Monday, April 03, 2017

Badminton Racket First Impressions: Yonex Voltric Lin Dan (LD) Force

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This will be the first of the two rackets that I have lined up for review. I had not wanted to get too many new ones since I can't play at the previous level for awhile, but caved because this racket was too awesome to begin with.

Full on black with silver, red and gold accents, the Yonex Voltric LD Force is the lighter, more manageable variation of the Limited Edition heavy weight. Like all the rackets in the Voltric series, the LD Force has the iconic tri-voltage weights in the top corners as well as the bottom half of the head frame, contributing to an increased swing weight and speed.

The LD Force also has the linked grommet system of its Z-Force 2 brethern, albeit only in the top half of the racket. These I assume will add more weight and support a higher string tension since the linked grommets will prevent the strings from cutting in the racket.

Unlike the Z-Force rackets, the LD Force seems to come in a more flexible shaft, which makes games for beginners like me optimal. Coming off a spine surgery and months of inaction, I am not able to generate enough power in my swings to carry off a match well. The added whip from the shaft of this racket is noticeable and welcome.

Having purchased the 4U version (I got the 3U version of the other racket for review - the Duora Z-Strike) I can also attribute a high defense rating from it's lighter frame. Of course this also meant the attacks from the back suffered a little. Anticipating this, I had it strung with the Yonex BG66 Ultimax at 27lbs.

After an hour on the court today, I could feel the same overwhelming sense of control that comes with the Z-Force family of rackets. The shuttle is extremely obedient, coming off and sticking to the string bed at will. The head heavy orientation and flexible shaft provided much of the attack, while the light weight 4U frame made sure I am not too much of a punching bag.

But like the 4U Z-Force 2, I feel this racket is more suited for doubles play. While packing enough punch for a fast-paced exchange, the lack of full court coverage may prove too much for the singles player.

More time on the court will reveal its true potential. I might actually try to get a proper singles game going for this one.

Till soon!

4 comments:

Sian said...

I totally agree that the LDF is an awesome racket, a much more forgiving racket than the Z-Force 2. I have the 3U version, which I felt is more "solid" than the 4U version - the 4U version felt a bit too whippy for me. 3U feels a bit more stiffer but weighs more as a result, making it more suitable for singles (though good training for wrist when playing doubles).
Just would like to know your thoughts in comparison to n9 - would like to know if 4U LDF shaft is as flexible as the n9

Arthur said...

Thanks for the review! I feel that the N9 has a slightly more flex shaft.

Sian said...

Wow I see, can't imagine that 4U LDF is more stiff than the n9! Can't wait to read your reviews on the LDF 4U and the Z-Strike!

Spuddy said...

I have read your blog its very attractive and impressive. I like it your blog.

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