Stage 1... Successfully design and launch the TaylorMade RocketBallz (RBZ) driver. Stage 2... Do it again.

So what did TaylorMade call the second generation RBZ driver? Yup, you guessed it, the TaylorMade RBZ Stage 2 driver.

TaylorMade's R&D team have made several key changes to the original RBZ driver to create a club they say adds up to nine more yards compared to the first generation RBZ. A lower and further forward CG (centre of gravity), a more aerdynamic head design, new crown graphics, thinner crown construction and a larger clubface combine to make the TaylorMade RBZ Stage 2 driver more than just a second generation driver.

What we used to know as Flight Control Technology in previous TaylorMade drivers is now called Loft Sleeve Technology in the new RBZ Stage 2 driver. The sleeve has been updated to adjust to 12 positions within the window of 1.5 degrees of loft adjustment. The driver is available in either a 9.5, 10.5 or 13 degree model, and with the Loft Sleeve Technology, offers up to 60 yards of side to side adjustability.

TaylorMade have moved the CG further forward and lower than the previous RBZ driver. They found that a lower, further forward CG promotes a faster ball speed along with a higher launch, perfect for more distance.

One of the first things golfers will notice with the RBZ Stage 2 driver is the new crown alignment decals. Combining the new 4,100mm black clubface, the new decals have been developed in accordance with Dr. Steve Hitzeman, Professor of Sports Optometry. Using their own MAT-T (Motion Analysis Technology by TaylorMade) system, TaylorMade engineers carefully positioned the layout of the new decals to create effective visual cues for alignment.

Whilst the design of the crown may demand a lot of attention, inside the crown TaylorMade made even more upgrades. The crown thickness now varies from 0.6mm to 0.4mm (previously a consistent 0.6mm on the R11S and RocketBallz Tour drivers). This process saved three grams of weight, making the clubhead even faster through impact.

Finally, the TaylorMade RBZ Stage 2 driver is completed with a Fujikura RocketFuel shaft and lightweight grip. All together the RBZ Stage 2 weighes under 300g. Combine that a slightly higher swing weight, and the design of the club, and the RBZ Stage 2 works to create a moderate draw bias.