- Ascent Apex Blue

First Impressions
The Motiv Ascent Apex Blue shows up in an extremely eye-catching Blue Pearl color combination. The heart of this model is the symmetrical Recon Core, which stands out with a high RG of 2.590 and a low differential of 0.025. The cover is the Propulsion Pearl Reactive coverstock, which comes heavily polished to a high gloss out of the box. The extremely high RG lets the core start rotating only very late, while the smooth cover should keep the ball gliding very safely through the heads and saving its dynamics for the backend.

Comparison
Compared to the Motiv Venom Shock, the Ascent Apex Blue picks up noticeably much later and offers a considerably tamer, flatter reaction at the breakpoint. Against the Storm Tropical Breeze, the Ascent Apex produces a very similar, moderate motion through the oil, but with a slightly more predictable hook at the end. Once the transition sets in and the front part of the lane dries up completely, this ball is extremely effective. It demands dry boards to show off its gentle dynamics.

On the Lanes
The Motiv Ascent Apex Blue finds its preferred territory on extremely dried-up lane conditions. It is the perfect choice if you need a ball on burned-up patterns that slides easily through the heads and creates a steady, weak hook toward the pocket. The late reaction helps keep you from overthrowing the breakpoint. The ball should secure carry through a clean entry angle. On fresh oil, however, this ball is unplayable.