Post by: admin on December 31, 1969, 06:00:00 PM
- COVERSTOCK: MOTIVator-X
- FINISH: 4000 Wet Sand
- RG RATING: 16#-2.59, 15#-2.59, 14#-2.61, 13#-2.62, 12#-2.62, 11#-2.69 , 10#-2.75
- RG DIFFERENTIAL: 16#-.018, 15#-.025, 14#-.025, 13#-.030, 12#-.038, 11#-.22, 10#-.10
- FLARE POTENTIAL: 2"+ (Low)
- HOOK POTENTIAL: 30 (Medium)
- LENGTH: 30 (Medium)
- DRIVE ENERGY: 36 (Medium-High)
- Recommended Lane Condition: Light Oil or Short Oil Patterns
- DESCRIPTION: Plan a controlled strike against the competition with the MOTIV Recon RX1. It features the new Recon inner core and is armored with MOTIVator-X coverstock for a controlled reaction on light oil, or shorter oil patterns.
The Recon core drives the RX1 into the heat of battle. It provides a higher RG to control revs and a moderate differential to smooth out reaction down the lane. The 15# RX1 has an RG of 2.59 and a .025 diff.
The MOTIVator-X cover on the Reconâ„¢ RX1 compliments the core perfectly for attacking light oil conditions. It has a urethane-like reaction to tame friction on the lanes, yet still provides excellent recovery and hitting power.
The factory finish on the Bright Orange RX1 is 4000 wet sand. This finish will provide length and a smooth breakpoint.
The Reverb outer core of the RX1 is a low-density polyester resin with pin piercing hardness and strength. Rather than absorb impact energy, this outer core reverberates energy as it explodes through the pins.
The MOTIV Recon RX1 features the most visually impactful NeoMark graphic yet. And, as with all NeoMark graphics, the logo is actually part of the coverstock so it can be sanded, polished, or tuned just like any other performance ball.
Post by: Motiv Girl on July 27, 2010, 02:30:56 PM
My Information:Ball Speed- 16mph avg.,Rev Rate-275rpm''s avg.,
Axis Rotation-45 Degrees,Axis Tilt-15 Degrees,Right-handed.
Specs of ball tested:Top Weight-2.9 oz.,3"pin,Box Surface-4000
grit wet/sand,
Drilling: Pin over middle finger,5 3/4",Cg 4 3/4'' from PAP,No X-Hole.
Lanes:Brunswick Anvilane,Wood lanes,
The all new MOTIV Recon core has a higher RG and a moderate Diff.,
that helps get the RX1 down the lane.
Matched up with the milder MOTIVator-X coverstock from the
SX1 and the TX1 will complement the core.
The shocking orange color is turning heads,and causing people to
ask what you are throwing.
I have not thrown a ball this mild in a long time.Especially a ball
that was not urethane.
Other reactives that are supposed to go long are too skid flip.The
RX1 is all about control and roll.
On Dry Lanes and Second Shift House Shots
The RX1 gave me very good length throughout the heads and mids.
At the exit point to the breakpoint,the RX1 was clean and mild.
When the RX1 hit the breakpoint there was no sign of flip,
only a very mild arc.The cover and core helps lesson the response
off the dry.
For me playing dry lanes without having to move past third arrow
was great.Being able to stand at 25 and releasing the ball off my
hand at 20,and not having to target deeper than 15 on the lane,
helped me stay more square to the target,and not have to make
diagonal moves.The moves were mostly parallel adjustments.
On a Fresh House Shot:41'' and very dry outside the 7th board.
This ball was surprising.The RX1 allowed me me stand right and
roll it right up 5-6.The RX1 cleared the heads and mids without ever
wanting to stand up early.When it hit the breakpoint,on the fresh
house shot,there was no sign of the RX1 ever wanting to jump.
The RX1 is what a entry level ball should be."Control".
Overall the RX1 is a great piece for the entry level pricing.
Angela Wilt,MOTIV Staff Member
--------------------
MOTIV GIRL
--------------------
MOTIV GIRL
Post by: joshs on July 27, 2010, 09:19:49 PM
layout #2: 4 pin, box surface
This ball is a beast on short or dry patterns! I'm a good 8-10 boards right with this ball compared to my SX1's with similar layouts, on the THS.
