Roto Grip RST X-1 Bowling Ball

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Dating back to the mid-1950’s, there is a reason Roto Grip is often referred to as the “Original High-Performance Bowling Ball Specialists.” Our latest asymmetrical creation continues that tradition with the development of the RST Core which produces consistent core torque and energy transfer down lane where it is needed most. From there we formulated the most versatile MicroTrax Hybrid Coverstock to date which produces optimum responsiveness to both oil and friction. It’s ok, you can thank us later! RST – Roto Star Tour Core… Professional bowlers like to see continuous motion down lane with minimal deflection as the ball enters the pocket due to their rev rates usually being on the higher side. This logic was the basis of development by the R&D team as they looked to create a core that would maintain dynamics after drilling in order to maintain a higher level of core torque down lane. The larger mass at the base of the core does indeed create that. Especially since when drilled, the thumbhole will always end up near the bottom of the void area not to affect the bottom mass of the core all that much. Thus, making this core a “Tour Level” type core design. Behind the X-1 name… When it all began back in the early 1950’s, Roto Star (later known as Roto Grip) quickly became known as the “High Performance Bowling Ball Specialists.” Because of this industry leading mantra, and with the latest creation of the Roto Star Tour Core, it only made sense to go back in time to recapture the vibe and pay homage to those balls that set the standard for technology and development. That is how the RST X-1 was born!
ColorBlack / Dark Forest / Forest Pearl
CoverstockMicroTrax™ Hybrid Reactive
CoreRST™ Core = Roto Star Tour™ (Asymmetrical)
RG2.53
Differential0.053
Intermediate Diff0.016
Factory finish3000 grit Abralon
Weights12 thru 16lbs
Cleared USBC

48 Reviews

  • rodbowler75

    Posted by rodbowler75 on Dec 29th 2020

    The newest addition to the HP4 line the Roto Grip RST X-1! This ball features the Micro Trax Hybrid Reactive Coverstock wrapped around the RST core which stands for ( Roto Star Tour Core )! This ball fits right between my UFO and, my Rubicon. The RST X-1 is a strong hybrid that reads the midlane very well and has a very continuous back end. I absolutely love this ball motion and, can use it on a variety of Lane conditions. This ball is one of my first choices out of my bag. If you haven't yet do yourself a favor and go get one of these! You won't regret it!

  • StoRoGlo2020

    Posted by StoRoGlo2020 on Dec 28th 2020

    The RST X-1 is the newest addition to the RotoGrip HP 4 line of bowling balls. The RST X-1 is an extremely versatile strong bowling ball. The reason why is the combination of the Microtrax Hybrid reactive shell and the Roto Star Tour Core (RST-1). The RST X-1 is a strong bowling ball with a very aggressive backend motion. I was able to compare the RST X-1 to the Proton Physix under the same conditions and there were some noticeable differences. The layout I used for the RST X-1 is 4 X 4 X 2 and my PAP is 5 5/8 over and ¾ up. The layouts were similar not super drastic. The first and major difference is the backend motion of the RST X-1... I did nothing to the cover and the RST X-1 Recovers from everywhere unless you throw it super terrible. Totally surprised. The second difference is the length compared to the Proton. The Proton wants to read the mid lane like Novel and the RST X-1 reads it like the cliff notes. The RST X-1 pushes farther down the lane and the energy saved is for the backend. If you like to go around the pattern or a rev monster I would recommend the RST X-1. I had a little over under on the fresh because I like to play straight. The Proton Physix blended the fresh nicely and kept my angles in front of me. My rev rate is 300 RPM and I had too much reaction or too much length but as soon as the carry down happened and I opened up my angles the RST X-1 was golden. RST X-1 is a great addition to the RotoGrip HP 4 line.

  • sportshot (In reply to: dstewart16 )

