2007 at 8:52pm #
I am 17 and been playing for about 4 months, about 3 times a week. I've been swinging a callaway X 460cc driver and can't seem to work my slice out. I've been looking at this club and wondering if anyone here can tell me if it really does hit straighter. Also what kind of shaft should I use, I hit the ball consistently 270-290.