Yonex Vcore Pro 97

ProRadTour

Semi-Pro
Has to be the case. This is a great version, probably the best yet, so I’d grab some at a discount instead and hope they don’t change the new version up.

Hope they don't change it up at all other than paint job. Not sure what they can change to make it much better. The 18x20 option sounds interesting.

I would guess it will be more a cosmetic update like the Galaxy option with the VCore line. They also have two paint job options for the EZone line.
 
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skeeter

Professional
This racquet sounds right in my wheelhouse on specs except that it's a bit smaller head size (though not much, really, right?) from my current TC 100. Thoughts on this? Does the VCP 97 play "bigger" than its spec? I know there's a VCP 100 and the common thinking is that 100's provide a little more margin for error if you're not a young buck anymore, I'm liking the sounds of the lower RA on the 97 and I can bring my own power (even though I'm approaching the big 6-0, I'm in pretty good shape). And while heavy topspin is not my go-to shot (generally hit a "flattish topspin" as I call it), will use some good top often. Strong 4.0 player, all-courter, like to play both singles and doubles.
 
Thank you all for the input! It is greatly appreciated. How is comfort when stringing low polu? I have developed early signs of tennis elbow so I want to be careful.

Definitely more comfortable than poly strung in 50s but if you have early signs, switch to a hybrid setup ASAP. My 55/50 gut/poly setup feels way more comfortable than my 45/40 full bed poly
 
Can anyone please compare the VCP 100(300) vs VCP 97(310)?

I’ve hit with both. Ended up going with the 97 and now have 3 of them.

100 was definitely smoother and more forgiving. But loved the feedback and control I was able to get with the 97.

Didn’t think 3 square inches would make that much of a difference for me, but it did. Also could be due to the 10 extra grams
 

blai212

Hall of Fame
This racquet sounds right in my wheelhouse on specs except that it's a bit smaller head size (though not much, really, right?) from my current TC 100. Thoughts on this? Does the VCP 97 play "bigger" than its spec? I know there's a VCP 100 and the common thinking is that 100's provide a little more margin for error if you're not a young buck anymore, I'm liking the sounds of the lower RA on the 97 and I can bring my own power (even though I'm approaching the big 6-0, I'm in pretty good shape). And while heavy topspin is not my go-to shot (generally hit a "flattish topspin" as I call it), will use some good top often. Strong 4.0 player, all-courter, like to play both singles and doubles.

Ive previously tried the VCP97 310 +330 versions after my arm gave out from the RF97...jus couldnt gel with the 310 version...ended up purchasing a used VCP 100 (300) by chance because the price was right and it hit pretty well but ended up switching to ezone/vcore models cuz they provide more easily accessible power. VCP is more control oriented and more harsh than ezone. Vcore is inbetween the two in terms of harshness but has the most power. Ezone is the easiest to swing through the air cuz of aerodynamic throat shape similar to that of the babolat aeros. One thing I cant stress enough is that when demoing the racquet, it is imperative to try it out with a good string setup. If the strings are ****, the racquet will feel like ****. Your best bet would be to go to a social type of tennis gathering and try to find someone that has the racquet and string setup that would give u accurate impression of how the racquet feels. STRINGS ARE THE SOUL OF THE RACQUET!
Buying a racquet is like buying a car...u better be sure you make the right purchase or else you’ll be miserable through the remainder of its lifetime. Hope this helps. This is just my personal experience, maybe someone else can comment with some insight or their experiences between vcore ezone VCP.
B


