2023 Yonex VCore Pro Racquets / 2024 Percept Racquets

[izeer]

I'm 99% sure I will go for 100D as my switch from Gpro. On paper and in reviews it seems to do what Im looking for so should be a safe bet.
In that case, what would you guys recommend as a string choice? I usually string with Alu power, Lynx, black and ice code, but could try something new.
Don't want too low powered or harsh string (tecnifibre ones tend to be too low powered for me)
Bonus points for red strings, though where I live I don't have some of the new strings I saw here mentioned.

 

[agradina]

I'm 99% sure I will go for 100D as my switch from Gpro. On paper and in reviews it seems to do what Im looking for so should be a safe bet.
In that case, what would you guys recommend as a string choice? I usually string with Alu power, Lynx, black and ice code, but could try something new.
Don't want too low powered or harsh string (tecnifibre ones tend to be too low powered for me)
Bonus points for red strings, though where I live I don't have some of the new strings I saw here mentioned.

If i were u i will test it before.On paper and reviews dont mean anything.

 

[mrtimetravel]

If i were u i will test it before.On paper and reviews dont mean anything.

I agree.

 

[izeer]

If i were u i will test it before.On paper and reviews dont mean anything.

If that was a viable option I would have done that already

 

[naturalexponent]

I'm 99% sure I will go for 100D as my switch from Gpro. On paper and in reviews it seems to do what Im looking for so should be a safe bet.
In that case, what would you guys recommend as a string choice? I usually string with Alu power, Lynx, black and ice code, but could try something new.
Don't want too low powered or harsh string (tecnifibre ones tend to be too low powered for me)
Bonus points for red strings, though where I live I don't have some of the new strings I saw here mentioned.

PT Rev

 

[Ryebread]

I'm 99% sure I will go for 100D as my switch from Gpro. On paper and in reviews it seems to do what Im looking for so should be a safe bet.
In that case, what would you guys recommend as a string choice? I usually string with Alu power, Lynx, black and ice code, but could try something new.
Don't want too low powered or harsh string (tecnifibre ones tend to be too low powered for me)
Bonus points for red strings, though where I live I don't have some of the new strings I saw here mentioned.

I was on the gravity pro for about a month
Very good control b/c you have to smash the ball to get anything out of it.
I eventually moved to 97D, a little more whippy and a little more punch on my 2hbh

Then I tried the 100D.
Takes some time to get calibrated.
You still have to wack the ball, it's low powered, as it's still pretty dense.

vs. gravity pro
More access to spin for sure.
WAY lighter and more whippy.
But if you are a 3.5-4.5... you are prob swinging hard and fast,
if you hit somewhat flat.... you have to learn to apply spin or it'll sail on you!
Gravity and 97D is better for flatter hitters

lower power than an ezone or vcore 98
lower power than vcore 95 by a smidge, but larger sweet spot certainly

for it's light weight, the 100D is nice on all of the court,
granted I have a leather grip, so it has a little more weight behind it.
but it's good enough at the net, to be a nice doubles racquet (sort of like a radical mp in this regard, good for it's weight for sure)
it's light enough to still be good on defense.
and if you like to swing away, you can do that, but you need to apply spin.

as others have said, best to demo
but even then, now you're dealing with an odd string, at an odd tension, who knows how long it's been in there.

good luck

 

[Pooschnikens]

I’ve hit with a modded 100D a few times now, most recently earlier this afternoon. With approx 2g each at 10 & 2 along with a Fairway leather grip, Super Grap, & dampener, it weighs in at 351g & a balance of 31.4cm = 9 pts HL. It’s strung with PT Pro graphite gray 1.25 @ 54 lbs.
I’ll check it’s swing weight within the next few days but, based on how it’s swinging, my guess is it’s somewhere in the 326-332 kg/cm2 range so nice and stable yet agile enough to generate good, consistent racket head speed.
What I observed is that it did require a little more time with it before I started to feel more comfortable and be able to trust it with full swings. The combination of added size, 2mm additional beam thickness and 4 points higher RA stiffness certainly makes a difference when compared to its 97 sq inch counterparts. What’s compelling is that despite the obvious uptick in sweet spot and power, it retains a lot of the control associated with the Percept line. The additional weight really enhances its playability while improving its plough thru and ability to defend off incoming heat with minimal sacrifice in terms of its overall maneuverability. As I became better acquainted with its strike zone, it allowed me to relax a bit more and freed up my swings which it tends to like. Access to spin is definitely there and yet, can just as easily flatten the ball at will without fear of overcooking it. At net it performed quite well! It’s plenty stable and does require good technique. Serves were good in that it swung well and could generate reliable racket head speed which helped especially on slice and kick serves. Quite predictable. By the end of this last session, I had grown to really enjoy the 100D! this would make for a near effortless transition should I entertain a possible switch. For now the Percept 97 lineup is my go to with the Vcore 98 tour as my 1A.

