Roto Grip Transformer Bowling Ball
- Color: Indigo / Violet / Slate
- Coverstock: V-R1 Solid Reactive
- Weight Block: Morph-Wing Core
- Factory Finish: 4000 Abralon
- Flare Potential: High
- Radius of Gyration (RG): 16lbs - 2.50; 15lbs - 2.51; 14lbs - 2.53
- Differential (Diff): 16lbs - 0.050; 15lbs - 0.051; 14lbs - 0.053
- Intermediate Differential (Diff): 16lbs - 0.015; 15lbs - 0.015; 14lbs - 0.013
- Fragrance: N/A
43 Reviews
-
Transformer
This ball is the introduction of a new innovation by SPI: the morph wing! This part of the weight block allows you to increase the axis rotation the ball gains as it travels down the lane. That rotation also accelerates into the change of direction. All of this is what you'll see if you have the wing in tact when drilling. What does that mean for you? More downlane motion, more continuation through the pins, and stronger mass bias positions are opened up because you don't have to sacrifice downlane motion when drilling Transformer stronger. That's how I drilled my Transformer, and I've already bowled 800 with it! What are you waiting for? Go pick up the newest innovation in bowling NOW!!
-
Transformer review
Introducing the Roto Grip Transformer featuring the innovative Morph-Wing Core design. This ball is ideal for medium to heavy oil conditions when you need predictable, repeatable ball motion matched to your bowling style and lane conditions. I am speed dominant, average rev rate 250-275ish, low-medium tilt and medium rotation. I drilled mine 30x4x20. My axis point is 4 3/8 over 1 3/8 up. This ball is great for me on medium oil conditions. I love starting with my Transformer then migrating right into the Roto grip RST Hyperdrive. These two are great one two punch. Go get yours at your local Storm VIP shop today! Check out my video at: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/189k5wTWvY/?mibextid=wwXIfr #sm2proshop #SquadRG #Deviousbowling
-
Transformer
The Transformer brings new tech to the storm umbrella. Using the Morph Wing Core, you can drill your Transformer to either hit the wing or miss the wing. Changing how you lay this ball out drastically changes your on lane performance. I chose to drill the wing out of my Transformer to take full advantage of the extra performance I could generate. Doing so, I saw a quite violent reaction on this ball downlane. Paired with the V-R1 Solid Cover (a non-nano based formula), this ball really got down the lane and kicked off the back end. I see myself using the ball more in the transition phase of a block or league night. To me, the cover is just a bit too weak to start with this ball, unless there is enough friction already developed in the mid lane. For player with less rev rate than myself, I can see the extra post-drilled dynamics this ball offers to be beneficial at getting the ball to be a little more continuous downlane. Storm offers lots of YouTube videos on the technical aspects of this core you can find. Check out my review here: https://youtu.be/m5-RikIpQns Coverstock: V-R1 Solid Reactive Cover Core: Morph Wing Core RG: 2.51 - Differential: .051 – PSA: 0.015 (15lbs/undrilled) Layout: 4.5 Pin to COG (Drilled into wing) Pap: 5 right, 1 1/2 up Rev Rate: +-500 Speed 17-18mph
-
Roto Grip Transformer Review by Casey Murphy
Orientation: Right Handed Rev Rate: 400 RPM Speed: 16-17 MPH PAP: 4 1/8 over and 1 up Location: Enterprise Park Lanes, Springfield MO Pattern: High Volume THS VLS Layout: Layout 1: 4 3/8 x 4 x 2 ½ (Pin above bridge) Layout 2: 4 x 4 x 3 7/8 (pin below bridge) Strength Rating (out of 10) : 7 Shape: Medium Smooth Best Use: Medium Oil Transformer is the most tunable piece Roto Grip has ever made. The core has the wing that can be drilled a bunch of ways but to be honest, I tried with or without hitting the wing and both are good. So you could just drill it normal it’ll be good. Or drill it different and tune the performance. Your choice. The cover is also really clean so you can keep it at box 4000, or you can sand it with a lot lower surface and get it to see the lane a lot earlier. Hit wing, don’t hit wing, surface, no surface. It responds extremely well to all changes. Transform it to your desires!!
