Jayce
A few issues ago, many players speculated about the base of the JETSPEED Amade, with JETSPEED 9 being one of the guesses. Indeed, the bright red color, nearly identical balance and hardness adjustments, and the similar technology applications on the frame make this less popular flagship JETSPEED look somewhat familiar.
After testing, the differences between the two can still be distinguished. These differences can actually be verified by carefully comparing the materials used in both.
The key point is that this is still a high-end JETSPEED and should deserve the reputation of JETSPEED 10/12.
Parameters: 3UG5, unpainted, total weight 91.0g in use, balance point 301mm, 7.0mm Pyrofil carbon middle shaft, length 210mm, stiff adjustment, wind-breaking frame, 9—3 point grooves, 76-hole string bed, warranty 28 lbs, string tension 26—27 lbs VBS66N.
Red and charcoal black are characteristic colors of JETSPEED 9, so the overall aggressive look of the racket is actually among the strongest in the entire JETSPEED series. The rugged string distribution on the frame also adds a sense of power to the racket. Although Amade also uses red as the main color, JETSPEED 9 does not feature the extensive use of gold stickers for embellishment like the former. While this makes JETSPEED 9 less glamorous and more straightforward, the “9” with beautiful sticker treatment on the middle shaft stands out. Notably, even though Amade is a signature racket, JETSPEED 9 is priced higher than the former (1650/1690), which is quite interesting.
Whether holding it or trying some shuttlecock juggling, the similarity between the two is apparent, from hardness, string bed feedback, to head heaviness. It is a balanced-speed racket with a 3U version that still offers a fast swing speed. The wind-breaking treatment is not as aggressive, with a box-shaped part at the T-head, transitioning to an oval wind-breaking frame, and then to a diamond-shaped wind-breaking frame at the head. Upon closer inspection of the JETSPEED 9’s official introduction page, it is easy to find two differences: one is the use of Cyan fiber, and the other is the carbon fiber material being high strength and ultra-high rigidity, which is why Amade has a slightly higher warranty tension. This basically reflects the essential differences between the two rackets, and Amade has not used JETSPEED 9 for competition.
On paper, JETSPEED 9, being part of the JETSPEED flagship series, complements the product positioning of JETSPEED 10/12.
Its handling difficulty is similar to that of JETSPEED Amade. With the current configuration, the balance point is just over 300mm, and the swing weight is not uncomfortable. However, it still offers a good feeling of leverage. Whether it’s a high clear, a flat clear, or a sudden smash, the feel is very crisp and stable. The 3U JETSPEED 9 is also a great racket for singles.
Its quick response and powerful shots in flat drives make it a formidable choice. The large head size and high tolerance combined with the wind-breaking frame already give the user more capital to follow the shuttle in fast-paced half-court play. However, JETSPEED 9 further increases initial speed after small power shots, adding more pressure. The middle shaft’s recovery speed is also quick, and there is no noticeable swinging sensation in continuous backhand and underhand returns.
At the same time, the hitting feel is more direct, to the extent that it’s hard to distinguish if it’s a wooden or vibration feedback, though not very noticeable. This unfiltered feel, as long as it’s not excessive, is a type I prefer because it better indicates the direction of the shot, allowing continuous adjustment of the angle and force of small movements. Combined with the stable shot feel from the frame, it quickly forms a stable control effect in net play for pushing and hooking. Of course, this crispness is not overwhelming, so when maintaining initiative with a light touch from the backcourt, it is not prone to hitting the net or overshooting.
Given that the user’s skills can match, the 3U version of JETSPEED 9 is undoubtedly superior, even in continuous attacking play that demands higher flexibility and technique. Honestly, this is not a racket that immediately provides top-level defense, but the 3U JETSPEED 9 is a speed racket that combines high flexibility and stability, ensuring quality defense and transition while reaching the shuttle. The firm rebound quality helps to escape from the opponent’s powerful smashes and maintain continuity. If the opponent’s smash quality is not high, its solid feel can ensure effective defense and counterattacks with soft blocks or diagonal tops. However, it must be said that the 3U version is not as easy to handle in continuous shots as the 4U version, so the best state is to make each shot without risking or leaving gaps in defense.
It is worth noting that JETSPEED 9 performs very well in backcourt attacks. The well-tuned Pyrofil carbon middle shaft ensures a good rebound experience, with the shaft’s driving force being substantial but with minimal deformation. The power applied is closely related to the energy release of the middle shaft, allowing the shot to match the power applied, with heavy smashes combining the hit and rebound.
If the power is applied well, JETSPEED 9’s smashing performance, though not overwhelmingly powerful, is still threatening. After mastering the hitting feel, it is not a problem to produce a shot with considerable speed, force, and angle. However, the rare aspect is that for players whose power technique is not very mature, the 3U version of JETSPEED 9 can still deliver a decent downward shot with its good rebound and leverage.
Undoubtedly, it represents the highest level of the JETSPEED series and is relatively balanced. Compared to JETSPEED 10, which maximizes offense and speed, and JETSPEED 12, which is more friendly for consistency and entry-level players, JETSPEED 9’s stability, high tolerance, and lack of shortcomings seem to make it my favorite flagship in the series. It’s also easy to understand why this racket has been used by many top men’s doubles players.
I just don’t understand why it has become a relatively niche Victor flagship. Perhaps, compared to what suits oneself, people are naturally more inclined to options with distinct features that provide excitement.
