Help me decide my racquet for 2024, and put an end to the racquetholism (for at least a year)

[maxplough]

Find the SW of both racquets (TWU calculator and a lot of care) and use the TWU customizer to figure out how much weight needs to come off to match the SW of the new one to that of the old. There's a good chance that it can be achieved by cutting off the head guard (and replacing with heavy duty duct tape or guard tape or just leaving it naked if you don't tend to beat your racquets up). Whether you prefer to do that or hunt down a third racquet is another matter.

 

[Fighting phoenix]

Here's how things are going in my current testing:

Pure Aero line still has to be in the top tier - I surprisingly loved the Rafaelito (PA Rafa 290 gram) w/ a leather grip, some extra silicone in the handle, and about 2 grams at 12 to get the swing weight up to about 322. It has a rawer feel than the other PAs, lots of power, in general seems to suit me better than the regular PA2023, except serves with the regular PA are out of this world, while the Rafaelito is more like an above average serving frame. These two are currently the favorites on my list - I love the PA98, I just think in the long run I'll benefit from the forgiveness of the 100 in head.

Shift 300 - with 3 grams of lead at 12 and a leather grip - feels great, but to me is slightly underpowered relative to the PAs with similar level of control. Serves are great. This I think I'm going to eliminate from contention as I feel the PAs are better for me, and the feel is pretty muted for my taste.

Pure Strike 100 16x20 - I have a demo arriving tomorrow, along with the PS100 16x19 and the Vcore 100. Really curious about the specs on the PS 100 16x20, and this could be a serious contender. Over the next week I'll be testing these three extensively.

The other contender, wild card for sure, is the Angell React MP Pro. Radical Pro I've eliminated - too demanding for someone of my age and level at this point, but awesome otherwise - and I'm likely (sadly) going to eliminate the Extreme Tour - even with mods, I still struggle with stability, especially against harder hitting opponents.

 

[Trip]

Pure Aero line still has to be in the top tier - I surprisingly loved the Rafaelito (PA Rafa 290 gram) w/ a leather grip, some extra silicone in the handle, and about 2 grams at 12 to get the swing weight up to about 322. It has a rawer feel than the other PAs, lots of power, in general seems to suit me better than the regular PA2023, except serves with the regular PA are out of this world, while the Rafaelito is more like an above average serving frame. These two are currently the favorites on my list - I love the PA98, I just think in the long run I'll benefit from the forgiveness of the 100 in head.

Shift 300 - with 3 grams of lead at 12 and a leather grip - feels great, but to me is slightly underpowered relative to the PAs with similar level of control. Serves are great. This I think I'm going to eliminate from contention as I feel the PAs are better for me, and the feel is pretty muted for my taste.

Pure Strike 100 16x20 - I have a demo arriving tomorrow, along with the PS100 16x19 and the Vcore 100. Really curious about the specs on the PS 100 16x20, and this could be a serious contender. Over the next week I'll be testing these three extensively.

The other contender, wild card for sure, is the Angell React MP Pro. Radical Pro I've eliminated - too demanding for someone of my age and level at this point, but awesome otherwise - and I'm likely (sadly) going to eliminate the Extreme Tour - even with mods, I still struggle with stability, especially against harder hitting opponents.

Yep, pretty much went how I figured it would go. I'd dump the Shift (needs another iteration anyways) and the PA98 (too demanding). Stick with the Aero 100's, and see if the Strike 100 or VCore 100 can usurp them in any meaningful way. Considering what seems to be your taste, though, I only see the Strike pulling out ahead if you find yourself hitting flat enough, often enough, to prefer how its tuned more for those mechanics and style of play, or VCore if you somehow find yourself more compatible with a higher, more "fan"-shaped sweet spot.

 

[taylor15]

Yonex QC is usually the best of them all by far

I'm going to get a lot of hate with this, but I disagree. Their static weight is very on spec, but swing weights are all over the place. I've measured so many now for different people and myself, and they're just as sporadic as everyone else. Had a pair of Ezone 100, for example, that I recently measure at 309 and 327 - both stock with same strings. Weight was only 1 oz difference though (don't remember b/c didn't write it down).

I think static being so tight an lack of access to sw prior to briffidi gave them an edge in the customers eyes.

 

[TwinCinema]

There’s also that little detail about the throat of the 100D cracking every five minutes. Other than that, they’re great!

 

[optic yellow]

Problem is, even though it would be a fair amount of "rinse, lather, repeat", there would be still be some pretty significant cost to put all that back into production, and unless the run and ensuing campaigns were large enough, I doubt it would be profitable enough. I know, that's a very boring, business school type answer, but, unfortunately Yonex is a business.

