BallReviews
Reviews => Roto Grip => Topic started by: BallReviews-scodaddy21 on August 30, 2024, 09:09:52 AM
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The Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl: a revolutionary addition to the IDOL series, now featuring the MicroTrax Pearl coverstock for the first time in the domestic market. This is a milestone, as Roto Grip's renowned nanoparticle pearl coverstock has never before been paired with this legendary core shape. Following the success of the original Optimum IDOL, Roto Grip knew the time was right to introduce a pearl version that offers optimal traction in oil while maintaining impressive responsiveness down the lane. You'll find the Ikon + A.I. Core Technology inside, just like in the original Optimum IDOL. On the outside, the MicroTrax Pearl Reactive coverstock (recently used on the Exotic GEM) ensures a perfect balance of grip and friction response. Get ready to experience a new level of performance with the Optimum Idol Pearl, designed to complement its predecessor and elevate your game to new heights.
Color: Bubblegum/Iris
All colors do vary somewhat from the picture shown
Core: Ikon + A.I. Core Technology (14-16#)
Coverstock: MicroTrax Pearl Reactive
Finish: Reacta Gloss
RG: 2.47 (for 15# ball)
Differential: 0.056 (for 15# ball)
Recommended Lane Condition: Medium to Medium/Heavy Oil
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Ball: Optimum Idol Pearl
Cover stock: Microtrax Pearl
RG: 2.47
DIFF: .056
HAND: LEFT (ONE HANDED)
PAP: 4 OVER / 1/4 UP
BALL SPEED: 16MPH
REV RATE: 420
AXIS TILT: 20
AXIS ROTATION: 50
LAYOUT: 60X4.5x35
The Optimum Idol Pearl is the cleaner more responsive version of the Optimum Idol. My current favorite Symmetric Pearl ball is the Summit Peak these to have similar numbers but are extremely different in ball reaction. The Optimum Idol Pearl is cleaner and has a faster response to friction than the Summit Peak, while the Summit Peak is earlier and smoother. I can see myself moving right with this ball when the lanes transition and having great success. In league conditions the Optimum Idol Pearl will be best suited for the later games when there is a lot of friction on the lanes or for players who have trouble getting the ball down lane. Tournament players will use this ball later in the blocks when they need to open up their angles but the weaker Pearl balls go too long.
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You will never go wrong with a ball that has the Idol logo on it and the Optimum is no different. A shape we been looking for in the SPI for a little bit of time, this is a throw back to the blue Idol Pearl we saw years ago. Although the current is stronger and earlier than the blue pearl; we still see that great pearl mid performance benchmark reaction with the Optimum. This ball will come out after the Ascent begins to read too soon and a cleaner and more angular ball reaction is needed. Additionally, for comparison purposes this ball will be stronger than the Xponent Pearl as it reads the body of the lane much sooner.
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Orientation: Right Handed
Rev Rate: 400 RPM
Speed: 16-17 MPH
PAP: 4 ½ over and 1 1/8 up
Location: Enterprise Park Lanes, Springfield MO
Pattern: High Volume THS
VLS Layout:
Layout 1: 4 5/8 x 4 x 2 ½ (Pin above bridge)
Layout 2: 4 ¼ x 4 x 4 (pin below bridge)
The Optimum Idol Pearl is a major upgrade to the Pearl versions of previous Idols. I love my Optimum Idol solid and was eagerly awaiting this ball. It does NOT disappoint. It features the strongest cover ever featured on a pearl Idol, Micro Trax Pearl. The result is a strong and controllable skid snap option for transition or lighter oil. I feel like I can do just about anything with this ball because even though it does snap on the back, it is also VERY controlled for a sym pearl. It will go with me EVERYWHERE!