    Posted by sportshot (In reply to: dstewart16 ) on Dec 24th 2020

    Ball Specs: Roto RST X-1 Micro Trax Hybrid Reactive Asymmetric RST Core Finish grit 3000 Bowler Specs: Right Hand. PAP 5" Over 1/2 up Rev Rate 300. Tilt 20. Rotation 50. Speed at release 17 Review: The new Roto Grip RST X-1 is a very unique ball. The old school look of color and logo are very appealing. The ball is very aggressive but seems to save most of its motion for the back end of the lane where the X-1 drives hard. The Roto X-1 fits between my Rubicon and UFO in total hook. This new X-1 goes a bit further than my UFO but still grabs in oil due to the 3000 sanded strong cover. The X-1 revs up in the mid lane and finishes with a hard hit. I have rolled this ball a lot and it does not lane shine easily. To me the finish acts stronger than the 3000 stated. The X-1 is low maintenance and is easy to clean with any Storm spray or wipe. I am very happy with the hit and motion of this ball. I have ran into some conditions where it reads too early and starts to leave weak 10's but if you more into the oil you are right back slapping the corners out. I have been getting away with good carry on some not so great shots. This ball works well on flatter patterns or modified house shots. This ball started out as a slow mover in my shop but as more people got them the more demand went up, even with the Proton in the mix of offerings. Both balls have sold very well. I think this ball will be at our next Match Maker Demo and I'm sure it will impress some people. Summary: The RST X-1 has a strong unique ball motion. The Ball has a very strong back end move for a dull ball. The X-1 rolls great on flatter conditions. This is a great add to a tournament arsenal. Glenn Wendel PBA Member Storm Pro Shop Staff gwendel@comcast.net www.stormbowling.com

  • dstewart16

    Posted by dstewart16 on Dec 22nd 2020

    Introducing the brand newest addition to the HP4 line the Roto Grip RST X-1! This ball features the Micro Trax Hybrid Reactive Coverstock wrapped around the RST core which stands for ( Roto Star Tour Core )! This ball fits right between my UFO and, my Rubicon. The RST X-1 is a strong hybrid that reads the midlane very well and has a very continuous back end. I absolutely love this ball motion and, can use it on a variety of Lane conditions. This ball has earned a place in my bag since day #1! If you haven't yet do yourself a favor and go get one of these! You won't regret it!

  • wdye89

    Posted by wdye89 on Dec 21st 2020

    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.

  • StormPeakPro

    Posted by StormPeakPro on Dec 14th 2020

    Roto Grip RST-X1 Layout - 65 x 5 x 30 This ball is going to be the most usable big dull asym on the market. Proton Physix and UFO are excellent but they start up so quick their window is so short in times you can use them, you might get a game out of them. This ball is clean enough and continues enough to use it throughout the entire block. Also, don't be afraid to alter the surface to get you the shape you're looking for. This ball is similar to the original Physix and the Alpha Crux, I truly believe this one is really special. Great job to the team in Utah with this one!

  • RotoGripRick

    Posted by RotoGripRick on Dec 13th 2020

    Roto Grip RST-X1 –layout: 70 x 1 ½ x 30 Tech specs: Microtrax hybrid – RST core – 3000ab finish Ball review: When layout out this ball I took into account how much more rev dominate I have become in the past 2 years. So with that we drilled a shorter pin to pap for me to help calm the ball down overall. Anything 3 ½ to 5 ½ pin to pap is way too strong for me for asymmetric cores since my accident over 2 years ago. During first night of league I found it to be really super smooth even with the 30 degree back angle. So I then practiced with it and did some videotaping of the reaction. I found the ball to be a tick strong then my Idol and Rubicon but not as strong as the UFO that has a little bit stronger pin to pap – 2in pin to pap compare to the RST-X1 with the 1 ½ in pin to pap. The new RST core is going to be a BIG hit because of the weight of the block is at the north and south points of the core, where other AYSs have a majority of their mass in more to the middle of the core, the RST will tumble more and provide even more length down lane. So for me, I will start on the fresh with the RST-X1, then when the back ends get tighter, I will set up to the UFO or Proton Physix.

  • onefrombills846

    Posted by onefrombills846 on Dec 8th 2020

    The Stats .... Color Black / Dark Forest / Forest Pearl Coverstock MicroTrax™ Hybrid Reactive Core RST™ Core = Roto Star Tour™ (Asymmetrical) RG 2.53 Differential 0.053 Intermediate Diff 0.016 Factory finish 3000 grit Abralon BOWLER STYLE: RH - Power Stroker Rev Rate: 320 Ball Speed: 15-16 PAP: 4 7/8 right 3/8 up. PAP : 4 ⅞ - ⅜ UP My Thoughts.... The RST-X1 is the newest asymmetric ball in the Roto Grip line. When bigger balls like a UFO, Nuclear Cell, or Proton Phisix on the Storm side is too much but balls like the IDOL's are not enough the RST X-1 checks that box. When the RST X-1 runs out of room on the approach the Rubicon is the ideal go-to ball to pick up when the RST X-1 is burning up too much energy. #Storm #RotoGrip #VISE #Logo Infusion Staff Member (coupon code HIRSCH 20% off)

  • fazzone22

    Posted by fazzone22 on Dec 4th 2020

    The newest HP4 line ball from Roto Grip features the MicroTrax Hybrid cover with the all-new RST Core. The RST Core comes with an RG of 2.53, Differential of 0.053 and a PSA Differential of 0.016. I drilled mine 5.5 x 5.5 x 1 and after throwing this ball for sometime I was quite amazed on how this ball actually rolled. For an asymmetrical ball this angled more down lane than I could image but it also responds well with slight hand changes to at release. This is a shape that I have never seen on the Roto Grip, this ball actually reminds me of a Storm Physix. This is a ball I will be able to use just after the bigger balls on the fresh when I need more shape down lane.