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Keoni068

Rookie
Ive previously tried the VCP97 310 +330 versions after my arm gave out from the RF97...jus couldnt gel with the 310 version...ended up purchasing a used VCP 100 (300) by chance because the price was right and it hit pretty well but ended up switching to ezone/vcore models cuz they provide more easily accessible power. VCP is more control oriented and more harsh than ezone. Vcore is inbetween the two in terms of harshness but has the most power. Ezone is the easiest to swing through the air cuz of aerodynamic throat shape similar to that of the babolat aeros. One thing I cant stress enough is that when demoing the racquet, it is imperative to try it out with a good string setup. If the strings are ****, the racquet will feel like ****. Your best bet would be to go to a social type of tennis gathering and try to find someone that has the racquet and string setup that would give u accurate impression of how the racquet feels. STRINGS ARE THE SOUL OF THE RACQUET!
Buying a racquet is like buying a car...u better be sure you make the right purchase or else you’ll be miserable through the remainder of its lifetime. Hope this helps. This is just my personal experience, maybe someone else can comment with some insight or their experiences between vcore ezone VCP.
B


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Which racquet has less power, the 100 or 97(310)?
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster

The 310 has a high twistweight. I am not sure what that means besides that it is very stable for it’s weight, but I also think it transfers more power to the ball as well.
 

Tour_G

Semi-Pro
I don't know what to do.
I love everything you guys say about the VCP 97, but an 18x20 by Yonex is like a dream. Should I wait? Should I buy this V Core Pro? September is too far away...
 

mad dog1

G.O.A.T.
I don't know what to do.
I love everything you guys say about the VCP 97, but an 18x20 by Yonex is like a dream. Should I wait? Should I buy this V Core Pro? September is too far away...
I honestly can’t see how making the VCP an 18/20 would make the racquet better. There’s nothing lacking about the control of the current version at all.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
I don't know what to do.
I love everything you guys say about the VCP 97, but an 18x20 by Yonex is like a dream. Should I wait? Should I buy this V Core Pro? September is too far away...

It’s not worth over thinking. If you have frames you like now just use those if there is hesitation here.

The 16x19 310 plays like an 18x20 already, IMO. I love that about it.
 

JoaoN

Semi-Pro
I don't know what to do.
I love everything you guys say about the VCP 97, but an 18x20 by Yonex is like a dream. Should I wait? Should I buy this V Core Pro? September is too far away...

First of all, an 18x20 yonex in the moment is just a rumor.

Also, the VCP 97 16x19 pattern is not that open, it is quite dense and has a lot of control.

To me, the stringbed feels exactly like my 18x20 IG Speed, but with more spin potential.
 

richdvng

Rookie
First of all, an 18x20 yonex in the moment is just a rumor.

Also, the VCP 97 16x19 pattern is not that open, it is quite dense and has a lot of control.

To me, the stringbed feels exactly like my 18x20 IG Speed, but with more spin potential.

I agree with the control of this racquet. For a 16x19 racquet, it has a lot of control and I still find myself capable of producing enough power and spin behind my shots. There isn't a single thing I don't like about this racquet tbh.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
I agree with the control of this racquet. For a 16x19 racquet, it has a lot of control and I still find myself capable of producing enough power and spin behind my shots. There isn't a single thing I don't like about this racquet tbh.

Same. I really have no complaints. I hope the new one has a rad P/J and nothing else has changed. I feel confident since this frame really does have a similar sweet feel as the Tour G version did. I missed that feel a lot, and I think this newer version is improved when it comes to specs. So YY only has improved on these frames imo.

I actually loved the Tour G P/J. It was so cool. I know that’s pretty subjective but I like frames that are a little loud.
 

mad dog1

G.O.A.T.
This racquet sounds right in my wheelhouse on specs except that it's a bit smaller head size (though not much, really, right?) from my current TC 100. Thoughts on this? Does the VCP 97 play "bigger" than its spec? I know there's a VCP 100 and the common thinking is that 100's provide a little more margin for error if you're not a young buck anymore, I'm liking the sounds of the lower RA on the 97 and I can bring my own power (even though I'm approaching the big 6-0, I'm in pretty good shape). And while heavy topspin is not my go-to shot (generally hit a "flattish topspin" as I call it), will use some good top often. Strong 4.0 player, all-courter, like to play both singles and doubles.
the VCP 97 plays bigger than its spec for me, but i'm coming from Prestige MPs and leaded up Ultra Tours which are low powered control sticks with 18/20 patterns. the VCP 310 retains all the strengths of the modded UT and Prestige MP, namely control and more control, but brings more rhs, power, and penetration to game. Add impressive stability on volleys and insane short angles to the mix and this has turned out to be the best frame ever for me. I've always felt I had to compromise something with every other frame in the past. With the VCP 97 310, I feel like I finally have my cake and I get to eat it, too.
 