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The Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl is a strong contender for bowlers seeking a blend of mid-lane control and backend power. With its MicroTrax Pearl Reactive coverstock and the innovative Ikon + A.I. Core, this ball is designed to excel on medium to medium-heavy oil conditions. It provides a smooth, yet strong reaction through the midlane and a controlled, but pronounced move at the breakpoint, making it an excellent choice when lanes start to transition. Compared to other balls in the Idol series, this pearlized version offers a cleaner motion with plenty of backend continuation, perfect for when you need a step down from more aggressive options. It’s a versatile ball that can fit into various arsenals, delivering reliable performance across different lane conditions.
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I find myself throwing the Optimum Idol often on the house shot for league or as a 2-ball in tournaments when i need to get out of the big asyms, so I'm really excited to have this pearl compliment in the bag! The Optimum Idol Pearl features the same cover formula as the Optimum Idol in a pearl version, which was most recently used on the Exotic Gem. This cover is unique because it's very clean and sharp, but the Micro additive in the formula allows it to dig through the oil and still create traction through the puddle. All of this means that we get a TON of ball for the price, and its one that hooks a LOT on the back part of the lane. This ball for me feels like a good 2-ball if i am able to start in an IQ Tour or the Optimum Idol, or a good 3-ball if I have to start in the bigger stuff like a Harsh Reality or an X-Cell. We've been missing a high diff symmetrical pearl option since the Gold Label was discontinued, and this one fills that spot and then some! Overall this cover is just as clean but feels a bit stronger/more capable of handling oil, and the addition of A.I. core tech creates an even more useable and dynamic shape. This one is a must have for just about anybody! -Chase Valenzuela
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Optimum Idol Pearl • Roto Grip • HP3 Series
Coverstock • MicroTrax Pearl Reactive • Finish Reacta Gloss
Core • Ikon + A.I. Core technology
Weight • 15 lbs. RG • 2.47 Differential • .056
Layout •4 ½ x 3 ¾ x 2 ¼
Tester PAP • 5” R, 5/8” D Tester Axis Tilt • 9° Testers Rev Rate • 250
Test Pattern • 42' THS (Typical House Shot) • Modified, Kegel Stone Street
Roto Grip continues its Optimum Idol line of success with the new Optimum Idol Pearl. The Optimum Idol Pearl combines the proven Ikon + A.I. Core technology and Roto Grips' legendary MicroTrax Pearl reactive coverstock. And this combination proved to be a winning success with the Optimum Idol Pearl. So, let's take a closer look at what makes the Optimum Idol Pearl all that good!
The Ikon Core by itself is a smooth and firm rolling core that produces a predictable and stable motion you can trust. And now, combined with the A.I. Core Technology, you still get that same reliable motion, but with the added impact, power, and strength we straighter players need at the pins. And as a straighter player, what I like most about the Ikon + A.I. Core technology is that it keeps my Optimum Idol Pearl consistent through the skid, hook, and roll phases, unlike other symmetrical cores that rev great in the mid-lane but run out of gas at the pins and leaves us with corner pin city. So, if you are a straighter low-rev player, count on the Ikon Core +A.I. Core technology to deliver for your game.
The MicroTrax Pearl reactive coverstock makes the Optimum Idol Pearl the traction-loving Pearl straighter players have been waiting for! I started my review with my Optimum Idol Pearl at 3000-grit Abralon instead of the factory Reacta Gloss finish. And making that surface tweak, my Optimum Idol Pearl was outstanding on fresh oil! I loved how the MicroTrax Pearl saw the mid-lane with a clean gripping traction while giving me a predictable and smooth bite off the pattern. And as the pattern started breaking down, the MicroTrax Pearl blended the wet/dry conditions reasonably well for my straighter game. And although I did see the MicroTrax Pearl become a bit more sensitive to friction than I liked later in the night, I still found the Optimum Idol Pearl to be controllable all night on THS conditions.