Why do you think the run would not be large enough?

 

[taylor15]

There’s also that little detail about the throat of the 100D cracking every five minutes. Other than that, they’re great!

Wait, really? Oof

 

[TwinCinema]

Wait, really? Oof

Yeah check out the Percept thread, some pics posted of it, and other stories on other threads in the past 6 months. Disturbing trend to say the least.

 

[mauricem]

I'm likely (sadly) going to eliminate the Extreme Tour - even with mods, I still struggle with stability, especially against harder hitting opponents.

Boom Pro to me was very similar to Extreme Tour but with a bit more stability and power.

 

[optic yellow]

Here's how things are going in my current testing:

Pure Aero line still has to be in the top tier - I surprisingly loved the Rafaelito (PA Rafa 290 gram) w/ a leather grip, some extra silicone in the handle, and about 2 grams at 12 to get the swing weight up to about 322. It has a rawer feel than the other PAs, lots of power, in general seems to suit me better than the regular PA2023, except serves with the regular PA are out of this world, while the Rafaelito is more like an above average serving frame. These two are currently the favorites on my list - I love the PA98, I just think in the long run I'll benefit from the forgiveness of the 100 in head.

Shift 300 - with 3 grams of lead at 12 and a leather grip - feels great, but to me is slightly underpowered relative to the PAs with similar level of control. Serves are great. This I think I'm going to eliminate from contention as I feel the PAs are better for me, and the feel is pretty muted for my taste.

Pure Strike 100 16x20 - I have a demo arriving tomorrow, along with the PS100 16x19 and the Vcore 100. Really curious about the specs on the PS 100 16x20, and this could be a serious contender. Over the next week I'll be testing these three extensively.

The other contender, wild card for sure, is the Angell React MP Pro. Radical Pro I've eliminated - too demanding for someone of my age and level at this point, but awesome otherwise - and I'm likely (sadly) going to eliminate the Extreme Tour - even with mods, I still struggle with stability, especially against harder hitting opponents.

The correct Head frame to try is Speed.

 

[Fighting phoenix]

The correct Head frame to try is Speed.

Love the Speed MP, just feel like I get more power and spin, and maybe even better control, with the Aeros.

 

[optic yellow]

Love the Speed MP, just feel like I get more power and spin, and maybe even better control, with the Aeros.

Babolats, befitting their status as the Taylormade of tennis, are very love them or hate them so I think you probably have your answer. Though finding which specific Babolat frame seems like itself quite the task.

 

[Fighting phoenix]

Babolats, befitting their status as the Taylormade of tennis, are very love them or hate them so I think you probably have your answer. Though finding which specific Babolat frame seems like itself quite the task.

I actually am not a huge fan of the feel of the new Pure Aeros, which is why I've gone back and forth with them in the past. The issue is that they are objectively great racquets and help me win more points. Funny thing - coming back to the game about 7 years ago, I was like "why the heck are there so many babalot racquets?!", and "where are all the dunlops and princes?" From my day the big three in tennis were Wilson/Prince/Dunlop, and Head was probably bigger in Europe and Yonex was very niche. I can't help to think now that Babalot has just been doing a better job cranking out GREAT racquets (I would say the same about Yonex), whereas Head racquets are just GOOD.

 

[optic yellow]

I actually am not a huge fan of the feel of the new Pure Aeros, which is why I've gone back and forth with them in the past. The issue is that they are objectively great racquets and help me win more points. Funny thing - coming back to the game about 7 years ago, I was like "why the heck are there so many babalot racquets?!", and "where are all the dunlops and princes?" From my day the big three in tennis were Wilson/Prince/Dunlop, and Head was probably bigger in Europe and Yonex was very niche. I can't help to think now that Babalot has just been doing a better job cranking out GREAT racquets (I would say the same about Yonex), whereas Head racquets are just GOOD.

I think the Prestige Pro is more than good but you're right a lot of their lines are competent without being deeply spectacular.

 

[Pekoms]

Did you try Solinco Whiteout 305 ?

 

[Fighting phoenix]

Did you try Solinco Whiteout 305 ?

I did and I liked it a lot! Powerful, solid at net, slightly muted which I didn't like. If I ever re-opened this list, maybe Jan of '25, I would for sure reconsider this as an option.

Played the Pure Aero '23 (100) and the Rafaelito last night, and in a match situation the better control the regular PA23 provides really stood out - I felt way more confident with it, though the Rafaelito still feels awesome with a ton of power. The PA23 wins this quarterfinal battle and is on to the semifinals of my evolving bracket.