-
Roto Grip Transformer
The Roto Grip Transformer is the first ever HP5 line ball by Roto Grip and I was pleasantly surprised to not see a price increase with the new line! Roto Grip introduces the Morph-Wing core that gives a greater opportunity to change the post-drilling core numbers based on whether you drill one of the wings out or not. I drilled mine 4 1/2 x 5 x 2, which gives me a pin-up layout that did not take the wing out. I’ve not seen a solid ball with back end reaction like the Transformer has… it’s very easy to forget you’re throwing a solid coverstock… Just another reason why I think people get too hung up on the solid/hybrid/pearl designation. My Transformer has lane shined quickly, and I can say I really like how it performs lane shined and plan to keep it that way, so I don’t feel like this is going to be one of those balls that I’ll have to be constantly resetting the surface on. https://youtu.be/-OW5gRvJS2E
-
Missed the Wing
For my Transformer I drilled it missing the wing. The motion I am seeing is that it is very sharp off the spot. The ball is relatively clean through the fronts, but you can see a sharp defined motion on the friction. For me the ball is a bit too much over under on the fresh, however when the lanes see a bit of break down that is when this ball shines for me. I could see drilling two. One drilling the wing out and one missing the wing. They could make a good one two combo during league play.
-
Transformer
Drilled it yesterday! I opted to miss the wing with a 4x5x1 layout(PAP 5 R, 1 1/4 up). Threw the ball on a fresh Dragon pattern, and it was forgiving. I am typically skeptical of solid asyms, but this ball got down the lane with a strong punch in the back. Excited to throw it in league!
-
Roto Grip Transformer
Technology keeps getting better and better. This ball is very good when it comes to the future of bowling balls. You can see the ball rev up more and more as it goes down the lane. The hitting power is unreal. I've had it for a few weeks now. It's my go to ball when I need something to trust as I move in on the lanes. Definitely worth getting for your arsenal..
-
Pin Up Transformer
This piece has been a special addition to the bag. Drilled pin up and did not hit the block .Out of the box I was instantly surprised with how early it picked but still had plenty of energy left to get through the pins. After it lane shined a bit it forces me to play steeper angles but still gets through the rack. Its quite versatile and reacts well to hand position changes. Highly recommend adding this one to you arsenal!!
-
Transformer by RGR
Roto Grip Transformer Ball specs: Morph-Wing core with V-R1 solid reactive cover stock with a factory surface finish of 4000 grit. Layout is 3 ½ x 5 ½ x 2 ½, we drilled out the wing with the most mass removed from the wing then drilled the finger holes, then calculated the layout from there. My Specs: Rev rate 420’s, ball speed 15.3 to 15.8 mph off the hand, axis tilt of 16 degrees and axis rotation of 70 degrees, PAP is 3 13/16th up 1/8th. Tested on Pro-lane surface on a 43ft medium volume house pattern and 45 and 46ft sport pattern. The Transformer has been a premier performer for myself since drilling the ball a month ago, especially in my sport shot league at ABC North Lanes in Harrisburg. For comparison I matched up the RST Hyperdrive and Equinox solid and both would burn up in the front part of the patterns and have almost no energy in the backends. The Transformer kept more energy to still allow better backend reactions even with the smoother layout that this Transformer has. On regular league night, I usually start with my benchmark Roto Grip Rockstar then move into stronger stuff, but more recently with the one center changing their house pattern to have more volume, the Rockstar is not strong enough to start out the night with. In the past 2 nights of league, I have been able to stay with this Transformer all 3 games and my sets were 724 and 738 with only 1 open frame in those 2 matches. Still going to keep my Roto Grip Rockstar in the bag, but with the most recent volume change at the one center, the bag will consist of the Transformer, a stronger drilled 900 Global Vengeance, and Roto Grip Gremlin. Now, if you want a stronger reaction, make sure you let your ball driller know to miss the morph wing and then it will get you a MUCH STRONGER reaction in the backend, strength similar to a hybrid cover with a storing asymmetrical core. The Transformer is definitely changing the sport of bowling with this updated innovation. Make sure you catch up with the Transformer and other new releases at the Matchmakers coming to your area soon. My next month’s events are: 3/1 - Colony Park Lanes and Bowlers’ Supply - York, Pa. 3/14 - Spins in Pittsburgh - Duff’s Pro Shop 3/15 - Hanover Bowling Centre - Hanover, Pa 3/22 - Bowlers Discount Pro Shop, Ellicott City, Md. 3/29 - Penndel Lanes - Penndel, Pa.