Threw this on cheetah, and am really pleased with the reaction I got with both balls. It isn't as jumpy off the dry boards as the other balls in the current line-up. The long pin ball gets down the lane better and has a sharper breakpoint while the shorter pin has a smoother reaction. With the way they are now, layout #1 is stronger than layout #2 for me. It allows me to start with the #1 and when it starts being a little too strong at the breakpoint, i can switch to the #2 and all is well. This is an excellent addition to the MOTIV line and should be in everyone's bag!
you can check out a video of these balls here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOHeSnjDH6Q
the last couple shots are with a SX1 with the same 5 5/8 pin layout to show how much weaker the RECON is.
--------------------
"Every Strike brings me closer to my next homerun"
Motiv Regional/Amateur Staff
Turbo Regional Staff
Post by: dugbark on July 28, 2010, 01:10:42 AM
The Recon RX1 ball was designed for light and short oil patterns. The ball is as advertised. It pushes through the heads with ease as long as it can find a trace of oil. When the ball finds friction it makes a smooth yet continuous move to the pocket. I was able to use the RX1 playing both down the boards as well as swinging it out to the dry. The ball recovered well, but not in a skid flip manner and as you can tell from the attached video, kept the pins low when the pocket was hit.
If you use this ball as designed, that is on patterns that are either short (less than 37 feet) or broken down by league or tournament play, it will be a very effective ball. To throw it on a fresh THS (Typical House Shot) will take someone with much more hand than I have.
The RX1 gives Motiv a piece of equipment for Motiv believers to step down to when their QZ1's are too much, and it will complete very effectively with other companies mild/dry lane/short shot balls. I'm very colorblind but my daughters think the Orange Ball and the Neomark Graphic makes the ball very pleasing to the eye and will give it good shelf appeal.
Dug Barker Asst. Coach Bellarmine University BTM Youth Writer
--------------------
Dug Barker
Bellarmine University Coach
BTM Youth Writer
Ken-Bowl Lanes Youth Director
Post by: nmbr1sun99 on July 28, 2010, 11:03:49 PM
Surface of the ball: left in the box condition.
Ball speed: 17 mph
The reaction is lengthy with a nice moderate reaction past the oil. Perfect for a short oil pattern and/or a burnt broken down pattern.
I recently threw the Recon on a fresh THS along with a TZ3 with the same layout, as seen here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVj_mthI6BE
The Recon had more length with an arcing reaction where the TZ3 was snappier on the backend. There was a 5 board difference in reaction where the TZ3 was stronger.
The Recon filled the need for a lengthy predictable ball, that is able to have a consistent reaction through the heads and dry.
And yes..... It does pick up 10 pins too. Double duty as a spare ball.
An excellent ball for anyone who is looking for a ball for short and broken down patterns.
--------------------
300''s - 6
800''s - 2 (820, 834)
High Avg - 238
PBA Member
MOTIV Seed Program Member
In my bag:
- Motiv GT1
- Motiv SR2
- Motiv TR2 (2)
- Motiv QZ1 (Red)
- Motiv TZ3
- Motiv RX1 (Recon)
Post by: aulbyfan on August 11, 2010, 03:13:45 PM
I have thrown this ball on the cheeteh pattern on both wood and synthech lanes and it works great on both. It is so clean threw the heads and even when it sees dry it is so smooth. This ball will also work on broken down lanes. I am going to drill one similar but with some surface. Again Motiv has come out with a great ball. I am so glad to be on Motiv staff and they have the best on the market. Get Motivated!!!
Doug Cutler
Motiv Regional Staff
1 Regional Total
26 300's
13 800's
Post by: mick31 on August 15, 2010, 11:18:11 AM
Also, there this ball on a Cheetah & Viper pattern. Worked very well on both as long as I didn't try to over grab and/or 'juice it' at the bottom of my swing. The pin carry with this ball, as well as all balls from Motiv, was excellent! Really keeps the pins low and throws them around. Really amazed at the hitting power of this ball.
If you are looking for a light oil/dry lane type ball, this is the baby for you! You will not be sorry. Another great ball from Motiv.
