Ronbus R1.16 Pulsar Paddle Review
The pickleball paddle market has grown significantly recently, with a handful of brands dominating the scene. In 2022, Joola’s Hyperion line was the talk of the town, setting a high bar for performance and feel.
Fast forward to 2023, and Ronbus is making waves with their R1.16 Pulsar paddle, promising JOOLA Hyperion-like performance at a fraction of the cost. The buzz around this paddle has been undeniable, with countless questions from friends and fellow players eager to hear my thoughts.
It’s time to dive in and see if the Ronbus R1.16 truly lives up to the hype.
Table of Contents
Paddle Specification
| Feature | Specification |
| Weight | 8.1 oz |
| Length | 16 ¼” or 16 ½” |
| Width | 7 ½” |
| Handle Length | 5 ¼” or 5 ½” |
| Grip Circumference | 4 ¼” |
| Paddle Face Material | Toray T700 raw carbon fiber |
| Core Material | Polypropylene honeycomb |
| Core Thickness | 16 mm (0.63″) |
| Sweet Spot | Large |
Pros
- Plays like Hyperion CFS, are cheaper.
- Plush feel, powerful, wide sweet spot, solid build.
- Great control. Forgiving. Good for touch. Soft feel.
- Balanced feel. Not too heavy, not too light.
- Quick. Low swing weight. Fast hands.
- Long handle. Good for a two-handed backhand.
- Appealing design. Minimalist look.
Cons
- No edge foam. Smaller sweet spot than Hyperion.
Ronbus R1 Pulsar A Quick Overview
The R1 PULSAR is Ronbus’ answer to a high-performance, yet accessible pickleball paddle. Its standout feature is its exceptional power generation. With minimal effort, players can unleash powerful drives and devastating putaways.
Surprisingly, this raw power doesn’t sacrifice control. Dinks, drops, and resets are executed with precision, making it a versatile option for all court situations. While not a spin-master like dedicated topspin paddles, the R1 PULSAR offers sufficient spin for most players.
Comfort is another highlight. The paddle’s large sweet spot and forgiving nature reduce arm discomfort, making it suitable for players prone to tennis elbow. Its lightweight design and aerodynamic shape contribute to effortless swing speed and maneuverability.
While the grip can become slippery for those with sweaty hands, this issue can be easily resolved with an overgrip. The R1 PULSAR is not ideal for absolute beginners or advanced players seeking maximum spin, but it excels as a tool for intermediate players looking to elevate their game.
The Ronbus R1 PULSAR is a well-rounded paddle that delivers impressive power, control, and comfort. It’s a reliable workhorse that will serve many players well on the pickleball court.
Paddle Features
Build Quality
Out of the box, this feels very solid. It’s a tight, really well-built paddle. I have to admit, I do like a paddle that looks cool, and this is far from the flashiest. That said, I’m more interested in how it plays.
Construction
You get some great tech built into this paddle for the price. Like more expensive paddles, it’s thermoformed and has a unibody construction. This means it should be sturdy and durable and shouldn’t wear down over time. The foam edge increases the sweet spot, too.
Grip Options
You can order this in either a 5 ¼” or 5 ½” handle length, which is great as it gives an option to players who are starting to use two-handed backhands.
Paddle Shape
This paddle cuts through the air, more so than other paddles with the same handle length and body shape. I think it’s because of the rounded edge, which makes the swing weight light.
Paddle Performance
This paddle excels in delivering impressive spin, power, and control. While the sweet spot is less forgiving than the Hyperion, this can be compensated for by focusing on accurate shots. I effortlessly executed deep, heavy topspin serves and delicate dinks with excellent touch.”
Control
The Ronbus R1 PULSAR excels in control, offering a soft and plush feel that inspires confidence. Its generous sweet spot and 16mm core make it a dream for executing delicate shots like dinks and resets.
Players will appreciate the ease with which they can manipulate the ball and maintain precision around the net. While not a dedicated control paddle, the R1 PULSAR provides a high level of control that surpasses many power-oriented paddles.
The R1 PULSAR strikes a remarkable balance between power and control, making it a versatile choice for players seeking precision and finesse on the court.
Power
The Ronbus R1 PULSAR delivers substantial power without sacrificing control. While it might not match the raw output of the latest unibody thermoformed paddles, it excels at generating ample power for effective putaway. Its sweet spot and forgiving nature allow players to confidently drive the ball with pace and authority.
