So happy you got invited to Switzerland, you've been killing it for R&R as well as your own personal brand. Fantastic video, can't wait for the RF01 (Normal, 300g)
Fantastic review as always, please keep it up! Switzerland is beautiful and I'm glad they invited you to visit! So thankful that RF and Wilson actually delivered on this racquet and it wasn't just all hype and marketing.
Your channel has become my go to place for racquet reviews. Thorough, knowledgeable and great perspective from someone who is clearly a very good player himself.
As a french speaking individual, I have to respect the way you pronounce french word in this and the other video, the "Just look at the Mont Blanc in the back" was spotless :)
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver I am currently playing with the percept 97, which you accurately ranked one of the best for 0HBH. How does this compare on that stroke as well as all around to the percept 97 given 10 g more static weight.
Would love to know how this compares to some peer frames. Sounds like it has a lot in common with the Blade 98 16x19, the Pure Strike v4 97 and 98, the Head Prestige Pro, the Head Radical Pro, the Yonex Percept 97, the Technifibre TFight 305, and the Prince ATS Textreme Tour 98. Maybe even
Just an observation but as it comes with a leather grip and the unstrung weight is 320g that means it's really a 310g unstrung weight racquet if it shipped with a regular grip as most do. This is a big plus point imo. 310g is a nice sweet spot between plough through and racquet head speed.
Not necesarelly. Wilson synthetic origibal base grip can have up to 16g. Leather grip are around 20-27g. Minus cut off part Tecnifibre leather grip is about 21g. So the frame is more like a normal 313-315g rather than 310g.
refreshing and honest review - unlike the pure hype ones that i have seen elsewhere. perhaps a comparison between the rf1 01 and the blade 98 16x19 in the future?
I just got mine and hit with it for the first time today. I strung mine at 45 to add a bit more pop. I’d say it plays a lot like a pure aero that has been customized for a pro. Only negative I have so far is power drop off outside of the sweet spot seems to be larger than with other rackets but that adds to the satisfaction of making solid contact
Personally I really in love for RF01PRO. I am playing with it since 2 weeks, and coming from PS97S and PS97 315gr, I find this one super fantastic. Free power, easier to move, super precise and great control. Of course need clean technique and to be physically prepared, but even if demanding it'll give back a lot. Very solid and amazing on volleys, flat groundstroke and slice serve.
Note that the 320g weight is *unstrung* and Wilson's website quotes the strung weight at 335g/11.82 oz and the strung balance at 32.5cm/6 pts headlight so despite the much lighter weight than past RF97 rackets, the balance is much less headlight. Might demo this but I'm not a huge fan of thick beam frames and my old RF97 rackets used to give me shoulder and elbow issues.
Everything I'm hearing makes this sound like I'm not going to like this racquet but I have the whole Federer line up so I can't stop being a completionist
So the beam variable thickness is like an Ezone 98 and so is the throat and stiffness at 65 RA, the balance will probably be 6 or 7pts head light, just like an Ezone so perfect for one hander back handers! 300 grams would make the perfect platform racquet with lots of room to customisation. Looks like an Ezone killer !
Might be a silly question but just trying to parse; do you mean you added 4 grams at 3 AND 4 grams at 9 for 8 grams added or did you add 4 grams TOTAL split between 3 and 9?? Might just be a me thing but I’m curious either way, super excited for the racquet and love the reviews!!!
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver actually any customization of the racquet should be preceded by measurement of a current frame. For one frame you may need to add 4g, for another 2g or even none to have expected specs. Unfortunately quality of these products is far behind the price.
Great video Luca. I live relatively near where you are. I’m a Yonex fanboy who adores my Vcore but this has put all that in the balance. 1) I love federer 2) I am an agressive player like you described And 3) why the hell do I watch this channel I can’t afford all the racquet shenanigans 😂 I might actually demo this and seeing as Im demoing the RF I might aswell also demo the Percept which I liked when I briefly demoed before getting the Vcore. Man this is confusing 😂
Forgot to mention I love good feel which is the downside to the Vcore so the RF sounds even better. Also liked the Percepts feel even though it’s the opposite kind of feel to what the rf would be..: right ?😅
The Percept and RF both have fantastic feel albeit a bit different, yes. I think this would be one of the best rackets for you to demo considering all of the above, especially the aggressive player profile!
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver I’ll definitely try it out and maybe the Percept again too… As a Swiss though I do feel it’s my duty to get the rf, and that not having it deserves my citizenship being revoked.
I've been using the Pro Staff 97 v14 (315 g) and its predecessors for several years now and I love it. It's the best racket I've ever used, apart from the RF which I would have used if it wasn't too heavy for me. So I'm curious to see how this new racket compares to it.
Ive played with your racquets for years.The Federer 97 was to heavy.This racquet plays very similar to the 97 but the weight loss lets you finesse your shots much more without killing your arm.It still takes a very dedicated stroke set up and execution but it is just 10 percent easier.Im buying one.
