Roto Grip Transformer Performance Test

love this ball

HI,United States

Roto Grip kicks off its ’26 campaign with its newest addition, the Transformer! The Transformer is featured as the first HP5 performance ball. This new asymmetrical piece is equipped with the all-new Morph Wing core, along with the V-R1 Solid Reactive Cover Stock, finished at 4000. It has a high flare potential that bowlers will find suitable for medium to heavy lane conditions. The cover stock and core will provide bowlers with the most breakpoint shape and transformable finish to date. I was looking forward to drilling this ball up because the Transformer has something interesting that other balls did not have and that’s the weight block itself. The Morph Wing core affects the drilling layout that bowlers wish to choose from. For example, should you go with a drilling option where the Wing is NOT impacted, you can expect more length and a strong controllable backend motion. Should you choose to drill INTO THE WING, you can expect an earlier response, and a smoother shape down lane (more designed for fresher and medium heavy conditions). I decided to go with a pin up option, avoiding the wing at 50 x 4 5/8 x 35. I tested it a few times on a fresh 42ft house condition and the results were exactly what I was looking for. More length down lane, stronger backend reaction. The 4000 abralon finish kept the ball in check where I didn’t have to adjust my target and feet the majority of league play. The Transformer does tend to have some angular motion should you drill the pin in a certain area. I also tested it on a fresh 44ft tournament condition to try and compare with another bowler throwing a pin down version. As expected, a pin down option would be preferred to roll early and try to open up the transition so you can switch to a pin up option for more length. Adding some surface can also be a good option. All in all, SPI has found new ways for improvement when it comes to innovating technology at its best. Be sure to head out to your local Storm VIP Pro Shop and drill up a Transformer today. You won’t be disappointed as SPI is Transforming the Game!!

Cover: V-R1 Solid Reactive Core: Morph-Wing RG: 2.51 RG. Diff.: 0.051 Finish: 4000 Abralon Roto Grip’s new Transformer is a Solid Asymmetrical piece that is good for Medium-Heavy Volume patterns. PAP is 5 5/16 R 1 3/16 Up. Rev Rate: 400. Speed: 16.5. I drilled this piece with the Pin up between the fingers, CG kicked out 1” from the palm, and 1” Left of the Mass Bias. Drilled over some of the Wing. 5 x 4 x 2 ½. I threw this piece on a Fresh house pattern. Out of Box ball motion started in the mids with a strong backend reaction through the pins. I compared this to the RST Hyperdrive. RST Hyperdrive - I threw the same line as the Transformer and it was a little weaker on the backend. This piece will be good for all types of styles. Check Out the Ball motion Video on my YouTube Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/17zvCLYtQF/

okay, my speed is right around 14mph, I'm a tweener, in between high revs and low revs. This ball fits into a slot for sure. Its drilled pin down, left it out of the box finish. For me it goes a little straighter with some back end for sure. I more had it drilled for those cliffed shots, because it reads the lanes so well. Let me tell you where it fits with what I throw. I can go Roto Grip Rock Star, Rock Star Amped, Transformer, then Storm Next Level. When I see the Transformer reading the lanes early, then I know its time to switch. On my regular league shots, both wood and synthetic lanes, I can start with the Transformer and just keep moving a little left as the night goes on. Thank you Roto Grip!!

The Roto Grip Transformer has arrived, in its new HP-5 line. So, I decided to get two of them to see how the new Morph Wing core will provide a difference in ball shape. My pin down layout (4 1/2 x 4 7/8 x 4 1/8) provided a smoother and rounder shape. The thumb is actually through the “wing” of the core, which makes it more smoother and the core a little more stable. With this layout, I can play a more direct line to hit the pocket. My pin up layout (5 x 5 3/8 x 2 3/8), the thumb is drilled into the mass bias, and missing the wing, which creates more torque and downlane motion. With this layout, I can be able to move left and shape the lane from right to left. Both of these balls serve their purposes. And with the 4000 out of box surface, I can be able to add surface if I need more traction in the midlane. These balls were actually fun to throw and I’ve learned more about them every time I threw them! Go get you one… or two like me!