Post by: mmaloney23 on August 15, 2010, 08:27:15 PM
i bowl 16mph 275 revs 45 deg axis 13 deg tilt
check out my video of this ball
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bl5y3wU4t6g
thanks
Post by: xman879 on August 16, 2010, 03:36:37 PM
My Recon is drilled 4" X 3" (3" pin) My ball speed is about 17 mph, my rev rate is 280, ball at box finish. Check out my video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpGXno4jk40
--------------------
Cory
MOTIV Amateur Staff
35 300s
32 800s (879 High)
"Get MOTIVated"
Post by: rotofan775 on August 27, 2010, 04:31:51 AM
--------------------
7-10 split converted on 01/24/08, 2nd in 5 yrs
"Do, or do not. There is no try." Yoda
(Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back)
http://members.bowl.com/FindAMember/memberView.aspx?ms=8&mp=6861&s=2005-2006
New HI game of 248 with my Roto Grip Spare Tire!!! Heck Yes!!
www.bowlingkingdom.com
Post by: catinthehat300 on September 10, 2010, 01:11:40 AM
Power tweener - 17+ mph
rev rate 340-380
ave. 220+ (house) 200 (sport)
The basics
Stock cover prep (4000 wet sand)
4" pin above ring finger with cg right about 1 inch and balance hole in p1 position.
What I expected was a super long spare/fried lane ball - high RG and Low differential. What I got was a ball that is stronger than expected and hits like a truck! The best comparison for me would be like the Urethane Hammer balls of the 80's/90's, but with the punch at the pins of a Resin ball from the REVERB outer core. WHAT A COMBINATION!
If you are looking for control, with a punch when the lanes are dry, or on shorter Sport pattern, THIS IS THE BALL! It can replace your spare ball most of the time, but doesn't hit like when a spare ball when you need it for a strike ball. And to top it off - it looks AWESOME!
EVERYONE should have one of these in their bags! Get one before the competition does.
--------------------
300x17
800x6
Post by: batbowler on September 21, 2010, 03:18:52 AM
--------------------
"Train a child up in the way they should go and when they are old they will "Get MOTIVated, and not turn from it and become a bowling VISIONARY who sees a striking future.
Bruce Campbell
USBC Bronze Certified Coach
IBPSIA Certified Technician
Originator of the -35deg x 25 leverage drilling!
http://www.motivbowling.com/products/2/
http://www.brunswickbowling.com/
http://visionarybowling.com/?cat=4
Post by: mrpinblaster2 on October 20, 2010, 11:43:13 AM
Coverstock:
The RX1 bowling ball features the MOTIVator-Xâ„¢ reactive coverstock. It provides a controllable reaction on light to medium oil.
It has a urethane-like reaction to tame friction, yet still provides excellent recovery and hitting power.
Box Finish
The factory finish on the Bright Orange RX1 is 4000 wet sand. This finish will provide length and a smooth breakpoint.
Inner Core
It provides a higher RG to control revs and a moderate differential to smooth out reaction down the lane. The RX1 has an RG of 2.59 and a .025 diff (15# ball).
Compared to the TX1 which has the same cover but different core, the TX1’s Thrust inner core RG is 2.54 with a differential of .052 (15# ball).
The MOTIVâ„¢ Recon RX1 features the most visually impactful NeoMark graphic yet. And, as with all NeoMark graphics, the logo is actually part of the coverstock so it can be sanded, polished, or tuned just like any other performance ball.
First Recon drilled:
Axis Point - 5" over 0" up/down
Pin to PAP- 2 1/2"
CG Placement - lower right quadrant, left of pin
Balance Hole – small hole just past axis point
Dual Angle Layout - 60* x 2 1/2" x 25*
Surface Preparation - Out of Box (4000 Wet Sand)
Second Recon drilled:
Axis Point - 5" over 0" up/down
Pin to PAP- 4 1/4"
CG Placement - upper right quadrant, just left of pin
Balance Hole – no hole
Dual Angle Layout - 65* x 4 1/4" x 35*
Surface Preparation - Out of Box (4000 Wet Sand)
Review:
The reaction from this ball is just what Motiv advertises, smooth through the fronts and midlanes then continuous in the back part of the lane. Again this ball is made for short to light oil patterns.
Recommendations:
My recommendations is to use this ball where it shines best and that is very short patterns with very clean backends. Don’t drill this ball weak since the cover is what gets the ball down the lane not the drill pattern. Why drill a second Recon? With the first Recon I drilled which was basically a ‘laydown core’ I was needing just a bit more backend reaction for conditions which contained a blend of oil further down the lane. The second Recon did what I expected, with a more aggressive pin placement, I was able to get more backend reaction for the condition I was trying to overcome.
Summary:
Even with a laydown core, the RX1 did not roll-up earlier like you see with a lot of balls drilled with this pattern. The smooth cover and high RG of this ball makes it travel effortlessly through the fronts and midlanes. This ball is an eye catcher because of its bright orange color and NeoMark graphic. This ball is a must on short pattern with aggressive backends … hint Cheetah pattern!
