$9-12 Per Set
16, 17, 18, 18L, 19 Gauges
medium high Stiffness
13+ Min Age

Performance Ratings

power 6/10
spin 9/10
control 8/10
comfort 5/10
durability 8/10
tension Maintenance 7/10

Junior Player Guide

For Parents
Arm Friendliness Low
Cost Effectiveness Great value

Recommended Level

intermediateadvancedelite

Tension for Juniors

48-52 lbs for juniors. Gear shape grabs ball well so you can string lower.

Gauge Recommendation

17 (1.25mm) for best spin/durability balance. 18 for max spin.

Overview

Volkl Cyclone is a gear-shaped co-poly that has become one of the best value strings in tennis. The unique decagonal profile provides excellent ball bite for spin generation, while the firm construction offers predictable control. Playtesters found it surprisingly comfortable for a firm control string, and its exceptional price-to-performance ratio makes it a favorite among competitive players who break strings frequently.

Best For

  • Spin-oriented players on a budget
  • Powerful baseliners who hit with heavy topspin
  • Players seeking excellent value for money
  • Those transitioning from softer strings to poly

Not Ideal For

  • Players with arm problems
  • Beginners who need comfort
  • Flat hitters who don't utilize spin
  • Players seeking soft, muted feel

Pros

  • + Exceptional spin potential from gear shape
  • + Outstanding value - one of cheapest quality polys
  • + Good control and predictability
  • + Surprisingly comfortable for its spin potential
  • + Wide gauge selection including thin 18L and 19

Cons

  • Not arm-friendly for sensitive players
  • Requires proper technique to access benefits
  • Firm feel may feel harsh to some
  • Power is average

Specifications

Type polyester
Construction Decagonal (gear-shaped) co-polyester monofilament
Gauges 16, 17, 18, 18L, 19
Colors Black, Red, Neon Orange, Neon Yellow
Set Price $9-$12
Reel Price $120-$140

Used By

Various club and collegiate players

Hybrid Setup Ideas

  • Wilson NXT in crosses for comfort
  • Tecnifibre X-One Biphase in crosses for feel
  • Natural gut mains with Cyclone crosses

Stringer Notes

Gear shape can catch on grommets - string carefully. Available in very thin gauges for maximum spin. Pre-stretch optional.

Break-in Period

1-2 hours. String settles quickly.

When to Replace

Every 15-20 hours or when spin response decreases noticeably.

Sources

Data verified January 2025

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