 

[daman sidhu]

For those who’ve tried the Toroline strings- what tension seems to work well with them in Percept? Thinking 51-49?

 

[delosalpes]

Based on my experience with Toroline in my 97s and 97H, they don’t require any special tension adjustment. 51 - 49 is exactly the range I typically use with most set ups and what I’ve used with toroline. I think the recurring theme with Toroline is that most are muted and very slick. The one exception is caviar with is livelier and less slick, and probably my favorite. Though I do really like wasabi crossed with Enso in my 97. I like a smaller gauge in the H to keep the SW down, and caviar 1.20 plays really well in it. Again, all in the tension range you mention.

 

[djNEiGht]

For those who’ve tried the Toroline strings- what tension seems to work well with them in Percept? Thinking 51-49?

the few toroline strings i've tried I have used in my usual range for similar poly (shape/guage) in various racquets. Prob be best to start with something similar to what you are already using.

 

[daman sidhu]

Based on my experience with Toroline in my 97s and 97H, they don’t require any special tension adjustment. 51 - 49 is exactly the range I typically use with most set ups and what I’ve used with toroline. I think the recurring theme with Toroline is that most are muted and very slick. The one exception is caviar with is livelier and less slick, and probably my favorite. Though I do really like wasabi crossed with Enso in my 97. I like a smaller gauge in the H to keep the SW down, and caviar 1.20 plays really well in it. Again, all in the tension range you mention.

Awesome, thanks for the advice. I’ve ordered a few different sets from them which includes couple of MTHQ combos. I’ll try 51/49 and report back

 

[Casper777]

Just strung my 100 with Toroline Snapper at 23/22 kg and not only it looks great on the Percept but it plays super nicely... adds a bit more pop and softness to the stringbed.

Really a good fit!

 

[Valerie]

For those who’ve tried the Toroline strings- what tension seems to work well with them in Percept? Thinking 51-49?

Playtested Toroline Snapper on the Percept 100D, tension 51/48. It has nice pocketing but depending what style of player you are. I personally would imagine myself playing better with tension 53/50.

 

[Valerie]

I tried:
Tecnifibre Razor Code 1.25mm (White) mains with Head Velocity 1.25mm (Natural) cross at 48/51 - gave me a lot of shots just one inch out
Tecnifibre Razor Code 1.25mm (White) mains with Tecnifibre Multifeel 1.25mm (Natural) cross at 48/51 - even worse
Toroline K-pop at 51/48 - ok in sparring, but felt that the string wasn't really listening to my intent during matches (compared to Razor/Velocity setup)
Mayami Tour Hex 1.23mm mains with Tecnifibre Multifeel 1.25mm (Natural) cross at 48/51 - too low powered, had to cut within a week
Genesis Hexonic Power 1.23mm mains with Tecnifibre Multifeel 1.25mm (Natural) cross at 48/51 - only FH became better on this setup, everything else became worse (also cut within a week)
Poly Tour Rev 1.20mm (Orange) mains with Tecnifibre Multifeel 1.25mm (Natural) cross at 51/51 - only had less than 30 minutes hit with it, so far no major issues spotted but need more time to observe
Volkl Cyclone 1.20mm (Orange) mains with Tecnifibre Multifeel 1.25mm (Natural) cross at 51/51 - only had less than 30 minutes hit with it, so far no major issues spotted but need more time to observe

Above are a list of playtests done on the Percept 100D.

Reporting back on PTR/Multifeel vs Cyclone/Multifeel:
In general the Cyclone/Multifeel is the better setup overall. My past experience with Multifeel tells me that this is a soft arm-friendly multifilament, but can get rather inconsistent as far as match performance is concerned. Cyclone dials back on that effect a little bit, rebalancing the control and power. Most people I lend my stick to preferred the Cyclone/Multifeel over PTR/Multifeel.

