Curiosity Series 623 — Yonex NANORAY 700PR

Karry September 12, 2024 2 0

The NR series high-end pioneer, NR700. To be more precise, it was the RP version, which was released earlier than the FX version. Generally speaking, the first high-end model in a series often has some issues, mainly due to the market’s gradual acceptance of new technologies and concepts, as well as the manufacturer’s understanding of new product concepts. The RP model of this racket did not receive high recognition.

However, with the advent of the Aerotus, the era of NR700 will only improve.

Specifications: 3UG5, no cap, total weight in use 86.5g, balance point 304mm, shaft length 214mm, medium stiffness, wind-breaking frame, 76-hole string bed, 9-3 o’clock string grooves, warranty 25 pounds, stringing 24-25lbs BS720.

Compared to the later NR750, 800, 900, or even the ZSP, the RP looks relatively ordinary. The outside of the frame is a black-brown color similar to traditional Chinese medicine decoction, with the inside primarily in antique bronze color, with some bright yellow stickers added. The visual experience is quite flat and lacks layering. The new racket has less satisfactory paint strength, and the stickers are easily scratched, resulting in an unimpressive visual experience.

This 2011 racket has a very typical speed racket feel, with low swing weight and high wind-breaking efficiency, producing a sharp sound when power is applied briefly. The frame is narrow, and the racket face is relatively large, but the sweet spot is also quite large, making it easy to find the hitting point, and the power feel is clear. The material includes the latest fullerene at that time, with a shaft elasticity comparable to the NR750, so it still holds up well today. The racket is moderately difficult to handle, with a clear driving feel, and the low swing weight means less physical exhaustion during prolonged use. The only concern is whether this racket, which emphasizes active power, will cause a decline in shot quality when energy and stamina decrease.

From professional players who have used the RP, both singles and doubles players are included. The male players with aggressive play styles and the female players with strong net play do not seem to show any particular tendency of the racket. This is consistent because, although it is named a speed racket in the NR series, the NR700 RP actually feels more like a high-speed balanced racket.

The racket face has a holding sensation similar to the NR750, with more stable performance in controlling small balls. The touch for net play is lighter, which made me initially feel uncertain, but the actual return quality is quite controllable.

For long-distance pushing, lifting, and flat attacking shots, there is still a certain sense of distrust after the shot. It’s not that the NR700 RP performs poorly, but there’s a persistent illusion of shots going off-target. In reality, it still delivers good speed, and for players who prefer a light touch, more adaptation might be needed.

However, from the perspective of continuity, there is much to discuss. In terms of head heaviness, the NR700 is slightly higher than the NR750, so short power shots can benefit from the head’s inertia to make the ball more forceful. While the 750 is purely about continuity and speed, the 700 adds a bit of power to the shot, making the confrontations more intense.

When it comes to offensive play, I have to admit that the NR700 still holds back a bit on explosiveness. Subjectively, the feel is a bit light, as the balance point is only 290mm. However, the shaft and racket face’s elasticity help transfer energy to the racket head as long as possible during smashes, resulting in a fast shot speed, although it is still prone to being returned. It’s not excellent, but this performance is surprising given its build.

Compared to the NR750, the stability is not as good, but it still has many qualities suitable for confrontational play even today.