Hey, I’m a junior tennis player at the elite level, I use the Pro Staff 97 v14 right now, and I love it, but I wish it gave me a bit more power and had more spin potential. Should I try the RF01 pro?
Already that PS97 v14 is too heavy for you. It makes you block and half swing instead of swinging fully and fast, every time. It's not a question of injury. Both Sinner and Alcaraz play with racquets that are 305g unstrung, extra weight will only slow you down for no real benefit. Us players with one handed backhands need more weight in the handle, but players with two handed backhands don't. Try the 300g version, at a low string tension with a forgiving string, like Element, add a 1-3g of lead at the top if you need it. Your racquet head speed will go waay up with it, vs PS97, take some time to get used to it. You won't even think about returning to the PS97 or anything heavier afterwards
I appreciate the thorough review. I will probably demo it, as my local tennis shop showed me it in person last week so I already took a sneak peek at it. I can’t help but feel underwhelmed by this racket, no pws, and it is a lot lighter than the rf97. I have a bunch of rf97 and I think I’ll most likely stick to this racket as it’s peRFect. Appreciate it tho. To me it seems as though this rf 01 pro racket was made for the club player who couldn’t swing the rf97 because they weren’t strong enough or went to the gym. Still I will try and keep an open mind until I demo it this week.
I can't believe I had no idea this racket was coming out, even being developed! just picked up Pure Aero 98 last week after demoing it with Head Speed MP. Wish I tried this one as well to compare them >< (previous racket was PS 97)
Its been over a week now and I have seen about 10 videos on this frame and form what I have learned the reviewers are not on the same page and it seems like a a rather polarising racquet in stock form at least. The Pro weighs un strung weight is 320g which is a tad heavy to customise for a lot of people so it may be better for people to get the 300 and spec it up with lead tape to get to their desired weight.
Hi Luca. Thank you for this awesome review. How would RF01 pro stock compare with say a modified 300g RF 01 with weight in 3 and 9 o clock to improve torsional stability. The 320g weight of the RF01 pro might be a bit too much for me to handle.
This is what I want to figure out. With my brief playtest of the 01 standard, it didn't have as much of the "magic" but once I'm back in Vancouver I'll do a more comprehensive review.
Exactly what I wanted to ask. I'm really keen to see how you can transform the 300g version with weight at 3 and 9 to see how it plays as I think that would be the best option for me. Please do a vid on your results 👍
I'm like "Will I get arrested if I play two-handed backhand with a RF 01?"🤣🤣🤣 no, just kidding It sounds like a good choice to get relatively traditional touch/feel from a more friendly/modern package I'ma sit still and wait for the RF 01 (300g) review since that's the one practically I can use
Awesomeness. Hit Pro & 01 today and loved them. Wonder how the Pro would play with synthetic grip instead of leather? I like a softer weight and static around 310g. SW may drop 1-2 pts but power move down a tad while maneuverability up a tad? Just wonder if better to build up 01 or just replace grip on Pro?
I don’t test very many rackets but I tested the RF01 and felt like it was somewhat similar to the Head Speed MP. Would you agree or not? What do you think are the differences? What do you think are other similar models to the RF01? I love your videos btw, it’s helped me a lot learning about different rackets
There is a big difference in weight between the RF 97 and 01, about 1.3 ounces, how does the lower weight of the 01 affect its stability and spin overall?
Hi Lucas, Guess that you stringed this one with a hybrid of gut and poly, didn't you ? Could you please give us your advert on the best string setup for this one ?
@RacketsRunnersVancouver I have a really picky question... On the footage at 10:01, just after saying that the RF 01 doesn't have PWS, when we look at you hitting the ball, I swear I can see the PWS thingy or a reflection at 3 and 9 on he frame when you take your backswing. Did you try adding something at 3 and 9 to conduct some tests ?
So in the begining of the video: "it has a well defined sweet spot" (the moment I heard that I told myself that's marketing bullshit for small sweet spot), at the stability portion of the video "it has a small sweet spot" :))
I get your review. Had a chance to hit with it too. Wont lie little upset. The racket fine for what you expect but got this hollow and cheap feel from the racket when hitting. Also when strung mine came in at 318. Could of put better leather too, felt touch cheap.
I love your videos, your the only reviewer i trust, what would you say are the best strings for the percept 100 if im looking more for power with still good control.
@RacketsRunnersVancouver - I use the Kblade 98 18X20 as my main racket, and the Blade CV 18X20. In terms of weight, balance, control (Stringbed setup) will it be hard to adjust to the RF 01 Pro? Also, if the Kbalde has a plowthrough of 4 and the Prostaff has a plowthrough of 10, where would you rate the powthrough of the RF 01 Pro?