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mad dog1

G.O.A.T.
I don't know what to do.
I love everything you guys say about the VCP 97, but an 18x20 by Yonex is like a dream. Should I wait? Should I buy this V Core Pro? September is too far away...
Honestly, this racquet is PERFECT just the way it is right now. It does everything I want it to do. It feels equally at home on the baseline as it does at the net. Just an incredible, incredible stick. I hope Yonex doesn't mess around with this winning formula.
 
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JoaoN

Semi-Pro
Honestly, this racquet is PERFECT just the way it is right now. I does everything I want it to do. It feels equally at home on the baseline as it does at the net. Just an incredible, incredible stick. I hope Yonex doesn't mess around with this winning formula.

Agree with almost everything, i just think that to be perfect it needs a few grams added. I was "lucky" mine came out of spec, weighting 316gr unstrung. And it plays better than the other one that came on spec.
 

mad dog1

G.O.A.T.
Agree with almost everything, i just think that to be perfect it needs a few grams added. I was "lucky" mine came out of spec, weighting 316gr unstrung. And it plays better than the other one that came on spec.
There’s something called lead tape. That’s when you would use it. ;)

I just can’t see Yonex releasing a 311, 312, 313, 314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319....330 version. ;);)
 

JoaoN

Semi-Pro
There’s something called lead tape. That’s when you would use it. ;)

I just can’t see Yonex releasing a 311, 312, 313, 314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319....330 version. ;);)

Thats exactly what i was talking about when i said added, obviously by the player, with lead tape, and obviously, not by Yonex. :rolleyes:
 

mad dog1

G.O.A.T.
Thats exactly what i was talking about when i said added, obviously by the player, with lead tape, and obviously, not by Yonex. :rolleyes:
I know. I didn’t think you were suggesting that Yonex should offer more weight versions Just having some fun with my reply. Hence the ;););)

Perhaps a poor attempt at trying to be humorous.
 
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Hokiein304

New User
Can anyone please compare the VCP 100(300) vs VCP 97(310)?

Just strung mine up today and only hit 35-40 balls with it...initial thoughts, it feels softer and more controlled but not as powerful as the 100. However after about a dozen or so shots, I added a little lead tape at 12 and the power felt pretty close to the 100 but still softer and more controlled. Racquet weighed 309 prestring, final weight is 339 with string, Yonex dampener, overgrip, lead tape, and Gamma Guard head tape. Hope to get to play this weekend but the weather doesn't look like it is going to cooperate. Will post more later.
 

Keoni068

Rookie
Just strung mine up today and only hit 35-40 balls with it...initial thoughts, it feels softer and more controlled but not as powerful as the 100. However after about a dozen or so shots, I added a little lead tape at 12 and the power felt pretty close to the 100 but still softer and more controlled. Racquet weighed 309 prestring, final weight is 339 with string, Yonex dampener, overgrip, lead tape, and Gamma Guard head tape. Hope to get to play this weekend but the weather doesn't look like it is going to cooperate. Will post more later.


Thank you! Just what I wanted to know.
 

Tour_G

Semi-Pro
the VCP 97 plays bigger than its spec for me, but i'm coming from Prestige MPs and leaded up Ultra Tours which are low powered control sticks with 18/20 patterns. the VCP 310 retains all the strengths of the modded UT and Prestige MP, namely control and more control, but brings more rhs, power, and penetration to game. Add impressive stability on volleys and insane short angles to the mix and this has turned out to be the best frame ever for me. I've always felt I had to compromise something with every other frame in the past. With the VCP 97 310, I feel like I finally have my cake and I get to eat it, too.
Can't wait to sell my V Core 98 to buy the 97 [emoji30]
 

Tour_G

Semi-Pro
Same. I really have no complaints. I hope the new one has a rad P/J and nothing else has changed. I feel confident since this frame really does have a similar sweet feel as the Tour G version did. I missed that feel a lot, and I think this newer version is improved when it comes to specs. So YY only has improved on these frames imo.

