yeah i would suggest 9fl. i know what you mean about yonex racket. but only their low - mid end racket feels that way. their high end rackets are good. i dunno if you have this shop in glasgow 'rapidrepaiz' . i got my racket from them in edinburgh. i ordered two rackets to try and see what i liked. i tried both 3fl and 9fl as i like lightweight rackets too, somehow 9fl seems so much better!
I noticed that a previous mention was given to the Ashaway Hex7, I would have to agree but there is also the Hex7 Lite. Those few grams less can make all the difference. I have demo Ashaways in both that you can try if you are close to Edinburgh and I can supply Ashaway racquets new. Drop me a PM to see if I can help.
I was going to suggest another Ashaway but you already shot that down with the post on the SQs. Sotx has Super Lights series as well. Karakal too. Victor Quadtecs are low-mid 80grams.
if you're considering apacs, most models of which are yonex clones and thus, also value for money, you may want to start with the featherweight line, if you're used to lightweight and that's what brings your top game out (in addition to the ones already mentioned!). ps: can someone tell me how apacs superlight is different from the featherweight 100/200/300 series?
I have in the end bought and ashaway 99 SQ and I'm getting a yonex FB for Xmas I have tried a fair few racquets since starting this thread and whilst the 79 felt the best in my hand these are good alternatives this thread has been brilliant thanks to all who have replied to it with suggestions and those who Pm'D me xx
congrats on the new purchase, niknika. hope u have lots of fun with ur new weapon! was a little confused and curious about that myself, highlighted it only cos it's been mentioned earlier