Ok I have a question. I play with the pro staff rf97 autograph so would switching to the rf 01 pro be similar or not worth it? Would you recommend the switch?
Looking forward to the RF 01 review for sure, Luca loves the Blade 2015, and his leather grips. Spec wise isn’t the RF 01 basically the blade 2015 with a bit more weight in the handle?
what strings and tension is fine for this racket? we dont know what sw fed is using and what tension :) i think i should customize it to 340 but the tension and strings will be challenge :) twistweight is also interesting :)
Which racket would you recommend for clinical changes of direction, arm friendly, can be good to handle against better players strokes and have some decent power?
Would this be good for a casual player? ie. is it harder on elbows etc? I love the way it looks, or recommend another in the RF collection/ other Wilson?
call me cynical, but this racquet feels like a new racquet from wilson using roger as the marketing front. i strongly doubt roger would use a racquet the same weight as what i use, and i'm no where near as strong as roger. i mean it's working a treat. every tom, dick and harry wants this because it has RF on it.
Pro weight specs are going way down. I do think he would boost the swingweight but static weight, maybe just a little. When I first saw it, I thought the same thing, but it does play more "pro" than some other rackets with a similar design.
Great review! In your view do you think Champions Choice strings would work well to amplify the power and spin of this racquet or would a Babalot Gut with RPM blast hybrid work better?
Thank you! It's similar enough to the T-Fight but I find this has better feel and spin and it's quite a bit more maneuverable than the 305 up to 315 w/ leather.
Tough call; two very different rackets, this one with more variety and the Gravity Pro more rock solid consistency. I'll be trying to pick between the two in the next couple of months.
I personally think it's just a made-up story from Wilson that Roger wanted a racket, Wilson must be losing sales from the prostaff. Nevertheless, I'm still gonna buy this just bcus the RF logo is there ! Great marketing strategy !
You didnt mentioned it on specs at the start of the video , but it has only 325SW ? (you mentioned that laters while playing) Would like to now if it feels ''heavy'' compared to v9 98 blade for example or if you can swing blade then you can swing this also with no problem?
It feels very light for its weight specs but still a bit heavier than a Blade. I don't think you'll have a problem with this if you can swing the Blade.
I want to string this in a natural guy poly hybrid, which poly would you recommend for this setup? And at at how many lbs? My current racket is a Shift with 52 at the mains (gut) and 48 at the crosses (poly)
The racquet doesn’t mean much in tennis, just pick a good brand that you personally like the balance of and you will be fine. Put the work in on technique.
I may have a stick buying problem but I absolutely love trying different sticks and can definitely feel the difference. That being said the same thing happens with me and motorcycles 😂🏍️😀
@@grahamlloyd8479 oh you can definitely feel differences but the result is usually the same no matter the racquet or brand. That’s why I say, find a balance you enjoy and go rock it. If it’s a fun hobby for you there is absolutely no harm in that, it’s just people thinking one racquet or another will change there game somehow that need to understand what I’m saying 😉
@@robk5745 Agreed Brother! I’ve settled on my European Wilson Blade 98S V8 which is a more open spin friendly stick. It’s is also very flexible with a flex rating of 64 (Same as the RF 01). I love trying out new rackets but fear falling in love with them lol. It’s like riding different motorcycles, cars, playing different guitars etc for me. Fun but don’t fall for the buy in 💰🤑. Would like to try the new RF01 frame when I take my set of Wilson98S in for stringing 🤠🎾😀
What are its main competition? How does it compare with other popular racquet within similar characteristics? Like Radical MP, Ezone 98, Pure Aero 98, maybe Gravity Pro...
Fantastic (re)view Luca, you just keep improving! I am playing with the PS97v14 and am looking for some more forgiveness and free power. Had settled on the Radical MP and also liked the Solinco Whiteout 18x20 a lot. Would you say that the RF 01 (regular or pro version) would suit me? I consider myself an all-court player at 4.0 NTRP.
Thank you! You would be totally fine going from the 315 PS 97 to this. It feels lighter and, if you do want to make it lighter, you can always take off the leather grip.
Yeah.. The guy took a trip, alone, in Switzerland for "business", then back home, on the court, things did change with the Gravity Pro. The sparkle was gone.... Then, one night, the Gravity heard him say the dreaded "We need to talk!"
Hello Luca I am currently playing the Babolat pure drive 100 from 2018 and I am looking for something with a bit more control. Can you please recommend something that would fit?
So happy you got invited to Switzerland, you've been killing it for R&R as well as your own personal brand.
Fantastic video, can't wait for the RF01 (Normal, 300g)
Thank you very much!! Will get that one done ASAP
Yeah I recognised my local tennis club in your video! Go Tennis Club Nyon!!
@@olivierpeltier he’s near nyon ?? I’d have to rewatch, I live near Vevey so not too far away either…
Great review…not many people go into that kind of detail…it’s very much appreciated
Thank you very much!
