[Review Experience] VICTOR JETSPEED 02

Jayce September 3, 2024 5 0

In previous reviews, I tested an entry-level speed racket from the “Red Brand,” and its performance was just average. But when it comes to speed rackets, you have to look at the “Blue Brand,” which is known for excelling in this category. Sure enough, this time, I found an entry-level racket from the JETSPEED series with a similar model number and positioning, but with a much more competitive price.

Additionally, I suspect that many players might be tempted by the higher tension warranty and choose products equipped with FRS, like the JETSPEED 03H. However, in my experience, most of Victor’s rackets with the “H” suffix feel stiffer compared to those without FRS. I wonder if others share this opinion.

Specifications:
3UG5, without the grip cap, total weight in use is 92.7g, balance point is 283mm, shaft length is 220mm with a diameter of 7.0mm, stiffness is moderately hard, elliptical aerodynamic frame, 76-hole string bed, 9-3 o’clock grooves, tension warranty of 24 lbs, stringing range of 24-26 lbs using BG65ti.

Well, things are getting interesting. Despite being entry-level and using a blue base coat—traditionally an area where the Red Brand excels—the JETSPEED 02 doesn’t fall short in terms of appearance. The frame isn’t overly decorated with stickers, and the simple lines and text on the sides give it an elegant look. Although the design might seem a bit low-end, the quality of the paint is excellent. The glossy finish adds a touch of refinement, making the racket appear to be of a higher grade.

The 3U specification gives a solid feeling when held, similar to the sensation of an upgraded version of the previously reviewed Fangying 200. Lower-tier products naturally can’t use the most refined or sharp designs; the frame is more rounded and closer to a box frame. As a result, when attempting an air swing, it doesn’t feel particularly swift. A closer look at the frame shape reveals it’s more like an elongated isometric head, different from the typical JETSPEED feel.

During warm-up, the stiffness of the JETSPEED 02 surprised me a bit; it’s slightly on the stiffer side, which gives a more unified feedback on impact, significantly boosting confidence in shot-making. However, this also demands more precise technique from beginners. The swing speed is above average, and the 3U version offers good repulsion, making it easy to use within the balanced racket category.

I was quite surprised by the shot accuracy of the JETSPEED 02, which is absolutely top-tier among its class. Whether it’s the well-structured T-joint or the decision not to blindly follow the trend of thinner shafts, this racket provides excellent shot stability. It can consistently land clears between the two service lines, and once familiar with the racket’s characteristics, it’s also reliable for pinpointed smashes.

What surprised me even more was the JETSPEED 02’s ability to create a false sense of “explosiveness.” The shaft’s stiffness and the frame’s rigidity allow this racket to handle more concentrated power, enhancing shot quality.

When paired with the classic BG65ti strings, the JETSPEED 02 still manages to deliver some power during smashes at moderate tensions. Of course, this power mostly comes from the player rather than the racket itself; the more force you apply, the better the result. The swing is smooth, but the racket head doesn’t offer much assistance in generating power during smashes, so whether you can produce powerful and fast smashes depends on the player.

In fact, the JETSPEED 02 has a bit of a trick up its sleeve. Its current setup is more of a balanced racket rather than a pure speed racket, so it could even fit into the HX series (after all, the HX series already has the Air model, which uses a JETSPEED frame). In doubles flat exchanges, the high-spec JETSPEED 02 lacks the extreme flexibility and quick response one might expect, but it excels in shot stability, providing a clear sense of power transfer during repeated rallies.

The JETSPEED 02’s head also seems a bit larger, which increases forgiveness when dealing with defensive shots and receiving smashes. Even when the opponent delivers a wide-angle shot, as long as you can reach it, you can still generate power and return the shuttle. However, in situations where a backhand escape is needed, that false sense of “explosiveness” might be revealed as the shaft’s elasticity doesn’t exceed the performance of other rackets in the same class.

This racket is actually quite user-friendly, with a tuning that makes it effective in both singles and doubles. It’s a versatile and fun racket to use. However, I suspect it might still be one of the less popular models—Blue Brand really has it tough.