Jayce
This is likely a low-end MX model among the short players.
However, based on the author’s speculation from the MX260 review, the 7000 is likely another soft racket, as supported by information from the badminton equipment database. From the METEOR 6000 to 7000, the stiffness decreases, similar to the difference between the METEOR 80 and 90. Additionally, low-end rackets tend to avoid using an 80-hole string bed, not because it costs more to add a few extra holes, but probably because an 80-hole design places higher demands on the frame’s structure and materials. It’s easier to just stick with a 72-hole design.
Specifications: 4UG5, no grip, total weight in use is 85.30g, balance point at 313mm, 7.2mm shaft, 220mm in length, low stiffness, octagonal aerodynamic frame, 72-hole string bed, 9-3 o’clock string grooves, warranty up to 24 lbs, strung at 24 lbs with Li-Ning N9 strings.
The color scheme is somewhat similar to the NR750 mentioned earlier, but it actually traces back to the blue-silver-gray of the METEOR 70. The gray on both sides and blue at the four corners create a visual effect that draws attention toward the center of the racket face. There are plenty of decals, with the shaft being relatively plain, and no standout technological features. It has the common aesthetic of a low-end racket, not bad, and compared to the Victory 09 I used before, it’s much improved, though I still prefer the black base of the METEOR 6000.
After removing the grip, the racket’s head-heavy feel becomes more apparent, and with such a high balance point, the swing weight is a bit excessive for a 4U racket. Handling the shuttle close to the body isn’t an issue, and the head-heavy balance helps generate power. When swinging the racket head, you can clearly feel the shaft’s flex and the resulting power, making it a beginner’s racket that can deliver a strong sense of power. However, it does place significant demands on stamina, and after about 30 clears, I already started to feel fatigue.
Therefore, I want to jump straight to discussing the racket’s attacking ability. Frankly, the METEOR 7000’s smash feel is outstanding among entry-level products, with solid impact and strong shuttle release. If you upgrade the strings, achieving powerful smashes wouldn’t be a problem.
But it does sacrifice continuity and endurance, especially the former. The METEOR 80 is a classic high-end racket that balances both drives and smashes well, but for the METEOR 7000, which is two levels lower, the high swing weight solves the power issue but naturally affects the follow-up shots. The long preparation time, extended follow-through, and the strain on the forearm and wrist are the main reasons I struggle with it in fast exchanges. These drawbacks are further magnified by the subpar strings. This racket is decent in the mid-to-back court, where the longer reaction time and better swing speed help maintain continuity.
The racket face and sweet spot are of moderate size, and the 72-hole string bed does offer a stronger shuttle hold than the 80-hole design, making the METEOR 7000 more comfortable for controlling delicate shots, and it shows good tolerance in backcourt drops.
When dealing with defensive situations, it really comes down to personal skill. It’s not that the METEOR 7000 requires advanced power techniques; in fact, the shaft is quite forgiving. The higher swing weight is just something that takes time to get used to, but as long as you have the strength, you can manage. During fast-paced exchanges where you’re being pushed side to side, repeatedly turning to hit cross-court drives or backhand clears relies heavily on core strength; otherwise, relying only on the upper arm won’t get the shuttle where you want it.
This racket has a bit of the head-heavy feel of the METEOR 70, making it a distinctive old entry-level racket with its strengths and characteristics.