In closing, Roto Grip has done a fine job crafting the Optimum Idol Pearl. Roto Grips' combination of Ikon + A.I. Core technology and MicroTrax Pearl cover make the Optimum Idol Pearl a fantastic new release for any straighter player like me, especially on fresh oil conditions. Further, straighter players can count on a smooth, rounded motion and bowl with confidence because the added striking power will deliver results to their game! So, stop into your local Storm VIP Pro Shop today, and get ready for the success the Optimum Idol Pearl can bring to your game! The Optimum Idol Pearl is a great choice!
Rick Klimowicz
Storm Products Pro Shop Staff
Roll the Ball Pro Shop
Penndel, PA
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Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl – WWRD 8/23/2024
Cover: MicroTrax Pearl reactive Core: Ikon + A.I. Core Technology RG: 2.47 RG. Diff.: 0.056 Finish: Recta Gloss Roto Grip’s new Optimum Idol Pearl is a Pearl Symmetrical piece that is good for Medium Volume Patterns. PAP is 5 5/16 R 1 3/16 Up. Rev Rate: 400. Speed: 16.5. Drilled this piece with the Pin above the bridge and the CG kicked out 1” from the palm. I threw this piece on a left-over house pattern. Out of box ball motion was clean through the fronts with a strong continuous backend. I compared this piece to the Original Optimum Idol 1-1 right. The Optimum Idol Pearl is all around a stronger piece than the Original. The Pearl will be a good piece to go to when the Optimum Idol starts early in the mids. This piece is good for all types of styles. Check Out the Ball motion Video on my YouTube Page: https://youtu.be/vwkkTB_iJ70
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The Optimum Idol Pearl released 8-23-2024 is the newest addition to the Idol series. Filled with history going to the original Idol. Using the same trusted Icon core now with Al technology and wrapped in the micro Trac pearl cover. This is one of the most aggressive pearl Storm has to offer its customers. Using the Reacta Gloss polish this ball was really a quick to respond to friction. Using the dual angle layout of 40x5x45 this layout gives me a taller pin and travel distance down lane. I had to change the surface using a 3 thousand pad by hand to break down the polish. This allowed me to see the pattern better without losing my impact through the pins.
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The Optimum Idol pearl is a perfect house shot ball and also a great transition ball. The Optimum Idol Pearl is very smooth downlane with a great backend reaction. Compared to others pearl balls, the don't give a too big hit when she see the backend and continu to be very controlable, maybe because is dense color. She make me thinks at the Zen ball on the 900 Global line. For me, the pearl version is a really great complement to the solid version. When my original Optimum Idol become to strong and have difficulties to react at the end, I keep the same spot but with the pearl and it give me the supp slide that I need. I REALLY love the Idol Optimum pearl. It's a must to have !!
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Weight: 14 lbs.
Pin Length: 3-3.5 inch
Drilling: 65 x 3 x 20
Drilling VLS: 4-1/2 x 5 x 2-1/4
Pattern Length: 44 ft.
Pattern Volume: Light to Medium
Pattern Type: THS
Right Handed
The Optimum Idol Pearl has the AI Core in the popular HP3 line, wrapped in the Micro Trax pearl cover stock. The has the Reacta Gloss box finish, but as always, can be altered to suit a variety of lane conditions. This, like the previous balls in the Idol line, has a Symmetrical weight block, with a high flare potential. It is a gorgeous hot pink swirl color.
I have used the Optimum Idol Pearl on a 44 ft. kegel house pattern, and a variety of other house patterns.
I’ve thrown the Optimum Idol Pearl at the Reacta Gloss box finish, and haven’t made any surface changes. I’ve found this to be a very good transition game ball. Once the transition comes into play, I can pretty much stay where I am, play the same line, and keep the ball in play.
This is a high end ball at a medium price. It is a fixture in my arsenal. It gets through the heads extremely clean and flips pretty hard off the break point. I highly recommend the Optimum Idol Pearl, and add a star if you were a fan of the rest of the Idol line.
