Curiosity Series 117— Victor Drive X 7K

Karry September 13, 2024 0

If we are to talk about the youngest family within the current lineup, it would undoubtedly be the Yu series. Rumor has it that it is the successor to the HypernanoX series, maintaining the same “all-around” characteristics while incorporating numerous new technologies and a more refined product positioning. Although I previously tested the DX1L, as an entry-level racket it only featured a power hexagonal frame and didn’t provide much insight into the series’ performance.

Today’s review is of the Yu series’ first true product: the Yu 7K. As mentioned earlier, the Yu series has a more mature product positioning, and the 7K is clearly focused on control and attack.

Specifications: 4UG5, full-weight 88.8g, balance point 302mm, 6.8mm Babolat carbon shaft, length 210mm, slightly stiff, power hexagonal frame, 9-3 o’clock string grooves, strung at 26lbs with VBS68.

Appearance: The racket is quite understated with a deep gray base and orange stripe stickers. While it is visually appealing, it also gives off a cheap impression, which is surprising for a high-end racket. Additionally, the paint quality is not satisfactory, especially at the top of the frame where the paint has chipped and become uneven after a year of use. The frame design is worth mentioning; it has a traditional box frame at the T-joint, transitioning to a sharp frame at the top, somewhat similar to the HX900’s all-in-one frame but with a more natural transition. The wings are not of the Speed series’ sword structure, which should provide the 7K with a more stable hitting experience.

Handling: The head-heavy feel is noticeable, but the 4U weight and the head’s aerodynamic design make for effective swing speed, making it suitable for doubles. The racket feels responsive and maintains a strong overall integrity with minimal deformation.

In terms of high-clear shots, the 76-hole string bed makes the sweet spot very easy to find, with clear feedback and good power feel. Despite the stiffer shaft, the racket’s head-heavy nature still allows for good leverage. The dynamic-hex frame type effectively reduces wind resistance, contributing to the racket’s stable shot performance and precise hitting.

Performance: If the user has good explosive power, they will likely appreciate the Yu 7K’s response during smashes and drives. The racket is overall quite stiff, with a certain learning curve, and may feel somewhat wooden for less powerful players. The Pyrofil in the shaft and the “K” suffix indicate that this is a serious contender. The combination of internal rotation power and the shaft’s explosiveness yields strong, fast shots. The pronounced head-heavy feel also aids in smashes and net play.

However, there are some downsides, particularly its flexibility. The high balance point results in some drawbacks in maneuverability, especially during fast drives and when retrieving shots from behind. The stiffness of the shaft can challenge shot execution and may cause issues with low arcs or interceptions on defensive shots.

Control: As an all-around racket, control is crucial. Although I am not particularly skilled at fine handling, I found that the clear and stable feel allowed for quick adjustment in net play and correction of errors. The large string bed and sweet spot also provide ample forgiveness for backcourt smashes and lifts. However, compared to rackets known for control and balance like the Bow or Dual Blade 7, the Yu 7K’s straightforward shot delivery doesn’t offer the same confidence in small ball control. For me, quick pushes and unexpected high clears are more effective with the Yu 7K in creating passive situations for opponents.

There was a time when the Yu 7K was available at a very low price, making it quite appealing. The subsequent price increase has led to a sales decline, which may be due to consumer expectations not aligning with the new price. The paint job is mediocre, but the performance is good, with a certain usage threshold. The 7K has similarities to the HX800, HX900, and HX900X. If the Yu series aims for an all-around performance, the 7K is indeed balanced, with slightly less emphasis on speed but stronger in attack. For players accustomed to softer rackets and looking to advance to a more versatile racket, especially those confident in their attacking abilities, the Yu 7K is worth trying. At its current price point, it offers some advantages over similarly positioned products from the major brands.