2025 Miken Ultra Johnny Bailey Maxload Slowpitch Bat Review
A Johnny Bailey signature two-piece composite Miken Ultra with a 12" max-load — power with a softer, dampened feel.
Been on the market a while — keep an eye out for in-season price drops.
Check today's price →The Score
How we score ↗How big and forgiving the barrel is — based on barrel length, construction (one- vs two-piece, alloy vs composite), and how it plays on balls hit off the center. A primary driver of the overall score.
Raw exit velocity and distance. We use measured numbers from freely available independent testing when they exist; otherwise construction and consensus, judged against the certification’s performance ceiling. A primary driver of the overall score.
Comfort and feedback on contact — vibration dampening from the knob/connection, the sting of a stiff one-piece vs a smooth two-piece, and the sound off the barrel. A primary driver of the overall score.
How well it holds up and how the company stands behind it — documented cracking/denting reports, cold-weather behavior, and the brand’s real warranty record. Good to know, but weighted lightly in the score.
Our take on price-for-performance — the overall package weighed against its cost and what comparable bats run. Shown for context; it is NOT factored into the overall score (price changes too often and is personal).
Why this score: Preliminary score from the bat's construction, class, brand and price — an honest first pass we refine as we test more and any independent lab data appears.
Our Review
This Ultra goes two-piece: a Super Flex handle and a connection that soak up vibration, paired with a max-loaded 12" composite barrel for distance hitters. The two-piece build smooths the feel versus the one-piece Ultra Gamers. A power swing with comfort at $179.99.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Max-load carry with a softer two-piece feel
- Super Flex handle dampens vibration
Cons
- Max-load suits stronger hitters
- Composite needs a short break-in
Full Specifications
| Brand | Miken |
|---|---|
| Model | Ultra Johnny Bailey Maxload |
| Model Year | 2025 |
| Certification | Slowpitch |
| Sport | Softball |
| Construction | Two-piece composite |
| Model # | MSS5JBL |
| Drop | — |
| Barrel | 2 1/4" |
| Swing Weight | End Load |
| MSRP | $179.99 |
Where to Buy
2025 Miken Ultra Johnny Bailey Maxload Slowpitch Bat — FAQ
Is the 2025 Miken Ultra Johnny Bailey Maxload a good Slowpitch bat?
We rate it 8.3/10 (Grade A). A Johnny Bailey signature two-piece composite Miken Ultra with a 12" max-load — power with a softer, dampened feel.
Is the Miken Ultra Johnny Bailey Maxload Slowpitch-legal?
Yes — it's Slowpitch certified by the certifying labs. Certified for USSSA / NSA / ISA slowpitch play.
How much does the 2025 Ultra Johnny Bailey Maxload cost?
MSRP is $179.99. We list the lowest price across CheapBats and Amazon on this page.
New to buying bats? Read our bat sizing guide, certifications explained, or browse all guides.
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Sources: CheapBats — 2025 Miken Ultra Johnny Bailey Senior Slowpitch Softball Bat 12" Maxload SSUSA MSS5JBL