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Equipment Boards => Motiv => Topic started by: tommyboy74 on April 14, 2014, 11:37:02 PM

Title: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: tommyboy74 on April 14, 2014, 11:37:02 PM
Hey everyone.  Even though I throw almost all Storm/Roto Grip right now, I've been impressed with what I've seen coming out of Motiv.  Because of this, I'm looking to replace up to 2 of my benchmark pieces and thinking of trying the brand.

Stats:  19-21mph speed, 380-410 rev rate, 4-1/4" PAP (straight across), tweener, low track

2 balls from Motiv that have looked impressive to me have been the Covert Revolt and the Sigma Sting.  I was looking to slot these in as potential replacements for my Outlaw and my Hy-Road/Nomad Dagger. 

For you guys throwing Motiv, and with having higher ball speed, what do you think of these choices?  Also, how have the covers held up?
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: xrayjay on April 15, 2014, 12:24:36 AM
I was going to post a similar thing. I got rid of most of my storm stuff and I'm contemplating on trying Motiv one more time.  I'll see what the guys/gals say in response to your "Q"...
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: Matt Fortney on April 15, 2014, 06:03:28 AM
I'm lower speed than you at about 16.5-17, but you really can't go wrong with either ball, honestly. Revolt will give you more overall, but will definitely be a little earlier rolling. The sigma sting will be a little more skid-snappy, but less overall.

As far as longevity, I haven't had a single issue with Amy of my Motiv equipment, even after surface changes and a TON of games on them. I've taken the surface down, up, dull, back to polished on a lot of them and they all take surface changes very well.

You won't be disappointed regardless of which you go with. Both balls you mentioned are fantastic.

Feel free to let me know if you've got any other questions. I'd be glad to help.

Matt
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: Gizmo823 on April 15, 2014, 07:45:25 AM
I would second this.  Motiv covers seem to be the most durable on the market right now. 

I'm lower speed than you at about 16.5-17, but you really can't go wrong with either ball, honestly. Revolt will give you more overall, but will definitely be a little earlier rolling. The sigma sting will be a little more skid-snappy, but less overall.

As far as longevity, I haven't had a single issue with Amy of my Motiv equipment, even after surface changes and a TON of games on them. I've taken the surface down, up, dull, back to polished on a lot of them and they all take surface changes very well.

You won't be disappointed regardless of which you go with. Both balls you mentioned are fantastic.

Feel free to let me know if you've got any other questions. I'd be glad to help.

Matt
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: spmcgivern on April 15, 2014, 07:54:35 AM
I agree with Matt, Motiv makes good stuff.  The newer coverstocks do take surface changes better than some of the older stuff. 

As for a ball-to-ball comparison, I think the Motiv pieces may be a little stronger than the Roto/Storm pieces you are replacing, but not too much.  Enjoy your new bowling balls and good luck!!

Edit:  if anything, there have been a few occasions with separation between the logo and the ball.  This is one of the reasons I believe they went to a different material for their spare ball.  I haven't seen any recently so it appears they have worked that bug out.
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: CPA on April 15, 2014, 10:37:47 AM
The Covert Revolt and Sting are excellent.  You could also add a Venom Shock to round out the arsenal.
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: xrayjay on April 15, 2014, 10:56:49 AM
The Covert Revolt and Sting are excellent.  You could also add a Venom Shock to round out the arsenal.

So all three of these balls mentioned can be a good 3 ball set up for even a low rev medium speed storker too?

Note: sorry didn't mean to crash your post. I just hate to start a similar post and it might not get answered...
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: spmcgivern on April 15, 2014, 01:01:51 PM
The Covert Revolt and Sting are excellent.  You could also add a Venom Shock to round out the arsenal.

So all three of these balls mentioned can be a good 3 ball set up for even a low rev medium speed storker too?

Note: sorry didn't mean to crash your post. I just hate to start a similar post and it might not get answered...

In my opinion, I would consider a different ball than the Venom Shock IF you have the Sting and Covert Revolt.  The Sting and Venom Shock seem to be close with maybe more separation with cover changes.  Perhaps a better option would be the Tribal if you like to go to a weaker pearl when the lanes break down or Primal Rage if you like to go stronger.
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: tommyboy74 on April 15, 2014, 11:00:27 PM
I'm lower speed than you at about 16.5-17, but you really can't go wrong with either ball, honestly. Revolt will give you more overall, but will definitely be a little earlier rolling. The sigma sting will be a little more skid-snappy, but less overall.

As far as longevity, I haven't had a single issue with Amy of my Motiv equipment, even after surface changes and a TON of games on them. I've taken the surface down, up, dull, back to polished on a lot of them and they all take surface changes very well.

You won't be disappointed regardless of which you go with. Both balls you mentioned are fantastic.