I actually loved the Tour G P/J. It was so cool. I know that’s pretty subjective but I like frames that are a little loud.
Since you mention the Tour G and its feel, I think you described it perfect, it makes you feel confident about your shots. It has a pretty comfortable feel that ables you to hit freely with a lot of control.
And you say Pro 97 is better...? Ok, I have nothing to wait for then [emoji16]
 

ProRadTour

Semi-Pro
I found the feel is more refined with the new version compared to the Tour G. I find I get more feedback and have more confidence in what the ball will do off the string bed with the update. Had both the 310 and 330 in the Tour G, the 310 in the new version I feel is far better than the 310 in the Tour G. The 330 Tour G is more of a freight train compared to the new 330, however the new 330 all around is just a far better package.

With upcoming update, If they do release the 18x20 option, I hope they lower the RA to the low 60's. If they did this, they should nail what a modern prestige should be like. The 16x19 is great as it is, with a more closed string pattern the lower RA should be a very nice option and they should have all players frame options locked up. IMHO this is the best players frame on the market for some time.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
I found the feel is more refined with the new version compared to the Tour G. I find I get more feedback and have more confidence in what the ball will do off the string bed with the update. Had both the 310 and 330 in the Tour G, the 310 in the new version I feel is far better than the 310 in the Tour G. The 330 Tour G is more of a freight train compared to the new 330, however the new 330 all around is just a far better package.

With upcoming update, If they do release the 18x20 option, I hope they lower the RA to the low 60's. If they did this, they should nail what a modern prestige should be like. The 16x19 is great as it is, with a more closed string pattern the lower RA should be a very nice option and they should have all players frame options locked up. IMHO this is the best players frame on the market for some time.

Good points. I remember I went with the 330 Tour G because the 310 was pretty low powered and didn’t really have the punch I wanted. I probably should have stuck with the 310 in retrospect, but oh well. This series of racquets really is a total gem for people who want a classic feel, and thin beam but want modern playability.

Even with the 16x19 switch, the frame still plays with that classic driving trajectory that you expect, and the slice is easy to keep low and not float.

It is true, they are close to nailing a modern prestige style frame. Far better feel, IMO than any head offering now. What I like is it has it’s own unique feel to it. And it sticks with you. I kept thinking about it far after I sold my Tour G’s, so I’m glad to be playing with them again.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
Since you mention the Tour G and its feel, I think you described it perfect, it makes you feel confident about your shots. It has a pretty comfortable feel that ables you to hit freely with a lot of control.
And you say Pro 97 is better...? Ok, I have nothing to wait for then [emoji16]

Yes you just described the Pro as well. If you liked the feel of the Tour G you will love this frame. Maybe the new ones will be just as good, but why risk it when the current release is so great.
 

mimo

Rookie
I just got a new VCP100 this week too, lol... I already have the VCP97 310 and wanted the 100 to see which of the two I like best. I'll be curious to see which one wins for you...good luck! :)
I picked up a used 310 from here just now. All of the rave reviews just made me too curious not to try it. How does it compare to your DR's in terms of power, feel and control?
 

isukatennis

Rookie
I picked up a used 310 from here just now. All of the rave reviews just made me too curious not to try it. How does it compare to your DR's in terms of power, feel and control?

Both are very comfortable frames for me, a bit more power with the DR, a bit more stability with the VCP, a bit more control with VCP...I love serving with the VCP...it goes where I put it. The DR is such a good all around frame, the differences are there, but not drastic either way. IMO
 

mimo

Rookie
Both are very comfortable frames for me, a bit more power with the DR, a bit more stability with the VCP, a bit more control with VCP...I love serving with the VCP...it goes where I put it. The DR is such a good all around frame, the differences are there, but not drastic either way. IMO
I'm looking forward to testing it out! They sound pretty similar so I'm hoping the adjustment is small. Did you add any lead to your VCP?
 

isukatennis

Rookie
I'm looking forward to testing it out! They sound pretty similar so I'm hoping the adjustment is small. Did you add any lead to your VCP?

