I got pics of these two really gorgeous looking rackets. These are brand new Carltons that are being released this year. Carlton Vapour Trail Tour Carlton Vapour Trail Elite Special Features Bio-axial Dynamics - Analysis of the overhead badminton swing highlights 2 distinct aerodynamic directions evident during the swing phase. The new Bio-Axial Dynamics frame develops more efficient aerodynamics. Over 80% of players stated the new Bi-Axial frame profile delivers increased swing speed. Pro V12 Grommets - Positioned at 3 and 9 o clock postions, these specialised grommets have been softened to allow greater string movement thereby increasing power across the hitting zone. Stabilisor Topcap - By introducing 4 convex channels into the top cap, stiffness of the top cap is increased allowing for greater shot accuracy and control. Optimetric Headshape - By combining the larger sweet spot size and the increased air speed and control within the same head shape, the new Optimetric head geometry delivers both power, airspeed and control in one frame. Japanese HM Carbon - Sourced for Japan, Japanese Hi Modulus Carbon is the highest specification carbon available on the market ensuring your Carbon frame will outperform all other construction materials for frame response and stability. Direct Fibre Transfer - Utilising a carbon inner core and PU outer costing, a direct carbon link is estabilished between shaft and handle enhancing power transfer and sensory feedback resulting from shuttle impact. Ultra-Lite Cap - Using a matrix structure, Carlton has re-engineered the end cap to reduce its weight by 28% contributing to overall enhanced playability. Xtreme Tension Frame - Precision engineering and the utilisation of the finest construction materials ensures your Carlton frame can accommodate 11% higher string tensions compared with competitior frames. Hand Crafted
Wow,they've got to be some of the nicest looking carltons i have ever seen, I've never been a big fan of carlton, but now i really want to try these out.
Kwun, how come your photos of racquets always make them look like the sexiest things ever!? Your photography is amazing.
hey Kwun. Are they regular length or long length, and do they have carlton's oversize headshape they use for most of their rackets??
the design of these two new Carlton are indeed excellent. i was quite impressed when i first saw them. the design are quite a departure from the Yonex-esque design. they are metallic color with black accent with clean and sharp lines and patterns. will post more pics and info as i get them.
Scoured the web, can't find specs anywhere. Local distro here has no info. Ah, some more info here. Gee they're good looking rackets. http://users.telenet.be/speedysport/Carlton.htm
Vapour Trail Elite Weight: 89 Stiff Kopzwaar Advice sale price € 180 Our price € 144 Vapour Trail Tour Weight: 84 grams Medium stiffly Medium balance Advice sale price € 160 Our price € 128 Vapour Trail S-Lite Weight: 85 grams flexible Balance handle Advice sale price € 140 Our price € 112 Vapour Trail FX-TI Weight: 85 grams medium Balance handle Advice sale price € 100 Our price € 80
I already had a try with the tour (silver), it really was way too light if you ask me... It didn't feel stable.... but with 3 grams heavier, stiffer and headheavy, the 'elite' sounds a lot better by the way... "handcrafted"? yeah sure...
the Tour is indeed light. but damn what a great racket to look at. my personal preference is still heavier racket. 90g +/- is the best range for me. i haven't received the racket yet. those are the official photos from Carlton that you see all over the web. i will have better photos when i have the rackets on hand.