Carol Teel
Roto Grip Amateur Staff Member
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TESTING CONDITIONS
Length:43
Volume: Med-High
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):THS
COMMENTS
Core: Ikon + A.I. Core Technology (14-16#)
Coverstock: MicroTrax Pearl Reactive
Finish: Reacta Gloss
RG: 2.47
Differential: 0.056
ME:
Right-Handed Tweener
Speed: 12-13 mph
Rev Rate: 315
Axis Tilt: 14°
Axis Rotation: 74°
PAP: 5 1/8 R 7/8 Up
Ball Layout: Pin Over Middle Finger 5 1/2 Pin to Pap 2 1/4 Pin Buffer
The success of the Optimum Idol at returning the Ikonic (pun intended) motion of the the original Idol, made it a certainty that a Pearl Version would be along. The Ikon core with A.I. featured in the Optimum Idol is back this time wrapped in a Microtrax Pearl Reactive cover. I had hoped to see the compliment that the original Idol Pearl added when it released to the HP3 line-up. Rather than using eTrax on the Optimum Pearl, Rotogrip opted for an upgrade to account for the new lane conditioner formulations.
I tested the Optimum Idol pearl for the first time in league on a fresh house pattern. While our pattern his higher volume and longer, the front panels have a considerable amount of friction. This has resulted in me needing to throw the earlier balls (like the Optimum solid)over the front of the lane to get them to clear the heads without over-reading and killing the down-lane reaction. I was looking forward to a pearl cover eliminating the need to me to loft the ball. Unfortunately for me the core is so dominant in the the Idol balls and the Nano Cover really don't give me a lot of separation between the two balls when I throw them in league. When I could get the ball over the front I did see a little more down-lane length. Surprisingly I didn't see a big difference in down-lane motion compared to the solid.
I did like the amazing predictability of the original optimum Idol and the Pearl version has that in spades. These two balls honestly make it feel like it's hard to miss the pocket. My personal struggles with both are if I get them down to cleanly, with my lower ball speed, it's hard to get them through the pins. That being said, in any house where the fronts aren't as beat up, or if i had even a couple more mph everything woudl line up perfectly with these two balls and there would be a more noticeable gap between the two.
I can certainly recommend the Optimum Idol Pearl to anyone who liked the solid. I think the best reaction match-up for this ball will definitely be to bowlers who struggle to get Pearl Equipment to read the mid-lane, speed dominant bowlers and anyone bowling on higher volume patterns, especially sport patterns.
Check out my full ball reaction video on Youtube: https://youtu.be/GOm2gfzcnpg?si=6xm0OT2pclFP1SZa
Lonnie Pemberton
Storm Pro Shop Staff
Vise Pro Shop Staff
Revolutions Pro Shop
Youtube Channel: https://youtube.com/@k1ngsizepapa
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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Ball Specs:
Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl
Micro Trax Pearl Reactive
Symmetric Ikon A.I. Core
Finish: Reacta Gloss Polish
Layout: 4 x 4 with 2” Pin Buffer
Bowler Specs:
Right Hand. PAP 5” Over 1/2 up
Rev Rate 300. Tilt 20. Rotation 50.
Speed at release 17
Review:
I have had the opportunity to roll this ball quite a bit on different patterns. So far I am very happy with what I am seeing. The Optimum Idol Pearl is surprisingly good on medium sport shots and is a great piece on a medium to heavy house shot. The Optimum Idol Pearl has a very good midlane read without going too long. The ball is responsive to friction but is not jumpy. I feel this ball is forgiving and versatile. I think this ball may be a better version of the much loved original Zen. It seems Roto Grip putting a strong pearl cover on the Ikon core was a great fit. This ball has a beautiful color and looks great going down the lane. The carry of the Optimum Idol Pearl is very good and I swear it sounds louder hitting the pins than some other equipment. I will be relying on this ball for the fall season. This should be a great addition to any arsenal to cover a wide range of lane conditions.
Summary:
The Optimum Idol Pearl is versatile and forgiving.
