Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl Bowling Ball

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.

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 their 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

If you liked the exotic gem, you will like this ball. If you didnt you won’t. This ball is a strong rolly pearl wrapped in a symmetrical core. It does ideally get up the lane a little bit more but it’s still very rolly. This a good ball to use on the fresh if your center has a lot of friction in the front and back. This will get through the front cleaner then the original optimum idol but still control the back due to such a strong cover. A very situational piece that is very specific to where you bowl at, how you bowl and what you need to fill in your bag!

The Optimum Idol Solid certainly made a name for itself on the lanes, it was time for an upgrade, a pearl version. Bringing back the legendary Ikon core with Microtrax symmetrical pearl cover stock, the Optimum Idol Pearl is Roto Grips newest addition to the pearl series. I drilled mine at 75 x 4 3/4 x 40 for a strong angle and continuation towards the backend. Tested on 42ft league shot at my home center, I found the idol pearl to give me more length, more angle, stronger finish through the pins. What I like about this ball is I can also get it out into the friction a little earlier and not be as jumpy coming back into the pocket for that clean finish. I would consider this ball to work on medium to heavy oil conditions depending on the volume. The Idol Pearl can be a great transitional ball depending on what you are bowling on, along with proper surface if you choose to do so. This would fit for a variety of styles. Be sure to stop by your local pro shop and drill one up today!! (Thomas Coco Storm Staffer)

The Optimum Idol Pearl comes with Micro Trax Pearl cover that was featured on the Exotic Gem. I drilled mine 5 x 3 which is the same layout on my Optimum Idol. After throwing this ball for awhile I was actually quite shocked on what I saw. I couldn’t tell if I was throwing the solid or the pearl because the shapes were very similar for me. The Pearl is about 3/4 weaker but shapes the same way as the solid. If you were a fan of the Optimum Idol, then you should no doubt grab an Optimum Idol Pearl for that ball after the Optimum once they transition.

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!

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.

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.

Welcome back as we have a great one for you from Roto Grip! If you're a fan of these reviews I want to thank you for watching and reading these reviews and hope it gives you some information to take back when looking to get your next bowling ball. TESTING ENVIRONMENT Length:42 Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): House Shot BALL: Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl Coverstock: : Micro Trax Pearl Cover Core: : IKON A.I. Symmetric Core Finish: Reacta Gloss RG: 2.51 (14 Pounds) Differential: 0.047 (14 Pounds) MB/PSA: NA (14 Pounds) ME: Right-Handed Tweener Speed: 14-15 mph Rev Rate: 210 PAP: 4 7/8 right 5/8 up Ball Layout: 4.5x3x2 Here we go again with an IDOL ball. I have mixed reactions with this line as I have matched up with a couple and others not so much. I threw this ball after using the Storm Summit Ascent which for me is pin down and the Optimum IDOL had me left of where I was with the Summit. I am very pleased with this ball as I was able to use it outside, in the track, and inside. Things I don't see from some of the earlier IDOL balls. As you can see from the video, the carry was good when the ball was in front of me and light on others the more I moved left and being on the lower side of rev rate you can see where a player with a higher rev rate would love using this ball too. Thanks for watching and if you like this or any of the jerseys in my videos just head over to www.IAmBowling.com and use HIRSCH at checkout for 20% off. This ball is available today at Bowlers Choice Pro Shop inside Castle Lanes in Racine, WI or your local STORM VIP Pro Shop #Storm #SquadRG GoGlobal #VISE #viseinserts #BowlersChoiceProShop #3GShoes #stormbowling #iambowling #sheridanlanes #Castlelanes #900global #MasenHirschBowling #teamshimmy #USBC #kenoshaYouthBowling #MatchMaker Check out my full ball reaction video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bNSdnhSDHE8?si=04hiT7kcUpYmvseZ

The Optimum Idol Pearl is very smooth downlane with a great backend reaction. This never-before-seen combination is definitely something special. The Optimum Idol Solid has been a lifesaver at my normal league house where I struggled to find the correct shape at the start of the night. Now with the addition of the pearl, I have the perfect ball to transition to when the lanes start to get messy. This ball will surely be seeing a lot of playing game especially in game 2.

Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl Cover Stock: MicroTrax Pearl Reactive Finish: Reacta Gloss Core: Ikon Energized by A.I. Core Technology (14pd) RG: 2.51 Differential: 0.054 Layout: 5 x 4 x 3 1/2 - 2LS Layout Extras: 2 1/2" Finger Depth, "X" - 4 1/2 D and 1 Inch Left Tester: PAP 6 1/2 R, 1 1/4 D Review: The Optimum Idol Pearl features the second RG Core with A.I. technology, the same as the Optimum Idol. Essentially, what this means to the bowler is more length and more motion off the spot compared to previous releases. You'll also keep hearing that A.I. technology provides up to five-percent more carry on off hits. Keep in mind the cover is MicroTrax which is one of the most aggressive coverstocks RG offers. The Optimum Idol Pearl is an excellent symmetric option for fresher lanes and as the lanes begin to break down on your league conditions. Look to use the out of the box finish and do not hesitate to slightly scuff the OOB finish, which I recommend on most pearl offerings. The pearl version is still pretty strong due to the MicroTrax coverstock. A good ball to compare the Optimum Idol Pearl to is the Optimum Idol. For me, the Optimum Idol is pretty smooth and for sport patterns has worked well. However, if I need to bump in with this ball it didn't have the kick I was quite looking for. Even as I brought the surface up to accommodate my needs it wasn't quite enough. However, the OIP does a nice job of having that little extra that I need downlane. If you have a chance listen to what Roto Schlem discusses regarding these two pieces. The predictable motion of the Optimum Idol and the Optimum Idol Pearl is one of the keys to this ball being a winner. I like the Optimum Idol Pearl smoother shape compared to some other pearl offerings. This is due to my personal preference for smoother arc type reactions for tournament play. Don't forget to check in on my channel at: https://youtube.com/channel/UC1VA-MgFBo9mIZde-G3T11A for occasional video reviews. Be sure to grab your Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl today! Michael Slatky 900 Global Staff Member York, PA

Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl PRODUCT DETAILS: COVERSTOCK: MicroTrax™ Pearl Reactive CORE: Ikon™ + A.I. Core Technology COLOR: Bubblegum / Iris FINISH: Reacta Gloss™ CONDITION: Medium to Medium/Heavy Oil FLARE POTENTIAL: High LAYOUT: 5 ¾ X 3 ¾ X 3 ½ Here Ya Go: The all new Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl, aka: OIP is a ball that we in the #RG Crew have been missing for a LONGGGGG time. Just like the Big Brother, the Attention Star, this ball was created to make you think again about the strength of the Roto Grip Brand. This version of the MicroTrax Pearl reminds me a lot like the MicroBite Pearl we had on the Defiant Edge. While rolling this ball versus another symmetric pearl ball I could tell the OIP created better pin action while not under producing when the ball got into more of the middle of lane pattern where the heavier oil is. Smoother transition from wet to dry than my Summit Pearl, but definitely more length and angle the original Optimum Idol. The OIP had a shape down lane similar to the Storm Frantic from a few years ago. The Storm Frantic was one of the best balls I remember seeing PDW and other Storm staffers used in the past. YOU will see plenty of the OIPs going down the lane in your leagues and tournaments soon if not already. My current league bags for house pattern scratch league will be: Roto Grip X-Ray, Lighting Blackout, Optimum Idol solid, Optimum Idol Pearl, Harsh Reality Pearl, along with my RG spare ball.

Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl - HP3 Coverstock: MicroTrax Pearl- Reacta Gloss Core: Ikon + A.I. RG: 2.47 Differential: .056 (15 lbs) Layout: 5.5 x 5 x 3 PAP: 6" Right, 1 3/8" Up Axis Tilt: 16° Rotation: 51° Rev Rate: 450-500 Speed: 17-18 mph Location: Vista Lanes - Yorkville, NY Pattern: 2023 USBC Jr. Gold Lane Surface: HPL The Optimum Idol has been amazing, now it’s time for the pearl version to join in on the striking! The Optimum Idol Pearl continues to use the Ikon + A.I. core, but utilizes the MicroTrax Pearl cover which has only been seen overseas. The Optimum Idol Pearl is designed to be versatile, responsive, and the perfect compliment to the Optimum Idol. The Optimum Idol Pearl gave me a great look sliding on 35, looking 20 at the arrows with my breakpoint around 8-9. I struggled to play straighter angles, because when it saw friction it wanted to sharply change direction. As I moved further left, my ball reaction kept improving. When compared to Optimum Idol, it was cleaner and created a more angular reaction downlane. The pearl will be a great option to go to once the solid begins to burn up and it is necessary to move left to create a better entry angle to the pocket. I’ve had great success with the solid in league and tournaments, so I’m excited to see what the pearl can do. The Optimum Idol Pearl will be my go to ball after the Optimum Idol. Stop by your local Storm VIP pro shop to check it out! Available on August 23rd. Dave Jecko Storm Amateur Staff Member YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@maximumpotentialbowlerssho7625

Dual Angle Layout: 55 x 4 ½ x 25 Storm Vector Layout: 4 ½ x 4 ½ x 1 5/8 The New Optimum Idol Pearl features the Ikon+ A.I. Core wrapped in the Micro Trax Pearl Reactive cover stock. The Optimum Idol Pearl gives me great length with booming back end. This ball is a great 1-2 punch with the new Summit Ascent. The Idol Pearl was just a bit too weak for me to throw on fresh oil but as the lanes started to break down this ball was a game changer.

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

Layout: 3 1/2 x 6 1/2 x 2 Surface: Reacta Gloss Rev rate: 470 Tilt: 13 degrees The Optimum Idol pearl brings back the iconic Ikon core paired with the Microtrax pearl coverstock which has never been seen on a domestic idol. Last seen on the Duo, the Microtrax pearl is one of the stronger pearl coverstocks in the Roto Grip realm. The Optimum Idol Pearl gives a stronger pearl symmetrical option with angle and continuation through the pins. Designed for medium to medium heavy oil, this ball can be possibly used on the fresh or as a transition ball. I got to test this ball on a 44ft typical house pattern. It gave me easy length through the front along with strong midlane read and a pretty good angular motion through the pins. The stronger pin for me allows me to play a little closer to the friction while seeing a more blended ball reaction. For league, pairs that have more overall friction will allow me to use the ball on the fresh. Pairs that are tighter will allow me.to use the ball in game 2 and/or game 3 when a ball like the Optimum Idol Solid becomes too early and strong for the lanes. This ball has the opportunity to work for multiple styles and lane conditions with right amount of surface on it. For most people, it will be a transition ball after a solid or hybrid ball is used. Adam Chase Storm Staff

The Optimum Idol Pearl (OIP) features the same IKON with AI core that was found in the Optimum Idol but is now wrapped in Micro Trax pearl. The OIP is a very strong, heavy rolling and fairly forward piece. The OIP continues the famous Idol name by providing a motion I personally haven’t seen out of any other Idol before. The OIP for me will be in play on the fresh/transition when the front part of the lane hooks too much for a stronger piece but I still need to control the friction downlane. The OIP features some pretty bright pink/purple swirls that will for sure catch anyones eye on the lanes! Review Video: https://youtu.be/hfIGe4BdsBA?si=Bqum9jHkkCQRgQe3

Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl Layout: 4.5 x 4.0 x 2.0 Storm Pin Buffer Layout Rev Rate: 325 rpm, 7 degree of axis tilt, 40 degree of axis rotation Testing information: 41 foot THS (medium to light volume) Bowling Center: Fulton Bowling Center IKON Kegel Machine – Brunswick Anvilane The Roto Grip Optimum Idol Pearl utilizes the MicroTrax Pearl Reactive cover along with the Ikon weight block plus AI Core. The Ikon weight block is the same used in the original Idol and Idol Pearl. First impressions, this ball is good. On the first night of league, I started with the Optimum Idol Solid and switched to the Optimum Idol Pearl the third game of a 4-game league and shot 245 and 300, respectively. During our ball review of the Optimum Idol Pearl, it looked really good after breaking the lanes in with the solid version. I was able to pick up the pearl once the solid hooked too soon. The shelf appeal of the Optimum Idol Pearl is off the chart! Visit your local Storm VIP Pro Shop! #Stormnation #SquadRG

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

This ball is a hit! I drilled this one 5x4x2 using the storm vls system. My initial thoughts after throwing this ball are fantastic. this ball read the mid lane great and had plenty of energy to finish through the pins. this is surprisingly strong for a symmetric pearl, but this is expected with micro-trax pearl being wrapped around the ikon core for the first time. I see this ball fitting the ball 3, maybe 4 range for a tournament bag in a 6 ball arsenal. Overall, this ball will be a great addition to your arsenal!

Optimum Idol Pearl - Ball Specs Cover Stock: Micro Pearl Reactive Finish: Reacta Gloss Core: Ikon A.I. Core Layout: 65 x 5 x 35 RG: 2.47 Differential: 0.056 Review The Optimum Idol Pearl is an Idol that we haven’t seen before. The Optimum Idol Pearl has the MicroTrax pearl cover stock wrapped around the iconic Ikon core energized by A.I. Core technology. Optimum Idol Pearl has an RG of 2.47 and differential of 0.056, which makes this Idol very clean through the front half of the lane with an aggressive backend reaction with great striking power. This Idol reminds me of a faster Sublime. This ball is great on medium oil patterns and when the oil transitions down the lane. It will perform at a high level in the track area and in to the fourth arrow without any loss of ball reaction and pin carry. Put your favorite pin up layout on the Optimum Idol and you will not be disappointed. This ball is a must have for league and tournament bowlers. Now available for order at your local pro shop! My ball reviews are posted on YouTube channel Stanley Waite. Stanley Waite 900 Global Staff Member Dover, DE

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.​

Roto Grip – Optimum Idol Pearl 14-pounds Layout 4.5 x 4 x 2 Style – stroker Ball Speed – 14–15 mph at pins Condition – house pattern - HPL surface Surface – box condition The solid version of this ball is what I start off with when I go to the center. Very excited to see a pearlized version was being released. I was curious if I could keep that same kind of shape and get something that would be cleaner through the spot once it starts to burn up. I got that and more with the Optimum Idol Pearl. After the lanes had transitioned, I got into this ball. I started by staying in the same spot as I did with the solid, while it stayed on-line from that area, it was too strong off the break point. Moving a couple left with my feet and target I was able to control the pocket again. This ball has a pronounced move at the break point. However, it’s not nearly as flippy as my VEBO is with the same layout. It continued through the pins incredibly well. Given this is the same cover as the Exotic Gem, it goes to show you how much of a difference core can make. I had no success with the Exotic. That ball just wanted to lock up and go forward and provided me no room. This ball is the exact opposite. There have been solid and pearl combos over the years that you could add a spare ball to and have a great 3 ball arsenal for league. Early results tell me this could be the best combination of that in a long time. The solid will handle the oil, blend out the cliff on the fresh and then the pearl can help you as the lanes transition with a cleaner option with a very strong, but still controllable shape. I’d highly recommend the current Idol series for all bowling styles.