This paddle is particularly well-suited for those seeking a balance of power and control. It offers a significant power upgrade compared to softer paddles like the Halo or Warrior Edge, without compromising playability. For players who desire even more power, adding lead tape can further enhance the R1 PULSAR’s performance.
The R1 PULSAR stands out as a potent power paddle that effectively combines offensive capabilities with a comfortable playing experience.
Spin
The Ronbus R1 PULSAR delivers impressive spin performance. Players can easily generate heavy topspin on drives and effectively cut the ball on returns. While not reaching the pinnacle of spin-oriented paddles like the Legacy Pro, the R1 PULSAR provides a commendable balance of spin, power, and control.
Independent testing has confirmed the R1 PULSAR’s exceptional spin capabilities, with measured RPMs exceeding 2100. This exceptional spin generation can be attributed to the paddle’s Toray T700 carbon fiber surface, which imparts exceptional grip on the ball. Players can achieve precise ball placement with minimal effort, as the paddle significantly enhances spin generation.
The R1 PULSAR offers a remarkable level of spin, making it a compelling option for players who prioritize shot control and placement.
Weight
The R1 PULSAR’s weight is ideal. Coming in just over 8 ounces, it provides ample opportunity for customization with lead tape to fine-tune performance. Unlike heavier paddles, players can easily adjust the weight to their preference. Additionally, the paddle maintains a well-balanced feel without any noticeable head heaviness.
Grip
The R1 PULSAR features a perforated grip that offers a solid feel for most players. While I found it slightly slippery due to sweaty hands, requiring an overgrip, many others have expressed satisfaction with the grip as-is. Overall, the grip quality is commendable, and individual preferences may vary.
Durability
The Ronbus R1 PULSAR has demonstrated exceptional durability in initial testing, even under demanding conditions. The paddle has shown no signs of wear or damage despite consistent use on rough courts.
Key factors contributing to its durability include a solid build quality, a well-secured grip, and a reinforced edge guard. The paddle’s construction appears robust, with no evidence of flimsy components. Additionally, the absence of exposed polymer beneath the grip and a securely attached edge guard are positive indicators of long-term resilience.
While long-term durability testing is ongoing, the initial findings suggest that the R1 PULSAR is built to withstand the rigors of regular play.
Should You Buy Ronbus R1 Pulsar?
The Ronbus R1.16 and R3.16 paddles are exceptional choices for players seeking a high-quality, versatile pickleball paddle without breaking the bank. These paddles offer a remarkable balance of power, control, and spin, making them suitable for players of all skill levels.
Why choose the Ronbus R1.16 or R3.16?
- Exceptional value: Delivering Hyperion-like performance at a fraction of the price.
- Versatility: Excels in all areas of the game, from powerful serves to delicate dinks.
- Build quality: Well-constructed and durable, ensuring long-lasting performance.
While the Ronbus R1.16 and R3.16 are fantastic options, players seeking maximum power may consider newer unibody thermoformed paddles. These paddles often offer slightly more raw power but may sacrifice some control and comfort.
The Ronbus R1.16 and R3.16 are highly recommended for players looking for an all-around excellent paddle without emptying their wallets. Their exceptional performance and value make them a standout choice in the pickleball market.
Final Thought
The Ronbus R1.16 and R3.16 paddles stand out as exceptional value propositions in the competitive pickleball market. Their impressive combination of power, control, and spin, coupled with a durable build and comfortable feel, make them a compelling choice for players of all skill levels.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to enhance your game or an intermediate player seeking a versatile paddle, the Ronbus R1.16 or R3.16 is worth serious consideration. Their affordability and exceptional performance make them a standout option for players who demand quality without breaking the bank.
The Ronbus R1.16 and R3.16 paddles are a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering high-performance pickleball equipment at accessible price points.
Frequently Ask Question
What is the difference between Ronbus R1 Pulsar and R3 Pulsar?
The primary distinction between the two paddles lies in their swing weight. The R1.16 boasts a lower swing weight, resulting in enhanced maneuverability. Consequently, it offers slightly less power compared to the R3.
Are Ronbus paddles thermoformed?
The Ronbus NOVA introduces a groundbreaking change to its construction. Unlike its predecessor, which featured a solid carbon seam layer, the NOVA incorporates a permeable carbon fiber grid. This innovative design, combined with the same core and thermoforming process, sets the NOVA apart in terms of paddle technology
What is a thermoformed paddle?
Ronbus paddles are constructed using a thermoforming process. This involves heating a plastic sheet until it’s malleable, then shaping it into a paddle before cooling it down. The result is a lightweight yet robust paddle that delivers exceptional control and power.