The core and cover match seem to be a great combination.
The Optimum Idol Pearl will be a great piece for any arsenal.
Glenn Wendel
Storm Pro Shop Staff
gwendel@comcast.net
www.stormbowling.com
Video Link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sv6Wawm602k&error=0
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Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl
Coverstock: MicroTrax Pearl Reactive
Box Finish: Reacta Gloss
Core: Ikon + A.I. Core Technology
RG: 2.47, Diff: 0.056 (15 lbs)
VLS Layout: 4-3/4 x 3-1/2 x 1
Dual Angle Layout: 40 x 4-3/4 x 20
PAP: 5 3/16” right x 5/8” up
Rev rate: 400 rpm
Average speed: 16.5 mph
Location: Prairie Lanes, Sun Prairie, WI
Pattern: Medium volume THS
The Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl is the newest addition to the HP3 line and the pearl complement to the Optimum Idol Solid. The Pearl features the same iconic Ikon + A.I. Core as the solid, but this version is wrapped in the MicroTrax Pearl Reactive cover – the same cover as on the Exotic Gem. Together this combination provides the optimum traction footprint in oil while providing more responsiveness to friction on the backend.
I’ve been able to throw the Pearl for a few weeks now in both league play and local tournaments, and so far, I’ve found it to be the perfect complement to the Solid. The Pearl makes a similar strong rolling, continuous shape that the Idols have become known for, but pearl cover helps it retain some of that energy for increased versatility and a stronger response on the backend. It’s still a ball that need some oil though, as the MicroTrax additive in the cover means that even though it’s a pearl, it will still want to dig through the oil and create traction in the middle part of the lane.
On the fresh, the Optimum Idol Solid or Roto Grip X-Cell would still the ball of choice, and the Optimum Idol Pearl would be the next ball out of the bag once the transition occurs – especially if you want to remain in the same part of the lane. The Pearl would certainly be a ball for anyone who has the Optimum Idol Solid and those that are fans of the Idol series with its continuous and predictable motion. The strong core/cover combo also makes the Optimum Idol Pearl a great pearl ball for anyone who is speed dominant and is looking for a ball that better matches up on the transition.
Chris Pollentier
Storm Pro Shop Staff
#StormNation
#SquadRG
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LANE CONDITION
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): Various sport and recreational oil patterns.
COMMENTS
The Optimum Idol Pearl is the continuation of the famous Idol series. What makes this bowling ball special is the fact The Optimum Idol Pearl is the first Idol series bowling ball to feature the MicroTrax Pearl Coverstock. This coverstock combined with the Ikon A.I. core provides a good amount of traction in the oil while providing plenty of responsiveness in the friction. Not to mention, this bowling ball is hard to miss when going down the lane.
I drilled my Optimum Idol Pearl with the same pin-down layout as my Optimum Idol, which rolled pretty good to me. The polish on this bowling ball makes it to be very clean through the front part of the lane, however, the early rolling core makes the bowling ball want to change direction earlier and force you to increase your launch angle. I was surprised how much the bowling ball “read” the pattern even though it was shinny. I did feel like the Optimum Idol Pearl would sometimes exaggerate the over/under reaction, which is not something I like to see. Just like with most similar type of bowling balls, I felt like I wanted to put a little bit of surface on this Optimum Idol Pearl to make the front-to-back ball motion a little bit more predictable.
Historically, I haven’t had much success with Idol series bowling balls. I don’t think that the Optimum Idol Pearl will change that very much as there are other bowling balls with similar specs that just seem to match-up with my style a little bit better. Those who like the Optimum Idol, will like the Optimum Idol Pearl as a cleaner, more responsive option. I can also see bowlers who don’t have too much ball speed or bowl on very worn lane surfaces have some success with this bowling ball.