  • damron801

    Posted by damron801 on Nov 30th 2020

    Love, Love, Love this ball! If you can't use a big ball like the UFO, but the medium stuff isn't quite getting it done, say hello to the RST X-1! This ball is cleaner thru the fronts than the UFO but has way more backend. It is stronger than my Idols and the Rubicon, but very easy to throw. Whether you like to go up the 2nd arrow or get in deep and bounce it, this ball absolutely crushes the pins. The torque this core creates makes this ball hit exceptionally hard with a nice "Crunch" sound as it rips the pocket. It also finishes stronger on the backend than my Nuclear Cell, which makes sense, since this cover is Micro Trax (Nano based). If there is any oil carried down, this ball doesn't care and continues to hook right thru it. Bowlers that feel they lost a little power because they can't use a weight hole under the new USBC rules, need not worry anymore. All styles of bowlers will easily find a spot for this ball in their bag. It is not the most hooking ball out there, but it is one of the most useable balls out there for a large variety of bowling styles on medium to oily conditions. Ron D'Ambrosio Storm Amateur Staff #StormNation #SquadRG #Rdamballreviews

  • TrevorRoberts

    Posted by TrevorRoberts on Nov 30th 2020

    The RST-X1 is the newest asymmetric ball in the Roto Grip line. For me it is very similar to the Rubicon that came out just a few months ago. When using both balls on the same line at a tournament a couple weeks ago, they complimented each other well and gave me a slightly different look going through the pins. The RST is slightly earlier and slower then the Rubicon. I immediately switched to the Rubicon when the RST was burning up too much energy, and it was the perfect 1-2 combo to start the tournament. I am also very excited to try the RST-X1 with polish, because I think that will make this ball more versatile and allow me to move further left and have the ball store more energy! Trevor Roberts 2016 PBA Southern Regional Rookie Of The Year Storm / Roto Grip Professional Staff Turbo 2N1 Grips Staff Member Right Handed Rev Rate: 440 Speed: 17 PAP: 5 1/2 up 13/16

  • kevinwayneduncan@att.net

    Posted by kevinwayneduncan@att.net on Nov 27th 2020

    Roto Grip RST X-1 Layout: 4.5 X 4 X 2.5 Storm Vector Layout Rev Rate: 325 rpm, 7 degree of axis tilt, 40 degree of axis rotation Testing Information: 41-foot THS (medium volume) Kegel Machine – Brunswick Anvilane Well, I wasn't exactly excited about purchasing this one based on some of the early reviews that I saw if I am going to be completely honest. However, there was something about the nostalgic appeal of the Roto Star Tour X-1 bowling ball that captured my attention. I remember being a kid at Mexico Lanes and not very many people owned a Roto Grip ball. They were almost thought of as that other ball company. Not a part of the big machine of Brunswick, AMF, or Columbia. This fact always intrigued me about the early Roto Grip bowling balls since I never owned one. Fast forward 30 years, now I have my chance to see what the mystery was all about. The Roto Grip RST X-1 utilizes the MicroTrax hybrid reactive coverstock and the new RST core. The specifications are middle of the road so has the potential to be a very versatile ball (right in my wheel house). Based on the previous videos I mentioned above, I decided to shine the RST X-1. I found the secret sauce for me. The RST X-1 was clean through the fronts and a noticeable change of direction on the back end. Maybe a pinch less snap than my Storm AstroPhysix. The distance between the oil rings was standard so no differences there. I was able to take hand out and play right on the oil line. I was also able to move in a zone and slow hook it. The carry was good from both places on the lane. Hence, the versatility is definitely a strength of the RST X-1. The shelf appeal is not going to jump off the shelf to the novice bowler but there is beauty in this ball. In addition, there are many of us that like the look of a solid ball going down the lane (lack of revs might be part of the reason but not all of it. Lol). I hope this ball doesn't get lost in the new releases with brighter colors. This is going to be my sleeper pick for the next 6-month period (as the Wildstreak was and is). Schlem should be proud of this one as he brought the nostalgia feel of the Roto Star Tour brand back. Great job! Visit your local Storm VIP Pro Shop to order yours. Continue to bowl up a Storm! #Stormnation #OwnIt

  • mancstorm2

    Posted by mancstorm2 on Nov 26th 2020

    The hybrid cover on the RST will make it a mega hit for anyone with a little slower speed. It has all the characteristics of the top shelf monster balls for me but it's just a little cleaner. That will let the bowlers who speed takes the super strong balls out of play use this one. For the rest this ball will bridge the gap perfectly when the lanes start to make you transition from the top shelf stuff. The RST will be in play all the way until it's time for your weaker pearls/shiny covers.