However, I also felt that if I were to play full bed poly, PTR would likely be the choice. Now I have on my sticks:
(a) Poly Tour Rev 1.20mm (Purple) at 51/48
(b) Toroline Snapper 1.23mm (Purple) at 51/48

After 2-3 weeks of playtesting, my observations are:

• When fresh, Snapper in general is easier - giving me a nice pocketing. I do need to intentionally shorten my backswing to reduce UE. PTR is a little harder in comparison despite being thinner. Interesting.
• About 2-3 sessions of doubles in, my preference changed. This is when I start to feel that I overhit on Snapper, and start playing over cautious. I was feeling more confident hitting with the PTR as I can take a full swing without being afraid of hitting it out. I also suspect that this would have been the break-in period of PTR. Both setups volley well at this point in time, for lobs I prefer the PTR over the Snapper. At the same time, I did lend both sticks to another female friend who hits less hard (she is also recovering from some wrist injury), and for her Snapper works better.
• Yesterday I had a bad day and was also faced with quite strong players in doubles. This is the day where I needed as much resources available to me to work well. I played this match using the PTR setup and was mostly trying to do volley, drops and lobs. I suspect that the 1.20mm launch angle isn't really my thing, the shots weren't really landing in a consistent manner. We ended up losing 6-4, which is not too shabby considering that I wasn't playing my best. Just wished that the launch angles weren't messing me up and things could have been quite different, as a hypothesis.

Upcoming:
I plan to playtest Poly Tour Rev 1.20mm vs 1.25mm, simply because in my past history I gel better with 1.25mm strings in general. I will however, be patient with my current setup and keep observing more little details, before deciding on what tensions to start with on the next experiment.

 

[Valerie]

Strung with Yonex Polytour REV at a lower tension 22/21 Kg (~48.5/46.3 lb)

Hey hey @aureliandan do you mind sharing, what gauge of the PTR did you use for this setup?

 

[Valerie]

Blade 18x20 now, but played with 335-340-345g Wilson Pro Staffs for like 20 years or so

[...]

I just tried 100d as I was curious, was very pleasantly surprised by its overall playability. 100sq in head is still very slightly too big for me, I could feel it on some imperfect hits, but it was quickly obvious how good the racquet was for all kinds of shots and trajectories. Was great on just holding the ball, and even better when I really had a swing. Needed to attack the ball with the side of the hoop a bit on the forehand, for a full power drive topspin, worked really nicely

Blade 18x20 suits me as I like to hit hard and flatter, drive through the ball, and I like its precision, especially on serves, but on groundstrokes too. It's super nimble when I step inside the court, can drive a low junk ball with it nicely too, without balls flying. It's more demanding than 100d that's for sure, but I just like it. I wouldn't really call it better than 100d, they are just different. And I'm also a solid clean hitter, can easily play with the Blade 18x20 and hold balls forever so to speak

Oh wow glad to see people who play similar sticks haha! I was from Blade v8 18x20 and the only reason I switched to the 100D is because I'm not powerful enough to drive the Blade against the guys in mixed gender singles league. Otherwise, loved the Blade 18x20.

 

[nyta2]

In that case, what would you guys recommend as a string choice? I usually string with Alu power, Lynx, black and ice code, but could try something new.
Don't want too low powered or harsh string (tecnifibre ones tend to be too low powered for me)
Bonus points for red strings, though where I live I don't have some of the new strings I saw here mentioned.

i started with 51m/49c - ptrev, medium stiffness (compared to ptstrike&lux - imo very stiff)
i'm currently partial to ptpro... loses tension fast, but feels good on the first swing
will probably try ptstrike & lux, at much lower tensions, like 45/43, and go down from there

 

[Federerkblade]

Find with ptp pro as it loses tension I get the ball pocketing and still gives me everything it needs

Anyone else feel the same ?

 

[Federerkblade]

Iv reached the conclusion the 100d is one amazing frame with lead

The 18*19 is allows you to do everything

I’m not 100 percent what mine is sw but it has to be in the 336 plus and it’s so easy to swing

It’s more versatile than the xi98 with better spin and angles , easier to swing

Better than than the ezone 100 2022 as more comfortable and also more spin

I’ll test this week hopefully a iso 305 18*19 too

Are there any current pros using a 100d on tour apart from Karue

I’m surprised players haven’t switched

 

[Airmate]

Above are a list of playtests done on the Percept 100D.

