- Optimum Idol Solid

First Impressions
The Roto Grip Optimum Idol Solid, often listed simply as the "Optimum Idol," brings perhaps the most legendary ball reaction in modern Roto Grip history back to the lanes. Visually it is hard to tell apart from the original Idol, showing up in the iconic "Heliotrope" purple. Technically, though, there is a massive upgrade under the hood: the original Ikon core has been merged with A.I. Core Technology (Amplified Inertia). The result is an extremely low RG of 2.47 and a massive differential of 0.056 (at 15 lbs). That core is wrapped in the MicroTrax Solid Reactive coverstock, the strongest solid option in the Roto Grip arsenal, finished at the factory with a 2000-grit pad. This combination of aggressive cover and core-driven dynamics promises an extremely early read of the lane and maximum traction in oil.
Comparison
Compared directly to the original Roto Grip Idol (2018), the Optimum Idol Solid reads the lane a touch earlier and, thanks to the A.I. core technology, offers improved energy transfer (carry) at the pins, especially on off-center hits. The motion, however, is identical: round, stable, and without corners. Against a Storm Phaze II, which is also considered a benchmark solid, the Optimum Idol revs up noticeably earlier and covers more total boards; the Phaze II saves a bit more energy for the backend. Compared to the Roto Grip Gem, the Idol is more controllable and less aggressive in its side-to-side movement, which makes it more versatile when the Gem would be too much ball.
On the Lanes
The Optimum Idol Solid is the definition of a benchmark ball for medium to heavy oil conditions. It is the ideal first ball out of the bag to read the lane. Its strength lies in ultimate control at the breakpoint: it does not react jumpy to dry spots and does not slide through spots of oil. The combination of MicroTrax Solid and the strong symmetric core produces an extremely smooth, arcing move into the pocket. It is an excellent fit if you like to keep the ball in the oil and prefer a smooth reaction, as well as for sport patterns where controlling the entry angle matters more than maximum backend snap.