Ernie Segura
Motiv Seed Program (Michigan)
USBC Certified Silver Level Coach
35 Certified 300’s
19 Certified 800’s
Post by: bowlers design pro shop on November 12, 2010, 03:47:30 PM
We had a customer buy a 14 lb, after practice he sent us a text message claiming this ball hits like a 17lb ball, the following week he bought 2 more. All have different layouts and he loves them all. Can't wait for the Silver and Black Pearl to come out.
David
PBA Member
Member MOTIV Staff
Post by: Sikfish on December 02, 2010, 02:41:17 PM
Stats are in my profile.
Ball Layout:
60 x 4 1/4" x 50 pin down, p2.5 hole, 4000 Abralon
Surfaces I used this ball on: DBA IQ & Anvilane Gen. 1
House #1 (DBA IQ) & House #2 (Anvilane)- I bowl 2 leagues each at these alleys and they are vastly different as to the caliber of players you see and lines to the pocket. I usually start at both houses with this ball. I refresh the surface on a regular basis with this ball as it is my benchmark ball also. I will start in the track with this ball (13 - 8) and slowly chase it in as it dries up. This ball is clean through the fronts, not perfect because of alittle surface, but does a great job at reading the back of the pattern and making a nice move to the pocket, no over/under here...just good roll. Once the track is dried up enough...the pearl recon comes out and literally "shines"! This is a very versatile ball IMHO, some maybe able to start with it, and some may not...but everyone matches up differently.
Thanks you for reading.
Brian
MOTIV STAFF
www.motivbowling.com
Post by: dizzyfugu on December 17, 2010, 02:33:54 PM
Why this ball?
Two reasons why I bought an RX1. First of all: curiosity. I had wanted to try Motiv balls since their introduction, but had a hard time assessing their relative strength to other equipment and never saw a window for "another ball" in my arsenal to justify a purchase.
But: since the RX1 is intended to be a light condition ball, and I felt a need for a weak reactive piece after traumatic events in league recently. Since Motiv balls have officially become available here in Germany, I gave this ball a try.
About me:
Style = Stroker/mild tweener, right-handed
Speed = ~14-16 mph
PAP = 5" over & 7/8" up (high track)
Axis tilt = ~20°
Revs = ~275-325 RPM at release
For more details, check out my profile, please.
The ball and its setup:
From the start I wanted to have the ball drilled with the pin above the fingers, for extra length, since the coverstock's strength was not certain. Therefore, my RX1 specimen came with the following specs:
As per usual, I had the ball drilled up at Michael Kraemer's pro shop in Duisburg, Germany.
Relying on his expertise (and having already drilled two RX1's) the ball was drilled 5.25x4.75 with the pin above the bridge (3.5" above midline, ~5.5" above VAL) and the CG on the midline in the palm, just moved 0.5" towards PAP for a sound weight distribution. No balance hole was necessary, but that was left open as an option if the ball should prove to be too weak with this layout:
Dual angle specs:
70° drilling angle
5.25" pin to PAP, above the fingers
70° angle to VAL
The 70° drilling angle delay's the ball's roll. The large angle between the Pin to PAP line and the VAL of 70° raises the RG and lowers the total differential of the drilled ball - on top of the overall weak layout and specs. These changes result in the ball revving up slower and transitioning slower - and that's exactly what it does!
==========
====+=====
===o=o====
==========
=====#====
==========
====O=====
==========
* = Pin
# = CG
Pictures of the ball and layout sketch can be found in the test video provided below.
Black oval grips and a urethane thumb slug completed the setup. I left the surface as it was, at 4.000 grit, which is pretty shiny but not glossy.
The testing program:
The balls in my current arsenal which come close to the RX1 are:
I expected the RX1 to be weaker than the Renegade, but due to its modern coverstock and higher RG to be snappier than the Pure Hammer with its urethane-resin blend coverstock.
OOB surface - 4.000 grit
A.1) Maiden flight on 37' fresh THS, 2004 Qubica synth surface:
The first shots took place in Duisburg's Treff Bowling, Germany, on a fresh THS. This initial games were intended to find out the ball's overall strength and its place in my arsenal.
After warming up my first shot with the RX1 was a bit of a surprise: standing at 20 with my right shoe tip and sending the ball out between 1st and 2nd arrow with an average hand position left me with a clean washout! The ball did not recover at all, went almost straight despite some good revs, and just covered 4-5 boards in total, missing the 1 pin completely to the right. That was much less than I had expected!
A second shot confirmed this reaction and showed that the ball would not get into a stable roll.