Only seen to make small mores for when the lane breaks down. Love the ball and how it holds the lane and able to use it from first game to the last.

This ball features the new Morth Wing Core with a V-R1 Solid Reactive Coverstock. The core in this ball is very unique in a few ways. First, the designers at SPI gives us a way to actually trace out the "winged" portion of the core for a drilling visual. Second, the wing is closer to the outer shell. So when the ball is drilled, the dynamics change drastically whether you hit the wing or not. Below is a quick drilling summary for a 1-handed thumb bowler like myself. Drill into the wing: Early rounder motion Miss the wing: Later angular backend. Ball: Roto Grip Transformer Weight: 14lbs Dual Angle: 45 x 5 x 30 My first reactions: Wow! Since I missed the wing, I knew ball is going to be angular. I was shocked how much it was for a solid. Normally on a fresh THS, I can go up 10 or 15 to 10, but not with this ball. I had to immediately get deeper into the lane. This ball needs oil. For how strong it is, it's clean through the fronts but once it hits the backend, left hard turn. For fresh longer patterns, I can see this being the first ball out of the bag. Pair this with the Gremlin and you have a monsterous 1-2 punch.

Transformer is cleaner through the fronts than most big asyms and super continuous from what I see so far. I can see myself using this ball for a good period of time on medium to heavier volumes. As I move left, the ball keeps going. It does not bail or lose energy through the pins.

Welcome to the Roto Grip Transformer Ball Review Roto Grip has a new core design called Morph Wing Core. RG-2.51 Differential-.051 Intermediate-.015 Asymmetrical Core Finish-4000 Grit Abralon Coverstock-VR1 Solid Layouts Used Pin Down-4.75x6.25x4.50(VLS) Pin up-5x4.5x2(VLS) The Morph Wing Core has 2 wings based on if you hit or miss the wings you can alter the numbers and reaction dramayically. I drilled 2 Transformers one pin up and one pin down hitting the wing. The pin up got through the fronts very easily with a strong backend motion retaining axis rotation allowing me to open up the lane. The pin downread the midlane with a strong but smooth continous motion. The Transformer willbe a great step down from the RST Hyperdrive Solid but stronger than the HP3 balls. I could start with my pin down transformer on the fresh oil then transistion into the pin up when i want to open up my angles. Roto Grip Transformer is available now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Layouts: 4 1/2 x 4 x 2 1/4 and 4 3/4 x 4 3/4 x 4 1/2 Surface: 4000 Abralon Rev Rate: 470 Tilt: 13* The brand-new Transformer brings new technology to the Storm Products lineup as it incorporates a brand-new core and coverstock. The core is the brand-new Morph-Wing core where the differential can be altered different than usual based on if you drill through the wing of the core or not. It is paired with the new V-R1 solid coverstock which is the predecessor to the pearl version found on the Gremlin. A drilling through the wing increases differential which mimics a lower weight hole when those were allowed. This is different for traditional pin down bowling balls without a weight hole. Traditional pin down drillings reduce differential and often make the ball significantly smoother and flare less. The Transformer pin down drilling increases differential and makes the flare actually increase instead of decrease when drilled through the wing. I was able to drill both a pin up and pin down ball to show the differences between drilling through the wing and not. The box 4000 abralon surface is on both balls and pin to pap distance is relatively the same. I tried both of these layouts on my typical 43ft House Pattern. The pin up ball was actually cleaner than I expected for a solid coverstock ball. Missing the wing leaves most of the integrity of the core intact allowing the ball to be performed as designed. On the fresh, I saw a decent amount of length and a very continuous backend. For the fresh, this was not that ideal as it forced me to be more left to right than the pattern wants me to be. The down lane shape didn't blend out the pattern as much as I thought neither. As the lanes broke down and I had to move more left to right with my feet, the ball got in its wheelhouse. The continuation allowed me to open the lane up without the fear of the ball rolling out. The ideal part of the lane for me with this ball was playing around 14 at the arrows to 5-8 down lane. Further right wanted to hook too much overall and further left was a little too clean and smooth which made sense. For a deeper line on the lane, a surface change to 2000 grit would be more ideal. The pin down ball saw a large difference in the front part of the lane with the wing drilled through. It started to hook significantly earlier and was still continuous but smoother than the pin up one. One the fresh, it was easier to use but saw a little over/under with its strength in the front part of the lane. Even at 4000 abralon, the ball didn't get through the front as easily as the pin up. I was able to play straighter than the pin up on the fresh being around 11 to 6. The smoother motion blended the lane out a little better when I was a little more left. What I was pretty surprised about was when I moved further left. The ball actually still continued pretty hard down lane even when I got into 25 with my feet. This is a sign of really good ball motion for me. I was pleasantly surprised how good the ball was for so long on the lane. The hardest part of this layout was the ball through the front part of the lane. My center does not use much volume, so it is difficult to use much stronger balls. My overall impression of the Transformer is that both layouts continue well. I see myself using the pin up drilling more often as it is cleaner overall. I think the pin down one can be more utilized on heavier oil patterns or when the lanes are very challenging. It does a good job of blending the lanes if the ball gets through the front. I can recommend this ball for many styles due to its drilling versatility. Pin down for strength and smoothness and pin up for length and more flip. It can be used from the fresh to transition for most styles. This could be a very good piece for most balls. Adam Chase Storm Staff