  • Mattmusgrave

    Posted by Mattmusgrave on Nov 24th 2020

    RST X1.... What can I say. This is probably one of the best balls Ive thrown in a while. The MicroTrax hybrid cover and RST core give this ball good length and a very strong backend motion. I would compare this ball to the UFO and Parallax. Its longer and more angular than the UFO and earlier and stronger than the Parallax. The flare bands are very thick at about 5.5 inches. The number are 2.53 .053 .016 at 15lbs. This ball can be used right out of the bag and throughout the night keep moving inside and its sure the make the turn.

  • ShimWreckerEnterprises

    Posted by ShimWreckerEnterprises on Nov 23rd 2020

    Roto Grip's RST X-1 brings a brand-new Roto Star Tour core design plus an updated and familiar cover... and results in what might be the surprise of 2020 for me. The 3000-grit MicroTrax Hybrid coverstock is not at all hurting for traction, but that new medium-RG asymmetric core provides a ton of midlane punch while also continuing downlane and through the pins better than any other asym core that I've ever thrown. I find it hard to put this ball down... and I'm guessing you will too!

  • addynyr

    Posted by addynyr on Nov 23rd 2020

    When I first saw this ball was going to be released, I knew it was going to be an instant winner for me. I really love the Storm Physix and knew this RST-X1 would be a great compliment to it. The RST-X1 brings the all new Roto Star Tour with the MicroTrax Hybrid Coverstock. This combination is not only predictable but allows for great continuation to be used on a wide variety of oil patterns. This ball reminds me of an asymmetrical IQ Tour. It is a ball that most people will love because of its roll versatility and drilling versatility. This ball also handles surface changes well and don't be afraid to polish this one either. A cleaner and faster response will allow for better use on drier lanes and older lane surfaces. For those who only drill 1 or 2 balls a year, this is a sure winner to be one of those balls. This ball would be a great piece for any arsenal from the average league bowlers to the competitive tournament bowlers. Adam Chase Storm Staff

  • ITZPS

    Posted by ITZPS on Nov 23rd 2020

    The RST X-1 features the nano based MicroTrax hybrid cover formula and new dynamic and high torque asymmetric RST or Roto Star Tour core. MicroTrax is very similar to Storm's NRG coverstock, though is a little stronger to my knowledge, and the 3000 grit hybrid version instantly reminds me of the PhysiX. The RST core comes in at a 2.53 RG which is medium and fairly high for an asymmetric ball, an .053 differential and an .016 split or intermediate differential. The medium RG is going to help the ball scoot through the fronts a little easier while the diff and split create plenty of torque and motion down lane. The overall package reads like a slightly smoother PhysiX or more usable Halo Vision to me, all of which is good news. The PhysiX could offer a little too much boom down lane sometimes and the Vision was strong enough to take it out of play on all but the heaviest of conditions, while the RST still provides plenty of hook to tackle heavier stuff but also play more comfortably than I expected on a house shot. With 1 being the lowest and 10 being the highest, I rate the RST a 9 for hook, a 5 for length, and a 5 for backend strength.

  • toddles822

    Posted by toddles822 on Nov 22nd 2020

    This will be a ball that will fill that "niche" that tournament bowlers struggle to fill--when strong symmetrics like the Axiom and solid asymmetrics like the UFO burn out too early and run out of steam at the pins, but there's still too much oil for balls such as the Nuclear Cell or Hy-Road. The new RST Core comes in at an RG of 2.53, which is the highest RG for an asymmetric piece in the current Storm/RG line. This promotes a cleaner motion through the heads with less desire to "burn up" and come in flat at the pins. Combined with the strong hybrid MicroTrax coverstock--variations of which have been used on the Idol and UFO--this gives it the ability to not only store energy, but not hydroplane through the fronts like the less aggressive coverstocks tend to do. My RST X-1 was drilled with my standard "pin-up" drilling--45x5x45--which puts my PSA roughly 1" to the right of my thumb (right hander--PAP 4" over, 1/2" up). It complements my UFO (50x5x55, pin in middle finger), and my Hyper Cell Fused (same layout as RSX T-1). The UFO is much stronger in the front part of the lane with a more pronounced midlane motion, while the Hyper Cell Fused is cleaner and slower and provides great performance on higher-friction patterns. The RST fits right in between the two and fits that "gap" that many tournament bowlers are missing, and therefore struggle in that part of the transition. The RST will provide that traction bowlers are looking for in the heads, but which a more pronounced "pop" on the back end. This is certainly a unique motion in the Roto Grip line that no tournament bowler is going to want missing from their arsenal. Pick yours up on Friday, 11/27!

