First Impressions
The Radical Max Bias comes in a striking blue-aqua color scheme and marks the evolution of the successful Maximum Results. The ball is built on one of the last core designs by Mo Pinel, the legendary bowling ball designer, who realized an exceptionally high intermediate differential of 0.030 with the Maximum Results Asymmetric Core – one of the highest values in the industry. The specs of the 15-pound ball show a 2.494 RG, a total differential of 0.050 and that distinctive 0.030 intermediate differential. These core numbers are combined with the HK22+ Textured Hybrid coverstock, considered a further developed version of the original HK22 coverstock, promising increased traction along with a quicker response to friction. The factory finish of 500 and 1500 Siaair Micro Pad gives the ball a noticeably textured surface that should provide considerable traction in oil. With a flare potential of over six inches and the integration of Brunswick's DynamiCore technology, the Max Bias is positioned as a high-performance ball in Radical's top-shelf category. According to the manufacturer, this core and cover combination is supposed to represent the highest hook potential Radical has presented in several years.
Comparison
The Max Bias carries on the legacy of Radical's Maximum Results, but shows significant differences. While the Maximum Results was equipped with the TS-1 Solid cover, the Max Bias uses the more modern HK22+ Textured Hybrid formulation. This change should push the breakpoint further down the lane while at the same time creating a more dynamic down-lane motion. In a direct comparison within the Radical lineup, the Max Bias is stronger and revs up earlier than Radical's The Hitter, while showing a smoother move at the breakpoint with comparable overall hook. Against the Radical Conspiracy, the Max Bias offers more total hook, but starts earlier and shows less angularity off the backend. The combination of low RG, high total differential and the exceptionally high intermediate differential sets the Max Bias apart from many current asymmetric high-performance balls on the market. The ball clearly positions itself as a heavy-oil option for bowlers who need maximum lane coverage and continuous motion. The HK22+ cover with its textured hybrid structure should help drive the ball powerfully through the pins despite its early reaction.
On the Lanes
The Max Bias is primarily designed for heavy-oil conditions and high oil volumes. The 500/1500 Siaair box surface allows the ball to read early in the transition and generate continuous motion. If you have a lower rev rate or are a speed-dominant bowler, the Max Bias could be an interesting benchmark option, since the aggressive core and cover package should generate substantial hook potential even at moderate rev rates. The high asymmetry of the core contributes to increased flare potential, which supports the ball's ability to build energy continuously. On fresh house patterns the ball shows the characteristics of a "snow tire" ball – reading early, yet still working continuously through the pins. This trait is attributed to the combination of the textured hybrid surface and the HK22 additive. The Max Bias should be versatile on longer sport patterns such as Earl Anthony or Cheetah and allow both inside and outside lines. The strong cover formulation does, however, need enough oil to release its energy at the pins – on lanes that are too dry the ball could burn up too early. For optimal performance it's advisable to leave the ball in the box surface, or to polish it slightly if the transition moves along more quickly. The continuous motion through the midlane and the predictable reaction make the Max Bias a solid choice for tournament bowlers looking for a dependable ball on fresh, oily conditions.