The TRANSFORMER: The Most Tunable Ball on the Market. PERIOD! This ball can be drastically changed based on the drilling you choose. In my case, I was looking for something just slightly quicker compared to my Storm Equinox Solid. After talking with Bill Keener and Cassidy Schaub at The Armory Pro Shop & Supply, they decided on a layout that would put my thumb hole in the wing of the core. As always, I believe I got exactly what I was looking for! Get yours today at The Armory Pro Shop & Supply and let them know what you’re looking for! Layouts used Equinox Solid: 2 1/2 x 4 3/8 x 2 1/8 Transformer: 3 x 5 3/4 x 2 7/8 #armoryproshop #stormnation

As a right-handed bowler throwing it about **14.5 mph** with a **330 rev rate**, I tested the Roto Grip Transformer on a **42-foot house shot** with **strong back-ends**—the kind that politely waits until the end of the lane and then snaps like it’s late for dinner. The Transformer lives up to its name by being very adaptable without trying to do *too much*. Through the heads, it’s clean and predictable, which is a big plus on a house shot where you don’t want the ball burning up early. In the midlane, it reads smoothly and sets up a strong but controllable move downlane. On these strong back-ends, the shape was more **strong arc than hockey stick**, which gave me confidence to stay aggressive without worrying about the ball jumping through the nose. Misses right had enough recovery, and misses in didn’t punish me as harshly as my scorecard usually does. What impressed me most was how **forgiving and readable** the Transformer felt. With my speed and rev rate, it blended the wet/dry really well and made transition manageable. It’s not the ball you grab when you want to open the lane and send it to the parking lot—but when you need control, continuation, and a predictable look, this thing shows up and clocks in early. **Best Use:** * Medium oil / typical house shots * Bowlers looking for control with a strong backend motion * Transition ball when stronger solids start checking too early **Bottom Line:** The Roto Grip Transformer is that reliable teammate who doesn’t demand attention but quietly does their job every frame. Professional, predictable, and just flashy enough to remind you why you brought it—kind of like a well-timed strike shot… minus the bragging.

The Roto Grip Transformer features the Morph-Wing core with an RG of 2.51, a strong differential of 0.051, and a PSA of 0.015. Wrapped in the V-R1 Solid coverstock, this ball offers a great blend of mid-lane read and continuation through the pins. I drilled mine 4.5 x 6.5 x 4.25, and the versatility really stands out. The Transformer provides a smooth, readable motion up front with noticeable pop down lane, making it reliable without being lazy at the breakpoint. One of the biggest strengths of this ball is the Morph-Wing core design. By drilling into or out of the wing, you unlock endless layout options to fine-tune ball motion. Pair that with surface adjustments, and the Transformer can be tailored to match a wide range of styles, lane conditions, and transitions. This ball easily fits as a benchmark or number-one ball in your bag, but it’s just as effective as a second or third option once lanes start to change. Overall, the Roto Grip Transformer delivers controllability, versatility, and strong continuation—making it a valuable piece for competitive bowlers at any level.