Feel free to let me know if you've got any other questions. I'd be glad to help.

Matt

Thanks for the feedback everyone.  Matt Fortney- I sent you a PM with some additional questions.
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: dballz on April 16, 2014, 12:17:00 PM
tommyboy74, i have been throwing nothing but the Primal Rage & the Sting for the past 2 months & they roll great! Have adjusted surface on both of them as well. I spoke with Matt in regards to the layouts for the Rage & Sting, so he will be very helpful.

Good luck!
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: Brian Green on April 16, 2014, 01:46:22 PM
After throwing DV8 this year and mixing a few hammers and track in the mix,  I was looking at switching to Roto/Storm this spring/Summer. However Motiv has cought my attention and will make the decision a lil tougher
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: Gizmo823 on April 16, 2014, 03:32:24 PM
I'd very strongly suggest giving Motiv a shot.  I'm not on staff, completely unbiased opinion, but I feel that Motiv has the best equipment on the market by a decent margin.  I'd say Storm is closest, but every comparable Motiv ball has at least 2 or 3 reasons why its better.  An overall reason is that the coverstocks are more durable and take surface adjustments better.  The power/control/backend transition combination with all Motiv balls across the board is extremely well balanced, even moreso than Storm, and that's saying something. 

After throwing DV8 this year and mixing a few hammers and track in the mix,  I was looking at switching to Roto/Storm this spring/Summer. However Motiv has cought my attention and will make the decision a lil tougher
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: milorafferty on April 16, 2014, 04:13:02 PM
For all you guys who never owned the original Cruel, check out this link.

They only have 15# but you can't beat this deal!

http://www.bowling.com/products/motiv-cruel-c51-black-smoke-pearl.htm
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: Matt Fortney on April 16, 2014, 04:31:32 PM
I'd very strongly suggest giving Motiv a shot.  I'm not on staff, completely unbiased opinion, but I feel that Motiv has the best equipment on the market by a decent margin.  I'd say Storm is closest, but every comparable Motiv ball has at least 2 or 3 reasons why its better.  An overall reason is that the coverstocks are more durable and take surface adjustments better.  The power/control/backend transition combination with all Motiv balls across the board is extremely well balanced, even moreso than Storm, and that's saying something. 

After throwing DV8 this year and mixing a few hammers and track in the mix,  I was looking at switching to Roto/Storm this spring/Summer. However Motiv has cought my attention and will make the decision a lil tougher

100% agree here, and want to add one more thing. I feel like Motiv offers the widest variety of shot shapes and strengths as well.

As an operator, the easiest thing to do is suggest a Motiv. I have 100% confidence that the customer will not be disappointed. Great equipment.

Matt
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: CPA on April 17, 2014, 10:56:20 AM
For me, the bottom line is I score better with Motiv balls. 
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: Good Times Good Times on April 17, 2014, 11:43:48 AM
I've never thrown a Motiv piece, but if a 15.0 - 15.2 lb original Sigma Tour became available I'd def be interested......
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: milorafferty on April 17, 2014, 12:08:30 PM
I've never thrown a Motiv piece, but if a 15.0 - 15.2 lb original Sigma Tour became available I'd def be interested......

http://www.ballreviews.com/general-fsftwtb/motiv-balls-for-sale-or-trade-t302053.0.html

Don't know if it's 15.0/15.2 but he has one availalble.
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: Gizmo823 on April 17, 2014, 12:27:24 PM
The best part about it for me is that I can explain to customers why that is.  Sometimes you know one ball is better than the other but can't really explain it, but I've got solid, logical, factual reasons.  They're easy to sell cause it's easy to explain why they're better. 

For me, the bottom line is I score better with Motiv balls.
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: northface28 on April 17, 2014, 12:39:23 PM
Ive noticed the big cores in almost all their balls. Are these balls stupid early and do they roll quick and in general, how do they compare to Storm balls?
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: milorafferty on April 17, 2014, 12:50:14 PM
Ive noticed the big cores in almost all their balls. Are these balls stupid early and do they roll quick and in general, how do they compare to Storm balls?

Motiv has pretty much all conditions and ball motions covered in my opinion.

If you want early rolling, the entire Raptor Line has an early roll, but if you want a later roll, the Cruel Intent and Primal Scream/Rage are great at getting through the front of the lane with a later move down lane.

If you prefer something in between, the Sigma Sting and Venoms cover that motion just fine.
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: Good Times Good Times on April 17, 2014, 01:11:23 PM
I've never thrown a Motiv piece, but if a 15.0 - 15.2 lb original Sigma Tour became available I'd def be interested......

http://www.ballreviews.com/general-fsftwtb/motiv-balls-for-sale-or-trade-t302053.0.html

Don't know if it's 15.0/15.2 but he has one availalble.

Nice catch.  I've sent a PM.