Next matchup is the new Pure Strike 100 (both versions are arriving as demos) vs. the Vcore 100 - demos arrive today, assuming I'll have to restring the Vcore but not the Pure Strikes as I'm assuming those are freshly strung from TW. Singles match Saturday, drill Monday, doubles Wednesday - should have a clear winner in this portion of the bracket by then ;-)

 

[Pekoms]

whiteout 18x20 ?

Did the rafaelito give you more control or feel?
Pure strike 98 would be a great option!

 

[optic yellow]

I did and I liked it a lot! Powerful, solid at net, slightly muted which I didn't like. If I ever re-opened this list, maybe Jan of '25, I would for sure reconsider this as an option.

Played the Pure Aero '23 (100) and the Rafaelito last night, and in a match situation the better control the regular PA23 provides really stood out - I felt way more confident with it, though the Rafaelito still feels awesome with a ton of power. The PA23 wins this quarterfinal battle and is on to the semifinals of my evolving bracket.

Next matchup is the new Pure Strike 100 (both versions are arriving as demos) vs. the Vcore 100 - demos arrive today, assuming I'll have to restring the Vcore but not the Pure Strikes as I'm assuming those are freshly strung from TW. Singles match Saturday, drill Monday, doubles Wednesday - should have a clear winner in this portion of the bracket by then ;-)

oh I forgot you hadnt tried the VCore 100 yet, now really interested to see how you like it

 

[Fighting phoenix]

whiteout 18x20 ?

Did the rafaelito give you more control or feel?
Pure strike 98 would be a great option!

16x19, I think the 18x20 would be underpowered, plus I find it annoying to subject myself to always stringing an 18x20

 

[Fighting phoenix]

whiteout 18x20 ?

Did the rafaelito give you more control or feel?
Pure strike 98 would be a great option!

Rafaelito has a great raw feel to it, but less control than the regular pure aero 23. I used to use the pure strike 98 and it gave me shoulder issues - if I’m not a fan of the 100s, I might try the new 98 for fun to compare.

 

[tele]

Sorry to be away from the thread for a while. Here's an unfortunate update...

My 2nd DR98 arrived, got it strung up, and then I went to hit with it... I haven't gotten it measured yet, but it feels WAY overspec. Yonex QC is usually the best of them all by far, and I'm assuming it was good back in 2015 as well. Yet, my god, this 2nd one feels like an absolute log. It feels similar/harder to swing than some of the heaviest sticks I've ever tried. It plays nowhere near as fast as my other DR98, which I had to switch back to last night.

This is depressing. I'll go get it measured, as I'm curious as to what the specs are, but assuming my gut feeling is accurate, SW is way overspec and I won't drop that one on the classifieds unless someone here really wanted it. I wonder if this is equivalent to a Yonex version of a Lemon. I mean it feels that heavy and that sluggish. It swings like the Vcore Pro 97H, if you want an idea of how it feels, but maybe even heavier than that. It'll go on the bay, and then my search for another one will begin, as I don't want to rely on a single DR98 in 2024 because that limits testing strings out, etc. A 2nd frame that plays at least relatively similar is necessary imo for testing and having a safe backup for string breakage, etc. Ugh, this SUCKS.

Fwiw, my other DR98 that I started out with, I am just in love with. It is absolutely the right frame for me. This second one is not.

-Curtis

any chance lead is under the bumper?

 

[curtstead]

any chance lead is under the bumper?

So I got the SW measured today of both frame. The SW on my first DR98 is 323. The SW on the 2nd? 344 So we took a peek under and that’s exactly what it is. There’s a ton of lead under the bumper.

There are blue grommets still in stock for the DR98 on TW, so I just ordered a few sets. Think I’ll be in luck and be able to get rid of the lead. My stringer says I need to get a new set.

 

[PRS]

So I got the SW measured today of both frame. The SW on my first DR98 is 323. The SW on the 2nd? 344 So we took a peek under and that’s exactly what it is. There’s a ton of lead under the bumper.

There are blue grommets still in stock for the DR98 on TW, so I just ordered a few sets. Think I’ll be in luck and be able to get rid of the lead. My stringer says I need to get a new set.

Glad you were able to figure it out! And it's good they've got new grommet sets still in stock for it, they should be able to get it back to new in no time.

 

[Trip]

So I got the SW measured today of both frame. The SW on my first DR98 is 323. The SW on the 2nd? 344 So we took a peek under and that’s exactly what it is. There’s a ton of lead under the bumper.