Therefore, I moved my feet and target closer to the gutter (right foot at 18, target still at 8 between the arrows and breaking on 8-10th board) and changed my hand position to maximum behind the ball, even added some cupped wrist for extra revs and roll - and that was all it took to get the ball to function.
To my surprise, the overall hook of the ball was very even, smooth and small. It started its curve pretty early - could be early traction on the buffed outside area on the THS. Control and feedback from the lane was excellent, though - I rarely experienced first shots with a new ball that inspired so much confidence and made adjustment that easy. First game was a clean 227, later even a 256 followed. Not bad at all for a ball I had been unfamiliar with.
Other observations included several stone 4 pins in a row after good pocket hits, which could easily be mended with slight hand position changes - a simple entry angle issue, I assume.
Additionally, the ball would start reading the lane earlier once the original line had been played upon for about 3 games. Changing the hand position (adding tilt for longer skid and cupping the wrist a bit more to compensate on the back end for the delayed break point) was a simple adjustment, though, which allowed me to stay on the same line without any sacrifice in control or carry.
Only after I felt the original line drying up I dared moving a bit deeper again - wide belly shots and recovery is certainly not the ball's strength, at least with my setup. But I moved to 20 with my feet, aiming for 2nd arrow and a break point at 8-10th board, and this still worked fine.
I also tried a way different line much closer to the gutter (right foot at 15, playing across 1st arrow straight down), but that would either result in a strike or a 4-7-10 split - I suppose the way was just too long and the tighter line is just the right compromise for the ball's setup.
I also tested the Pure Hammer for comparison purposes, and found the RX1 to have a similar coverstock strength but offering a lot less hook potential, despite a very similar layout. The Pure Hammer would literally run in circles around the almost straight RX1 - I could stand at 24 with my right foot and play the Pure Hammer across 13 at the arrows with a much wider hook (breaking on 6-8th board) and a lot more recovery potential (probably due to its lower RG core with more differential), but both appeared to be very suitable for the THS pattern at hand.
Anyway, 5 games with a 200+ average on this maiden flight and a very good feeling about the ball's capabilities were a positive experience, even though the ball proved to be much weaker than I had expected!
A.2) Burnt 40' THS, 2004 Qubica synth surface:
Same house but different occasion - this time after a whole day of open play and training. A rather uncommon situation for league or tournament, but a good occasion to check the ball's limits and utility.
This time, the ball proved to be to have too much (early) traction at OOB finish. While it retained its smooth hook, the ball could not be used on the straight line between 1st and 2nd arrow - it simply started reading the lane and went Brooklyn. Only with a totally "dead" release the ball would lope into the pocket, but that's not what you expect or want.
I started with my feet at 20th board, aiming at 8 at the arrows, and went ever deeper, following the ball's reaction. I ended up with my feet at 28th board(!), playing a wide and smooth belly shot across 3rd arrow. Hitting power was still good, even though half the strikes I made were still Brooklyn hits.
Anyway, due to the shallow hook and limited entry angle, the ball left surprisingly few splits and made scoring easy - which was a true surprise when you imagine the trouble of keeping the ball right. A washout was the worst leave I had to face (high hits, the ball's recovery potential is rather low), and I saw a lot of 6 pins when the ball would move too early/much and rather hit the nose than the pocket. Overall, two of 3 games were 200+, so there IS something to the ball.
But - as a true learning: This is NOT a dry lane ball. At least not OOB, and even with the weak layout I chose on mine. The coverstock's traction ability is just too much for dried-up buffed areas or a completely burnt track. If I were to compare it, I thing it is a tad weaker than Brunswick's PK18 solid. Less aggressive and with less traction, though, but you need some oil to prevent early hook.
1.500 grit wet sanded plus gritless polish
As a consequence and to set it apart from my black Pure Hammer, I decided to try some gritless polish. I lightly hit the ball with a 1.500 grit pad from 4 sides, and then added Lanemasters' Polish from 6 sides, lightly. The result is shinier than OOB, but sanding lines are still to make out. My hope was that I'd add some length in the front part off the lane, suppress the good midlane read of the cover and delay the breakpoint.
B.1) Fresh 40' THS, 2004 Qubica synth surface:
Back again, and for comparison purposes at the same house. This time on a lane in virgin condition - recognizably more oil and more defined wet/dry areas.