Reporting back on PTR/Multifeel vs Cyclone/Multifeel:
In general the Cyclone/Multifeel is the better setup overall. My past experience with Multifeel tells me that this is a soft arm-friendly multifilament, but can get rather inconsistent as far as match performance is concerned. Cyclone dials back on that effect a little bit, rebalancing the control and power. Most people I lend my stick to preferred the Cyclone/Multifeel over PTR/Multifeel.

However, I also felt that if I were to play full bed poly, PTR would likely be the choice. Now I have on my sticks:
(a) Poly Tour Rev 1.20mm (Purple) at 51/48
(b) Toroline Snapper 1.23mm (Purple) at 51/48

After 2-3 weeks of playtesting, my observations are:

• When fresh, Snapper in general is easier - giving me a nice pocketing. I do need to intentionally shorten my backswing to reduce UE. PTR is a little harder in comparison despite being thinner. Interesting.
• About 2-3 sessions of doubles in, my preference changed. This is when I start to feel that I overhit on Snapper, and start playing over cautious. I was feeling more confident hitting with the PTR as I can take a full swing without being afraid of hitting it out. I also suspect that this would have been the break-in period of PTR. Both setups volley well at this point in time, for lobs I prefer the PTR over the Snapper. At the same time, I did lend both sticks to another female friend who hits less hard (she is also recovering from some wrist injury), and for her Snapper works better.
• Yesterday I had a bad day and was also faced with quite strong players in doubles. This is the day where I needed as much resources available to me to work well. I played this match using the PTR setup and was mostly trying to do volley, drops and lobs. I suspect that the 1.20mm launch angle isn't really my thing, the shots weren't really landing in a consistent manner. We ended up losing 6-4, which is not too shabby considering that I wasn't playing my best. Just wished that the launch angles weren't messing me up and things could have been quite different, as a hypothesis.

Upcoming:
I plan to playtest Poly Tour Rev 1.20mm vs 1.25mm, simply because in my past history I gel better with 1.25mm strings in general. I will however, be patient with my current setup and keep observing more little details, before deciding on what tensions to start with on the next experiment.

You can also try PolyTour Rev in the main, Poly Tour Pro in the cross to give the stringbed a little more comfort and performance durability, ATP Pro Marcus Giron is now using this setup on his Percept 97D.

 

[Sahbatage]

Why not use ghostwire instead of PTP? PTP looses a lot of tension.

 

[Valerie]

You can also try PolyTour Rev in the main, Poly Tour Pro in the cross to give the stringbed a little more comfort and performance durability, ATP Pro Marcus Giron is now using this setup on his Percept 97D.

Urgh I've had bad experience with PTP in the past. Also considering my issue with PTR isn't comfort or durability, it's very unlikely I'd go with PTP as a cross.

Nonetheless thanks for the idea. I can revisit this if I do find issues along comfort or durability in the future.

 

[Sahbatage]

Urgh I've had bad experience with PTP in the past. Also considering my issue with PTR isn't comfort or durability, it's very unlikely I'd go with PTP as a cross.

Nonetheless thanks for the idea. I can revisit this if I do find issues along comfort or durability in the future.

If you like PTR but find it uncomfortable try Tour Hex. It's my go to string and plays well in my 100D.

 

[Nate7-5]

Iv reached the conclusion the 100d is one amazing frame with lead

The 18*19 is allows you to do everything

I’m not 100 percent what mine is sw but it has to be in the 336 plus and it’s so easy to swing

It’s more versatile than the xi98 with better spin and angles , easier to swing

Better than than the ezone 100 2022 as more comfortable and also more spin

I’ll test this week hopefully a iso 305 18*19 too

Are there any current pros using a 100d on tour apart from Karue

I’m surprised players haven’t switched

I have the 100D and Babo PS 100 16x20 to demo for the next week. Either seems like a great candidate to put on a leather grip AND 3 x 1g of tungsten at 9, 12 and 3.

 

[Valerie]

If you like PTR but find it uncomfortable try Tour Hex. It's my go to string and plays well in my 100D.

Tried Tour Hex before. It's the reverse for me - PTR more comfortable than Tour Hex. The TH is rather underpowered and is unplayable for a female trying to keep up with males in mixed gender singles league.

 

[mrtimetravel]

Find with ptp pro as it loses tension I get the ball pocketing and still gives me everything it needs

Anyone else feel the same ?

I completely agree.

 

[Federerkblade]

I completely agree.

