Yonex Nanoflare 8000i Badminton Racket

The Yonex Nanoflare 8000i (full name: Nanoflare Speed 8000i) is Yonex India's entry-level head-light racket. Built for beginners and casual players who want a Yonex frame without paying ₹8,000+ for the premium Nanoflare 700 or 800 series. Light in the head, comes pre-strung, ready to play out of the box.

Key specs

• Weight: 97 to 100g (U weight class)
• Balance: Head-light
• Frame: Aluminium
• Shaft: medium flex
• Grip size: G4
• Maximum string tension: 24 lbs
• Strung: yes, factory-strung and ready to play
• Colours: Black/Red, Grey/Gold (subject to stock)

How it plays on court

The head-light balance is the main selling point. The racket sits light in the wrist, which makes it easier for newer players to flick drives and react at the net. The trade-off is smash power: head-light frames at this weight do not generate the punch of head-heavy attacking rackets like the Yonex Astrox series.

At 95 to 100g, the racket is noticeably heavier than premium Yonex frames (which sit at 78 to 88g). For a beginner this is helpful, since the extra mass forgives loose grip and slightly off-centre contact. For an intermediate player, it will feel slow compared to lighter frames.

Who this racket suits

• Beginners taking their first Yonex over an unbranded racket
• School and college casual players who want a name brand under ₹2,000
• Anyone needing a backup or guest racket for occasional play
• Players who lose rackets to airline damage or club use and do not want to risk a premium frame

Who should skip it

• Intermediate players already playing 3+ times a week. You will outgrow it inside a month. Move up to the Yonex Astrox Lite 27i, Nanoray Light 18i SP, or a 4U Astrox 99 Play instead.
• Attacking players who prioritise smash power. Head-light geometry is the wrong tool. Pick a head-heavy Astrox.
• Anyone wanting to string above 24 lbs. The frame is not rated for higher tensions and will warp.

Recommended string and tension

This racket ships pre-strung with Yonex factory string at about 20 lbs. That is the sweet spot. If you restring, stay at 20 to 22 lbs with Yonex BG65 for the best mix of durability and feel.

Do not string above 24 lbs. Entry-level frames at this price are not built for high tension and you will see frame deformation within a few weeks.

Nanoflare 8000i vs other Yonex entry-level rackets

• vs Yonex ZR 100: The ZR 100 is even more basic (aluminium shaft, ₹600-800 range). The 8000i is a clear step up in feel and balance.
• vs Yonex GR 303: The GR 303 is heavier and more head-heavy. Pick the 8000i if you want speed, the GR 303i if you want a forgiving power feel.

Genuine product and dispatch

Authentic Yonex Nanoflare Speed 8000i sourced through Yonex India authorised distribution. Comes factory-strung with a basic Yonex full cover. Ships from our warehouse within 24 to 48 hours across India.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Yonex Nanoflare 8000i good for beginners?

Yes. The head-light balance, forgiving weight, and factory stringing make it a sensible first Yonex for someone starting out or playing casually.

What is the weight of the Yonex Nanoflare 8000i?

95 to 100g (U class). This is heavier than premium Yonex rackets, which sit at 78 to 88g (3U, 4U, 5U).

Does the Nanoflare 8000i come with strings?

Yes. It ships factory-strung at around 20 lbs with basic Yonex string, ready to play out of the box. A basic full cover is included.

What is the maximum tension on the Nanoflare 8000i?

24 lbs. Do not exceed this. Entry-level frames at this price are not designed for higher tension and the frame will warp.

Is the Nanoflare 8000i the same as the Nanoflare 800?

No. They are different rackets. The Nanoflare 800 (and 700, 800 Pro, 800 LT, 800 Play) are premium frames at 78 to 88g priced ₹8,000 to ₹18,000, made for advanced players. The Nanoflare 8000i (Nanoflare Speed 8000i) is an entry-level Indian market racket priced under ₹2,000 and shares the name only.

Is the Nanoflare 8000i good for smashing?

It is okay but not its strength. The head-light balance is built for speed and net play, not for power. If smashing is your priority, the Yonex Astrox series at the same entry price (Astrox Lite 27i, Astrox 1 DG) is a better choice.

Nanoflare 8000i vs Yonex ZR 100: which to buy?

The 8000i is a step up. The ZR 100 is the most basic Yonex with an aluminium shaft and sits around ₹600 to 800. If your budget allows the ₹1,100 to 1,200 range, the 8000i has a better shaft, better feel, and lasts longer.

Is the Yonex Nanoflare 8000i made in Japan?

No. Like all entry-level Yonex rackets sold in India, it is manufactured in India. Yonex's Japan-made rackets are in the premium tier (Nanoflare 800 Pro, Astrox 99 Pro, etc.) and start above ₹10,000.