Fantastic review as always, please keep it up! Switzerland is beautiful and I'm glad they invited you to visit! So thankful that RF and Wilson actually delivered on this racquet and it wasn't just all hype and marketing.
Thank you!
Your channel has become my go to place for racquet reviews. Thorough, knowledgeable and great perspective from someone who is clearly a very good player himself.
Thank you very much!
As a french speaking individual, I have to respect the way you pronounce french word in this and the other video, the "Just look at the Mont Blanc in the back" was spotless :)
That's the difference of a Canadian to the US.
Well Quebec is a French speaking nation so no doubt there is a lot around Trudeau-stan('canada' gone) who do
Je suis Français 😉
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver Ha ha ha .... Ok ça explique tout alors! Alors, ton anglais est impeccable! :)
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver But Bergs does not sound such a French name?
Don’t think I’ve ever clicked so fast! Nice job Luca!
Thank you!
Should be the perfect one handed backhand racket assuming its designed by fed and its maneuverability. Must grab for me
hey miss your keeb streams. didnt know you played tennis!
Yup... should have mentioned in the review but I would expect it to be one of the best.
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver I am currently playing with the percept 97, which you accurately ranked one of the best for 0HBH. How does this compare on that stroke as well as all around to the percept 97 given 10 g more static weight.
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver how would it compare to the blade 19x16 for people with ohb?
Yep. I just took the 280g version. It is perfect for OHBH and slice. I could feel it is better than my Blade v9 100 on the backhand.
Fire review bro! This background is elite 🔥
Thank you!
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver No problem!
Just picked up a new RF 01 Pro and here were the specs of the 2 that fit me (grip 4).
1) 319g 9pts HL 298 SW
2) 321g 9pts HL 298 SW
Strung sw?
@@limes..100 I haven't strung my racquet yet, but TW has it listed at 331
Swing weight seems way off
@@matthewtoothbrush this was unstrung
@@vickan240sxthat's about right. Add about 30g with strings for swing weight
Would love to know how this compares to some peer frames. Sounds like it has a lot in common with the Blade 98 16x19, the Pure Strike v4 97 and 98, the Head Prestige Pro, the Head Radical Pro, the Yonex Percept 97, the Technifibre TFight 305, and the Prince ATS Textreme Tour 98. Maybe even
I'll definitely be making some comparison videos once I'm back!
Im sure Rf 01 will win. Guys must earn some money 😂
Thank you - really great review. Can't wait to try it!
Thank you!
Just an observation but as it comes with a leather grip and the unstrung weight is 320g that means it's really a 310g unstrung weight racquet if it shipped with a regular grip as most do. This is a big plus point imo. 310g is a nice sweet spot between plough through and racquet head speed.
Yes, exactly!
Not necesarelly. Wilson synthetic origibal base grip can have up to 16g. Leather grip are around 20-27g. Minus cut off part Tecnifibre leather grip is about 21g. So the frame is more like a normal 313-315g rather than 310g.
refreshing and honest review - unlike the pure hype ones that i have seen elsewhere. perhaps a comparison between the rf1 01 and the blade 98 16x19 in the future?
Yes, for sure!
Thx Luca!🙏 Been waiting for this
You're welcome!
Sold! Hahaha Please do an in depth review on the 300gr version , I am hoping that the greatness doesnt disapear and it suits intermediate players.
Will do once I'm back and have the demo!
I had this racquet for about 4 days now the 300gr version pretty much the same as the 320 just lighter love it!!!
Love the video and the setting! would love to try the RF with a natural gut hybrid like champions choice!
Either will work. It's a racket for variety!
I just got mine and hit with it for the first time today. I strung mine at 45 to add a bit more pop. I’d say it plays a lot like a pure aero that has been customized for a pro.
Only negative I have so far is power drop off outside of the sweet spot seems to be larger than with other rackets but that adds to the satisfaction of making solid contact
Personally I really in love for RF01PRO. I am playing with it since 2 weeks, and coming from PS97S and PS97 315gr, I find this one super fantastic. Free power, easier to move, super precise and great control. Of course need clean technique and to be physically prepared, but even if demanding it'll give back a lot. Very solid and amazing on volleys, flat groundstroke and slice serve.
super review as always. sick view. we really want to see Regna 98 vs RF 01 Pro! all singapore fans of your channel.
Thank you very much! Unfortunately, the Regna is off-limits at the moment since we don't carry it.
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver how about a one sentence comparison here? 😁
Note that the 320g weight is *unstrung* and Wilson's website quotes the strung weight at 335g/11.82 oz and the strung balance at 32.5cm/6 pts headlight so despite the much lighter weight than past RF97 rackets, the balance is much less headlight. Might demo this but I'm not a huge fan of thick beam frames and my old RF97 rackets used to give me shoulder and elbow issues.
