Roto Grip Clone Bowling Ball Review
Every bowler has their favorite gear, and there has been a lot of buzz about a new player on the scene: the Roto Grip Clone Bowling Ball, which rolled out on August 18th, 2023. Everyone’s ears perked up, but the real question is: does it deliver on the lanes?
To get the complete picture, In this Roto Grip Clone Bowling Ball Review, we have brought together five bowlers, from those who play in big leagues to those who just enjoy a casual game with friends. They have tested the bowling ball and are here to share their honest review. Read on to get the scoop from real bowlers on whether the Roto Grip Clone lives up to its reputation.
We have the Roto Grip Clone with the following bowling balls.
Table of Contents
Features:
- Coverstock: OptiTrax Solid Reactive
- Core: CLONED E.T. (14-16#)
- Core Type: Asymmetric
- Factory Finish: Reacta Gloss
- Lane Condition: Medium to Medium Heavy Oil
- Flare Potential: High
- Breakpoint Shape: Strong Overall Hook
- Color: Alien/Deep Mist/Cyber Grape
- Weights: 12-16 lbs
- Performance: High-Performance Balls
- Warranty: 1 Year
12lb
13lb
14lb
15lb
16lb
12lb
- Radius of Gyration: 2.59
- Differential: 0.029
- Preferred Spin Axis (PSA): 0.008
13lb
- Radius of Gyration: 2.57
- Differential: 0.032
- Preferred Spin Axis (PSA): 0.010
14lb
- Radius of Gyration: 2.53
- Differential: 0.056
- Preferred Spin Axis (PSA): 0.016
15lb
- Radius of Gyration: 2.51
- Differential: 0.056
- Preferred Spin Axis (PSA): 0.016
16lb
- Radius of Gyration: 2.50
- Differential: 0.054
- Preferred Spin Axis (PSA): 0.016
Bowler 1
As a dedicated bowler and reviewer, my days are often filled with the thrill of experimenting with the latest in bowling technology. Recently, I had the unique opportunity to dive deep into the world of Roto Grip’s latest offering: The Clone. An uncanny and playful twist of fate brought it to my attention. I took the Roto Grip Clone for a test run, and here is what I discovered.
First Impression
The first question I had in mind was “Is this ball a replica of the UFO alert, a ball many bowlers adore?” From my initial impressions, it might not be. But let’s delve deeper and test it out with some shots.
Technical Specifications
The Clone features the same core as the UFO Alert, possessing a solid coverstock. Both balls glisten with a shiny finish. When observing the ball reaction, I noticed the layouts are somewhat similar.
Observations and Adjustments
Given its solid nature and stronger core, I anticipate it to pick up swiftly. From the trio of shots I have executed, it is remarkably responsive to hand position modifications. I have incrementally shifted to the left after each shot, roughly three times.
Visual Comparisons
What resemblances did I pick up on? Both balls flaunt a vibrant green. They share the same mass bias and have an identical little emblem – an amusing alien ship figure.
Performance Analysis
I am leaning toward making some surface adjustments. It seems to rise a tad quickly straight out of the box. Currently, the ball reaction appears satisfactory. But when I compare it with the Alert, it is a tough competition.
Final Thoughts
Roto Grip Clone might be the nearest alternative for those considering replacing their UFO Alert. As of now, it is the closest counterpart available in the market. How should I proceed with this ball in its current state? I am reluctant to seal the cap. What is my final take? Well, it is a commendable clone. When asked about my sentiments regarding this ball, it is a mixture of feelings. It is notably responsive.
Bowler 2
After much anticipation, I finally got my hands on the Roto Grip Clone Bowling Ball, and it was worth the wait. From the impeccable design to the performance, let me share my firsthand experience with you.
New Releases
First, I am exploring the Roto Grip Clone, and I also have the Tour Dynam-X to delve into, but I will touch on that in a separate review article.
Roto Grip Clone Review
Now, onto the Clone. I have opted for the 45 by 4.5 by 45 layout on this one, positioning the pin right above my bridge. I have decided to test it out on a standard 44-foot league condition and am eager to see its capabilities.