To be honest, the first game with the RX1 was crap. I was not sure which line to play: with hand behind the ball the RX1 would hook a lot, when trying to compensate with my feet I'd pass the breakpoint and get a washout or bucket leave. A 147 was the shocking result, including 3 splits and open frames due to the unknown reaction of the ball with the new surface.
So far, I could see a clear change in overall reaction. The shinier RX1 would go 4-5' longer (also due to the higher amount of oil now) and start its move with a more defined breakpoint and more back end movement. While not a snappy ball or a hooker, the difference was easy to see and seemed to go into the intended direction.
But my mind was still set on the arcing move of the OOB finish - therefore, back to basics and the original plan to play between 1st and 2nd arrow.
So I lined up in the 20th board area just as in A.1, and checked what the ball would "want" me to do to get it into the pocket. Within 2 shots I went 2 boards to the right (right shoe tip at 18, aiming at 8), and from there reduced my hand to a straight wrist while controlling length and breakpoint through side rotation adjustments. This was almost surreal, because it was so easy and effective. The next 3 games saw a 630 series, including 20 closed frames in a row and with only two open frames in total due to wide open splits while I tried to adjust to the changing conditions on my line with the movement lof my feet. This game strategy seemed to suit the RX1 well - I was able to keep the ball on line and in the pocket just with minimal adjustments (changing axis tilt from 45° to 75° in the course of the session). On the other side, trying other/deeper lines were not successful - I guess the overall limited hoom potential rather warrants a stable line than a complete re-adjustment on the lane, but this has to be proved through future trials.
With the polished cover, the RX1's overall reaction became much more like that of a reactive piece. It "lost" its smooth, urethane-like arc, its breakpoint became more defined and also the recovery from shots that went too far outside to the gutter was improved. As mentioned before, the ball's length was also considerably improved, but without sacrificing its good predictability and carry.
B.2) Ridden 38' crowned pattern, 2008 Brunswick AnvilLane:
Another test in another house - my home club's lane. Even though the lane surface is pretty new, oils has been sparse and it quickly dissolves after only a few games. The back end tends to offer a lot of grip, so over/under reaction and early hook are serious issues here.
When I came to test the polished RX1, the lanes had already been beaten by a house league - and first shots with my Renegade quickly revealed trouble - it was literally dead, not hooking at all, and leaving weird spares. As a remedy, the RX1 proved to be a very neat solution: while I would worry with the Renegade to give it extra length and make it "survive" somehow, I could line up again around 18th board with my right shoe tip and play the ball straight up 8th board, while keeping my hand cupped for some extra (recovery) revs and the hand way behind the ball, for a very aggressive and effective release. 3 consecutive 200+ games looked very convincing!
As a benchmark, I also pulled out my black Pure Hammer - it was just as playable, but offered more hook and recovery for a deeper line (feet at 24, target around 12 at the arrows). I'd say they cover comparable conditions, but behave very different - and the RX1 is the less versatile ball.
Using the occasion I also had a fellow youth bowler from my club try the RX1 - he has more speed and considerably more revs than me, and I was surprised to see how stable and good-natured the ball behaved in his hands. The breakpoint became more defined (with a true skid/hook/roll pattern), the hook still rather a strong arc, but it remained very controlled - and betters suited than other balls he used like a polished Fast or a Hot Sauce. My bowling pal was well surprised and impressed!
Some conclusions:
Motiv's RX1 seems to live up to what it has been advertised: a rather weak ball for light conditions, short patterns and late games. But: it is NOT a ball for scorched lanes, at least when you have a little hand and/or a rolly release like me, and especially at OOB finish!
With my decisively weak layout the ball does not hook much at all, but that's not what counts: it is a stable performer without being jumpy - and that's the job I got it for, and the RX1 delivers well.
On the other side of the utility spectrum I judge it to be suitable for medium conditions at best. Maybe it can handle more oil with a true matte finish, but the rest of the ball's design would IMHO not match up well with long oil and heavier volumes - unless you are a really rev-dominant player who wants to avoid a jumpy ball on the back end. For this target group, the RX1 could be a true sleeper! I have seen what the ball can do in a more potent player's hand than mine, and THIS really look convincing.
For me, though, it is a mild ball which I can play with my full A game release and not worry about early hook or roll-out, as long as the lane is not totally dead up front. It offers me a surprisingly high level of control, it reacts well to release changes. So far, the original plan worked out just fine. Players with more revs will certainly experience a lot more hook, esp. with stronger layouts and lower pins, but the ball is not jumpy at all.
