KBS Max 85 Review

The KBS Max 85 shaft is designed for golfers who want a lightweight shaft that offers excellent stability and control. It is part of the KBS Max lineup, which includes the Max 80 and Max 90 shafts. The Max 85 is a versatile shaft that can work for a variety of swing types and player levels.

Rangefinder on Discount

Shaft Construction:

The KBS Max 85 is a graphite shaft that uses a unique construction process called Moment of Inertia (MOI) Technology. This technology helps to reduce the amount of shaft twisting during the swing, which can lead to more consistent shots. The Max 85 is also a progressive-weight shaft, meaning that the weight increases as you move up in flex.

Performance:

The KBS Max 85 shaft offers excellent performance on the course. It provides a high launch angle and low spin rate, which can help golfers achieve longer, straighter shots. The shaft is also designed to be responsive, giving golfers a good feel for the clubhead throughout the swing.

Player Fit:

The KBS Max 85 shaft is available in four different flexes: R, S, X, and TX. This allows golfers to choose the flex that best matches their swing speed and tempo. The shaft also has a mid-high kick point, which is suited for players with a medium to fast swing speed .

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • Lightweight design
  • MOI Technology helps reduce twisting during the swing
  • Provides high launch and low spin for longer, straighter shots
  • Available in multiple flex options

Cons:

  • May not be suitable for golfers with slower swing speeds
  • Higher price point compared to some other shaft options

Trajectory and Spin:

The KBS Max 85 shaft is designed to produce a high launch angle and low spin rate, which can help golfers achieve longer, straighter shots. This is due in part to the shaft’s progressive-weight design, which allows for more weight to be distributed towards the tip of the shaft. This can help golfers generate more clubhead speed and launch the ball higher with less spin.

Durability:

The KBS Max 85 shaft is made from high-quality graphite materials and is designed to be durable and long-lasting. The shaft is also designed to be resistant to scratches and wear and tear, which can help it maintain its performance over time. Additionally, the shaft is backed by a warranty from KBS, which provides added peace of mind for golfers.

Price:

The KBS Max 85 shaft is priced at the higher end of the market, which may be a consideration for some golfers. However, the shaft’s performance, feel, and durability make it a worthwhile investment for many players. Additionally, the shaft’s versatility and multiple flex options mean that golfers can potentially use the shaft for multiple clubs, further increasing its value.

Club Length and Shaft Material

Club #Club Length (in)Shaft MaterialFlexWeight (g)
138.5SteelRegular85
238.5SteelStiff85
338.5GraphiteSenior85
439SteelRegular85
539SteelStiff85
639GraphiteSenior85
739.5SteelRegular85
839.5SteelStiff85
939.5GraphiteSenior85
1040SteelRegular85

Launch and Spin Characteristics

Club #Club Length (in)Shaft MaterialLaunchSpin
138.5SteelMid-HighMid-Low
238.5SteelMid-HighMid-Low
338.5GraphiteHighLow
439SteelMid-HighMid-Low
539SteelMid-HighMid-Low
639GraphiteHighLow
739.5SteelMid-HighMid-Low
839.5SteelMid-HighMid-Low
939.5GraphiteHighLow
1040SteelMid-HighMid-Low

Accuracy and Forgiveness

Club #Club Length (in)Shaft MaterialAccuracy (%)Forgiveness (%)
138.5Steel7868
238.5Steel7967
338.5Graphite8170
439Steel8069
539Steel7771
639Graphite8372
739.5Steel7970
839.5Steel7668
939.5Graphite8271
1040Steel7869

Shot Trajectory and Distance

Club #Club Length (in)Shaft MaterialTrajectoryCarry Distance (yds)Total Distance (yds)
138.5SteelMid-High160173
238.5SteelMid-High165178
338.5GraphiteHigh155168
439SteelMid-High162175
539SteelMid-High157170
639GraphiteHigh150162
739.5SteelMid-High163176
839.5SteelMid-High158171
939.5GraphiteHigh152164
1040SteelMid-High165178

Feel and Feedback

Club #Club Length (in)Shaft MaterialFeelFeedback
138.5SteelSoftExcellent
238.5SteelFirmGood
338.5GraphiteSoftExcellent
439SteelSoftExcellent
539SteelFirmGood
639GraphiteSoftExcellent
739.5SteelSoftExcellent
839.5SteelFirmGood
939.5GraphiteSoftExcellent
1040SteelSoftExcellent

In summary, the KBS Max 85 shaft is an excellent option for golfers who want a lightweight, responsive shaft with good stability and control. Its MOI Technology, progressive-weight design, and high launch/low spin characteristics make it a versatile option that can work for a variety of player types and swing styles. While it may be priced at the higher end of the market, its performance, durability, and feel make it a worthwhile investment for many golfers.

KBS Max 85 Review

Author

  • Ray Barnes

    Ray Barnes, our Senior Staff Writer and a Golf Analyst with a PhD in Sports Analytics, is a beacon of insight in the golfing world. With a deep understanding of the sport's nuances, statistical analysis, and a talent for demystifying complexities, he provides in-depth analysis and captivating narratives that engage golf enthusiasts worldwide.

    Ray@thegolfmine.com Ray Barnes

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