Thanks Milo!
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: Gizmo823 on April 17, 2014, 02:02:23 PM
I think Motiv balls are cleaner on the backend, and actually easier through the fronts.  I don't know how they do it, but you can saw on a Motiv ball and not worry about getting it down the lane.  Motiv probably compares closest to Storm as far as ball reaction and the number of shapes in the lineup, but I think Motivs are more durable, more continuous, more consistent, better control/power ratio, they take coverstock adjustments better, lol but Storm stuff smells better . .  Motiv is basically Storm, but better in just about every way.  The backend transition for Motiv balls is outstandingly good as well.  I average only about 2-3 10 pin leaves a night because the backend read is very good, and with no loss of energy and continuation, the ball either faces up completely or the 10 gets kicked. 

Ive noticed the big cores in almost all their balls. Are these balls stupid early and do they roll quick and in general, how do they compare to Storm balls?
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: MrNickRo on April 17, 2014, 03:48:42 PM
Dammit.  All this Motiv talk makes me want to go buy a Rage for my roll off next week.  Then I'll put it in the closet until the fall.

Or I'll wait.
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: tommyboy74 on May 29, 2014, 09:09:29 PM
Thanks for the feedback.  I've decided to go ahead and order both the Covert Revolt and the Sigma Sting.
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: Blueprint on May 29, 2014, 09:58:24 PM
Thanks for the feedback.  I've decided to go ahead and order both the Covert Revolt and the Sigma Sting.

Once you get them drilled and have a chance to throw them, please update me and let me know what you think about the Motiv stuff. I also throw mostly Storm/Roto and have been wondering about Motiv equipment.
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: dballz on May 30, 2014, 10:32:42 AM
i think you will be very happy with the Sting & Revolt. I have both & I feel they compliment one another really well. As Blueprint posted earlier, please let us know how you had them drilled & how they work for you. Good luck!!
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: tommyboy74 on May 30, 2014, 06:22:24 PM
I think it'll work out really well.  Currently with throwing a Nomad Dagger, Hy-Road, 505T, Outlaw and then occasionally a 919C at the upper end, it will allow 5 balls to be condensed to 2, with more defined stepdowns. 
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: toneoak1 on September 13, 2014, 11:06:03 PM
The Covert Revolt and Sting are excellent.  You could also add a Venom Shock to round out the arsenal.

So all three of these balls mentioned can be a good 3 ball set up for even a low rev medium speed storker too?

Note: sorry didn't mean to crash your post. I just hate to start a similar post and it might not get answered...

In my opinion, I would consider a different ball than the Venom Shock IF you have the Sting and Covert Revolt.  The Sting and Venom Shock seem to be close with maybe more separation with cover changes.  Perhaps a better option would be the Tribal if you like to go to a weaker pearl when the lanes break down or Primal Rage if you like to go stronger.

I recently went to a demo day and I was surprised how well the descriptions on their website matched what I saw on the lanes.  I am going to do a 3 ball arsenal to replace my current balls. I'm going with the shock and tribal because they are two VERY different shapes and then either an octane or rage for heavier volumes. Those three will cover a huge range of conditions.  I've heard a lot of praise on the durability of cover stocks which makes my decision easier.
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: Gizmo823 on September 15, 2014, 10:15:56 AM
I've broken off recently and have tried a few balls from other companies, and although I've liked what I've drilled, they still just can't compare.  What I've really found is that Motiv's prime characteristics are versatility and consistency.  The thing I'm best at is reading ball reaction, and when I let a Motiv ball go, I know what's going to happen.  Some of these other balls have left me wondering what the hell is going on or why they just did what they did.  It's my job to be objective, and objectively without bias, Motiv offers the best equipment on the market. 

The Covert Revolt and Sting are excellent.  You could also add a Venom Shock to round out the arsenal.

So all three of these balls mentioned can be a good 3 ball set up for even a low rev medium speed storker too?

Note: sorry didn't mean to crash your post. I just hate to start a similar post and it might not get answered...

In my opinion, I would consider a different ball than the Venom Shock IF you have the Sting and Covert Revolt.  The Sting and Venom Shock seem to be close with maybe more separation with cover changes.  Perhaps a better option would be the Tribal if you like to go to a weaker pearl when the lanes break down or Primal Rage if you like to go stronger.

