The 2009 release of the RD-1 was the first time any of the RD line went back into production and is an indication of how popular the RD-1 was in its time. The superior balance and weight distribution made the RD-1 a sought after model.
The 2009 model featured a number of changes to the original 2003 design. It is wider (35mm compared to 33mm) and heavier (55g compared to 54g) than the 2003 release. Even the the casual eye the 2009 model looks less well produced; the shape of the halves no longer smoothly curving organically and the paint finish is more akin to a stain than the lacquered finish of the 2003 models. The 2009 model also came in black and natural.
The design of the yo-yo also received some changes. The 2009 design has identical halves. The caution message from the 2003 model is gone. The most notable absence from the design is the year of production. The easiest way to tell if you have a 2009 RD-1 is that it does not have ANY year on the yo-yo.
The 2009 RD-1 also came in the standard plastic and cardboard BC/Tom Kuhn box. The wonderful packaging from the initial RD releases also did not make the 2009 release. Despite the steps back in production quality, packaging amenities and design, this is still a solid playing yo-yo that rivals the 2003 release for playability.