There are blue grommets still in stock for the DR98 on TW, so I just ordered a few sets. Think I’ll be in luck and be able to get rid of the lead. My stringer says I need to get a new set.

Meh, only 21 SW points different.... What could possibly go wrong switching between those two mid-set! LOL.

As @PRS said, glad you found the "culprit" (and it wasn't just a wildly off-spec frame).

Hopefully with lead removed and new grommets/headguard installed, you're no more than a few SW pts away.

 

[curtstead]

Meh, only 21 SW points different.... What could possibly go wrong switching between those two mid-set! LOL.

As @PRS said, glad you found the "culprit" (and it wasn't just a wildly off-spec frame).

Hopefully with lead removed and new grommets/headguard installed, you're no more than a few SW pts away.

Bro, easy difference! What's another 21 SW points, EZ PZ. A friend of mine said 344 wasn't that bad and he could handle it. He's a mid 4.0. You be the judge if he's right, lol.

 

[curtstead]

Small update:

We got the mountain of lead off the DR98, and I have since strung it up with Restring Zero 17g at 49/47. I have also added a leather grip. I am really liking the set up so far. Good power, good spin, and good consistency. The only thing I'm finding is the launch angle is still fairly low, although not as low as the 22 Ezone 98 so I'm not putting a ton in the net like I did with that frame. However, I would like just a bit more net clearance if I can help it. I'm wondering if there's anything I should do to increase launch angle? Maybe try an 18g spin string, etc. However, it's not a huge deal as I'm still finding good consistency overall. Some strings that I'm considering trying are Volkl Cyclone 17g, maybe throwing Grapplesnake Tour Sniper 17g like I originally planned, Solinco Confidential and/or Revolution. My stringer also wants to hybrid Poly Tour Strike and Poly Tour Pro, which hey, maybe? I'd like to have this down in the next couple of months, as I have big tournaments in May here in Georgia that I'd like to be ready for. I've entered a smaller 4.0 NTRP tournament here in Atlanta that starts next weekend. I'm really looking forward to take the DR98 in to battle for hopefully the whole weekend!

For the life of me, I just cannot understand why Yonex went in a different direction in the feel department after this released. This really is that good of a frame, and it's my 2nd favorite ever after the RF97, which I give the top place to only for nostalgia for both Fed, and as it was my main stick as I got better in tennis. I play far better consistently with the DR98. I really hope (but not holding my breath) that Yonex will return to this type of feel in their frames someday.

Also, on a funny note... one of my DR98s is definitely slightly extended. Not much, maybe an 8th of an inch or so, but it's definitely longer than other 27 inch frames. I've looked in to this further and have noticed that seems to be a thing among some of the DR98s?? Was this a manufacturing error or bad batch? I mean, I am NOT complaining. I just wonder what the deal is.

Anyways, over a month since the switch and am sticking to it, not looking back. Currently, I've set Dec 1st, 2024 as when I can test new/different frames (if I even want to) kind of like how I did this past testing period. So far, nothing is out there that would tempt me to try at all. If there's anything that catches my eye for potential December demos, I'll post in here. Maybe like an underspec Gravity Pro again if I feel like I need a bigger sweetspot or if reviews for the new CX400 Tour are just godly and MUST TRY level. Otherwise, I'll just keep posting DR98 updates with string set ups that I like. Again, one month in, and I have left the Vcore 98, Prestile MP-L, Blade 100 v8, and most importanly 'HOLISM behind with no desire to look back.

@Fighting phoenix how goes your journey??

 

[maxplough]

However, I would like just a bit more net clearance if I can help it. I'm wondering if there's anything I should do to increase launch angle? Maybe try an 18g spin string etc.

Thinner strings, or even more, shaped strings (nine-sided through gear shaped all the way to square/triangular) will increase launch angle, but my favourite way is to stick with round strings and simply increase the mains-to-cross differential (by decreasing the cross tension rather than increasing the mains tension). Don't be afraid to push the difference to 10lbs if need be, especially with gut/poly hybrids, although I tend to stick to 5ish lbs (2.5 kg). I find that playability is much more consistent over time compared to shaped poly edges wearing unevenly across the stringbed. Thin strings (1.15mm and below) just don't last more than a match or two in my hands, but YMMV.

 

[JOSHL]

Yea I was going to say the same thing as @maxplough. If you’re not a string breaker cyclone 1.15 and 1.10 are both fantastic.