The high RG/low RG diff. combo is an ideal basis to push the ball down the lane. It also appears to be a good combo together with the coverstock: the MOTIVator-X cover offers good traction, and it responds gradually to friction.
The OOB 4.000 grit surface appears to be a very good compromise between length through the heads and traction on fresh and normal/everyday league conditions. Just when the oil gets too thin/dry, the OOB finish shows too early traction - but the high RG still keeps the ball from bleeding energy, so you retain good hitting power.
The RX1 even seems to handle light carrydown well - much better than a hard urethane piece.
Concerning durability it is too early to say something, but the cover appears to be durable concerning wear and tear. Tracking out does not seem to be worse or better than any other solid reactive, the initial games so far do not show a sign of wear in the track area. My biggest fear is cracking - the coverstock shell is just 0.5" thick (or better: thin).
As far as I can tell, the cover takes well to surface changes. You get a recognizable change in reaction/length through this measure.
On the downside, the bright solid cover offers a very harsh contrast for dirt and grime from the lane and machines - you better clean the ball frequently, or it quickly looks like a smashed tomato...
From a user’s point of view, the RX1 is a solid special purpose ball which is well-suited for its intended job, but its versatility is limited, IMHO mainly due to its weak core (and probably my setup and corresponding style).
To me it is a convincing overall package, though. It is IMHO a nice control piece, with a stoic and smooth reaction - not spectacular at all, but highly effective when you know and accept what the ball can do. It does not offer a wide window for errors, but prevents many ugly leaves through its easily controllable entry angle - once you have found a line. Getting there can just be a tricky thing that takes some time...
The feedback from the lane is IMHO good and the RX1 responds well to release changes - since it is so mellow I can keep a line with ease just through slight and gradual hand position changes. With my weak layout the ball appears to be prone to under-react, though, if I take a bit too much hand out of the release, but that's rather an innate layout thing and by tendency nothing specific to the ball.
I think the RX1 should be played straight and aggressively, and it can take a good forward roll without burning up even on light oil.
With a stronger layout I can see that the RX1 can be a very good medium condition piece for a rev-dominant player.
I would also recommend it as a general late game option, esp. for house leagues when you have opponents with house /polyester balls. It is IMHO also a good beginner's ball, since it appears to react in a very stable manner and is simply easy to handle.
Overall I am satisfied with this piece, esp. after the surface adjustment to make it better fir into my arsenal and despite its relatively high price tag (here in Germany). It is exotic, but performs well.
Performance Rating Scale:
This scale is inspired by popular rating methods and the results are ultra-subjective! Surface prep, layouts and different playing styles will change the results for sure - it is just personal experience with the reviewed ball.
Length/through the heads:
Easy oooXoooooo Needs head oil (OOB)
Easy oXoooooooo Needs head oil (Polished)
Breakpoint shape:
Arc oXoooooooo Angular (OOB)
Arc ooXooooooo Angular (polished)
Hook potential:
Low oXoooooooo High
Control:
Stable ooXooooooo Erratic
Durability:
Poor oooooooXoo High(so far)
Suited for…
Dry ooXooooooo Oily
Range of utility/lane conditions:
Limited ooXooooooo Broad
Subjective overall rating of this ball specimen:
Poor ooooooXooo Excellent
Lane utility for tested ball at OOB surface (pattern length vs. oil volume):
|S M L
|h e o
|o d n
|r . g
|t
_______
|X X 0| Light volume
|X + 0| Medium volume
|+ 0 0| Heavy volume
Legend:
X = Best suited with effective control & carry
+ = Fairly suited (works, somehow, but can lack control and effectiveness)
0 = Unsuited (ineffective, either slips helplessly or burns up)
This chart’s concept is borrowed from Storm's 2003 print catalogue. Again, surface prep, layout or a different playing style will change the result.
Finally... the looks:
This is an outstanding ball. Made in solid all-orange it rather looks like a house ball than something "serious". I think it is the boldest introduction since the yellow Sun Storm or Ebonite's XS White. Personally, I like this courageous approach. It has shelf appeal, but might scare off "serious" customers. But it is a ball you will easily find on a crowded rack.
The bright single color and few engravings makes reading the ball's reaction a bit tough, though. The black inserts I have in my ball help a lot concerning visual reaction control.
The black engravings/graphics blend well into the surface. Very smooth and certainly a technology with visual appeal and future potential. I also like the fact that the ball just has one graphic element on it, plus a small black pin and a tiny black CG punch mark - that's all. Very subtle, and it makes the color stand out even more and the ball pretty mysterious and ageless.
