Round-up review: our score and verdict are based on published specs and reviews from across the web, not our own play-testing yet.
Volkl Cyclone is the gear-shaped co-polyester that has been the budget spin string of choice for over a decade, here in the popular 1.25 mm gauge. It suits intermediate to advanced baseliners with full, fast swings who want bite and control without paying premium poly prices. Compact swingers and sore elbows should pass.
On court
Tennis Warehouse’s playtest scored it 89 out of 100, with spin at 92 and control at 93. Tennis Warehouse tester Troy called it “one of the most spin friendly co-polys on the market” and watched the gear shape tear felt off the ball in baseline drills, and Mike rated it his favourite string for spin. Power is low at 67, as a control poly should be, but the testers found it livelier than stiffer strings like Solinco Tour Bite and happily strung it in the 40s for extra pocketing. Chris, who uses it as his go-to, puts it level with ALU Power Rough for spin and control with a little more comfort. Tennisnerd describes the response as crisp, firm and direct with a low launch, for players who generate their own pace.
How long it lasts
Comfort scored 83, decent for a firm poly, with every tester stressing that low tension is the key. Playability duration scored 78: Troy lost some pop after about ten hours, Mark’s tension had barely dropped after 12 hours and Chris got his usual two weeks. Tennis Warehouse’s customers rate the 1.25 mm version 4.7 out of 5 across 40 reviews, with the odd complaint of tension loss turning it into a trampoline. Tennisnerd adds that the softer Cyclone Tour breaks in faster, so standard Cyclone is the more consistent of the pair.
Key specs
- Material Co-polyester monofilament
- Profile Gear-shaped
- Gauge 1.25 mm (17)
- Length 12 m set
- Colours Black, orange, yellow
- Feel Crisp, firm
Verdict
The best-value spin poly around, and it still earns the reputation. Pick the Cyclone Tour if you want more comfort and a higher launch.