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
Watch myself and Verity Crawley throw the Optimum Idol Pearl on “The Bowling Passport” YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/lnaHCIDOUx8?si=ZyNXecbtTmtzWYD-
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Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl
Micro Trax Pearl Reactive
Symmetric Ikon A.I. Core
Finish: Reacta Gloss Polish
LANE CONDITION
Length: 41'
Volume: Medium
Type: THS
COMMENTS
Bubblicious!!!
The Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl is a standout performer, especially for those who love a strong backend reaction. With an RG of 2.47 and a differential of 0.056, this ball is designed to be clean through the front half of the lane while delivering an aggressive motion at the breakpoint. This makes it perfect for medium oil patterns and when the oil transitions down the lane.
The pearl finish on the Optimum Idol Pearl not only adds a touch of style but also contributes to its performance by providing a smoother glide on the lane. The ball's IKON core with AI technology ensures a heavy roll and a forward motion, making it a reliable choice for those seeking consistent strikes.
Drilled mine pin down 4.5 x 3 x 4, which was more than enough ball for games 2 - 3 in league. A perfect compliment to the Solid OP and easily a great 1-2 punch combo. Once its cover hits the friction it immediately shows its versatility, As I am able to stay close to the track and migrate left without losing control or carry. My layout allows me to stay straighter longer. I did break the cover with a 2000 pad at first because it was to clean like my 900G Zen GL.
Overall, the Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl is a versatile and powerful bowling ball that should enhance your arsenal for league and tournament play. Whether you're a seasoned bowler or just looking to improve your skills plus the ball looks so damn good. The OIP is worth considering for its performance and striking potential too :)
https://youtu.be/V7kfe0DLiTo
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Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl
Coverstock: MicroTrax™ Pearl Reactive with Reacta Gloss
Core: Ikon™ A.I. Core (Symmetrical)
Color: Bubblegum/Iris
Review:
Our style: tweener, 350-375 revs, 16.5mph, layout of choice is 4x4x2 (pin is above bridge). Our first experience with this ball was a little interesting… it looked terrible on the fresh and couldn’t really get a consistent look on the burn where it makes you confident in switching to this ball. After the Phaze AI came out and the release of Power Edge we took reacta gloss off and switched it to the PE… and wow did it make a huge difference. Now the ball looks great on the fresh and even better on the burn. If you had a poor experience at first with this ball we recommend trying the new polish. The ball seems more smooth (which you can expect from an Idol line ball) and more stable through the end of the pattern while the pearlized cover really helps this ball stay continuous through the pins. Just another reason to make sure to alter the surface of your equipment to help match YOUR game.
Kyle, Joel, & Dean Johnson
Roto Grip Pro Shop Staffers
joel@parklanes.net
kyle@parklanes.net
dean@frontierfuncenter.net
www.RotoGrip.com
#SquadRG
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Optimum Idol is a hook monster!
Review by C-Mart S. on 27 Nov 2024review stating Optimum Idol is a hook monster!Bowlers Info: RH tweener, PAP 4-5/8 x 3/4 up, 380 RPM, 13* of Axis tilt, 60* of Axis Rotation
Ball Layout: 50 x 5 x 70
VLS: 5 x 4 x 4. 5
Finish: OOB
The new Roto Grip Optimum Idol is an absolute hook monster!!! For me this piece is cleaner and sharper than the Phaze AI. To tame this big piece, I went with a pin-underRead more about review stating Optimum Idol is a hook monster! bridge layout, 5” pin with a 4. 5” pin buffer. This allows me to keep the ball a bit more in front of me but with a light 3000 surface prep, I can use this piece even on fresh patterns. This one’s an absolute league pattern killer!!!! The Idol core has proven very successful, and this piece is no exception. If you are looking for a bigger piece to cover a lot of boards or a lower rev player, this piece is for you, go check out this monster!!!