What I question is the visual element, though. The militaristic/gothic typo might be acceptable, the skull is just questionable and appears pretty puberty-inspired. I'd expect this on an Elite ball, but not on a "serious" brand like Motiv? Come on! This makes the RX1 look more childish than it IMHO deserves.
--------------------
DizzyFugu - Reporting from Germany
Confused by bowling? Check out BR.com''s vault of wisdom: the unofficial FAQ section
Edited on 29.08.2011 at 0:49 AM
Edited on 26.09.2011 at 7:20 AM
Post by: JoseMa on March 04, 2011, 08:52:21 AM
LANE CONDITION
Length: 38''
Volume: THS
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):
COMMENTS
Likes: Great for short oil
Dislikes: None
Worth the money!!! A winner in short oil with dry area in the outside boards... I can send it from board 8th to 4th and comes back with a predictable power that racks the pins.... When the lanes dry out, mostly in the 2-3 game, instead of chasing the oil, I play it down in... this is the time when the RX1 makes the most damage and the scores jumps higher... Players that dare to play the twig should consider purchasing RX1 or the pearlized version... I have both and already made enough money to get the Primal TV4... The "plastic" look hides one of the best balls for dry and short sport pattern balls... By the way, I am a Brunswick lover, not a Motiv staff... All the Best to All...
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
Z...z... z...
Post by: dna300x on April 20, 2011, 11:49:06 PM
LANE CONDITION
Length: 37 feet
Volume: medium amount, not sure of exact units.
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS, Cheetah, Viper
COMMENTS
Likes: smooth, and predictable. easily manipulated.
Dislikes: not meant for oil. save this for shorter and drier conditions.
I tested this ball on Cheetah and Viper and got exactly what I wanted. A smooth reaction that I could alter with hand positions, and speed. On shorter oil I am very picky about my equipment and like to stay with one ball as long as possible. The Orange Recon RX1 is going to enable me to do just that. it has a modest core/cover combo and the only time I see this ball possibly giving me a hard time is if I encounter some carry down.
DRILLING
My specs are as follows: speed - 19 mph, rev rate - 350 rpm, axis tilt - 10 degrees, PAP - 3 3/8 over, 5/8 up.
Layout was a 50 x 2.5 x 20 with a P1 hole (on my PAP). 3/4" drill bit drilled 2.5" deep for my extra hole. Surface is box which is 4000 grit wet sand.
Get MOTIVated!
Post by: Ptownbowler1986 on October 21, 2011, 02:30:00 PM
Formerly rotofan775.
Post by: Joe Somd on February 28, 2012, 04:46:40 PM
BALL SPECS
Pin Length: 3-4
Ball Weight: 16
DRILL PATTERN
Pin above ring and cg dropped down at 6pm
Stacked - Pin above ring
BOWLER STYLE
Rev Rate: 425
Ball Speed: 17
PAP/Track: 5 1/4 over 1/4 up
SURFACE PREP
Grit: 2000 polish
Type: (Matte, Polish, Sanded):
LANE CONDITION
Length: 38 and 41 ft
Volume: 38 ft - Medium, 41 ft- High
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS
BALL REACTION
Length: Long
Back End: Arc
Breakpoint Shape: Roll Arc
COMMENTS
Likes:
On the 38 ft pattern, it is less volume of oil and a different lane surface. This ball does resemble a urethane like reaction in that it is smooth off the spot. BUT - in no way does that mean it is flat on the backend.....Noooo Sir! This ball like all other Motiv Balls clears the fronts with ease but - when it moves off the spot, you see a strong arc that continues through the pins. If you move left a little, you will have to put a little more into your release to keep the angle to trip out the corners, but believe me this ball hits hard just like all other Motiv balls. The Reverb cover with Motiv balls really do make the pins dance.
On the 41ft pattern, you have to start a little more right than the 38ft, but you get essentially the same reaction in that it does clear the fronts, I mean it should - there is more oil and Hey its a Motiv ball right? LOL, but it also still has recovery if you find friction and let it do its work, very smooth and pin peircing.
The low density cover makeup combined with the recon core provides great control with awesome length and smooth breakpoint!
Compared to my other Motiv Balls, the Recon RX1 will fill any bowlers need for dry lanes!
Dislikes: The color is hard to keep clean
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
Reaction depends on putting the right ball in your hand at the right time!
Arsenal:
Storm Marvel
Motiv Sigma Tour
Motiv Primal Impulse
Motiv QZ2 Backdraft
Motiv Orange Recon