Absolutely love this ball and it does exactly what I need it to

united states

General bowler information: Right-handed stroker Release speed: around 16 mph Rev rate: approximately 240 rpm PAP: 4 1/2 over, 1/2 up Here's a look at my Roto Grip Transformer. The core shape is the brand new Morph Wing core, which is designed to have greater versatility than other core shapes, depending on if the holes are or are not drilled into the Wings. It features a medium-low RG (2.51) with high differential (0.051) and PSA (0.015). Wrapped around this big engine (core) is the Versatile Response (V-R1) solid coverstock , with 4000 grit Abralon finish. Mine was drilled 55 x 4.5 x 35 (dual angle) or 4.5 x 4.5 x 2.25 (VLS), which puts the pin above my ring finger. This layout keeps the thumbhole away from the precession wing, which helps retain axis rotation and and creates stronger backend motion. My first experience with this ball was in a senior scratch tournament on Route 66 (45 feet, 6:1 ratio on HPL’s). It gave me a good reaction and carry for 3 games, except for one mystery lane that I couldn’t figure out as we crossed pairs. My video (link below) is on the house pattern at Cedar Lanes in Sandusky, OH, which is 45 feet on 60+ year old wood lanes. It was shot after my trio league and is unique in that no shots were edited out! Clearly, I was happy with what I saw out of this ball and look forward to throwing it more. Grab this one from NextGen Bowlers Pro Shop or your local pro shop and Bowl Up a Storm! #stormnation #NextGenproshop #bowlifi #willsnation https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Q541VWMJPKQ

This ball is really good! I am a collegiate bowler who bowls on a variation of oil patterns. Both long and short, heavy and light, as well as house shots! When normal big asym solids begin to burn up this one keeps hooking! It is a high end piece that still has plenty of energy to go through the pins the right way to get the corner pins out. This ball hooks a lot AND is very continuous! I drilled mine 5 x 4.5 x 2 which ended up missing the wing and was a pin up layout.The Roto Grip Transformer is a highly versatile asymmetric solid reactive bowling ball designed for medium to heavy oil conditions, and what truly sets it apart is its innovative Morph-Wing™ core, which allows the ball’s motion to noticeably change based on drilling layout, effectively giving bowlers multiple reactions from a single piece; paired with the V-R1™ Solid Reactive coverstock at a 4000-grit Abralon finish, the Transformer offers a strong but controllable midlane read while still retaining enough energy to drive hard through the pins, making it equally effective as a smoother, earlier-rolling control ball with pin-down layouts or a more angular, responsive option with pin-up layouts; on the lanes it reads the midlane confidently without burning up, blends wet/dry well, and provides a heavy-rolling continuation that excels on fresh conditions and during transition, which makes it a strong benchmark-plus option for competitive league and tournament players; overall, the Transformer is ideal for bowlers who value adjustability, surface tuning, and layout versatility, as it can comfortably fill multiple slots in an arsenal while delivering the strong, predictable motion Roto Grip is known for.