Everything I'm hearing makes this sound like I'm not going to like this racquet but I have the whole Federer line up so I can't stop being a completionist
Get this man a rally with Federer! Luca you truly deserve the best, I have never been so involved in the racket world
That would be AMAZING. Thank you very much!
So the beam variable thickness is like an Ezone 98 and so is the throat and stiffness at 65 RA, the balance will probably be 6 or 7pts head light, just like an Ezone so perfect for one hander back handers! 300 grams would make the perfect platform racquet with lots of room to customisation. Looks like an Ezone killer !
Nope.
Ezone 98 will beat this frame Eazily.
This frame just marketing gimmick 😅
I don't even play with Wilson, but I think I'm going to buy one just to collect.
Might be a silly question but just trying to parse; do you mean you added 4 grams at 3 AND 4 grams at 9 for 8 grams added or did you add 4 grams TOTAL split between 3 and 9?? Might just be a me thing but I’m curious either way, super excited for the racquet and love the reviews!!!
4 grams total at 3 & 9 (so only 4 grams). And thank you very much!
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver actually any customization of the racquet should be preceded by measurement of a current frame. For one frame you may need to add 4g, for another 2g or even none to have expected specs. Unfortunately quality of these products is far behind the price.
Great review dude, strings and tension ;
Thank you! Alu Power @ 53 pounds
And today is Roger Federer's Birthday too 🎂🎉
Nice timing 😄
Is it me or Beckett is getting really good at rallying
Nah he's still mid
@@RacketsRunnersVancouverLuca lets me win points only as charity
@@TennCom That's over now. Post RF 01 Pro Luca is here
Great video!! The backgroud update is awesome!
Percept 97D user here... Had a PS before.
Is the feel/precision similar to the Percept 97D?
Thank you! It's quite different in feel to the percept because of the foam but still has that similar "sharp" playability.
Great video Luca. I live relatively near where you are. I’m a Yonex fanboy who adores my Vcore but this has put all that in the balance.
1) I love federer
2) I am an agressive player like you described
And 3) why the hell do I watch this channel I can’t afford all the racquet shenanigans 😂
I might actually demo this and seeing as Im demoing the RF I might aswell also demo the Percept which I liked when I briefly demoed before getting the Vcore. Man this is confusing 😂
Forgot to mention I love good feel which is the downside to the Vcore so the RF sounds even better. Also liked the Percepts feel even though it’s the opposite kind of feel to what the rf would be..: right ?😅
The Percept and RF both have fantastic feel albeit a bit different, yes. I think this would be one of the best rackets for you to demo considering all of the above, especially the aggressive player profile!
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver I’ll definitely try it out and maybe the Percept again too…
As a Swiss though I do feel it’s my duty to get the rf, and that not having it deserves my citizenship being revoked.
I've been using the Pro Staff 97 v14 (315 g) and its predecessors for several years now and I love it. It's the best racket I've ever used, apart from the RF which I would have used if it wasn't too heavy for me. So I'm curious to see how this new racket compares to it.
Ive played with your racquets for years.The Federer 97 was to heavy.This racquet plays very similar to the 97 but the weight loss lets you finesse your shots much more without killing your arm.It still takes a very dedicated stroke set up and execution but it is just 10 percent easier.Im buying one.
@@rogersemple3122 Interesting take, thanks. Good luck and have fun with it! 👍
Hi Luca. Great review! How would you compare this with Pure Aero 98? Especially the maneuverability.
Similar maneuverability to an Aero 98 customized up to 315 grams but slower than one stock.
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver Thanks. I can sense the RF01 will soon be joining PA98 in the S tier? ;)
Hey, I’m a junior tennis player at the elite level, I use the Pro Staff 97 v14 right now, and I love it, but I wish it gave me a bit more power and had more spin potential. Should I try the RF01 pro?
how old are you, and how tall?
@@userdjee834 I’m 14, and about 5’7. (And I’m used to heavy rackets, I won’t injure myself)
@@userdjee834 I’m 14, and 5,7.
@@userdjee834 I’m 14, and 5’7
Already that PS97 v14 is too heavy for you. It makes you block and half swing instead of swinging fully and fast, every time. It's not a question of injury. Both Sinner and Alcaraz play with racquets that are 305g unstrung, extra weight will only slow you down for no real benefit. Us players with one handed backhands need more weight in the handle, but players with two handed backhands don't. Try the 300g version, at a low string tension with a forgiving string, like Element, add a 1-3g of lead at the top if you need it. Your racquet head speed will go waay up with it, vs PS97, take some time to get used to it. You won't even think about returning to the PS97 or anything heavier afterwards
I appreciate the thorough review. I will probably demo it, as my local tennis shop showed me it in person last week so I already took a sneak peek at it. I can’t help but feel underwhelmed by this racket, no pws, and it is a lot lighter than the rf97. I have a bunch of rf97 and I think I’ll most likely stick to this racket as it’s peRFect. Appreciate it tho. To me it seems as though this rf 01 pro racket was made for the club player who couldn’t swing the rf97 because they weren’t strong enough or went to the gym. Still I will try and keep an open mind until I demo it this week.
overall which would you choose for competition? RF 01 pro or pro staff 97 v14? Thank you for the review brother!