I love it it means it lasts ages
Gets loads of spin and pocketing and can do what I want it to do
Haven’t had that feeling with any string
I like guy poly but when it loses tension harder to control

 

[Robbie2005]

Oh wow glad to see people who play similar sticks haha! I was from Blade v8 18x20 and the only reason I switched to the 100D is because I'm not powerful enough to drive the Blade against the guys in mixed gender singles league. Otherwise, loved the Blade 18x20.

Percept is Yonex's answer to blade. I have percept 97D but was just too heavy 4 me, but it's a good racket. Then Dunlop cx200 tour 16 x19 2024 come along & it's pretty much nailed the perfect racket. It's best & easiest to use in my opinion, then no one bothered to review it. It as more power than Percepts & Blades , better control , maneuvarability & feel. I believe it's best control retail racket outthere. U can even adapt it 2 ur own perfect swingweight by putting slight amounts of lead at 12.It's best racket i've ever tried. Any string 16 gauge 54lbs is good 4 it.. but mine as dunlop strings in .
4 ur Percepts 100D etc i'd go for head lynx tour ,. I use orange version as meant 2 b a tad softer I'd try either 16 gauge or 17 gauge . & string at 54lbs.2 give it ultimate control.

 

[Ryebread]

54lbs with poly is quite boardy IMO
If arm health is a concern… it’s a bit risky

Highest I go is 52/49.
But typically 51/48.

 

[skeeter]

Iv reached the conclusion the 100d is one amazing frame with lead.

What lead setup do you like best?

 

[Federerkblade]

What lead setup do you like best?

Traditionally haven’t liked lead at 12 but found with the less powerful yonex frames , the non ezones

Lead at 12 is great , tried it because I saw Karue did

My racquet stock was 314 strung sw

So lead at 12 a decent strip

And a long strip at 3 and 9 going up to 10 and 2

And a very small strip in the throat

Must be 336 ish sw weight now

 

[Robbie2005]

54lbs with poly is quite boardy IMO
If arm health is a concern… it’s a bit risky

Highest I go is 52/49.
But typically 51/48.

In Dunlop cx200 tour u can. I imagine it will b o.k in percept also & head auxetic range aa they have dampening tec . Strings do sliggtly give after a very short while. Head lynx tour orange as got a softer feel than the other colours & u can get away with it.. Head lynx normal is even softer.. Any soft poly is fine at 54.. It just feels like u get a nice consistant, predictable level of control & strings don't move. Playability of string maintains it's level mayb longer without a noticable lose of control at 54. Lower tensions i notice drop off of performance of strings alot earlier.

 

[ddonk]

How stupid am I if I'm buying the Percept 97D?

I played tennis until I was 15, took a 20 year break, and started playing again in January.

I've demoed the 97D and like it a lot, but all the general advice points towards me buying a more forgiving, lighter racket.

Have anyone tried the 97, but with weight such that it's equal to the D version?

 

[Trip]

@ddonk - We need more context to give a relevant-enough answer, ie. your level (NTRP or otherwise, even a guess is better than nothing), your physical stats/condition, previous racquets you've used, etc. Short of knowing that, if you're just looking for something that feels solid to hit with, for the sheer joy of it, there's hardly a better choice if you're strong enough. For most competition, though, it's probably a poor choice for all but the most strong males around or over 6' tall, in or close enough to their physical prime, with 4.5+ level fundamentals, a proven need for an 18x20, and a true bias towards flatter-hitting, first-strike tennis. That right there boils down the would-be user to probably <2% of the tennis playing population, so unless you're all those things, I'd highly consider a spec'd up 97 310, the 100/100D, maybe an EZ98, or something analogous from another brand.

 

[ddonk]

@Trip thanks!

I used this list https://mytennishq.com/usta-ntrp-system-guidelines-and-explanation-what-is-your-rating/ to use as a way to self-rate.
I have both directional and depth control. Good spin control too, but sometimes I hit a bit loopier than intended, maybe 4-5ft over the net when I aim for 2-3. I only hit the net when I'm lazy or really stretched in corners.
Consistency is still below average, but improving rapidly. I'm 20-25cm taller than when I last played. When my instinct takes over I end up spacing to closely to the ball.
I guess I hit forehands and backhands around 100 km/h on my best hits.
My guess is that I'm currently around 4.0, but have fundamentals around 4.5-5.0.
I have good decision-making, I rarely make a bad shot selection and 95% of the time I anticipate well my opponent strokes.

