- Rubicon UC2

First Impressions
The Roto Grip Rubicon UC2 presents itself as the pearl evolution of the successful Rubicon, combining attractive looks in Cosmic Black/Purple Sky with well thought-out technology. Technically, the ball features a 2.49 RG, a 0.052 differential and a mass bias differential of 0.011, while the asymmetric Rondure Core is wrapped in an eTrax Pearl Reactive coverstock. The surface comes polished to 1500 grit out of the box, which is the standard for all shiny Roto Grip balls. The Rondure Core was developed as a radical departure from traditional symmetric designs and is meant to create more ball motion down the entire lane without an additional balance hole, achieved through a low RG design with a small intermediate split.
Comparison
The UC2 uses the latest pearl version of the eTrax coverstock, which is more aggressive than earlier versions on the Storm Halo Pearl and Roto Grip Idol Pearl. Testers report similarities to the Roto Grip Idol Pearl in overall look, with the Idol Pearl reacting a bit sharper. In a direct comparison to Storm balls, the UC2 sits between the Storm Dual Lock and Snap Lock — sharper than the smoother Dual Lock, but somewhat weaker than the Snap Lock. Compared to other pearls, the UC2 shows noticeably more strength, with the Storm No Rules Pearl considered the closest comparison, though it doesn't require the oil the UC2 does.
On the Lanes
The Rubicon UC2 is best suited to medium to medium/heavy oil conditions and gives you a skid/flip reaction. The motion shows good length through the heads, strong midlane read and a powerful backend motion, with the polished pearl surface allowing effortless skid through the front part of the lane. It should show its strengths especially on softer league conditions with blended ratios, since it creates larger entry angles to the pocket and therefore better pin action. For best results, playing further inside on the lane is recommended, as the strong backend reaction can turn out too aggressive if the ball is started too close to the dry part of the lane, and the potential increases the further left you move.