Nice review. I am wondering, if I saw Backett at the other side of the court 😂
Thank you! And yes you did 😉
Would love comparison vids with this and other sticks.
Those will definitely be coming!
I can't believe I had no idea this racket was coming out, even being developed! just picked up Pure Aero 98 last week after demoing it with Head Speed MP. Wish I tried this one as well to compare them >< (previous racket was PS 97)
You grabbed some good rackets, don't worry too much! But give this one a shot when you can.
Its been over a week now and I have seen about 10 videos on this frame and form what I have learned the reviewers are not on the same page and it seems like a a rather polarising racquet in stock form at least. The Pro weighs un strung weight is 320g which is a tad heavy to customise for a lot of people so it may be better for people to get the 300 and spec it up with lead tape to get to their desired weight.
Hi Luca. Thank you for this awesome review. How would RF01 pro stock compare with say a modified 300g RF 01 with weight in 3 and 9 o clock to improve torsional stability. The 320g weight of the RF01 pro might be a bit too much for me to handle.
This is what I want to figure out. With my brief playtest of the 01 standard, it didn't have as much of the "magic" but once I'm back in Vancouver I'll do a more comprehensive review.
Exactly what I wanted to ask. I'm really keen to see how you can transform the 300g version with weight at 3 and 9 to see how it plays as I think that would be the best option for me. Please do a vid on your results 👍
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver Standard is a dud wait for new 6.1 if they are going to make them
Luka -- thanks for the video. Can you tell anything yet about the quality control on these frames and the spec consistency?
Not yet, but I'll try to cover that in the review of the standard 01.
Same weight and swingweight as the Prince Textreme Tour 95 which I loved
I'm like "Will I get arrested if I play two-handed backhand with a RF 01?"🤣🤣🤣
no, just kidding
It sounds like a good choice to get relatively traditional touch/feel from a more friendly/modern package
I'ma sit still and wait for the RF 01 (300g) review since that's the one practically I can use
😭 almost feels that way
Awesomeness. Hit Pro & 01 today and loved them. Wonder how the Pro would play with synthetic grip instead of leather? I like a softer weight and static around 310g.
SW may drop 1-2 pts but power move down a tad while maneuverability up a tad?
Just wonder if better to build up 01 or just replace grip on Pro?
Try replacing the grip on the Pro first.
I don’t test very many rackets but I tested the RF01 and felt like it was somewhat similar to the Head Speed MP. Would you agree or not? What do you think are the differences? What do you think are other similar models to the RF01?
I love your videos btw, it’s helped me a lot learning about different rackets
Could you make a comparison video of the RF 01 Pro vs Ezone 98 Tour? Cheers!
I'll take a look when I'm back in Vancouver. Definitely want to make some comparisons with this one.
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver excellent 😎
Do you think that the RF01 (not pro) could compare to the pure aero 98? Both uncustomized and customized?
They're quite different rackets. The Aero 98 feels much more modern, powerful and spin-friendly.
There is a big difference in weight between the RF 97 and 01, about 1.3 ounces, how does the lower weight of the 01 affect its stability and spin overall?
It's less stable and more spin-friendly because it's a quicker racket to swing.
Hi Lucas,
Guess that you stringed this one with a hybrid of gut and poly, didn't you ?
Could you please give us your advert on the best string setup for this one ?
I strung it with just ALU at 53 pounds since I was travelling but will be trying it gut/poly soon.
01 future is the one I am most interested in, good platform racket for customisation
Definitely
@RacketsRunnersVancouver I have a really picky question... On the footage at 10:01, just after saying that the RF 01 doesn't have PWS, when we look at you hitting the ball, I swear I can see the PWS thingy or a reflection at 3 and 9 on he frame when you take your backswing. Did you try adding something at 3 and 9 to conduct some tests ?
Nevermind.... Just unpause the video and you answered my question lol!
Excellent video, beautiful racket with a 320g weight says to me that 99% of players should not be using this stick.
Just like 99 percent should not own a Vette but what the Hay !
Thank you very much! It feels lighter than the specs so take that however you'd like.
So in the begining of the video: "it has a well defined sweet spot" (the moment I heard that I told myself that's marketing bullshit for small sweet spot), at the stability portion of the video "it has a small sweet spot" :))
To be fair, they go hand in hand 😉
Marketing gimmick 😊
Is the pure drive lite good?
