- Forza SS

First Impressions
The Motiv Forza SS was released in August 2017 as a new benchmark option for medium-heavy to heavy oil conditions. The SS abbreviation stands for Sigma Solid, which points directly to the ball's key technical components. Cosmetically, the model comes in an understated but professional gray and red color scheme. Inside the ball works the proven Sigma Core, a symmetrical core that was already appreciated for its controlled dynamics in earlier Forza models. In a 15-pound ball, this core carries a low RG of 2.47 and a differential of 0.047. Those specs suggest an early-starting rotation and very even energy release. The outer shell is the Helix HFS Solid Reactive coverstock. HFS stands for High Friction Solid, which underlines the chemical direction of the cover. The surface ships from the factory with a 3000 grit LSS finish (Laser Scanned Sanded). This combination of a strong core and a dull surface should ensure that the ball builds traction early and describes a very predictable path.
Comparison Compared directly to the Storm Phaze II, often considered the gold standard for benchmark balls with a solid cover, the Motiv Forza SS shows an even earlier reaction in the midlane. While the Storm Phaze II is known for its versatility and a somewhat stronger backend reaction, the Forza SS should place more emphasis on controlling the middle part of the lane. It reacts less sensitively to friction at the end of the oil pattern and instead offers a very continuous, arcing motion. Compared to the Roto Grip Daredevil Trick, likewise a symmetrical solid model from this era, the Forza SS looks a bit calmer through the heads but builds a more stable roll phase in the transition area. Compared to Motiv's own Venom Shock, the Forza SS offers considerably more overall hook potential thanks to the stronger Helix cover and can be used on much higher oil volumes without sliding past the pocket. Against the Brunswick Magnitude 035, the Forza SS shows a more compact core motion, which leads to a more homogeneous release of power instead of dumping all the energy in a single change of direction.
On the Lanes The ideal application for the Motiv Forza SS is on fresh oil patterns with medium to high volume, where control over the entire length of the lane is the top priority. The ball should help you read the pattern reliably and give you dependable feedback about the condition of the lane. Because of the early roll phase, the Forza SS is an excellent fit if you throw the ball fast or have a rather low rev rate, since the cover creates the friction needed to steer the ball into the pocket in time. On typical house shots it allows you to play a more stable line over the outside boards without the ball jumping off dry wood uncontrollably. Once the transition sets in and the heads dry up, the Forza SS offers enough stability to move your focus slightly inside while maintaining its continuous motion. Carry stays consistent at various entry angles thanks to the even energy distribution of the Sigma core. For competitive bowlers, this ball is an indispensable tool when more aggressive asymmetrical balls create too jumpy a motion and a controlled, dull surface is what's needed to hit the pocket consistently.