TESTING ENVIRONMENT Length:45 Volume: Med- High Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):THS COMMENTS Core: Morph-Wing Core Cover: V-R1 Solid Reactive Finish: 4000-grit Abralon RG: 2.51 (15) Diff: 0.051 (15) PSA: 0.015 (15) ME: Right-Handed Tweener Speed: 12-13 mph Rev Rate: 315 Axis Tilt: 14° Axis Rotation: 74° PAP: 5 1/8 R 7/8 Up Ball Layout: Pin Over Bridge 5 1/4 X 5 1/4 X 2 VLS The long teased new innovation from SPI is here in the form of the new Roto Grip Transformer. To add more motion they developed the new Morph-Wing Core which gives you a greater ability to attune the motion of your ball to what you need by making the drilling a more drastic contributor. They wrapped the Morph-Wing core in a cleanish cover. V-R1 Solid Reactive comes at 4k out of box which allows for a good variance of cover prep as well. The first ever ball in the HP5 category is definitely something we haven't seen before. I tested the Transformer on our house pattern after a session of seniors has bowling league. This usually mimics 2nd game transition in a normal league pretty well for me. I started out a little closer to the friction. The motion seemed pretty smooth down-lane, but I really felt like they were more speed sensitive than I was expecting and shots that I failed to keep the speed up on the ball would over-finish pretty drastically. It was a little confusing given what the ball looked like it was doing to the eye. As I nudged inward on the lane I started seeing more forgiveness. Definitely wasn't what I had expected from a ball with this much intermediate diff. When I went back and watch the information video I figured out why the motion that I was seeing wasn't translating to what I expected in terms of how the ball went through the pins. Where I was seeing the end of the progression caused by the ball flaring, the ball wasn't stopping like other balls I had seen. This is caused by the Torque induced progression that continues past that point. This is what created more movement after I observed the initial progression end. This made the ball very continuous and really let it cover boards more than I expected. It's the best of both worlds where the ball gives you predictable and reliable mid-lane read and continuation through the pins. Even more than any previous releases. See my full video review at: https://youtu.be/F3R3yai-prg?si=Ibyw2ySiMCBmzqY6 Lonnie Pemberton Storm Pro Shop Staff Vise Pro Shop Staff Revolutions Pro Shop Youtube Channel: https://youtube.com/@Revstormaz

Good ball great price

QLD,Australia

The Roto Grip Transformer has been one of the most interesting additions to my bag because of how adaptable it feels compared to other solids out there. The Morph-Wing Core and V-R1 Solid Reactive coverstock combo gives it a very strong, controllable read on medium to medium-heavy oil, but what really stands out for me is how much you can tune its reaction based on layout. You can choose between cleaner, more angular looks and heavier, earlier hook out of the same ball just by changing how it’s drilled, making it feel like two balls in one. Compared to other strong solids like the Hyperdrive, the Transformer hits a sweet spot: it’s not as “one-shape-fits-all” as a traditional solid, but that tunability means I can use it earlier in blocks or when the lanes start opening up and I want to stay aggressive without losing control. The backend motion feels strong but predictable, and on fresh patterns it gives me confidence I won’t get stuck or burn up too quick. Go to your local SPI proshop to get yours today!

Transformer Pin Up Dual Angle: 55 x 4 1/2 x 25 Storm Vector: 4 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 1 3/4 The Roto Grip Transformer features the V-R1 Solid Reactive cover stock wrapped around the game changing Morph-Wing Core. I drilled my first Transformer pin up and it was very clean through the front of the lane and made a sharp transition similar to a pearl ball. After a few games the back end smoothed out and gave me a look closer to a traditional solid. Overall the pin up Transformer has been my favorite on a typical house shot. https://youtu.be/io-HTusUSGk Transformer Pin Down Dual Angle: 80 x 4 x 70 I drilled my 2nd Transformer pin down directly into the wing. This drilling created a earlier, smoother, and more predictable ball motion which is perfect for a fresh house shot or longer sport shot. https://youtu.be/io-HTusUSGk

A strike automatically happen will throwing the ball at the right pocket very helpful on super oily conditions

Nevada ,united states

Roto-Grip Transformer Core - Morph Wing RG - 2.51, Diff - .051 4000 Abrasion Finish The Transformer from Roto Grip, is a Solid Asym with high flare potential that is great for Medium-Heavy oil patterns. The colorway of this ball is easy on the eyes and easy to read going down the lane. I drilled this pin up missing the wing at 4 x 5 x 2. Out of the box I rolled this on a fresh house shot pattern. The motion on this ball started just past the middle of the lane with a very strong backend staying continuous through the pins. The 4000 finish held well when I missed left but when I missed right, it still had enough engine to recover and finish strong. Overall, this ball will be great for all bowlers at all levels. The cover is versatile and I will be changing the surface to experiment how strong this ball can actually be. I foresee the Transformer being a staple in league play and in tournament bags. On a side note, we have drilled several pin down layouts for customers with great results, where one customer shot 806 out of the box. Great ball that is tunable for all bowlers looking to transform their game! Mike Walker Anne Marie Duggan’s Pro Shop