I did once, at 3 and 9 just to experiment, it felt good but unnecessary. Plus i like the head light when serving, so i prefer it stock. But that's just me
 
I'm looking forward to testing it out! They sound pretty similar so I'm hoping the adjustment is small. Did you add any lead to your VCP?

I used to have DR98 and now VCP97.

DR98 offers more power and stability but less control. Both were equal in terms of comfort but VCP97 had a smoother feeling for me.

Stock VCP97 is great but I missed the power of the DR98 so added 1.5g at 12 o’clock. Couldn’t believe it but fell more in love it.

Finally added 10g in the handle (removed stock grip and replaced with leather)

With dampener, strings, and overgrip, it is now 349g — for me, this is the perfect combination. Ended up getting 3 total and modifying as identically as possible
 

mimo

Rookie
I used to have DR98 and now VCP97.

DR98 offers more power and stability but less control. Both were equal in terms of comfort but VCP97 had a smoother feeling for me.

Stock VCP97 is great but I missed the power of the DR98 so added 1.5g at 12 o’clock. Couldn’t believe it but fell more in love it.

Finally added 10g in the handle (removed stock grip and replaced with leather)

With dampener, strings, and overgrip, it is now 349g — for me, this is the perfect combination. Ended up getting 3 total and modifying as identically as possible
Thanks for the comparison! I'm very curious to see how I like it compared to my DR's. I have lead at 12 on those so I'm guessing I will probably end up adding some lead to the VCP97 just to up the power a bit.
 

isukatennis

Rookie
I have demos of both arriving hopefully tomorrow. Curious what your pros/cons were of the 100 compared to the 97.

I'm just not a 100sq in guy I guess... I got it to decide if I wanted 2 of them, or get a second VCP97...Im sure its a great frame for those who like 100s. I also realized I would prefer to play my DR98's when I want a little break from the 97 and gain a little power and forgiveness vs getting that from the VCP100. And I prefer the bit of HL the 97 has over the 100
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
This is the now the third time I have gone to the courts and one of the pros has come over and asked to hit with my VC97. It’s pretty wild. I have never seen a frame attract so much attention. It’s not a very loud color or anything, but it grabs people’s attention apparently.
 

mad dog1

G.O.A.T.
This is the now the third time I have gone to the courts and one of the pros has come over and asked to hit with my VC97. It’s pretty wild. I have never seen a frame attract so much attention. It’s not a very loud color or anything, but it grabs people’s attention apparently.
Sorcery, I tell ya. Sorcery attracts attention.
 

n8dawg6

Legend
This is the now the third time I have gone to the courts and one of the pros has come over and asked to hit with my VC97. It’s pretty wild. I have never seen a frame attract so much attention. It’s not a very loud color or anything, but it grabs people’s attention apparently.
im still groovin on the ezone 98, especially now that the poly settled in. the paint really pops for a yonex. decent sweetspot if you dont string it too tightly and a wee bit more power than the DR98. i recommend em.
 

mad dog1

G.O.A.T.
im still groovin on the ezone 98, especially now that the poly settled in. the paint really pops for a yonex. decent sweetspot if you dont string it too tightly and a wee bit more power than the DR98. i recommend em.
Had the ai98 and tried the dr98 as well. Good racquets but both had that hollow beam feel. I figured the ezone with the same beam shape retains a similar feel, therefore never bothered to try it. The vcp97 feels more like a traditional box beam stick.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
Had the ai98 and tried the dr98 as well. Good racquets but both had that hollow beam feel. I figured the ezone with the same beam shape retains a similar feel, therefore never bothered to try it. The vcp97 feels more like a traditional box beam stick.

Yeah i didnt like that feel either. But the frame itself is real nice. Great balance of power and control.

The box beam feel of the vcp though, is addicting.
 
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