I get your review. Had a chance to hit with it too. Wont lie little upset. The racket fine for what you expect but got this hollow and cheap feel from the racket when hitting. Also when strung mine came in at 318. Could of put better leather too, felt touch cheap.
Nice review! What tension for 01 pro will you recommend?
I did Alu at 53 pounds and it worked great.
I love your videos, your the only reviewer i trust, what would you say are the best strings for the percept 100 if im looking more for power with still good control.
Thank you very much! I think Head Lynx Tour is the great combo of spin/power/control so give it a shot.
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver ok tysm, what gauge should I use?
I have also been recommended razor code and gamma safire, what do you think of those?
@RacketsRunnersVancouver - I use the Kblade 98 18X20 as my main racket, and the Blade CV 18X20. In terms of weight, balance, control (Stringbed setup) will it be hard to adjust to the RF 01 Pro? Also, if the Kbalde has a plowthrough of 4 and the Prostaff has a plowthrough of 10, where would you rate the powthrough of the RF 01 Pro?
Ok I have a question. I play with the pro staff rf97 autograph so would switching to the rf 01 pro be similar or not worth it? Would you recommend the switch?
Looking forward to the RF 01 review for sure, Luca loves the Blade 2015, and his leather grips. Spec wise isn’t the RF 01 basically the blade 2015 with a bit more weight in the handle?
It's quite different to the 2015 Blade, but the review will come soon!
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver can’t wait! Have a good flight back
How does RF01 compare to blade?
That's worth it's own comparison in the future because they are too different to describe in a quick response.
what strings and tension is fine for this racket? we dont know what sw fed is using and what tension :) i think i should customize it to 340 but the tension and strings will be challenge :) twistweight is also interesting :)
I went with Alu Power at 53 and it was great but I'll also try gut/ALU hybrid soon.
Which racket would you recommend for clinical changes of direction, arm friendly, can be good to handle against better players strokes and have some decent power?
beautiful backdrop
Would this be good for a casual player? ie. is it harder on elbows etc? I love the way it looks, or recommend another in the RF collection/ other Wilson?
Go for the RF 01 Standard if you're a casual player. Much easier to use and a bit more comfortable.
How does it go on volleys compared to PS97 and RF97?
A bit less stable but much more maneuverable so more "creativity" you could say.
call me cynical, but this racquet feels like a new racquet from wilson using roger as the marketing front. i strongly doubt roger would use a racquet the same weight as what i use, and i'm no where near as strong as roger. i mean it's working a treat. every tom, dick and harry wants this because it has RF on it.
Pro weight specs are going way down. I do think he would boost the swingweight but static weight, maybe just a little. When I first saw it, I thought the same thing, but it does play more "pro" than some other rackets with a similar design.
Bravo, Luca Vincent
Benjamin, thank you!
Great review! In your view do you think Champions Choice strings would work well to amplify the power and spin of this racquet or would a Babalot Gut with RPM blast hybrid work better?
Yes! Champions Choice would be amazing. I wanted to try it but with the air travel I thought it would be a bit of a waste.
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver Thank you for the response. I’ll try it with my usual gut main lux cross 57/55 tension setup
Luca - awesome review! How’s this compare to the Tfight 305 with a leather grip? Both foam filled and I’d imagine pretty similar
Thank you! It's similar enough to the T-Fight but I find this has better feel and spin and it's quite a bit more maneuverable than the 305 up to 315 w/ leather.
Any idea when these things will be in stock? Hoping to visit your store from the US soon!
My country club had them on the shelves yesterday on 8/8. Was surprised to see them already I had ordered mine online before going
They're in!
Sorry if its been already said.
What poly string and tension wpuld you recommend?
Thank you
What’s your quick thought around this racket vs Gravity Pro? And if you have to choose one, which one? Thanks
Tough call; two very different rackets, this one with more variety and the Gravity Pro more rock solid consistency. I'll be trying to pick between the two in the next couple of months.
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver thanks Luca! I am a huge believer of your review and been using Gravity Pro for a while now
I personally think it's just a made-up story from Wilson that Roger wanted a racket, Wilson must be losing sales from the prostaff. Nevertheless, I'm still gonna buy this just bcus the RF logo is there ! Great marketing strategy !
That's what I thought at first but, honestly, a bit more static and swingweight and I wouldn't be so sure.
You didnt mentioned it on specs at the start of the video , but it has only 325SW ? (you mentioned that laters while playing)
Would like to now if it feels ''heavy'' compared to v9 98 blade for example or if you can swing blade then you can swing this also with no problem?
It feels very light for its weight specs but still a bit heavier than a Blade. I don't think you'll have a problem with this if you can swing the Blade.
How do you compare this with PS V13 315. Thinking to switch... as I tested many rackets but I still love my PS hehe.
Will I get same control level?
Will you recommend spin string such as RPM/Confidential or will gut-poly hybrid be viable for more pace and pop?