-
Roto Grip Transformer review by Chris Pollentier
Roto Grip Transformer Coverstock: V-R1 Solid Reactive Finish: 4000-grit Abralon Core: Morph-Wing Core RG: 2.51, Diff: 0.051, PSA: 0.015 (15 lbs.) VLS Layout: 3 3/4 x 5 1/4 x 1 3/4 Dual Angle Layout: 65 x 3 3/4 x 30 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 Roto Grip has introduced the all-new HP5 line and the first ball to be launched is the Transformer. The innovation of this ball centers around the asymmetric Morph-Wing Core which is designed to transform the core dynamics depending on layout and how the finger and/or thumb holes are drilled into the ball – thus transforming the core shape to help provide a tunable motion. Together with the V-R1 (Versatile Response) solid reactive cover, the Transformer is designed to provide versatile ball motion that aims to bridge the gap between benchmark and strong reaction balls. I put a fairly strong layout on my Transformer to take full advantage of the asymmetry in the core. This pin up layout kept much of the Morph-Wing Core intact (i.e., I did not drill into the wing). The result has been a strong, versatile, and controlled motion that can be used on all the oiliest or driest of lane conditions. Overall, I think the Transformer is similar in strength to something like the Roto Grip X-Cell but makes a stronger and more pronounced moved on the backend of the lane. The Transformer is a great first ball out of the bag and will give you a good read of how the lanes are playing. Plus, you can stay with it for an entire night of league as it has no issues with transition as the lanes open up. However, if you’re looking for something that rolls a bit smoother, the Transformer offers unparalleled drilling versatility – so you could have 2 in your bag that react completely different out on the lanes. Chris Pollentier Storm Pro Shop Staff #StormNation #SquadRG
-
Legendary
My Transformer was drilled to miss the wing mainly because I wanted to really see what this ball had to offer and I truly am impressed. I was able to use it on multiple nights of league. Depending on who we were bowling I was able to move left and shape it a little more and then a couple of the nights I was able to move right and play a little straighter. I was able to put up a couple of 250+ games so far with the ball. I have been contemplating drilling another one but this time through the wing as I am very curious to see the shape and motion this gives. Even with a 4000 grit finish this cover fits my eye.
-
Transformer(s)
Storm Transformer Coverstock: V-R1 Solid Finish: 4000 Grit Abralon Core: Morph-Wing Core (14 pd) RG: 2.53 Differential: 0.053 Int Diff: 0.013 Layout #1: 5 x 4 1/2 x 3 - 2LS Layout #2: 5 x 5 x 6 - 2LS Layout Extras: 2 1/8 Finger Depth, "X" - 4 1/2 D and 1 Inch Left Tester: PAP 6 1/2 R, 1 1/4 D Review: The Transformer features a VR-1 coverstock and a core design that will provide the bowler with an array of drilling options. The Transformer has been very intriguing and a huge hit at recent MatchMaker events. The reason? The coverstock is an absolute homerun for bowlers and is very flexible to surface changes. On both of my Transformers I avoided hitting the wing. As with age and being a slower speed player I do not need the extra pop by drilling into the wing. Also, I'm very rev dominant so getting the ball through the front part of the lane is key for me on any ball purchase. A similar ball to compare the Transformer to is the Storm Absolute Power. If you recall, the Absolute Power was sneaky good and a bit under the radar. However, both the Absolute Power and the Transformer provide very forgiving length. The Transformer provides good carry potential if you miss in or out on your shot. One final note to point out is that lane beds in the eastern region are continuing to get older and older. The need to create length and control with bowling ball offerings is continuing to grow. The Tranformer layouts provided by Pure It Bowling were spot on and the Transformers did not get forward to quick for me. Please be sure to visit your favorite pro shop today and don't forget to check in on Hit the Lanes with Danelle and Mike at: https://youtube.com/channel/UC1VA-MgFBo9mIZde-G3T11A for occasional video reviews. Be sure to grab your Storm Tranformer today! Michael Slatky 900 Global Staff Member York, PA
