Tag: AERONAUT 9000C

Badminton Racket Lining AERONAUT 9000C Reviews
As a flagship model from Li-Ning’s mid-generation lineup, it stands out not only for its impressive offensive capabilities within the Wind Storm 9000 series but also for accompanying Zheng Siwei through his remarkable journey. Its popularity and reputation align well with my initial understanding of the racket.
Despite its significant presence and stable price, which has prevented me from completing my trial of it, I have hesitated to borrow it from friends due to its cost and potential inconvenience.
Specifications: 3UG6, without base towel grip, total weight in use 93.86g, balance point 310mm, shaft length 210mm, moderate stiffness, box frame, 72-hole string bed, 9-3 o’clock string groove, warranty up to 32 lbs, strung with 26-28 lbs BS720.
The racket’s visual style is striking, with its color selection—deep blue, azure, and crimson—evoking a strong sense of national style. It reminds me of the carefully restored glaze on ancient artifacts, offering high recognition. Some players have mentioned that this design resembles the style of the AT900T from the past but with a brighter touch, which is indeed outside my area of expertise. However, due to its distinctive look, the racket has unfortunately become a frequent target for counterfeiting.
Although it is well-known that this is a 3U offensive-oriented racket, my initial experience with it did not cause much pressure. Undoubtedly, it has a slightly higher swing weight than the 9000, but overall, it still falls within the balanced racket category. If it were reduced to a 4U specification with its current weight distribution, it would not differ significantly from the Tactic 6000 in terms of empty racket feel.
The shaft is not very stiff, and its quality is similar to its counterparts. It offers a clear feel of using leverage when handling active shots and makes it easy to drive and experience the deformation of the 9000C shaft. The feedback from the shot is also similar to the 9000, perhaps even a bit more forgiving, making it quite user-friendly. The current box frame also shows good torsional resistance and performs well in directional control, with good performance in trying to keep long shots within the small corner grid.
It is said that wind tunnel technology improves swing speed. While previous experiments by Pang Hu have controlled variables, I need not investigate whether the wind tunnel or the box frame with the same projected area is better. At least in doubles play, with the racket in my hands in a mid-to-high state on that day, flat drives and blocks can still create a fast-paced exchange. Although the increased swing weight affects its agility, the longer grip effectively avoids excessive torque.
However, the feel of this racket is not as typical or aggressive. Unlike the current trend of “touch and go,” the 9000C has a more noticeable holding feel. But this is not an excuse; after all, Zheng Siwei has moved from the 9000C to the Double-Edged 10LT and now to the Bow 11P, and with the rumored preference for BG65 strings, it is clear that the racket’s characteristics are mainly to match the user’s preferences rather than specific scenarios.
On the offensive side, the 9000C feels somewhat “conventional.” The racket delivers energy to the shuttlecock through both gravity and elasticity, with little difference in proportions. As one of the best-performing mid-shaft rackets from Li-Ning at the time, its performance now seems slightly outdated. Whether by design or not, among the 9000 series, the Wind Blade is indeed significantly more aggressive than the Wind Storm, providing more confidence in execution.
The 9000C does have a slightly higher pressing feel compared to the 9000. The deformation of the shaft during a powerful smash is not as pronounced as in the 9000, providing more resistance and a feeling of the whip-like motion of the racket head. With harder strings, it should produce a shot power that closely reflects the input force. It is not as difficult to smash with, and both the pressing and power feel reach a certain level of aggressiveness. However, to create absolute threats, it still largely depends on the user and maintaining continuity.
Although it is a C-suffix product, I have not seen any players around me who immediately experienced the heavy-hitting or continuous pressing characteristics after switching to the 9000C. The essence of the 9000C in the market remains a fairly conventional, balanced racket with some offensive features. After using the 4 and 9 versions of the Wind Storm, I personally do not find the 9000C to have extraordinary qualities. Moreover, its series-specific holding feel gives me more confidence in net play and rear court flicks and pushes, leading to a slightly better impression in controlling the rhythm of play.
Based on this understanding, after using all four siblings of the Wind Storm 9000 series, I will probably miss the days spent with the 9000 more.