Either will work. Variety is the name of the game here so that applies to string choice as well!
Love your video's
I had one question will this racket racket have newer versions later like the rf 02 or this is it
Thank you! I would assume this will go on for quite a while, especially if it's popular.
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver thanks so much I have already bought the racket for my birthday this month very excited
I am buying. I am playing with the old RF 97 v13 and have been struggling to find any. This maybe it!
It's quite different but so, so good.
I want to string this in a natural guy poly hybrid, which poly would you recommend for this setup? And at at how many lbs? My current racket is a Shift with 52 at the mains (gut) and 48 at the crosses (poly)
The racquet doesn’t mean much in tennis, just pick a good brand that you personally like the balance of and you will be fine. Put the work in on technique.
I may have a stick buying problem but I absolutely love trying different sticks and can definitely feel the difference. That being said the same thing happens with me and motorcycles 😂🏍️😀
@@grahamlloyd8479 oh you can definitely feel differences but the result is usually the same no matter the racquet or brand. That’s why I say, find a balance you enjoy and go rock it. If it’s a fun hobby for you there is absolutely no harm in that, it’s just people thinking one racquet or another will change there game somehow that need to understand what I’m saying 😉
@@robk5745 Agreed Brother! I’ve settled on my European Wilson Blade 98S V8 which is a more open spin friendly stick. It’s is also very flexible with a flex rating of 64 (Same as the RF 01). I love trying out new rackets but fear falling in love with them lol. It’s like riding different motorcycles, cars, playing different guitars etc for me. Fun but don’t fall for the buy in 💰🤑. Would like to try the new RF01 frame when I take my set of Wilson98S in for stringing 🤠🎾😀
No mention on strings? What is recommended? Would you run a poly?
I used Alu Power at 53 pounds.
What are its main competition? How does it compare with other popular racquet within similar characteristics? Like Radical MP, Ezone 98, Pure Aero 98, maybe Gravity Pro...
Those are the obvious competition. I'll try to make a more detailed comparison in the future.
How does this play compared to the current ezone 98?
Quite different; less spin/power, more precision/feel.
Couldn't help to buy the bagg and one pro racket, gonna test it hope its as good as it looks for me..
I think you'll be very happy with them!
The fact that no pro player uses it makes it a decorative racket at Cafes
Fantastic (re)view Luca, you just keep improving!
I am playing with the PS97v14 and am looking for some more forgiveness and free power. Had settled on the Radical MP and also liked the Solinco Whiteout 18x20 a lot.
Would you say that the RF 01 (regular or pro version) would suit me? I consider myself an all-court player at 4.0 NTRP.
Thank you! You would be totally fine going from the 315 PS 97 to this. It feels lighter and, if you do want to make it lighter, you can always take off the leather grip.
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver Thank you!
Hey Luca, great video as usual!
How does it compare to the pure aero 98?
All the best!
It's quite a bit more traditional in feel but made for a similar type of player for sure. Less power and spin, more directional control.
We need the 300g review!!! Please!
Soon!
What strings should be used? The same as the RF97A or different strings and tension?
I used Alu Power at 53 pounds but will also try gut/Alu once I'm back in Vancouver.
Interesting, so the feel is much different from the pure strike 98 despite the throat design is almost identical?
Yes! I thought it would be similar too and I promise you, not at all.
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver dang it, I'm getting one today! And you're still awake?
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver How would you compare the rf01 with the pure strike 98 4th gen ?
What string tension you used for this set up
Wilsons take on the Technifibre TF 40 and Babolat Pure Strike 98
I can hear Luca's HEAD Gravity Pro crying from here 🤣🤣
😭 back home in Vancouver not knowing what's going to happen to it in the next few days...
Yeah.. The guy took a trip, alone, in Switzerland for "business", then back home, on the court, things did change with the Gravity Pro. The sparkle was gone.... Then, one night, the Gravity heard him say the dreaded "We need to talk!"
@@guyprovostnoooooo
I hear they are very stable on court and on wall 🎾🤠😂
What happens in Switzerland stays in Switzerland 😂🎾🤠
Hello Luca I am currently playing the Babolat pure drive 100 from 2018 and I am looking for something with a bit more control. Can you please recommend something that would fit?
Try the Babolat Pure Aero 98!
awesome
Yeaaahh 🔥
compared to the blade 98 16x19?
I'll have to make a video explaining the differences
@@RacketsRunnersVancouverwould be great! and against the pure aero 100 as well, if possible :)
No mention of the balance?
hello bro, about to switch to PureAero98 but with this racket coming out. which one should I choose? 4.0, using Aero100
Go for the Aero 98. It's going to be an easier transition for you.
How would you compare it to the Head Gravity Pro 2023?
They are very different rackets. The Gravity is just pure consistency and solidity, this is more variety, spin with still impeccable feel.