Physically I'm a bit above average, but no top athlete. Lean, fast and have good endurance. I played today for 1h45min without too much tiredness. No injuries or pains.
Not the strongest guy, but I'm 183cm tall so have good enough power.

I don't think I have a proven need for an 18x20. As a junior I played with hyperhammers and then pure strikes (the 2003 version I think they are). But as a tiny kid I think I got used to rackets that felt relatively heavy.

I've demoed around a dozen rackets, and all my top choices are Yonex. For some reason I enjoy how they feel.
So I've settled on choosing a Yonex.
I liked the vcore 98 and the ezone 98 as well as the Percept. Gonna try some more Percepts next week.

In summary, I'm probably not in your 2%. Is a spec'ed up 97 that much easier to play with? If so that's definitely a candidate.

 

[vndesu]

For those who’ve tried the Toroline strings- what tension seems to work well with them in Percept? Thinking 51-49?

For me I have kpro on my 97 at 48. Most likely will be doing the same for my 100d once I go through this next set.

 

[Robbie2005]

How stupid am I if I'm buying the Percept 97D?

I played tennis until I was 15, took a 20 year break, and started playing again in January.

I've demoed the 97D and like it a lot, but all the general advice points towards me buying a more forgiving, lighter racket.

Have anyone tried the 97, but with weight such that it's equal to the D version?

I have percept 97d. It is abit heavier & u do get tired. I'd go 4 the new dunlop cx200 tour 2024 16 x19. In mine i put under 1g of lead at 12 plus overgrip & dunlop strings 16 gauge at 54lbs. It's 310g with lighter swingweight. U never get tired. I think it's better in every department than 97d.I feel it's maybe best control racket there's ever been.. It as putaway controllable power and spin. Percept 97 and dunlop cx200 tour 16 x19 2024 r same weight but i'd go dunlop.. Demo them both. The new cx200 tour betters Percept 97d in every single department 4 me.

 

[Trip]

@ddonk - Very welcome and thanks for the extra info. All things considered, it sounds like the regular 97, customized up a bit, would be a better fit versus the D, mainly due to the more open pattern and noticeably lower stock swing weight. That said, as long as you're still in demo mode, I would certainly try the 100 and/or 100D. As for which Yonex is best for you overall, it really all comes down to your mechanics and the level of forgiveness you think you need. sounds to me like you're more of a flat hitter, so I'd imagine the EZ98, maybe EZ100, or P97/100/100D would be your best bets. If you wanted to take the "make tennis easier right now" approach, then I would lean towards the lightest spec, firmest flex, largest head size and most open pattern that you feel still gives you adequate comfort and control. If you didn't mind the "make me better in the long-run" approach, that's where the heavier spec, softer flex, smaller head size, more closed pattern options come in. Perhaps, the answer is somewhere in the middle, with something like the 100D.

@Robbie2005 - Versus the 97D, the CX200T 16x19 may very well be a better choice in almost all circumstances, but even so, it's still a low-powered 95" 310g stick that I would argue only belongs in the hands of a highly aggressive 4.5+, who can pretty much bring all his own power, with high precision, and that may or may not be where @ddonk is at. From the sounds of it, I think something like the CX 400 Tour might be a better fit, but you never know -- probably worth demoing both if he has easy access to Dunlop.

 

[PRS]

@Trip thanks!

I used this list https://mytennishq.com/usta-ntrp-system-guidelines-and-explanation-what-is-your-rating/ to use as a way to self-rate.
I have both directional and depth control. Good spin control too, but sometimes I hit a bit loopier than intended, maybe 4-5ft over the net when I aim for 2-3. I only hit the net when I'm lazy or really stretched in corners.
Consistency is still below average, but improving rapidly. I'm 20-25cm taller than when I last played. When my instinct takes over I end up spacing to closely to the ball.
I guess I hit forehands and backhands around 100 km/h on my best hits.
My guess is that I'm currently around 4.0, but have fundamentals around 4.5-5.0.
I have good decision-making, I rarely make a bad shot selection and 95% of the time I anticipate well my opponent strokes.

Physically I'm a bit above average, but no top athlete. Lean, fast and have good endurance. I played today for 1h45min without too much tiredness. No injuries or pains.
Not the strongest guy, but I'm 183cm tall so have good enough power.

I don't think I have a proven need for an 18x20. As a junior I played with hyperhammers and then pure strikes (the 2003 version I think they are). But as a tiny kid I think I got used to rackets that felt relatively heavy.