-
Attempted both layouts
Right Handed Ball weight: 15 Rev Rate: 425 Ball Speed: 17 Axis Tilt: 11 Axis Rotation: 40* PAP: 3 1/2 horizontal, 1 1/16 up Layout: I drilled two Transformers, one with a normal asym layout, leaving the wing intact and one drilling into the wing with my thumb. I have only used these on a couple of THS patterns but plan to try them on some PBA patterns soon. Wing intact (3 ¾ x 4 x 2 ¾) Using a normal asym layout gives me a traditional shape that I’ve come to expect with many asyms. The cover allows it to clear the fronts and pick up at the end of the pattern as expected. As the pattern transitions, I ran into some normal issues like the ball burning up right at the pocket creating some flat corners. I haven’t altered the surface yet, but I can see this one being good on burn with some shine or possibly playing the shim on a tighter pattern with some surface. Thumb in wing (4 3/16 x 6 x 3 ¾) This is a layout I would never use. I don’t tend to drill many balls with a large pin buffer (pin down), but to drill out the wing as suggested, this put the pin in my middle finger. Out of box, it was very even through the mids and did not overreact at the end of the pattern. I was able to manage the lane transition throughout the league session better than most nights, mostly because the ball never gave me any over/under and it still continued through the pins. I can see a variety of uses for this layout because it is so versatile.
-
Transformer!
The Transformer is the latest ball from Roto Grip to release in the all new HP5 line. The Transformer features Morph wing technology wrapped in VR-1 solid. The Transformer is the perfect blend between strength and shape which will allow it to be in play for a wide variety of patterns and conditions. The Transformer also allows you to have a wide variety of reactions based on if you drill into the Morph wing or you miss it. My Transformer did not hit the Morph wing with the fingers and is much cleaner and quicker down lane compared to one that did intersect the wing. The Transformer is now available from any Storm VIP pro shop! Review Video: https://youtu.be/4KONtVE3TMo?si=vvtn1KSP0m9-HI5K
-
Roto Grip Transformer
I think the thing I like most about this ball so far is its versatility. Depending on how you drill it and the surface you put on it, I feel like this can fill so many different needs or so many different arsenal slots for a variety of different styles. Where other bowling balls are what they are, this can be almost anything you need it to be at the time. The name "Transformer" is very fitting. Check out my YouTube review of the Transformer here: https://youtu.be/Rp2Bkn86Fd8
-
Transformer
Ball Specs: Roto Grip Transformer Core: Morph Wing Core Cover: 4000 Grit Abralon. V-R1 Solid Reactive Coverstock Review: The Roto Grip Transformer (HP5) redefines versatility with its innovative Morph-Wing™ Core, making it arguably the most "tunable" ball on the market. Unlike standard asymmetric cores, the Transformer allows you to fundamentally change the ball's engine based on the layout: drill into the "wing" for a smooth, benchmark control reaction, or drill away from it for sharp, angular torque. Wrapped in the versatile V-R1™ Solid Reactive coverstock, it offers a strong mid-lane read with exceptional continuation. Whether you need a heavy-rolling tank or a snap-heavy backend monster, the Transformer can be customized to fill almost any gap in your arsenal, making it an essential tool for the serious tournament bowler. Will Tefft Roto Grip Pro Shop Staff Member will@parklanes.net www.rotogrip.com #SquadRG
-
The Transformer!
