Using a multi-step artificial intelligence process and emphasizing impact locations in areas on the clubface where golfers tend to strike the ball, Cleveland Golf revamped its Launcher XL 2 drivers to blend distance and forgiveness.
Dustin Brekke, the director of engineering at Cleveland Golf, said the Launcher XL 2’s AI evaluation of performance characteristics was used to manipulate geometries of its face to generate greater ball speeds, distance and consistency no matter where contact is made.
The XL head design and weighting setup were reworked to deliver more forgiveness and consistency, using an extremely thin crown supported by a strong but lightweight framework to increase MOI to the highest level of any Cleveland Golf driver. Testing showed a 2 percent increase in heel/toe MOI and a 12 percent increase in high/low MOI compared with the previous generation driver.
The Launcher XL 2 ($449.99) – both the standard and draw models – also doubles down on power with its “Rebound Frame” technology, utilizing two dual-flex zones that work simultaneously to increase the energy into the ball, thus amplifying ball speed and distance.
Both driver models feature an adjustable hosel ranging in half-degree increments from 9 to 12. There is also an optional custom-configured “accuracy build” model featuring a shaft a half-inch shorter for players looking for more consistent strikes.
PHOTO COURTESY cleveland golf