 

[maksp]

Small update:

We got the mountain of lead off the DR98, and I have since strung it up with Restring Zero 17g at 49/47. I have also added a leather grip. I am really liking the set up so far. Good power, good spin, and good consistency. The only thing I'm finding is the launch angle is still fairly low, although not as low as the 22 Ezone 98 so I'm not putting a ton in the net like I did with that frame. However, I would like just a bit more net clearance if I can help it. I'm wondering if there's anything I should do to increase launch angle? Maybe try an 18g spin string, etc. However, it's not a huge deal as I'm still finding good consistency overall. Some strings that I'm considering trying are Volkl Cyclone 17g, maybe throwing Grapplesnake Tour Sniper 17g like I originally planned, Solinco Confidential and/or Revolution. My stringer also wants to hybrid Poly Tour Strike and Poly Tour Pro, which hey, maybe? I'd like to have this down in the next couple of months, as I have big tournaments in May here in Georgia that I'd like to be ready for. I've entered a smaller 4.0 NTRP tournament here in Atlanta that starts next weekend. I'm really looking forward to take the DR98 in to battle for hopefully the whole weekend!

For the life of me, I just cannot understand why Yonex went in a different direction in the feel department after this released. This really is that good of a frame, and it's my 2nd favorite ever after the RF97, which I give the top place to only for nostalgia for both Fed, and as it was my main stick as I got better in tennis. I play far better consistently with the DR98. I really hope (but not holding my breath) that Yonex will return to this type of feel in their frames someday.

Also, on a funny note... one of my DR98s is definitely slightly extended. Not much, maybe an 8th of an inch or so, but it's definitely longer than other 27 inch frames. I've looked in to this further and have noticed that seems to be a thing among some of the DR98s?? Was this a manufacturing error or bad batch? I mean, I am NOT complaining. I just wonder what the deal is.

Anyways, over a month since the switch and am sticking to it, not looking back. Currently, I've set Dec 1st, 2024 as when I can test new/different frames (if I even want to) kind of like how I did this past testing period. So far, nothing is out there that would tempt me to try at all. If there's anything that catches my eye for potential December demos, I'll post in here. Maybe like an underspec Gravity Pro again if I feel like I need a bigger sweetspot or if reviews for the new CX400 Tour are just godly and MUST TRY level. Otherwise, I'll just keep posting DR98 updates with string set ups that I like. Again, one month in, and I have left the Vcore 98, Prestile MP-L, Blade 100 v8, and most importanly 'HOLISM behind with no desire to look back.

@Fighting phoenix how goes your journey??

One of my DR was longer....hyper g soft 1.20mm 44/40 pounds fixed my low launch

 

[aaron_h27]

Small update:

We got the mountain of lead off the DR98, and I have since strung it up with Restring Zero 17g at 49/47. I have also added a leather grip. I am really liking the set up so far. Good power, good spin, and good consistency. The only thing I'm finding is the launch angle is still fairly low, although not as low as the 22 Ezone 98 so I'm not putting a ton in the net like I did with that frame. However, I would like just a bit more net clearance if I can help it. I'm wondering if there's anything I should do to increase launch angle? Maybe try an 18g spin string, etc. However, it's not a huge deal as I'm still finding good consistency overall. Some strings that I'm considering trying are Volkl Cyclone 17g, maybe throwing Grapplesnake Tour Sniper 17g like I originally planned, Solinco Confidential and/or Revolution. My stringer also wants to hybrid Poly Tour Strike and Poly Tour Pro, which hey, maybe? I'd like to have this down in the next couple of months, as I have big tournaments in May here in Georgia that I'd like to be ready for. I've entered a smaller 4.0 NTRP tournament here in Atlanta that starts next weekend. I'm really looking forward to take the DR98 in to battle for hopefully the whole weekend!

For the life of me, I just cannot understand why Yonex went in a different direction in the feel department after this released. This really is that good of a frame, and it's my 2nd favorite ever after the RF97, which I give the top place to only for nostalgia for both Fed, and as it was my main stick as I got better in tennis. I play far better consistently with the DR98. I really hope (but not holding my breath) that Yonex will return to this type of feel in their frames someday.

Also, on a funny note... one of my DR98s is definitely slightly extended. Not much, maybe an 8th of an inch or so, but it's definitely longer than other 27 inch frames. I've looked in to this further and have noticed that seems to be a thing among some of the DR98s?? Was this a manufacturing error or bad batch? I mean, I am NOT complaining. I just wonder what the deal is.

