First Impressions
The Motiv Trident Quest, released in October 2017, marks a technological milestone for Motiv, as it is the first ball to use the innovative Hexion coverstock technology. Visually, the ball comes in a striking White / Grey Pearl combination that stands out extremely well on the boards. Inside works the proven Turbulent Core, an asymmetric motor with a low 2.49 RG, a high 0.054 differential and a 0.017 intermediate differential (at 15 lbs). These strong core numbers guarantee quick rev-up and massive flare potential. The real innovation, however, is the Hexion Reactive Pearl cover, chemically optimized to generate friction faster than previous Motiv materials. Combined with the factory 5000 grit Laser Scan Polished finish, the result is a ball that glides effortlessly through the heads and then shows an aggressive, angular reaction at the end of the oil pattern.
Comparison
Compared directly to the original Motiv Trident, which used a hybrid cover, the Trident Quest shows a noticeably later reaction and a considerably sharper move off the backend. Where the original Trident read the midlane more strongly and acted rounder, the Quest delays the hook and practically explodes as soon as it finds friction. Compared to the Motiv Jackal Ghost (solid), the Quest works as the perfect complement: when the Ghost rolls too early in heavy oil or loses energy, the Quest provides the needed length and the quick change of direction to hit the pocket cleanly again. Against a competitor like the Storm Code Black, the Trident Quest shows a similarly angular "skid-snap" characteristic, though the Turbulent Core often starts to rev up a bit earlier, which helps the ball stay stable through the middle part of the lane with a little more oil without shooting through it.
On the Lanes
The Motiv Trident Quest is made for medium to heavier oil conditions, provided there is a defined edge in the backend. It is not a ball for extremely fresh, long oil without dry outside boards, since it could slide too far there (over/under). Its specialty is the transition: once the heads have been played in and you are forced to open up your angles and play deep, it shows its strengths. The Hexion cover lets you throw the ball well out to the right (for right-handers) with the confidence that it will come back in a hurry. It generates a huge entry angle and works excellently if you like to "twist" the ball, as well as for anyone who needs help avoiding a flat entry into the pocket when they have to stand well inside.