September 11, 2024
Badminton Racket Lining AERONAUT 9000 Series Reviews
Introduction
The “Windstorm” series can also be understood as “wind tunnel.” The frame design of the Windstorm series rackets is an improvement upon the fluid box-type frame, which has been proven over many years in the market. The lower part of the frame is slightly thickened to enhance shot stability, while four air ducts have been added to reduce wind resistance during swings. The principle behind these ducts is similar to the spoilers on race cars and airplanes, guiding airflow behind the fast-moving object to reduce negative pressure at the rear, thus decreasing resistance and enhancing aerodynamic stability.
In simple terms, the Windstorm series frame is an upgraded version of the classic box frame, providing excellent shot stability.
This release of the Windstorm 9000 series includes three models. The Windstorm 9000, focusing on all-round performance, is endorsed by Shi Yuqi, a rising star in China’s men’s singles team. The Windstorm 9000C (Combat) emphasizes offense and is endorsed by mixed doubles specialist Zheng Siwei. The Windstorm 9000D (Drive) focuses on speed and is endorsed by Li Junhui, one half of the “Twin Towers” doubles team. Shi Yuqi is known for his stable and comprehensive playing style. Zheng Siwei’s powerful and fast-paced smashes and drop shots from the backcourt often catch opponents off guard. As a doubles player, Li Junhui demands high flexibility and speed in drives and blocks, and the release of the Windstorm 9000D should allow him to retire his flashy pink racket.
Design
Li-Ning’s racket designs are well known for their durability and appearance, far exceeding the industry average. However, this time, Li-Ning doesn’t just win in terms of aesthetics; the relationship between the design and the racket’s characteristics is equally important.
The Windstorm 9000 features a color scheme of champagne gold and ivory white, with a subdued and restrained overall style. This design complements the all-around performance of the racket and also aligns with Shi Yuqi’s calm demeanor on the court. The Windstorm 9000C, on the other hand, sports a striking combination of deep blue, sky blue, and crimson, giving it a visually impactful look that matches Zheng Siwei’s aggressive and energetic playing style. The Windstorm 9000D predominantly uses fluorescent yellow with accents of green, giving it a flashy and bold appearance—perfectly suited for Li Junhui!
Specifications
The Windstorm 9000 has an unstrung weight of 86g with a balance point of 305mm. The Windstorm 9000C weighs 88g with a balance point of 298mm, while the Windstorm 9000D weighs 84g and has a balance point of 314mm. All models use the thinner S1 handle.
Experience
In hand, the Windstorm 9000 feels slightly lighter than the Windstorm 9000C. Both rackets have similar shaft stiffness, but the Windstorm 9000C has a firmer feel and is noticeably heavier overall. The Windstorm 9000D is completely different, feeling much lighter due to its head-heavy balance. The shaft’s flex during smashes is more pronounced, somewhat similar to the pink Energy 70i, but there are still significant differences in terms of stability, swing speed, and overall weight.
AERONAUT 9000
The Windstorm 900 is a racket with excellent shot direction control. It feels neither as heavy and stable as the Windstorm 8000 nor as crisp and agile as the Windstorm 7000. Instead, the Windstorm 900 feels like a blend of the two, or somewhere in between. The frame stiffness is medium, slightly leaning towards stiff, and the hitting sensation is crisp without being overly rigid. Among Li-Ning rackets, the last model that gave me such a comfortable hitting experience was the Windblade 900. Compared to the Windblade 900, the Windstorm 900 offers better shot stability, although the Windblade 900 still surpasses it in swing speed and precision attacks.
The balance between forgiveness and power feedback determines both shot direction control and racket handling. Rackets with a high degree of forgiveness, like the Windstorm 8000, often have a softer hitting feel. However, because of this softness, the power feedback may not be as direct. In actual use, this can lead to situations where applying 4.8 or 5.2 force yields almost the same results, which greatly reduces error rates but limits players seeking precise control. Conversely, rackets with very clear power feedback tend to have low forgiveness, offering precision at the cost of higher error rates.
The Windstorm 900 strikes an excellent balance between forgiveness and power feedback, providing a comfortable control experience.
One drawback is the 210mm long handle, resulting in a shorter shaft compared to the Windstorm 8000. Rackets with long handles and short shafts generally offer stiffer feedback and faster response, but they perform worse in terms of power transmission during smashes compared to long-shaft, short-handle rackets (those who have used the Windblade 900B/N904 will understand). Therefore, in terms of power smashes, the Windstorm 8000 still holds the advantage. Fortunately, the Windstorm 900’s medium shaft stiffness ensures that, while it’s not a completely easy-to-use racket, it doesn’t require too much time to get accustomed to.
