Layout: 4.5'' from PAP (puts pin over ring)
Surface: 2000 abralon
Strengths: left of 2nd arrow
Weaknesses: outside angles, better options with other pieces
Used Successfully: on Sport/PBA patterns which have transitioned, house shots
Not Useful: on patterns which require play outside of 10
The Hyroad was touted by most as a perfect benchmark ball, but I have to disagree. There is no doubt the ball serves its purpose well, but I think it has too much length and backend motion to be considered a benchmark piece. Maybe with a pin down layout and a hole this could fit into that category. For me, the Hyroad fits between the Reign and Spitfire in the lengthwise/downlane motion window. The Reign (box finish) is longer and even more angular, while the Spitfire (at 2000) is earlier and smoother overall. All three show about the same overall hook potential, give or take a couple boards on different patterns. I tend to go to the Hyroad when I need to open the lane up, but also want to be sure the ball reads the mids, as the Reign sometimes fails to read in carrydown. On house shots this ball is a monster, as it reads hard enough off the spot to carry, but also is controllable enough to avoid over/under reactions. The surface is also very tuneable, and reads linearly with appropiate changes in grit. More surface equals an earlier and smoother move, while less surface equals length and pop at the breakpoint. I believe one could have an arsenal of just Hyroads and get by on most patterns, except maybe Shark. The core lets this ball float through the front very well, even with light surface prep.
Dave Lughermo
Michigan State University Bowling Alumni
Edited on 3/23/2011 at 7:57 AM
Layout- Pin under ring, cg shifted positive, medium width/depth hole down by the thumb.
Lets face it, I am a staff member who never had drilled one, so I just had to. I was pleased with the way the ball rolled- it actually cornered more than I had anticipated considering the Hybrid cover and reputation this ball has for being smooth and controllable. All that really means to me is that I’m more apt to use this ball from the track in and not from the track out when playing the lanes. I love the way the ball looks and smells (I like the fruity scents better than the aromatherapy scents for sure), it just feels….. Familiar. That’s a good thing for bowling, because it makes you more comfortable and relaxed. I was stoked to see that this ball is going to remain in the line this year- it is still prolly my best selling mid-range ball.