- Optimum Idol

First Impressions
The Roto Grip Optimum Idol marks the return of one of the manufacturer's most popular ball series and shows up in a striking, single-color "Heliotrope Purple." Technically, this ball combines proven elements with modern technology: at its heart works the legendary Ikon core, now modified with A.I. (Amplified Inertia) Core Technology. This adjustment should optimize energy transfer to the pins without drastically changing the familiar core numbers. At 15 lbs, the ball carries a low RG of 2.47 and a high differential of 0.056, which points to early roll and high flare potential. Wrapped around this core is the proven MicroTrax Solid Reactive cover, finished at the factory with 2000-grit Abralon. This combination of an aggressive surface and a roll-happy core places the Optimum Idol clearly in the category of strong, symmetrical "benchmark" balls for higher oil volume.
Comparison
Compared directly to the original Roto Grip Idol, the Optimum Idol shows an extremely similar motion character, but comes across as somewhat more assertive in the pocket thanks to the A.I. Core Technology. While many modern balls aim for a quick change of direction, the Optimum Idol stays true to its predecessor's philosophy and prioritizes control and predictability. Against the Storm Phaze II, which often serves as the reference in this category, the Optimum Idol tends to read the lane a bit earlier and works rounder at the breakpoint. Where a Storm Phaze II can occasionally still show a more angular backend move, the Optimum Idol stays consistently arcing. Compared to asymmetrical balls like the Roto Grip Gem, it is less aggressive in the heads, but offers more continuation than typical pearl balls. It thus functions as a modern update of the original Idol and differs from balls like the Roto Grip TNT in a less abruptly triggered reaction in friction.
On the Lanes
The ideal scenario for the Optimum Idol is fresh oil patterns with medium to high volume. Because of the low RG, the ball starts rolling early and smooths out the transition from the oil into the dry part of the lane very well. That makes it a first choice for reading the lane (a "benchmark ball"), since it avoids overreaction on the dry outside part while still providing enough traction in the oil. If you throw the ball fast or have a lower rev rate, the cover gives you enough help to build traction early. Rev-dominant players, on the other hand, benefit from the extreme control on the backend, since the ball rarely makes unpredictable jumps. Once the heads start to break down and get too dry, you should switch to a ball with higher RG or a polished cover, because otherwise the Optimum Idol could burn up energy too early. It is the tool for stability and control when the lane is "difficult" or when you need to control the entry angle into the pocket to minimize carry problems.