I've demoed around a dozen rackets, and all my top choices are Yonex. For some reason I enjoy how they feel.
So I've settled on choosing a Yonex.
I liked the vcore 98 and the ezone 98 as well as the Percept. Gonna try some more Percepts next week.

In summary, I'm probably not in your 2%. Is a spec'ed up 97 that much easier to play with? If so that's definitely a candidate.

I agree with trip, regular 97 would probably be better at this point and the 100/100D are both worth a demo too if you're able to.

 

[FuzzyYellowBalls]

How stupid am I if I'm buying the Percept 97D?

I played tennis until I was 15, took a 20 year break, and started playing again in January.

I've demoed the 97D and like it a lot, but all the general advice points towards me buying a more forgiving, lighter racket.

Have anyone tried the 97, but with weight such that it's equal to the D version?

Not at all stupid lol, 97D is my favorite of the Percepts, close winner over th H. It does everything, and you might like it more too with your background. The D will do some pinpoint finesse shots with the pattern, slightly more precise drop volleys etc. I used the HD and the previous D for about 2 years and a year each, respectively.

The ironic thing is .....the D and H will both give some people more spin, despite the tight and open pattern, swingweight for me determines spin, especially on serves. The pattern really impacts launch angle for me, you might be the same.

 

[vdsp]

I have been using the P97 since it came out and its a great racket! I got two overspec at ~325-327 swingweight and they are the best rackets I have ever played with.

Since getting those rackets Ive improved my tennis considerably though (technique and shot selection as well as physical strength). And due to playing at high altitude, I have to string the P97 super tight (e.g., Lynx Tour or Confidential at 53lbs+) to avoid balls sailing long. Even then, I sometimes feel that I dont trust my full swing afraid of hitting long.

I just picked up a P97D demo and loved how precise it is… and how much I can crank a forehand without the fear of hitting long. It’s such an addictive feeling. The P97D feels very precise, you can aim for much smaller targets; while the P97 feels controlled, but not nearly as precise. Even though the spin at the same RHS is lower on the P97D, I dont see a meaningful difference on the court because Im encouraged to hit much harder with the 18x20.

Now, it might be the case that I can achieve similar control/precision with the P97 if I string with a dead round poly… so I will try 4G Soft at 52-54lbs and see how it feels.

Also, I dont think this post applies to most people TBH… playing at 2.3k meters / 7k ft is soooo different than playing at sea level. When I play in California I dont have any of the control issues mentioned above with the P97

For reference, I am 4.0, 32 years old and play tennis 2h/day. SW grip both wings and the feedback I get is that I hit with a ton of spin.

@Trip thanks!

I used this list https://mytennishq.com/usta-ntrp-system-guidelines-and-explanation-what-is-your-rating/ to use as a way to self-rate.
I have both directional and depth control. Good spin control too, but sometimes I hit a bit loopier than intended, maybe 4-5ft over the net when I aim for 2-3. I only hit the net when I'm lazy or really stretched in corners.
Consistency is still below average, but improving rapidly. I'm 20-25cm taller than when I last played. When my instinct takes over I end up spacing to closely to the ball.
I guess I hit forehands and backhands around 100 km/h on my best hits.
My guess is that I'm currently around 4.0, but have fundamentals around 4.5-5.0.
I have good decision-making, I rarely make a bad shot selection and 95% of the time I anticipate well my opponent strokes.

Physically I'm a bit above average, but no top athlete. Lean, fast and have good endurance. I played today for 1h45min without too much tiredness. No injuries or pains.
Not the strongest guy, but I'm 183cm tall so have good enough power.

I don't think I have a proven need for an 18x20. As a junior I played with hyperhammers and then pure strikes (the 2003 version I think they are). But as a tiny kid I think I got used to rackets that felt relatively heavy.

I've demoed around a dozen rackets, and all my top choices are Yonex. For some reason I enjoy how they feel.
So I've settled on choosing a Yonex.
I liked the vcore 98 and the ezone 98 as well as the Percept. Gonna try some more Percepts next week.

In summary, I'm probably not in your 2%. Is a spec'ed up 97 that much easier to play with? If so that's definitely a candidate.