Transformer • Roto Grip • HP5 Series Coverstock • V-R1 Solid Reactive Finish • 4000 Abralon Core • Morph-Wing Core Weight •.15 lb. RG • 2.51 Differential • .051 PSA •..015 Layout • 4 ¼ x 4 x 1 3/4 Tester PAP • 5” R, 5/8” D Tester Axis Tilt • 11° Tester Rev Rate • 300 Test Pattern • 42' THS (Typical House Shot) • Modified, Kegel Stone Street Roto Grip has released its first-ever HP5 Series ball, the all-new Transformer. Built on Roto Grip's new state-of-the-art technology, the Transformer marks a powerful new direction for Roto Grip. With the powerful, energy-driven morph-Wing Core and the V-R1 Solid Reactive Coverstock, the new Transformer from Roto Grip is more than a concept; it delivers amazing results. So, let's take a closer look at the pin-crushing Transformer! If you are like me, you have seen all the videos and information about the Morph-Wing Core, so I don't need to go over the technical jargon; however, I can clearly speak to the results it delivers. What I love about the Morph-Wing is that it's designed to mold the Transformer to the individual player. As a straighter, low-rev player, I drilled my Transformer without touching the wings and found exactly what Roto-Grip claimed it would do. I loved the powerful, angular, yet predictable motion the Morph-Wing Core provided. I loved the recovery it gave when I missed right, and I thoroughly enjoyed how the Transformer finds the lane and continues its path, whereas other asymmetric balls can be jumpy, erratic, or simply too much ball to control. So, if you are a straighter, low-rev player like me, the Morph-Wing Core makes the Transformer a great go-to ball for strength, power, and, most of all, adaptability to keep you scoring. The V-R1 Solid reactive coverstock is ideal for straighter players like me! On a fresh THS, I enjoyed the smooth traction the V-R1 provided to my Transformer. I liked how the V-R1 cuts through the front without being overly aggressive, letting the Transformer read the mid-lane with its smooth, predictable traction. What stood out most about the V-R1 was its ability to deliver stability with the power I needed off the pattern. I loved how the V-R1 allowed my Transformer to make a decisive turn, own its direction, and continue with the authority I need as a straighter player. I found the V-R1 to be a great complement to the Morph-Wing Core, and their combination gave my straighter, low-rev hand a competitive edge against those younger, high-speed, high-rev two-hander bowlers! In conclusion, I found the all-new HP5 Series Transformer a fantastic new ball from Roto Grip. If you are a straighter, low-rev player like me, the Transformer, with its strength, power, and adaptability, would make an excellent addition to your arsenal! Since the Transformer is the first ball in the HP5 Series, I don't think it would be fair to compare it to another ball. However, I will say that the Transformer is designed to be molded to you as an individual player! To get the most out of the Transformer, I highly recommend speaking with your local Storm VIP Pro Shop Operator about the layout and drilling that would suit your game best! So, stop into your local Storm VIP Pro Shop today and speak with your most trusted ball fitter to see how to get the most out of the incredible new Transformer by Roto Grip! It is well worth the conversation! Rick Klimowicz Storm Products Pro Shop Staff Roll the Ball Pro Shop Penndel, PA
-
Very versatile
Layout: 60 x 4 1/2 x 75 The Roto Grip Transformer is something new and unique from the Roto line that I truly love. It’s not too early, and not overly clean in motion. For an asym solid, it fits a unique spot for a reliable shape. I went pin down because of my higher tilt and it was perfect! I recommend this ball for league and tournament conditions. I did not choose the wing layout, but I am definitely going to drill another and give it a try! Don’t sleep on this ball, it’s a sure win!
-
Transform your game
New technology changes the game with this one. Drill the wing out? Gives it more flip down lane. Keep the wing? Smooth of the spot. Both ways, it goes through the pins so well! Very impressed. This ball will be good when you need control but power!
