Bowler Name: Wes Dye
Style: RH Thumb-in bowler
Rev Rate: 425-450 RPM
Ball Speed: 18mph off the hand, 16.5 mph @ camera (where most speed data in centers come from.
Axis Rotation: 40-60 degrees on average
Axis Tilt: 10 degrees
Ball: Roto-Grip RST X1
Layout: 4.5x4x2.25
Surface Prep: Box
I am always cautiously excited about new technology in bowling equipment. The cover on this one is a hybrid microtrax, which we’ve seen variations of before. What impresses me most about this cover formula is not only the separation of flare rings, but how wide each flare ring is. This cover seems to make more contact with the lanes than any cover I’ve thrown to date. The core, however, is the brand-new roto star tour. The RG in a 15lb is a bit higher than most big asyms, and the intermediate diff or PSA is a bit lower than most. I was thrilled to see this, as my speed to rev ratio coupled with lower tilt usually makes bigger asyms harder to throw on house shots. I usually see them burn way too much energy in the front and midlane, but that was NOT the case with the RST X1. While I did have to move a zone left of where I normally play our house shot, this ball let me do that with ease and most importantly it had CONTINUATION. With the strength of this ball, I was able to open my angles earlier in the night and take advantage of the easier shot sooner.
The shape this ball creates is unique because it is moderately strong, but in all 3 major parts of the lane. Often, we have strong balls in either the fronts (first 20 feet), mids (second 20 feet) or back (third 20 feet). Take the UFO for example; for me the UFO is INCREDIBLY strong in the fronts and mids but doesn’t create a lot of back end shape. This is great for heavier/flatter conditions where control is needed. The UFO slows down and hooks so fast, it almost makes the lane feel slightly uphill. It is a true HEAVY oil ball. The RST X1 on the other hand is just a wonderful blend throughout the lane. It doesn’t glide through the fronts, nor does it slow way down. In the middle part of the lane, you can see the white logos doing some work and rolling over, but the ball isn’t done working when it gets to 40 feet. The backend is a strong bending motion, not sudden. I have fallen in LOVE with this ball.
I would call it an asymmetrical benchmark reaction, great for heavier lane conditions or those with a slightly speed dominant game. This ball isn’t going to handle the floods out there like the Proton PhysiX or UFO, but anything slightly less and I think the RST X1 will impress.