Just got my 14lb "Monkey" today, here are my initial thoughts:
Layout: Honestly, I'm not completely sure, but it is drilled pin down.
This ball really performs, being the stroker that I am the Grease Monkey fits the bill. It wasn't hooking like I thought it would, but I noticed a LOT of oil on the lanes today. Under medium-dry conditions this ball would perform great, just don't expect "Reax" performance out of the "Monkey". Despite my somewhat slow ball speed, the Grease Monkey shredded the rack consistently. Though it performed best hitting heavy on the headpin. For me the ball was flat through the middles, and stronger down lane. I expect a more well rounded motion under better conditions. The "Monkey" is versatile ball I would recommend to strokers, tweeners, and crankers alike. Through my local pro-shop I got the ball for $120 drilled, which makes the Grease Monkey by far the best ball for the money, at least to me.
Likes: Very smooth motion, and it hits the pins like a bullet train.
Dislikes: Wasn't performing great under heavy oil conditions, but I knew it wouldn't before I purchased it. So no real complaints here.
Overall, the Grease Monkey is an outstanding ball, and for under $150 drilled this ball should be in every arsenal. If drilled aggressively, the "Monkey" will become a "Grease Monster".
- MEnnamorato