 

[Robbie2005]

@ddonk - Very welcome and thanks for the extra info. All things considered, it sounds like the regular 97, customized up a bit, would be a better fit versus the D, mainly due to the more open pattern and noticeably lower stock swing weight. That said, as long as you're still in demo mode, I would certainly try the 100 and/or 100D. As for which Yonex is best for you overall, it really all comes down to your mechanics and the level of forgiveness you think you need. sounds to me like you're more of a flat hitter, so I'd imagine the EZ98, maybe EZ100, or P97/100/100D would be your best bets. If you wanted to take the "make tennis easier right now" approach, then I would lean towards the lightest spec, firmest flex, largest head size and most open pattern that you feel still gives you adequate comfort and control. If you didn't mind the "make me better in the long-run" approach, that's where the heavier spec, softer flex, smaller head size, more closed pattern options come in. Perhaps, the answer is somewhere in the middle, with something like the 100D.

@Robbie2005 - Versus the 97D, the CX200T 16x19 may very well be a better choice in almost all circumstances, but even so, it's still a low-powered 95" 310g stick that I would argue only belongs in the hands of a highly aggressive 4.5+, who can pretty much bring all his own power, with high precision, and that may or may not be where @ddonk is at. From the sounds of it, I think something like the CX 400 Tour might be a better fit, but you never know -- probably worth demoing both if he has easy access to Dunlop.

Cx200 tour 16 x19 asnoticeably more power than 97d . It as suprising amounts of both spin & power. If he can get power from 97d he can power dunlop 95 . It 's also easier to use. . 97d is a descrnt racket but after while it 's tiring & the dunlop plays similat but i never get tired. It doesn't matter ur evel. Cx400 tour is alot different a racket. Still prob b a good one. The cx200 tour 16 x19 is really their flagship version & is very compararabke to 97d. He will get all benefits without a tiring weight, but better control , spin , feel , plough & power .. Don't b put off by headsize u wont .notice difference. I found vcore 95 and prostaff hard to use . The cx200 as a much bigger sweetspot..

 

[Ryebread]

The dunlops have such low twist-weights. I imagine they are nowhere near as stable as a 97d/100d.

 

[daman sidhu]

I have demoed the Dunlops several times and never felt like it was the right racket for me. It was always the first one to go back in the bag out of the demos.
However, to each their own

 

[Federerkblade]

second 100d strung up

This one will be circa 333 sw , I will compare it to the iso 305 18*19 in next couple of days
Same strings in both

ISO with a bit of lead might be 341 sw

 

[Robbie2005]

I have demoed the Dunlops several times and never felt like it was the right racket for me. It was always the first one to go back in the bag out of the demos.
However, to each their own

Have u tried the new 2024 cx200 tour 16 x19 2024. It depends on which racket u tried because they completely redisgned it . But i do quite like someDunlops . Percept is quite good but no Yonex as been as good as this racket. I actually felt b4 Percept i didn't gel with any Yonex rackets as ones i tried were flimsy in head & sweets felt higger up as narrow at bottom but percept is descent & sweetspot was fine I disliked vcore95 & ezone 98. Mayb tour versions r better
I think everone who as tried both Percept have all favoured Dunlop cx200 2024 by a fair margin. I'd go cx200 tour 16 x 19 tour though. Here r some eviews below. Not many have reviewed it so far.
Cx200 tour

Cx200

 

[Robbie2005]

The dunlops have such low twist-weights. I imagine they are nowhere near as stable as a 97d/100d.

Cx200 tour 2024 is very stable. It's as stable as 320g percept 97d. It ploughs straight through any shot mayb a touch better than 97d some how because u r generated prob abit more whip through contact & it's also alot more manuverable. Cx200 tour 16x19 probably ends up feeling alot better overall by just being abit better in each area. It as better power & control. They just created a better racket than percept or prob any yonex to date.

 

[Ryebread]

Sounds like we have a Dunlop rep in here!

 

[Robbie2005]

Sounds like we have a Dunlop rep in here!

I'm not a dunlop rep . I just like this racket It is just an opinion. I have both rackers. I like Percept 97d. But I also prefer head radical mp to percept and mayb Angell react pro 96 Rackert. I think Dunlop barely will have any reps outside japan & i don't sell any rackets.There promotion is pretty bad. I paid £175 for racket which i think is way over priced. I don't think rackers shoukd b more than £100. I'd wait & get it cheap because dunlop in u.k u can puck uo 2ndhand for £60 usually.

 

[Federerkblade]

Looks an interesting frame the cx 200 not the tour

Wish they had done it in 18*19 and also 320 ish seingweight