Anyways, over a month since the switch and am sticking to it, not looking back. Currently, I've set Dec 1st, 2024 as when I can test new/different frames (if I even want to) kind of like how I did this past testing period. So far, nothing is out there that would tempt me to try at all. If there's anything that catches my eye for potential December demos, I'll post in here. Maybe like an underspec Gravity Pro again if I feel like I need a bigger sweetspot or if reviews for the new CX400 Tour are just godly and MUST TRY level. Otherwise, I'll just keep posting DR98 updates with string set ups that I like. Again, one month in, and I have left the Vcore 98, Prestile MP-L, Blade 100 v8, and most importanly 'HOLISM behind with no desire to look back.

@Fighting phoenix how goes your journey??

The DR 98 is 27.125 in length which I think was an error. In later years they fixed this problem, but I think thats one of the reasons why people don’t like later versions also thicker beam, higher RA

It’s interesting you think the DR 98 is more stable than the 2022 Ezone. The beam width is thicker and the frame is overall stiffer. The DR 98 got a lot of complaints about being torsionally unstable in stock form. You probably got a under spec 2022. I find that its important to measure frames to get accurate comparisons. But it looks like you’ve found your racket which is great!

The DR98 was one of my favorite serving frames because of the thinner beam and slightly extended length.

 

[Fighting phoenix]

Small update:

We got the mountain of lead off the DR98, and I have since strung it up with Restring Zero 17g at 49/47. I have also added a leather grip. I am really liking the set up so far. Good power, good spin, and good consistency. The only thing I'm finding is the launch angle is still fairly low, although not as low as the 22 Ezone 98 so I'm not putting a ton in the net like I did with that frame. However, I would like just a bit more net clearance if I can help it. I'm wondering if there's anything I should do to increase launch angle? Maybe try an 18g spin string, etc. However, it's not a huge deal as I'm still finding good consistency overall. Some strings that I'm considering trying are Volkl Cyclone 17g, maybe throwing Grapplesnake Tour Sniper 17g like I originally planned, Solinco Confidential and/or Revolution. My stringer also wants to hybrid Poly Tour Strike and Poly Tour Pro, which hey, maybe? I'd like to have this down in the next couple of months, as I have big tournaments in May here in Georgia that I'd like to be ready for. I've entered a smaller 4.0 NTRP tournament here in Atlanta that starts next weekend. I'm really looking forward to take the DR98 in to battle for hopefully the whole weekend!

For the life of me, I just cannot understand why Yonex went in a different direction in the feel department after this released. This really is that good of a frame, and it's my 2nd favorite ever after the RF97, which I give the top place to only for nostalgia for both Fed, and as it was my main stick as I got better in tennis. I play far better consistently with the DR98. I really hope (but not holding my breath) that Yonex will return to this type of feel in their frames someday.

Also, on a funny note... one of my DR98s is definitely slightly extended. Not much, maybe an 8th of an inch or so, but it's definitely longer than other 27 inch frames. I've looked in to this further and have noticed that seems to be a thing among some of the DR98s?? Was this a manufacturing error or bad batch? I mean, I am NOT complaining. I just wonder what the deal is.

Anyways, over a month since the switch and am sticking to it, not looking back. Currently, I've set Dec 1st, 2024 as when I can test new/different frames (if I even want to) kind of like how I did this past testing period. So far, nothing is out there that would tempt me to try at all. If there's anything that catches my eye for potential December demos, I'll post in here. Maybe like an underspec Gravity Pro again if I feel like I need a bigger sweetspot or if reviews for the new CX400 Tour are just godly and MUST TRY level. Otherwise, I'll just keep posting DR98 updates with string set ups that I like. Again, one month in, and I have left the Vcore 98, Prestile MP-L, Blade 100 v8, and most importanly 'HOLISM behind with no desire to look back.

@Fighting phoenix how goes your journey??

Glad you're loving the DR98! I need to try it one of these days.

I'm really surprised, but I ended up with the Pure Strike 100 16x20 - having played with the V2/V3 98 Strikes for about 5 years, this one felt somewhat like home, but way more comfortable and slightly more forgiving. Compared to the Pure Aero 98 and 100, two sticks I loved by the way, I just felt that I could swing out with more confidence, it has a more predictable and lower launch angle, and is still solid from a stability perspective. No issues generating spin when I want to, serves aren't as powerful as they are with the PAs but I can still put nasty slice and kick on it and place it more effectively, especially on second serves. Extremely happy with my decision, and like you I plan on staying wedded to these frames through 2024. I'm gonna force myself to wait to December to spend any time tinkering with other frames I'm curious about, as I just want to get in a muscle memory groove with the Pure Strike and hopefully raise my level of USTA and tourney play this year ;-)

 

[KYHacker]

Just buy a Pure Strike Tour, string it with poly in the low forties or a gut/poly hybrid in mid-forties, cut up all your credit cards, ask TTW to ban you for a year and come back in 2025 with a 4.5 rating!

