This article details a personal experience customizing two popular tennis rackets: the HEAD Radical MP and the Yonex VCore Pro 100. The author explores how adding weight to these rackets, specifically using lead tape, impacted their performance and feel. Focusing on achieving a desired weight range between 330-340 grams, the author meticulously documents the process, including the strategic placement of lead tape to optimize power, stability, and control. Both racket modifications are described in detail, highlighting the gram increments added and their corresponding effects on the overall playing experience.The key takeaway is the transformative impact of customized weight distribution on racket performance. Through careful addition of lead tape, the author significantly improved the power and stability of both the HEAD Radical MP and the Yonex VCore Pro 100, ultimately enhancing their overall game. This hands-on account serves as a valuable guide for players seeking to personalize their rackets and optimize their playing style through targeted weight adjustments.
Pros And Cons
- Added weight gives more drive and flex.
- Improved serve.
- Loss of racket speed and acceleration initially, requiring adjustment.
Read more: 5 Best Babolat Tennis Rackets to Dominate the Court
Understanding Racket Weight and Balance
Before customizing, it's crucial to understand the relationship between weight, balance, and feel. A heavier racket provides more stability and power, particularly when facing aggressive opponents. Conversely, lighter rackets offer quicker swings and maneuverability. The balance point significantly impacts how the racket feels in your hand; head-heavy rackets are more powerful, while head-light rackets are more maneuverable. Finding the right balance for your playing style is key.
Factory specs are a good starting point, but personal preferences can significantly affect this. My ideal unstrung racket weight is between 310-315 grams (10.9-11.1 ounces). An overgrip adds about 5-6 grams, and I also add lead tape to further customize the weight distribution and overall feel.
Adding Weight to the HEAD Radical MP Auxetic
The HEAD Radical MP Auxetic, with its overgrip and shock absorber, weighed in at 319 grams. My target weight is between 330-340 grams. I decided to use lead tape to achieve this, strategically adding it to the 3 and 9 o'clock positions in the head and underneath the grips. This approach focuses on enhancing power and stability without sacrificing maneuverability.
I added a total of 11 grams; 5 grams at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions, and 6 grams under the grip. This brought the final weight to approximately 330 grams. The placement was crucial, as the 3 and 9 o'clock positions help with stability. The placement under the grip provides more control and a more comfortable feel.
Customizing the Yonex VCore Pro 100
My favorite racket, the Yonex VCore Pro 100, initially weighed 325 grams. I aimed for a similar weight increase as the Radical MP. Using 8 grams of lead tape (four 1-gram strips at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions and four underneath the grip), I achieved a final weight near my target of approximately 334 grams. This maintained the racket's balance and feel while adding the necessary stability.
The process for applying the lead tape was the same as the previous racket. The added weight is noticeable but enhances control and power during baseline rallies and serves. The final result is a more comfortable and powerful racket that perfectly suits my preferences and playing style.
Conclusion: Enhanced Performance and Personalization
Customizing my rackets with added weight has significantly improved my game. The increased stability translates to more controlled shots and enhanced power, especially under pressure. While I primarily focused on weight adjustments, considering balance and swing weight is also crucial for optimal performance. The HEAD Radical MP and Yonex VCore Pro 100 both benefited immensely from this customization.
The added weight gives both rackets more power, especially on serves and groundstrokes. The subtle weight changes significantly impacted my baseline performance and ability to counteract powerful shots. Although I didn't measure swing weight or balance, I found the increased head-heaviness improved control and power. Experimenting with small weight additions is key to finding your perfect balance.
