Carbonex 25
Model CAB-25
Where to find it
Between the legends: Carbonex 25
The middle ground
The Carbonex 25 occupies the middle ground in the Carbonex collector hierarchy — above the CAB-20 in specification, below the CAB-21 and CAB-35 in collector recognition, yet sharing the same fundamental design philosophy that made the entire series endure for decades. Released in 1996, the CAB-25 used HM Graphite in both frame and shaft with the box-frame construction that defined the Carbonex character: solid, controlled, and demanding of clean technique. It was the choice for players who wanted CAB-21-tier quality at a slightly lower price point.
A peak-era mid-90s all-graphite piece
As a mid-1990s all-graphite Japan-made competition racquet, the CAB-25 represents Yonex at the peak of their pre-nano, pre-titanium material phase — a period when the craft of graphite engineering was the primary differentiator between manufacturers. The oval head and box-frame geometry tuned for singles-oriented play gave it a very specific character that modern aero-frame designs don't replicate. Players who used the CAB series in this era often describe returning to these frames as 'remembering what it felt like to actually feel the shuttle.'
Rarity through obscurity
The CAB-25 is rare not because it was produced in small numbers, but because it was not collected — frames of this era were played until worn, rarely stored. Unstrung examples with original cosmetics in good condition are increasingly scarce finds at this age. No secondary market price is tracked because transactions are simply too infrequent. For Carbonex completionists, the CAB-25 is the piece that completes the 1990s tier between the CAB-21 and the CAB-35.
HM Graphite construction — both frame and shaft. Box-frame cross-section visible on shaft inspection. Stiff flex. Oval head shape — pre-Isometric in character. Even balance. Made in Japan. No hologram (pre-2000 production). 'Carbonex 25' designation on shaft or frame.
No current tracked market. Essential for Carbonex-series completionists. Rarity through obscurity rather than design scarcity — but genuine condition rarity makes clean examples meaningful finds.
Prices last updated March 2026. All data based on tracked secondary market transactions.