Follow the advice in post#14 or this one - your tennis will be fine either way.

This or try a Blade 18x20. I had been looking for a lighter RF97 and almost settled on the Pure Strike 16x19 (a little too dead) or the Tecnifibre Iga 298 (too stiff). Tried the Blade 18x20 and I get almost as heavy of a ball and great feel, great depth control, and I didn't really lose any spin-- just a lower launch angle. 16x19 Blade didn't work as well-- it just didn't feel as solid.

 

[Chairman3]

The only thing I'm finding is the launch angle is still fairly low

I'm not an Ezone expert, so here's a grain of salt to take this with...

I'd focus on technique, try to get a little more vertical with your swing to get more net clearance. Feel like since you played with the RF your stroke might be a little flatter or just have developed a little flatter. Most rec players (myself included) tend to swing a little flatter unless they were trained/taught otherwise.

 

[Voxshall]

Loved this thread hearing about your Racket journey, I had a similar experience to you where I tried all the new models and didn't like any of them (just don't like the feel of them at impact) got the best one of the bunch and ended up selling it after half a year, settled on some older frames and I'm very happy now.

 

[SackFeral]

Small update:

We got the mountain of lead off the DR98, and I have since strung it up with Restring Zero 17g at 49/47. I have also added a leather grip. I am really liking the set up so far. Good power, good spin, and good consistency. The only thing I'm finding is the launch angle is still fairly low, although not as low as the 22 Ezone 98 so I'm not putting a ton in the net like I did with that frame. However, I would like just a bit more net clearance if I can help it. I'm wondering if there's anything I should do to increase launch angle? Maybe try an 18g spin string, etc. However, it's not a huge deal as I'm still finding good consistency overall. Some strings that I'm considering trying are Volkl Cyclone 17g, maybe throwing Grapplesnake Tour Sniper 17g like I originally planned, Solinco Confidential and/or Revolution. My stringer also wants to hybrid Poly Tour Strike and Poly Tour Pro, which hey, maybe? I'd like to have this down in the next couple of months, as I have big tournaments in May here in Georgia that I'd like to be ready for. I've entered a smaller 4.0 NTRP tournament here in Atlanta that starts next weekend. I'm really looking forward to take the DR98 in to battle for hopefully the whole weekend!

For the life of me, I just cannot understand why Yonex went in a different direction in the feel department after this released. This really is that good of a frame, and it's my 2nd favorite ever after the RF97, which I give the top place to only for nostalgia for both Fed, and as it was my main stick as I got better in tennis. I play far better consistently with the DR98. I really hope (but not holding my breath) that Yonex will return to this type of feel in their frames someday.

Also, on a funny note... one of my DR98s is definitely slightly extended. Not much, maybe an 8th of an inch or so, but it's definitely longer than other 27 inch frames. I've looked in to this further and have noticed that seems to be a thing among some of the DR98s?? Was this a manufacturing error or bad batch? I mean, I am NOT complaining. I just wonder what the deal is.

Anyways, over a month since the switch and am sticking to it, not looking back. Currently, I've set Dec 1st, 2024 as when I can test new/different frames (if I even want to) kind of like how I did this past testing period. So far, nothing is out there that would tempt me to try at all. If there's anything that catches my eye for potential December demos, I'll post in here. Maybe like an underspec Gravity Pro again if I feel like I need a bigger sweetspot or if reviews for the new CX400 Tour are just godly and MUST TRY level. Otherwise, I'll just keep posting DR98 updates with string set ups that I like. Again, one month in, and I have left the Vcore 98, Prestile MP-L, Blade 100 v8, and most importanly 'HOLISM behind with no desire to look back.

@Fighting phoenix how goes your journey??

I used the DR98 for a while, I compared two matched frames one with Grapplesnake M8 and one with Neon Hybrid. The M8 originally won me over easily, but I realised I played much better with the extra shape on the ball using the neon hybrid.

These days I’d try the Toroline Wasabi X hybrid. The DR is such a reliable racket that you can afford to put in an aggressive string without losing much control or feel, just my 2c!

 

[TwinCinema]

Hey Curt!

As we’re in August now, I’m curious how the DR98 commitment is going? I know there’s been some hiccups along the way, including:

1) injury
2) buying prestiges
3) buying the Prince Tour 100 310
4) playing a lot with the Boom MP

What’s the racket of choice these days, if you’re healthy, and what’s the status of the $500 bet?