-
Transformer
Transformer - Ball Specs Cover Stock: V-R1 Solid Finish: 4000 Grit Core: Morph Wing RG: 2.51 Differential: 0.051 Intermediate Diff: .015 Review The Roto Grip Transormer features the all new Morph Wing Core Technology and VR-1 solid cover to enhance it versatility and responsiveness. My Transformer is drilled pin down with the center of gravity kicked out to the right missing the wing. This layout in combination with the VR-1 solid cover at 4000 grit allowed me play straight up the track area. I was also able to move left of center and swing the Transformer outside five board (dry boards) without over reaction. I tested this ball on 43 feet typical house pattern. As a mid to low rev player, I see this ball being my first choice on medium to heavy oil patterns. This ball will be in my bag for league and tournaments. This is a great ball for all levels of bowlers. Order one from your local pro shop today! My ball review videos are posted on YouTube channel Stanley Waite. Stanley Waite 900 Global Staff Member Dover, DE
-
Tunable and Transformer
Roto-Grip Transformer Core - Morph Wing RG - 2.51, Diff - .051 4000 Abrasion Finish The Transformer from Roto Grip, is a Solid Asym with high flare potential that is great for Medium-Heavy oil patterns. The colorway of this ball is easy on the eyes and easy to read going down the lane. I drilled this pin up missing the wing at 4 x 5 x 2. Out of the box I rolled this on a fresh house shot pattern. The motion on this ball started just past the middle of the lane with a very strong backend staying continuous through the pins. The 4000 finish held well when I missed left but when I missed right, it still had enough engine to recover and finish strong. Overall, this ball will be great for all bowlers at all levels. The cover is versatile and I will be changing the surface to experiment how strong this ball can actually be. I foresee the Transformer being a staple in league play and in tournament bags. On a side note, we have drilled several pin down layouts for customers with great results, where one customer shot 806 out of the box. Great ball that is tunable for all bowlers looking to transform their game! Mike Walker Anne Marie Duggan’s Pro Shop
-
Transformer
Transformer Pin Up Dual Angle: 55 x 4 1/2 x 25 Storm Vector: 4 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 1 3/4 The Roto Grip Transformer features the V-R1 Solid Reactive cover stock wrapped around the game changing Morph-Wing Core. I drilled my first Transformer pin up and it was very clean through the front of the lane and made a sharp transition similar to a pearl ball. After a few games the back end smoothed out and gave me a look closer to a traditional solid. Overall the pin up Transformer has been my favorite on a typical house shot. https://youtu.be/io-HTusUSGk Transformer Pin Down Dual Angle: 80 x 4 x 70 I drilled my 2nd Transformer pin down directly into the wing. This drilling created a earlier, smoother, and more predictable ball motion which is perfect for a fresh house shot or longer sport shot. https://youtu.be/io-HTusUSGk
-
Transformer
The Roto Grip Transformer has been one of the most interesting additions to my bag because of how adaptable it feels compared to other solids out there. The Morph-Wing Core and V-R1 Solid Reactive coverstock combo gives it a very strong, controllable read on medium to medium-heavy oil, but what really stands out for me is how much you can tune its reaction based on layout. You can choose between cleaner, more angular looks and heavier, earlier hook out of the same ball just by changing how it’s drilled, making it feel like two balls in one. Compared to other strong solids like the Hyperdrive, the Transformer hits a sweet spot: it’s not as “one-shape-fits-all” as a traditional solid, but that tunability means I can use it earlier in blocks or when the lanes start opening up and I want to stay aggressive without losing control. The backend motion feels strong but predictable, and on fresh patterns it gives me confidence I won’t get stuck or burn up too quick. Go to your local SPI proshop to get yours today!
-
Transformer Review by Kyle, Joel, & Dean Johnson
Roto Grip Transformer Coverstock: V-R1™ Solid Reactive 4000 grit Core: Morph-Wing™ (Asymmetrical) Color: Indigo/Violet/Slate Review: There was a LOT of information on this release so we hope you didn’t get lost in the sauce because this ball is definitely a game changer for SPI. This is the first intentional shaped core with special drilling designed to change the dynamics of how the ball will react on the lanes. Our style: tweener, 350-375 revs, 16.5mph, layout of choice is 4x4x2 (pin is above bridge). The big question is leave the wing or take the wing out? This really depends on what kind of shape you want. If an earlier, smoother motion throughout the lane is warranted, then you will likely drill out the wing. If you want a later, more continuous look through the pins, then you will likely want to leave the wing. This ball with the wing drilled out rolls a lot like a Gem. Big engine that is very forward rolling. You can really manipulate the shape and blend patterns well. This ball with the wing in is very different and continuous. Like an Origin or Equinox that is slightly more continuous. You really can tell the difference when that wing flips and that weight block drives through the pins. This is a really cool release and we hope that people aren’t scared by the amount of information put out. Kyle, Joel, & Dean Johnson SPI Pro Shop Staff Members kyle@parklanes.net joel@parklanes.net dean@parklanes.net www.stormbowling.com #StormNation #GoGlobal #SquadRG