I recently went to a demo day and I was surprised how well the descriptions on their website matched what I saw on the lanes.  I am going to do a 3 ball arsenal to replace my current balls. I'm going with the shock and tribal because they are two VERY different shapes and then either an octane or rage for heavier volumes. Those three will cover a huge range of conditions.  I've heard a lot of praise on the durability of cover stocks which makes my decision easier.
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: Perfect Approach Pro Shop on September 15, 2014, 11:11:27 AM
     Motiv is my number 2 selling product behind Storm/Roto Grip. One of my employees strictly throws Motiv and has been tearing it up for over a year now. My personal experience with them is not good. I had the 2 Cruel and hated it, the Tribal and hated it. I have had Sigma Tour for 2 years and love that ball. In my mind, I wish they would have kept that ball in production like Storm has done with the Hy-Road.
     Just picked up a Venom Shock to try and will also be doing a Tribal Fire and Octane. Personally I like what I see from them and all my customers that we have put in Motiv equipment are extremely happy. I definitely recommend Storm/Roto Grip and Motiv over other brands currently. Not saying other brands are bad, just not as good as the three I mentioned.
     A lot of it also is getting proper layout matched with proper surface for the customer.
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: Gizmo823 on September 15, 2014, 11:56:26 AM
I'll agree with this.  Storm/RG and Motiv are by far the front runners in my shop, Brunswick is a distant 3rd (although the Strike Kings are REALLY good), and nothing else really sells.  RG's newest few releases are really good, I drilled myself a Sinister and as long as I have some head oil it's an absolute beast.  Storm/RG stuff however just doesn't seem to rev as well or be as pure on the backend as Motiv stuff.  My Motiv stuff I can pretty well just throw at the backend and it rips hard on the back.  I can see why Storm/RG do well on tour because they've gotten really good at blending wet/dry, but Motiv has the corner on the market of hard and continuous on the backend and with releases like the Venom Shock and Ascent Apex, they're really catching up on blending wet/dry better.  Interested to see the Jackal too, Motiv's high end big hooking stuff in the past have been weaker than other companies' high end stuff.  The Jackal looks to break that trend. 

     Motiv is my number 2 selling product behind Storm/Roto Grip. One of my employees strictly throws Motiv and has been tearing it up for over a year now. My personal experience with them is not good. I had the 2 Cruel and hated it, the Tribal and hated it. I have had Sigma Tour for 2 years and love that ball. In my mind, I wish they would have kept that ball in production like Storm has done with the Hy-Road.
     Just picked up a Venom Shock to try and will also be doing a Tribal Fire and Octane. Personally I like what I see from them and all my customers that we have put in Motiv equipment are extremely happy. I definitely recommend Storm/Roto Grip and Motiv over other brands currently. Not saying other brands are bad, just not as good as the three I mentioned.
     A lot of it also is getting proper layout matched with proper surface for the customer.
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: Impending Doom on September 15, 2014, 12:17:58 PM
I do have to say that Motiv has impressed me. The Storm line up IMO has stunk in recent years, with Roto catching WAY up. If I was going to piece together a Motiv lineup (which seems very possible from top to bottom), Jackal, Primal Rage, Covert Revolt, Octane, Venom Shock, Apex Pearl
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: mm7759 on September 19, 2014, 10:15:19 AM
So I too am thinking about giving Motiv a try.  I have been throwing mostly RG and some Storm lately.  Lately my go to ball has been a Rotogrip Shatter.  Not sure what it is, but it has matched up well for me on just about anything.  Now I am primarily a house bowler.  I don't know all the technical specs, but I am basically speed dominant, and usually play around the track area.  I have been told my rev rate is roughly 300, and more up the back.  So where I run into issues is when I have to go too far left, I don't have enough hand to play deep when necessary.  I have a couple of ball credits with my pro shop, so thinking about making this move.  I am also coming off a surgery so my ball speed is down some as well.  My nephew has been throwing Motiv and says a "must have" is the Primal Rage.  He say he has been having a lot of luck starting out with the Rage then balling down to the Octane.   Any suggestions on a 2 ball Motiv starter setup?   Is the Rage too condition specific?   Right now I go to league night with an Asylum, Shatter and Scream...with the Shatter getting most of the play.  I'm looking for something with an angular backend to help my lack of hand.   Lots of good info on the forum, just not sure what to try.  Rage, Octane?  Or maybe Rage, Shock to have a gap in the arsenal?  Or ????
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: milorafferty on September 19, 2014, 10:26:37 AM
I own(and use) a lot of Motiv stuff. I'm a big fan of the Primal Rage and the Octane. However, if I was going to have only two balls from the current Motiv lineup, it would be the Sigma Sting and the Tribal.

IMHO the Sigma Sting is the best ball Motiv has produced to date. The Tribal is a perfect step down from the Sigma Sting, at least for me.
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: briandking1906 on September 19, 2014, 01:56:39 PM
I just started using Motiv this season.  Currently throwing the Motiv Octane, and I can honestly say that I love this ball.  Previously to that I was throwing primarily Elite stuff, which I still mix in, but the Octane is my go to ball due to the control and hit.
Title: Re: Thinking of checking out Motiv
Post by: crazyyankee on September 19, 2014, 04:24:03 PM
primal rage is the best ball ever made.