Control is the biggest feature of the Windstorm 900. As an all-rounder racket, the Windstorm 900 also performs well in midcourt rallies and backcourt attacks. In particular, its performance in midcourt flat drives is exceptional, though not as nimble as the Windstorm 7000. The Windstorm 7000 offers faster and more direct flat drives, while the Windstorm 900 feels more comfortable to use. In backcourt attacks, the Windstorm 900 lacks the heavy downward pressure of the Windstorm 8000 and doesn’t have that same explosive power. However, due to its lighter overall weight and higher stiffness compared to the Windstorm 8000, the Windstorm 900 excels in fast-paced attacks.
Based on the Windstorm 9000, Li-Ning has fine-tuned the weight distribution and stiffness parameters to create the attack-focused Windstorm 9000C and the drive-focused Windstorm 9000D.
AERONAUT 9000C
The Windstorm 9000C has a feel very similar to the Windstorm 9000, but with an overall heavier weight, offering a more stable smash, though it can be a bit demanding in defense. The Windstorm 9000D, however, differs significantly from the 9000, with more weight focused in the racket head and a lower overall weight, making it noticeably easier and more flexible to swing, with greater shaft deformation during play.
Apart from the increase in overall weight, the Windstorm 9000C also has a stiffer racket face compared to the 9000. This results in the 9000C sacrificing some comfort for enhanced offense, akin to a vehicle’s “sport mode”—seeking more intensity at the cost of comfort. When compared to the more attack-oriented Windstorm 8000, the 9000C offers a more direct and firm smashing experience. While the Windstorm 8000 feels like a powerful, charged-up strike, the 9000C’s smash resembles swinging a sharp blade. Fans of Bao’s powerful, charged smashes may prefer the 8000, but those who enjoy the fast-paced smashes and slices of Zheng Siwei would find the 9000C a great option.
AERONAUT 9000D
The differences between the Windstorm 9000D and the Windstorm 9000 remind me of the comparison between the N7i and N7. Both models reduce overall weight and increase balance point compared to the originals. The Windstorm 9000D is an easy-to-use racket, being head-heavy yet light overall, with significant shaft flexibility, making it easy to generate power. In doubles play, the 9000D excels in agility during drives and defense. While it may lack the quickness of the Windstorm 7000, it offers more comfort. This reflects Li-Ning’s interpretation of “Drive”—not simply speed, but agile maneuverability, which, in my opinion, refers to nimbleness. Therefore, models ending in “D” tend to have a lower entry barrier.
The Windstorm 9000D also has a stiffer racket face than the 9000. Coupled with its greater flexibility, the 9000D sacrifices some control. When compared to the speed-focused WindBlade 900, the 9000D’s head-heavy design allows for better leveraged smashes, though it lacks the comfortable wrapping feel of the racket face. Personally, I find the WindBlade 900 more comfortable, while the 9000D might be better suited for players with less strength or those who like the Windstorm 7000i but want a softer shaft, or players who enjoy the N7i but find it too light.
Choosing a Racket
The Windstorm 9000 perfectly embodies the core control attributes of the Windstorm series, while the 9000D and 9000C build on this with performance tweaks. The 9000C is closer to the 9000, but with a higher overall weight, making it suitable for powerful, offense-oriented players. The 9000D, on the other hand, is quite different from the 9000, resembling more a softer-shafted Windstorm 7000i with a length of 675mm, or a heavier version of the N7i with a box frame. It is ideal for doubles players or those with less strength.
String Pairing
All three rackets were strung with Li-Ning No.1 string at 26 lbs on the mains and 28 lbs on the crosses. Based on my experience, both the 9000C and 9000D have stiffer racket faces than the 9000, so pairing them with softer strings can enhance the wrapping feel on the shuttle. Given the wear on strings during offensive play, Li-Ning No.7 strings might be a good choice for the 9000C. Meanwhile, the 9000D, which emphasizes drives and doubles play, pairs well with the crisp-sounding Li-Ning No.1 string. For the all-around Windstorm 9000, the equally versatile Li-Ning No.5 string is a viable option.
September 11, 2024
Badminton Racket Li-Ning AERONAUT 9000C Reviews
As a Mid-Generation Li-Ning Flagship
This racket not only stands out in the AERONAUT 9000 series for its impressive offensive capabilities but has also accompanied Zheng Siwei in his relentless journey of success. Based on its popularity and reputation, it aligns well with my initial understanding of it.