Chris Martinez
Storm Amateur Staff
www.stormbowling
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Coverstock: MicroTrax Pearl Reactive
Finish: Reacta Gloss
Core: Ikon + A.I. Core Technology
RG: 2.47
Differential: 0.056
The Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl is the newest addition to the HP3 line and the pearl version to the Optimum Idol Solid. This is one of the stronger pearl balls I have in my bag currently. Very clean through the front of the lane, but very strong in the midlane for a pearl, with strong backend reaction of the friction. The Optimum Idol Pearl is a slight step down from my Harsh Reality pearl, but a good compliment as, I can usually stay in the same part of the lane just adjust a few boards right. If you are looking for a strong symmetrical pearl, the Optimum Idol Pearl is the ball for you.
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About Me:
Joel Donner
SPI Pro Shop Staff Member
Left-Handed: High Rev High Speed Player
Layout: 5 X 5 X 2
Pap: - 47/8 +1
Rev Rate: +-500
Speed 17-18mph
Ball Video: https://youtu.be/Q3L5pub9jzM
The Optimum Idol Pearl exceeded my expectations with its performance. It is one of the earliest rolling pearls I’ve ever thrown, picking up just after the mid-lane with a smooth, gradual, yet continuous motion through the pins and off the pin deck. I’ve tested the Optimum Idol Pearl on various conditions, and it consistently delivers a reliable and impressive reaction. The ball offers a generous amount of area and stands out as one of the most predictable balls I’ve thrown. Chaise shares the same positive experience, agreeing that this is truly an exceptional ball.
Joel Donner
SPI Pro Shop Staff Member
Cedar Rapids, IA
#StormNation
#StrikingWorldwide
#RGSquad
#Iambowling
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I drilled my OPTIMUM IDOL PEARL up with a 75 x 5.25 x 35 layout. I have primarily thrown it box finish but plan to take the reactagloss off and put a smoother 1000/3000 surface on it to use it as a first transition ball when the solid asyms start to burn too much and get offline or flatten out.
I have thrown this on a dryer house shot and it was great. Game 3 it started to read and stop or go thru the nose and the next move down should be my PHAZE AI. the OIP is also a great ball down from the SUMMIT ASCENT when that piece starts to get too smooth downlane and I am starting to go away from the pocket.
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Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl Coverstock: MicroTrax Pearl Reactive Box Finish: Reacta Gloss Core: Ikon + A.I. Core Technology RG: 2.51, Diff: 0.054 (14 lbs) One Handed • left Handed • PAP 5 15/16 Left and 1 3/16 up • Rev Rate 425 rpm • Average ball speed 14.5 mph The Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl is the newest addition to the HP3 line and the pearl Compliment to the Optimum Idol Solid. The Pearl features the same iconic Ikon + A.I. Core as the solid, but this version is wrapped in the MicroTrax Pearl Reactive cover – the same cover as on the Exotic Gem. The combination that this core and cover gives you an optimum traction footprint in the oil providing more responsiveness to friction on the backend but very controllable. This Optimum Idol pearl to give you more length, more angle, and stronger finish through the pins. What I saw is you can get this ball into the friction a little early and it won’t be jumpy coming off the backend and gives a clean finish. The Optimum Idol pearl works well on medium to heavy oil conditions depending on the oil pattern you are bowling on, and could be a great transitional ball depending on how the lane breaks down. This Optimum Idol pearl is great for all types of styles. Stop by your local pro shop today and get your optimum Idol pearl. It's well worth it!! Sean Gruetter aka Madhatter bowling storm pro shop staff #stormnation #RGsquad
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The new ball in the Roto Grip HP3 line is the Optimum Idol Pearl. The Optimum Idol was a big hit among all bowlers so the R&D team came out with the Pearl version. I drilled mine with a pin up 4 x 4 x 2. With the Idol series they are strong rolling in the midlane. With the pearl version I get the same great rolling bowling ball motion with a little more length and pop down lane. With my unique ball roll with a lot of side roll and tilt the Pearl is perfect for me on a lot of lane conditions. I can actually shape the lane a little with the pearl where most bowlers can create a little more shape than the original Idol. But its not a ball that I can play real deep with but normally right of the 4th arrow. The pearl has great shelf appeal and its very noticeable going down the lane!
