As we expected, TaylorMade has announced their new for 2008 CGB MAX Rescue Hybrids.  The new hybrids complete the CGB MAX lineup (at least I don’t expect we’ll see a CGB wedge).  Just like the CGB MAX driver, and CGB Max fairways, the CGB MAX hybrid features TaylorMade’s high MOI, triangular-shaped head.

As you’d expect from a high MOI club, the center of gravity of the CGB MAX Rescue Hybrid has been moved low, and to the extreme rear of the clubhead.

The company claims the new rescue launches the ball high, and long, even on off-center hits.  Distance is further increased by the shallow clubface construction.

For the first time, TaylorMade is incorporating their SuperFast technology (a key component of their Burner drivers) into a hybrid.  SuperFast technology, as you may recall, involves reducing the overall weight of the club by utilizing an ultralight (55 grams) Fujikura RE*AX shaft, and a lighter-than-standard grip.

According to TaylorMade’s Senior Director of Metalwood Creation, Tom Olsavsky:

The r7 CGB MAX Rescue hybrids are like every other club in the r7 CGB MAX line.  They incorporate every relevant performance technology we have to maximize its ease of use. We like to say that they’re easier to hit than your 7-iron.

r7 CGB MAX Rescue hybrids are available in men’s 3 (19°), 4 (22°) and 5 (25°). 3 and 4 are available in left-handed. Shaft flexes include S, R and M.

The r7CGB Max has a MSRP of $240, although it’s a pretty safe bet that by the time the clubs hit retailers like GolfBalls.com the actual cost will be considerably closer to $200.

I love the idea of the CGB Max series; high MOI clubs for the average golfer.  The only real complaint we have is with the paint job.  I’m a huge, huge, huge fan of what TaylorMade did with last year’s SuperQuad, and this year’s Tour Burner.  The candy-apple red shine of the CGB MAX series, however; just isn’t all that appealing to me.