Racquet Review: Dunlop FX 500 Tour

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Price: $199 (buy here)
Head Size: 98 sq. in.
Length: 27 in.
Weight: 11.4 oz.
Balance: 6 pts. HL
Swingweight: 317
RA Rating: 65
Beam Width: 21 mm / 23 mm / 21 mm
String Pattern: 16x19

What’s New

The FX 500 Tour is very similarly spec’d to its prior version. The most notable difference is a lower flex, which gives the still firm frame a softer feel. This also creates more dwell time at contact, which can help with spin generation and create a higher launch angle. A new and wider groove built under the grommet strip creates more frame and string deflection at impact for bigger hitting. The goal is to keep the power and spin-friendliness of prior versions, while upping the comfort and feel.

What Works

Compare to the FX 500, the smaller head, thinner beam and added mass give the Tour a more controlled, predictable response with better feel. Players with well-rounded games will appreciate the greater versatility this brings to the court. It takes a little more work and cleaner contact, but there’s plenty of juice to squeeze out of aggressive swings as well.

Which are easy to generate thanks to the frame’s balance and sub-320 swingweight. It’s practically a blur through the hitting zone. The spread string pattern puts those big cuts to good use by applying heavy topspin to tame some of the power and stay consistent. It doesn’t plow the ball like a heavier model, but still produces very lively groundies for offensive baseline tactics, or to grind in steadier rallies. And since it handles so effortlessly, ably adapts to scramble mode and can turn the tables with a quick swipe.

Serving follows a similar script. Racquet head speed is readily available, yet there’s just enough free power to hit forceful first serves without the need to overswing. Kicks and slices both have lots of movement and can cause trouble for the returner. Targeting isn’t pinpoint, but it’s good enough to consistently produce serves that put the opponent on the defensive.

The lower flex on the updated Tour gives it the advantage over its predecessor in terms of feel and responsiveness. (Not to mention being more arm-friendly). This is most noticeable and appreciated on shots that require extra touch and guile. It’s still capable of starching a volley through the court, but is improved when it comes to dropping one softly into the forecourt or keeping a half-volley out of harm’s way. Chip a sharp angle or flick a topspin lob—the racquet has you covered.

What Needs Work

There are times when the Tour could use a bit more ballast. Contact outside the sweet spot can feel unstable and there’s a distinct drop in power output. Stretching out to return serve and catching the ball off-center can produce some wobble and a fluttering reply. This would also help the racquet produce a heavier shot. However, it’s something that probably could be alleviated with some added weight. And fortunately, given the specs of the frame, it’s an excellent candidate for customization.

Another quibble is the higher launch of the frame. It’s helpful for delivering a deep ball, but can cause some fliers. It can also present more of a challenge when trying to flatten out a shot. However, users with a natural penchant for spin—undoubtedly the intended audience—won’t have serious issues keeping shots inside the lines.

Tester Feedback

“A good choice for the aggressive baseliner who needs control, but without giving up the pop.”

“Really nice drive on flat and slice serves, and created plenty of action on the kick.”

Final Verdict

The FX 500 Tour has always brought speed, spin and pace to the court. The improved feel and comfort on the current update makes it an even more versatile weapon.