My Bowling Philosophy
I often hear people say that bowling is a dying sport, but I could not disagree more. My passion is crystal clear: For the Love of Bowling, which is evident in every ball I review.
Performance Analysis
Transitioning back to the ball analyses. After examining the Tour Dynam-X, I moved on to the Clone, which has the same layout. I notice the Clone bears similarities with the Tour Dynam-X, but it responds faster down the lane. For my style, I classify this ball as an Asymm. As I drift left, I find that I can decelerate, manipulate my hand positioning around the ball, and allow it to glide down the lane before it strikes with vigor.
Pro Tips
Throughout my play sessions, I have realized the importance of replacing the thumb hole tape before diving into a game. It is crucial not to stick with tape that has been there for an entire season; it can negatively influence your game.
Comparative Analysis
In comparison with other balls, the Clone surges faster down the lane than the Dynam-X Tour. This makes it my go-to for later rounds or when I am angling further left.
Final Thoughts
Roto Grip Clones’ performance, coupled with the tips and tricks I employed, made for an unforgettable bowling experience. If you are as intrigued as I was, I would recommend heading over to your local pro shop to secure yours.
Bowler 3
When you are as passionate about bowling as I am, testing out new balls is not just a hobby; it is a way of life. Recently, I had the opportunity to try out the Roto Grip Clone, and I am here to spill all the details, firsthand experiences, and little nuggets of wisdom from my time at the lanes.
Specifications and Build
I headed over to stormbowling.com to look up the write-up on this particular ball. Trust me; it is worth the read. The Clone I tested came with specs of 2.51, 0.56, and 0.16 intermediate diff. It features an OptiTrax solid with a reactive gloss finish. My measurements for this ball were about 5 and a quarter by 6 by 3.
Test Environment
Today, I opted for something a little different. I was at AMF Louisville, but instead of the regular, I bowled on a 42-foot pattern with a total oil volume of 38 mL. The volume on this ball felt significant. The ball is aptly named “Clone” and uses a core that I remember from the UFO Alert. Its bright green really stands out.
Performance Analysis
Even with its high volume, the pattern felt pretty flat, almost like a sport type PBA pattern. It has its nuances but is not overbearing. To my surprise, I managed a 3-10 split, which I jokingly referred to as an “alien abduction.”
The ball had a noticeable flare on the lane. The OptiTrax solid cover was aggressive, but thanks to its gloss finish, it seemed to glide down the lane with ease. I noticed an out of bounds area around the seventh and eighth marks, guiding my play deeper. For context, the pattern had about 10 mL more than the average house pattern, which usually ranges between 25 and 28 in total oil volume.
Comparative Review
I was thrilled with my first double. The Clone performed beyond expectations. I drew a comparison between the Phaze II and an Absolute, and with a bit of rotation, the Clone seemed to be in its element. Typically, with reactive gloss balls, I like to make minor adjustments. A subtle dusting with a 2000 pad brought out a hook that was just right.
This ball’s curve was evident on the house pattern at AMF Lewisville. It felt just right for medium to high oil conditions. This is the one for bowlers with a faster ball speed or those who often wish their ball hooked more. Its shine does not compromise its ability to hook.
In comparison to other balls, the Absolute, with its factory finish reactor gloss, appeared a tad cleaner and longer. On denser oil patterns, the Clone definitely had the upper hand over the Absolute by a margin of about three boards. And the Phase Two? Well, if I missed the mark just a bit, it hooked sooner. Among the three, with a 1000 surface finish, the Phase Two took the crown for being the earliest to hook.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Roto Grip’s Clone is an ace for those who bowl on medium to high oil volumes. It’s especially suited for those like me who tend to be speed dominant but still crave that strong ball continuation.
Bowler 4
Bowling has always been a passion of mine, both as a professional PBA bowler and as a reviewer who enjoys diving deep into the details of each ball’s performance. Recently, I had the pleasure of testing out the Roto Grip Clone, and I wanted to share my firsthand experience with all of you.
