Yonex continues updating their VCore series of frames with the introduction of the new VCore SV series. The VCore SV 98 Lite provides all of the new tech packed into a frame that is lighter and easier to swing than the standard model. It uses AeroFin technology for reduced drag as well as Nanometric XT Carbon for enhanced flex and ball response. The new SV also boasts a more aerodynamic beam shape at the lower part of the frame for more speed and spin. I put the SV 98 Lite through its paces on court recently to see how this lighter weight frame stacks up.

Groundstrokes
The speed of the SV 98 Lite was immediately evident off the ground. The 10.7oz strung weight felt lightening quick from both sides, allowing me to take big powerful cuts at the ball. The firm layup and 22/22/21mm beam provided solid power off either wing. The Lite benefitted from having a bit more mass in the head, helping give it some extra pop on groundstrokes. While my shots lacked the heavy feel of the heavier models, the SV 98 Lite still provided me enough pace to play offensively. The substantial sweet spot, thanks to the Isometric head shape, ensured that there was a good amount of power when contact was made off center. The 98 inch head and relatively thin beam also made the 98 Lite play with a high degree of accuracy. I was able to stay aggressive with my shot selection and play balls close to the lines with confidence. Spin production was excellent thanks to the fast feel and 16x20 string pattern. The easily accessible spin allowed me to control the ball and dip it in as well use extra margin to reset points on defense. While the speed of the frame made flicking winners on the run enjoyable, the lack of mass made it a bit more challenging to redirect the pace of heavy hitters. The frame fluttered a bit against pace and would need some additional weight for more advanced players.

Volleys & Serves
The SV 98 Lite took full advantage of its speed when at the net. The rapid fire maneuverability of the frame allowed me to position it quickly on exchanges and stay out in front of reaction volleys. I found enough pop to finish off high volleys but the racquet didn’t have the same finishing power of the heavier editions. Balls that I was less aggressive on had a higher tendency to float and allow opponents another opportunity. Directional control was another positive attribute of this frame when volleying. I was able to use sharp angles to position the ball in difficult spots. Much like other frames in the SV line, the firm response of this frame made it more challenging when I wanted to execute touch volleys. I just didn’t find enough feedback on contact to feel fully comfortable executing them.

My time serving with the SV 98 Lite showed off some highlights as well as some limitations. The reduced mass made my first serve a bit less effective. While I could easily generate head speed through contact, I felt that my flat serve did not penetrate through the court enough to be truly dangerous. There was plenty of pace but it seemed to lack the heavy feel that could drive opponents back a bit. Initially I struggled a little bit with accuracy serving with this model. It was so fast that I felt I was coming through the top of my motion to fast to hit my spots. Once I settled in and was a bit more deliberate in my motion, I found I could move the ball around effectively and disguise my locations a bit more. Kick serves were the true highlight of serving with the 98 Lite. The string pattern and easy speed provided excellent action on my serve and I consistently had hit exploding off the court and moving away from returners. I was also able to slice the ball out wide, even though the lower weight meant less low, skidding movement. Ultimately I relied on changing locations and my kick serve to keep the upper hand during my service games.

Feel/Comfort
The 98 Lite followed suit with the other racquets in the SV lineup. I found it to play with a firm and crsip response on contact. The ample sweet spot seemed to help make off center contact feel a bit more consistent. I would have preferred a touch more flex for mixing drop shots and touch angles into play. The racquet felt a little bit softer than the 95 and 98 inch versions and players should be able to adjust their string type and tension to help balance out any comfort issues they are concerned about.

Overall
Yonex offers a diverse and wide ranging frame lineup for a variety of players and the SV 98 Lite fits right in with that philosophy. It offers ample power, solid control and plenty of spin at a weight that is easily accessible for most players. The way it can transition from the baseline to the net combined with its serving variety should make the Yonex VCore SV 98 Lite an excellent option for intermediate players who want a balance of control, power and responsiveness.

About the Reviewer: Matt Locke currently serves as the Junior Programs & Development Coordinator for USTA-Idaho and is an active USTA League and Tournament player.