Two new Bridgestone drivers are entering the USGA Eligible List this morning and, as usual, the USGA lists raise more questions than answers.
The two new models fall under the Bridgestone “B-Limited BX” name. First is the BX TOUR model, followed by two stars, which we’ll call from here on the BX Tour Two-Star (if Callaway can have a Triple Diamond, Bridgestone can have a Two-Star). The second is the more conventional name BX TOURMAX.
As always, information on the USGA website is limited, as are images. The only pictures available are of the one, so don’t expect any addresses or facial images until the products are closer to the actual launch.
In terms of the history of technology, the best we can do is interpret and, for lack of a better term, guess.
Bridgestone B-Limited BX Driver
The BX Tour Two-Star is only listed as a nine-step loft. The images show two forward weight ports on the sole, one toward the heel, the other toward the toe (we assume they’re interchangeable since Bridgestone is focused on fit).
The BX TOURMAX shows only a 9.5 degree model, without sole weights.
It’s not too far-fetched to say that the TOURMAX will be the more forgiving of the two. We don’t think it will be another member of the combined MIA 10K club, however, as there is no sign to suggest so. Besides, 10K just doesn’t seem like a Bridgestone thing. If we had to guess (which is all we have at this point), we’d say the TOURMAX is the 460 CC, and I’m sorry for both. The Tour Two-Star is likely to be a more compact, Tour driven, lower spin head with a lower MOI.
The only technology-related cues on the new drivers are the words “Carbon Semi-Monocoque” on both the sole and crown, and “No-Slip Bite Milling” on the face, indicating a type of milling designed to increase friction and reduce unpredictable spin. This is something that Bridgestone has used for years and actually has some pretty impressive data to back it up.
The Carbon Semi-Monocoque, however, is infinitely more interesting.
What is “Carbon Semi-Monocoque?”
Carbon Semi-Monocoque is a structural design concept borrowed from the aerospace and motorsports industries. Monocoque means that the outer shell is the entire structure. Think of a Formula 1 shell or an airplane fuselage and you get the idea.
Semi-Monocoque means that while the outer shell carries some of the load, the inner ribs and support structures help. The load is shared between the skin and the inner frame. The carbon element indicates that carbon has been used instead of titanium for the crown, sole and sides.
If this sounds like some other modern driver builds, you’re not wrong. PING, TaylorMade and Callaway already embrace this design philosophy (albeit with different phrasing), while COBRA and Titleist can best be described as “Adjacent Semi-monocoque”.
The carbon panels, inner frame and the rest of the structure work together as an integrated support system. The Semi-Monocoque allows for additional weight savings to better locate the center of gravity, whether it’s lower for higher launch, further back for higher MOI, or further forward for lower spin and higher ball speed.
It also allows for more controlled flex zones, with alternating flex and stiff zones for more of a trampoline effect. This is directly related to ball speed, face stability and sound and feel.
Is there a time limit?
We don’t know much about these new Bridgestone drivers. We know that Bridgestone has been slow-playing its comeback as a full-line company here in North America. He disappeared for a while before bringing out a limited line of forged irons and wedges. Drivers seem to be the next logical step.
Under normal circumstances, the next step would be to perhaps see these drivers appear on the Tour over the next month or so. The most likely candidates would be Chris Gotterup or Jason Day, depending on contract status. The Korn Ferry Tour might be a more likely showcase. The official product launch for people like you and me probably won’t happen for another few months.
Ten days ago, Bridgestone announced that it would be closing its ball factory in Covington, Georgia next month. Two new drivers entering the USGA roster, however, should be further proof that despite the shutdown, Bridgestone isn’t going anywhere.
So now it’s your turn. Based on what you see, what are your thoughts on these new Bridgestone drivers?