Brian Watson
PAP 3 7/8 up 1/4
RPM - 400
MPH - 16-17
TILT - 17
Brunswick pro anvil lane
43 ft house pattern
42 ft sport pattern
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Ball Specs: Optimum Idol Pearl
Core: Ikon (Symmetrical)
Coverstock: MicroTrax Pearl Reactive
Finish: Reacta Gloss
Review:
The Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl is a must-have for bowlers looking for a ball that can handle medium to medium-heavy oil with versatility and power. Its ability to clear the heads and store energy for a sharp backend motion makes it a reliable option for both league and tournament play. Bowlers will appreciate how it performs on fresh oil as well as its ability to handle the transition, making it a valuable addition to any arsenal.
Will Tefft
Roto Grip Pro Shop Staff Member
will@parklanes.net
www.rotogrip.com
#SquadRG
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The Roto Grip Optimum Pearl features the Micro Trax Pearl coverstock and the Ikon A.I. core. At 15 pounds the RG is a low 2.47 with a differential of .056. I drilled the pearl exactly the same as the Optimum Idol solid (5x5x2). Do not let the pearl coverstock fool you on this ball. Although it is pearl, this ball still performs very well in oil. When compared to the original, the OIP provides about 2 to 3 feet more length and a stronger backend motion. The backend motion is still more of an arcing motion but it is far from a hockey stick type of motion that you see with some other pearlized bowling balls. Overall hook is about 2 boards less than the original for me. However, the pearl is much more user friendly when it comes to how long you can stay with this ball. Where the original tends to burn up rather quickly and has trouble carrying the corner pins when I need to open up my angles; the OIP provides enough backend strength the kick out the corner pins. If you were a fan of the original Optimum Idol, the pearl is a great compliment and provides a very strong 1-2 punch on heavy oil conditions.
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Another winner in the Idol line. Drilled it 50x4.5x30. One of the strongest pearls I've thrown. Reads the midlane like all of the Idols do for me. The pearl gives it some more length and shape down lane.
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Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl Ball Review by PJ Haggerty
The Optimum Idol Pearl from Roto Grip is one of the newest releases in the HP3 line and it’s been a staple in my bag since it came out. With its bright pink MicroTrax pearl coverstock and AI core as the engine, the Optimum Idol Pearl continues to pull its weight alongside the previous Idol. With an RG of 2.47 and differential of .056, this ball wants to dig early, often, but also never slow down.
I’ve drilled one so far and really like it. It’s mapped out as 5.5 x 4 x 2.5. This puts the pin nearly above my middle finger with a kicked CG. I’ve had the most success after a pattern blends out and I need something to create a left-to-right shape. Even though it’s lower on the RG scale (2.47), the beauty with that pearl coverstock, is that it still gets through the front of the lane pretty easily without bogging down. It’s been a perfect ball to go to after my Ion Max as well as my Summit Ascent need to be put down.
From a surface standpoint, the Optimum Idol Pearl has been really good with some lane-shine. I haven’t touched the surface at all and have had no issues. If you start to see too quick of a response time or any type of inconsistent reaction, I’d recommend changing the surface to 2000 or 3000 on a spinner at your local pro shop.
Go drill one!
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This one is everything I expected from an Idol Pearl. Extremely strong in the back part of the lane and definitely picks up in the middle part of the lane. It can easily be a game 1 ball on most house shots. I drilled mine 5x4x1 and it does tend to get a little forward at times down the lane due to the strength of the core (2.47 RG and .056 differential), but easily scoots through the first 25-30 feet with ease. A versatile piece, I would say best for at least speed/rev matched players, or speed dominant, Rev dominant players may struggle keeping this one on the lane. Overall a great complement to the Optimum Idol!