Layout: 4 1/2" x 5" x 2 1/2"
Surface: 2000 Abralon
Rev Rate: 475 rpm
Rotation: 60*
Tilt: 13*
The new Roto Grip Rockstar brings an all-new core and coverstock to create this new controllable benchmark shape reaction. The new Rocker core provides a low RG with a moderately high Differential. Compared to some of the more recent, SPI releases, the Rockstar has slightly less differential for a solid cover bowling ball. The new Nano-Star solid coverstock gives medium strength and a very controllable motion desired on more medium type lane conditions. The controllable motion gives vibes of that benchmark type shape. It is very easy to read this ball's motion when it comes to bowling on a variety of lane conditions. I was able to test this on my 44ft Typical House Pattern.
When I tried the Rockstar on the fresh, I can tell immediately that it wasn't the strongest ball in the Lineup. The Nano-Star coverstock falls in the middle of overall strength between the E-Trax and Mictrotrax coverstocks. The shape of this ball was pretty much as described. Easy length, stronger midlane read and very smooth down lane. Compared to an Optimum Idol Solid, the Rockstar cleared the front much easier and was overall weaker by about 4-5 boards. The Rockstar was not quite strong enough for my style to use as well on the fresh. It was decently strong in the midlane but on 44ft, it had some trouble slowing down as much to go through the pins. For me the ideal conditions of this ball would be closer to 40ft and less. It would give that control needed for the shorter oil length. On my house pattern, this would be more of a game 2 ball for me if I still needed to control the lane. An Optimum Idol Solid would be a much better option for me in game 1.
I would recommend this ball for bowlers who want a new ball on the fresh where the pattern length is medium length and shorter or who have low oil volume who want backend control. I think on heavy volume, this ball would have trouble unless you tend to use a lot more surface on it. I believe straighter angles are the way to go with this ball so bowlers who like to be closer to the friction who are more down and in will enjoy this ball most often.
Adam Chase
Storm Staff