(As to that last question, I believe the bet was whether you’d use only the DR this year and we know that isn’t true, so I assume you’re going to donate to charity? What’s the charity? I commend you in your selflessness; very cool. I couldn’t do it).

 

[BBM]

DR98 is an overrated wrist wrecker

 

[BBM]

Even if I don’t choose the Blade 100 v8, get one. Absolutely awesome frame. Especially at the current price.

Guess what my current racket has been for the past months lol

 

[curtstead]

Hey Curt!

As we’re in August now, I’m curious how the DR98 commitment is going? I know there’s been some hiccups along the way, including:

1) injury
2) buying prestiges
3) buying the Prince Tour 100 310
4) playing a lot with the Boom MP

What’s the racket of choice these days, if you’re healthy, and what’s the status of the $500 bet?

(As to that last question, I believe the bet was whether you’d use only the DR this year and we know that isn’t true, so I assume you’re going to donate to charity? What’s the charity? I commend you in your selflessness; very cool. I couldn’t do it).

Oh I’m donating alright lol will post receipt.

Will likely do a charity in Atlanta, likely the Atlanta Humane Society that helps rescue dogs. It’s also where I adopted one of mine and have volunteered there, they’re pretty awesome. Angels Among Us is another one my parents used to foster rescue dogs until they were adopted. I’ll decide in the next week or so, and receipt will get posted in here, a bet is a bet. If I can't decide, I'll probably just proportionately send donations out to multiple for all I know lol.

DR is still the main, that hasn’t changed. However, the main reason for messing around with frames is I am looking at more comfortable options since coming off that injury, a shoulder injury you mentioned.

So far, it’s been a lot of “comfortable” frames. I think it’ll be smart to consider that for 2025 and beyond.

Shoulder is much better, I'd say I'm close to 100%. I have a nagging sensation at the very top of the bicep tendon sometimes, close to my rotator cuff. My PT says this part can be an absolute b***h, and it will simply take time. I'm safe to play tennis pretty close to where I was, as long as I stick with PT exercises off the court, which I have. Unfortunately, the DR doesn't "feel" great on it.

 

[curtstead]

Guess what my current racket has been for the past months lol

It’s a good choice. Great frame.

 

[curtstead]

DR98 is an overrated wrist wrecker

I tried the '22 EZ98 in early 2023, and that absolutely annihilated my wrist. The DR has been much better, I've had no wrist discomfort whatsoever with any setup I've tried. So can't say I agree with you on that. I'll agree that the Ezone line in general sure seems to flare up wrists model to model though, lol.

My shoulder is a different question. I don't feel GREAT after using it, so I don't think it's a great option for me moving forward compared to some other options I've tried.

 

[Chairman3]

So far, it’s been a lot of “comfortable” frames. I think it’ll be smart to consider that for 2025 and beyond.

Consider the Clash V3, think it comes out next year.
I was told they are literally going back to the V1 (which everyone liked) but with new names for the tech.

 

[socallefty]

How much of your own money are you willing to give to your favorite charity if you end up breaking your vow to use only one racquet (chosen this December) all of next year?

I just realized that I’m the one who suggested the idea of you giving money to charity if you break your vow. Nice that some animals will benefit.

 

[Tranqville]

@curtstead You can start a new thread around October-November for 2025 season, that would be epic!

 

[Fighting phoenix]

I've stuck with my Pure Strike 100 16x20 for six months through the summer season, and I've had strong results - my singles UTR has climbed to just about a 7, I've won and lost a couple close singles matches against strong 4.5s, and my doubles game has gotten better. However, I'm still torn - am I still good enough to play with a more players/control stick like a Blade 16x19 98, or should I give myself a little more free power (my lefty kick serve is a big weapon for me). Now that I'm 52 and only started playing again these last couple years, I'm finally playing like a good 4.5 as I should, but will I develop my game better as a crafty lefty all court type player with a strong serve, with a Blade type of racquet, or do I need to go with something a little more forgiving with more power? That's my current dilemma, and I have some time now that the summer season is over to experiment a bit.

 

[curtstead]

I've stuck with my Pure Strike 100 16x20 for six months through the summer season, and I've had strong results - my singles UTR has climbed to just about a 7, I've won and lost a couple close singles matches against strong 4.5s, and my doubles game has gotten better. However, I'm still torn - am I still good enough to play with a more players/control stick like a Blade 16x19 98, or should I give myself a little more free power (my lefty kick serve is a big weapon for me)

Don’t do it, don’t be me, stick with it, man!

 

[optic yellow]

If anyone in here following the thread wants a good deal on 4 3/8 size racquets that they know they like, you will have your opportunity very soon.)

<3