Despite its widespread use and stable price, which has never plummeted, I hesitated to try it out for a long time. Sometimes, when I see fellow players using it, I feel too shy to ask to borrow such an expensive racket. I’m grateful to a friend for sharing their equipment.
Specifications: 3UG6, with towel grip removed, total weight in use is 93.86g, balance point 310mm, shaft length 210mm, medium stiffness, box-shaped frame, 72-hole stringing, 9-3 point grooves, 32 lbs string tension, strung with 26-28 lbs BS720.
The visual design of the racket is quite impactful. The color choices—deep blue, bright blue, and scarlet—have a distinctly Chinese style, reminiscent of the glaze on ancient artifacts carefully restored by archaeologists, making it highly recognizable. Some players mentioned that this design is reminiscent of the AT900T from the green factory but with a brighter tone, which I admit is beyond my knowledge. However, due to this distinctiveness, the racket has become a prime target for counterfeiters.
Although I knew this was a 3U racket with a bias toward offensive play, my initial impression didn’t overwhelm me. No doubt, it has slightly higher swing weight compared to the AERONAUT 9000, but overall, it still falls into the category of balanced rackets. If its current weight distribution were reduced to a 4U specification, it wouldn’t feel much different from the Zhan Ji 6000 I previously tested in terms of an empty racket experience.
The shaft isn’t overly stiff, comparable in quality to its siblings. When handling incoming shots, the ability to borrow force is clear, and it’s easy to drive and feel the shaft’s flex in the AERONAUT 9000C. The feedback from hitting the shuttle isn’t much different from the AERONAUT 9000; in fact, it’s quite user-friendly, with a slightly sweet spot, making it easy to get used to. The box-shaped frame also provides good torsional resistance, performing well in directional control, allowing for precise placement in the small back corners of the court.
People often say that the AERONAUT technology enhances swing speed. Since Fat Tiger has already done a control variable experiment, I won’t delve into whether the AERONAUT frame or a box frame with the same projected area is better. At least in doubles, on a day when I was in good form, the racket allowed for fast-paced exchanges. Although the increased swing weight reduces agility, the longer grip effectively prevents the generation of large moments of force.
However, the feel of the racket face isn’t typical or aggressive. Unlike the trendy “hit and go” feel, the AERONAUT 9000C has a noticeably more pronounced hold on the shuttle. But this isn’t an excuse, as Zheng Siwei has transitioned from the AERONAUT 9000C to the Duora 10 LT and now the Arcsaber 11 Pro. It’s also said that he prefers the BG65 string, indicating that racket face characteristics are more about personal preference than specific scenarios.
In the attack department, which is its proudest aspect, the AERONAUT 9000C gave me a rather “average” experience. The racket imparts energy to the shuttle through both gravity and elasticity, with a nearly equal balance. As one of Li-Ning’s best shafts at the time, its performance is still solid today but slightly behind current standards. I’m not sure if it was intentional, but within the 9-series, the Windstorm’s ferocity is indeed more apparent than the AERONAUT’s, giving more confidence in shots.
That said, the downward pressure feel of the AERONAUT 9000C is slightly higher than that of the AERONAUT 9000. When exerting full power for heavy smashes, the shaft’s flex is less pronounced than the AERONAUT 9000, with a more resistant feel, allowing you to sense the whip-like motion at the end of the swing, especially in the racket head. Using stiffer strings might maximize the power output. It’s not difficult to execute smashes, and both downward pressure and power reach a certain level, making it sufficiently aggressive. However, to deliver a truly threatening shot, the player needs to rely on their own skill and maintain a continuous flow.
Even though it bears the C suffix, I haven’t seen any fellow players around me instantly unlock their heavy smash or continuous downward pressure capabilities after switching to the AERONAUT 9000C. The retail version of the AERONAUT 9000C is still fundamentally a relatively balanced racket with some offensive specialties. After using several other AERONAUT rackets, I don’t find the AERONAUT 9000C to have any outstanding qualities. Moreover, its series-specific hold on the shuttle gives me more confidence in net play, rear-court slices, and slides, leading to a slightly better impression in controlling tempo changes on the court.
Based on this understanding, after using all four AERONAUT 9000 siblings, I might still find myself missing the days spent with the AERONAUT 9000 the most.
August 28, 2024