  • Ricmccormick2000

    Posted by Ricmccormick2000 on Nov 22nd 2020

    Roto grip's newest addition to the HP4 Line is the brand new RST X-1! This ball features the MicroTrax Hybrid Reactive Coverstock wrapped around the RST Core which stands for (Roto Star Tour Core)! This ball comes out of the box at 3000 grit and will give you a different shape on longer oil patterns! My RST X-1 is drilled pin over my bridge with the Mass Bias right next to my thumb which the pin is about 4 1/2 inches away from my PAP! This new piece will be weaker than a UFO but it will be more aggressive than a Rubicon or Idol in the Roto Grip Line! Definitely love the motion of the RST X-1 so far it's really aggressive ball that reads the midlane very well and good continuous motion down lane! Head over to your local Pro Shop and get yours 11/27/20!

  • StormAndrew

    Posted by StormAndrew on Nov 22nd 2020

    I knew this was a ball I would be excited to drill as I had been looking for a shape similar to the original Physix and I have found it with the RST X1. Although not entirely the same the RST X1 provides a tad cleaner and stronger shape down lane compared to the Physix. The RST X1 will be good for medium to higher volume as well as those harder lane surfaces that are conducive to Asymmetrical's. The RST X1 provides plenty of punch in the the HP4 line.

  • cmattingly

    Posted by cmattingly on Nov 20th 2020

    This ball is SICK! I am so happy with this release! This ball is super versatile. Whatever I do with my hand, this ball responds to. I can get right and get up the back of it or I can get in and get around it and it will boom down lane. My first 6 games with this ball was 804 and 802. 247, 257, 300, 289, 256, 257. Along with the versatility there is also its hitting power. This ball goes through the pins SO well, destroying racks. The only downfall of this ball is the color. I personally like the darker colored balls, but some may think that this ball doesn't have the shelf appeal as the other Asymetrical ball with the same release date, Proton Physix. Pick yours up on Black Friday!! Layouts: Pin Buffer- 5x4.5x1 Dual Angle- 60x4.5x15 Other balls in the league bag: Rubicon-5x4.5x1 AstroPhysix-4x5x2 Hyroad Pearl-5x4.25x4.5

  • kennonmcfalls

    Posted by kennonmcfalls on Nov 20th 2020

    The X-1 is the newest addition to the HP4 line. It features the MicroTrax Hybrid coverstock. This ball doesn't do anything flashy; it simply gets the job done. In the past, Roto Grip has been known to make some of the best Asymmetrical balls in the industry. The X-1 proudly carries that torch. I found the X-1 to be similar in overall strength compared to the UFO and the X-1 is about a zone stronger than the Nuclear Cell. The UFO and X-1 differ because they read the lane at different points. The UFO will be slightly earlier because of the Solid MicroTrax cover whereas the X-1 will be slightly cleaner and retain more shape downlane because it has the Hybrid Cover. In all, you'll be able to throw the X-1 on heavy conditions when you need slightly more length than the UFO is giving you. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W50DPeKfxnQ&t=108s

  • caseyccg

    Posted by caseyccg on Nov 20th 2020

    Orientation: Right Handed Rev Rate: 400 RPM Speed: 16-17 MPH PAP: 4 ½ over and ½ up Location: Enterprise Park Lanes, Springfield MO Pattern: High Volume THS VLS Layout: 4 ½ x 4 x 4 1/8 Dual Angle Layout: 50 x 4 ½ x 70 RST X-1. Weird name. AMAZING reaction. This thing TORQUES down lane. If the Code Black and HyRoad had a baby that hooked 5 feet earlier, it would be the X-1! It's clean enough I think I will throw it on a TON of patterns. If it tries to read too early, I won't be afraid to cheat inside because this ball will get back! I think it will work with a lot of layouts and styles. The X-1 is a unique piece you're going to want to add to the bag!