- Rubicon GT

First Impressions
The Roto Grip Rubicon GT combines the proven asymmetric Rondure Core with the MicroTrax Hybrid coverstock and a 2000 surface. The specs show a 2.49 RG, a 0.052 differential and a 0.011 intermediate differential. Visually the ball comes in an attractive color combination, and the MicroTrax Hybrid coverstock with its nanoparticle technology should provide a larger contact area in the oil, while the aggressive structure created by the nanoparticles produces more pronounced peaks and valleys in the surface profile. The 100% nanoparticle load promises midlane traction and response to friction, while the surface profile should hold up over a longer period.
Comparison
The Rubicon GT is designed for medium to heavy oil conditions and positions itself stronger than the original Rubicon. While the standard Rubicon uses the eTrax-S20 solid coverstock, the GT relies on the more aggressive MicroTrax technology, and it was a few boards weaker than the Roto Grip UFO. The Rondure Core acts as a bridge between asymmetric and symmetric core designs and, thanks to its low RG and the small intermediate split, should produce a ball motion similar to a symmetric core with an additional weight hole, while it revs up in the midlane and offers more backend motion than traditional asymmetric designs.
On the Lanes
The Rubicon GT should improve the ability to respond to lane transition. The hybrid cover provides forgiveness on shots that aren't perfect. Through the combination of controlled ball motion and the nanoparticle technology, the ball suits bowlers who need a predictable reaction on medium to heavy oil conditions. The Japanese market description points out that the ball produces an arcing motion with an early axis shift and, despite its asymmetric core, shows a motion that is more reminiscent of symmetric designs. That makes it ideal for tournament bowlers who put control ahead of pure aggressiveness but still need enough backend motion for effective carry.