Key Features
From the HP4 line, this is a noticeably strong ball – indeed, a high-end aggressive bowling ball. The first thing that caught my eye was its unique two shades of green and its polished finish. When you encounter a high-end ball with such a finish, you get a clear indication of its intended direction.
Comparison with the UFO Series
It’s evident that it wasn’t designed to hook as much as the Gem. However, once I delved into its specifications and the core’s design, it’s evident that this is still a powerhouse of a bowling ball. Named the ET core, it initially made its debut in the UFO series. Some of you might recall the UFO alert from that series, which was quite popular. I have a hunch that this ball was designed to mirror its attributes. Had it been given a dull finish, it would have given off vibes of a UFO reincarnation.
Functional Analysis
I remember how the UFO alert was a favorite among many. In fact, I used it quite often, and I know many who continue to prefer it. For this review, I have chosen a relatively easy pattern loaded with enough oil, allowing me to experiment with various parts of the lane. My aim is to gauge its performance when I go left and steep to see if it rolls out excessively and how it fares with pins when thrown from a steep angle. I have also given it a whirl a bit towards the right.
Comparison with the Exotic Gem
After several shots with the Clone, I decided to compare its performance with the Exotic Gem. On the other hand, the Clone showcases a more pronounced angle responsiveness, perhaps a culmination of its slightly gentler core and the Optitrax cover, which I found to be quite efficient.
Testing from the Left
Subsequently, I decided to test the Clone’s prowess from an extreme left position. If the Clone mirrors the UFO alert, which I remember as being more angular than a plethora of other pearlized asymmetric balls, then it solidifies its place as a pivotal ball.
The Ultimate Test
For a conclusive test, I decided to challenge myself with a single shot to ascertain if I could clinch a strike with the Clone. And to my delight, I managed to nail it, underscoring the ball’s potential.
Final Thoughts
Wrapping up, that was my experience with the Roto Grip Clone. I would highly recommend giving it a shot at your local Pro Shop. This ball has its unique charm, especially if you liked the UFO Alert. Even on an off-day, I managed to pull off a strike with it.
Bowler 5
In this review, I will be comparing the brand-new Clone to the Roto Grip Gem. Let’s see how they stack up against each other.
The Gem: A Legacy Ball
I examined the Clone and the Gem side by side. Starting with the Gem, I found that I really had to gas it out to ensure it breezed through the fronts before it began to slow down and hook. With the Gem, I did not need to put as much effort into the throw; it is a powerful piece. It stands as one of the strongest balls that Storm, Roto Grip, and 900 Global currently have on offer. It blends out the lane with remarkable precision.
The Gem is a true epitome of the Roto Grip legacy, which reminds me of the classic strong Roto Grip asymmetrical solids. Think back to the likes of the Hyper Cell and then to the Halo. The progression seemed to go Hyper Cell to No Rules and then to the Halo. Both the Halo and the Hyper Cell hold special places in my collection, and the Gem is no exception. It is a powerhouse, incredibly versatile. However, when I moved significantly to the left on the lane, it got a tad lazy.
The Clone: A Modern Response
Switching gears to the Clone, I started where I had with the Gem. The Clone was noticeably smoother in the front part of the lane but was more reactive at the breakpoint compared to the Gem. With every shift I made with the Clone, I noticed its responsiveness.
Especially when it encountered friction, the Clone was quick to react and change direction. The differences became even more evident when I concluded the session with both balls. With the Gem, I achieved a light mixer, while with the Clone, I aimed for the 8-9 pocket, highlighting their distinct behaviors.
Final Thoughts
Wrapping things up, my analysis boils down to this: While the Gem stands out as an incredibly strong contender, arguably the strongest ball in my current arsenal, the Roto Grip Clone Bowling Ball fills a unique niche. It’s reminiscent of the dynamic between the UFO Alert and the Gem. When I felt the Gem was exerting a bit too much power and the Clean Pearl Asymmetrics became overly responsive down lane, the Clone settled perfectly into that role, much like the UFO Alert did for me.
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