Worth every penny

Michigan ,united states

Transformer - Ball Specs Cover Stock: V-R1 Solid Finish: 4000 Grit Core: Morph Wing RG: 2.51 Differential: 0.051 Intermediate Diff: .015 Review The Roto Grip Transormer features the all new Morph Wing Core Technology and VR-1 solid cover to enhance it versatility and responsiveness. My Transformer is drilled pin down with the center of gravity kicked out to the right missing the wing. This layout in combination with the VR-1 solid cover at 4000 grit allowed me play straight up the track area. I was also able to move left of center and swing the Transformer outside five board (dry boards) without over reaction. I tested this ball on 43 feet typical house pattern. As a mid to low rev player, I see this ball being my first choice on medium to heavy oil patterns. This ball will be in my bag for league and tournaments. This is a great ball for all levels of bowlers. Order one from your local pro shop today! My ball review videos are posted on YouTube channel Stanley Waite. Stanley Waite 900 Global Staff Member Dover, DE

Layout: 60 x 4 1/2 x 75 The Roto Grip Transformer is something new and unique from the Roto line that I truly love. It’s not too early, and not overly clean in motion. For an asym solid, it fits a unique spot for a reliable shape. I went pin down because of my higher tilt and it was perfect! I recommend this ball for league and tournament conditions. I did not choose the wing layout, but I am definitely going to drill another and give it a try! Don’t sleep on this ball, it’s a sure win!

I found the all-new HP5 Series Transformer a fantastic new ball from Roto Grip. If you are a straighter, low-rev player like me, the Transformer, with its strength, power, and adaptability, would make an excellent addition to your arsenal! Since the Transformer is the first ball in the HP5 Series, I don't think it would be fair to compare it to another ball. However, I will say that the Transformer is designed to be molded to you as an individual player! To get the most out of the Transformer, I highly recommend speaking with your local Storm VIP Pro Shop Operator about the layout and drilling that would suit your game best! So, stop into your local Storm VIP Pro Shop today and speak with your most trusted ball fitter to see how to get the most out of the incredible new Transformer by Roto Grip! It is well worth the conversation! Rick Klimowicz Storm Products Pro Shop Staff Roll the Ball Pro Shop Penndel, PA

I think the thing I like most about this ball so far is its versatility. Depending on how you drill it and the surface you put on it, I feel like this can fill so many different needs or so many different arsenal slots for a variety of different styles. Where other bowling balls are what they are, this can be almost anything you need it to be at the time. The name "Transformer" is very fitting. Check out my YouTube review of the Transformer here: https://youtu.be/Rp2Bkn86Fd8

The Transformer is the latest ball from Roto Grip to release in the all new HP5 line. The Transformer features Morph wing technology wrapped in VR-1 solid. The Transformer is the perfect blend between strength and shape which will allow it to be in play for a wide variety of patterns and conditions. The Transformer also allows you to have a wide variety of reactions based on if you drill into the Morph wing or you miss it. My Transformer did not hit the Morph wing with the fingers and is much cleaner and quicker down lane compared to one that did intersect the wing. The Transformer is now available from any Storm VIP pro shop! Review Video: https://youtu.be/4KONtVE3TMo?si=vvtn1KSP0m9-HI5K

Right Handed Ball weight: 15 Rev Rate: 425 Ball Speed: 17 Axis Tilt: 11 Axis Rotation: 40* PAP: 3 1/2 horizontal, 1 1/16 up Layout: I drilled two Transformers, one with a normal asym layout, leaving the wing intact and one drilling into the wing with my thumb. I have only used these on a couple of THS patterns but plan to try them on some PBA patterns soon. Wing intact (3 ¾ x 4 x 2 ¾) Using a normal asym layout gives me a traditional shape that I’ve come to expect with many asyms. The cover allows it to clear the fronts and pick up at the end of the pattern as expected. As the pattern transitions, I ran into some normal issues like the ball burning up right at the pocket creating some flat corners. I haven’t altered the surface yet, but I can see this one being good on burn with some shine or possibly playing the shim on a tighter pattern with some surface. Thumb in wing (4 3/16 x 6 x 3 ¾) This is a layout I would never use. I don’t tend to drill many balls with a large pin buffer (pin down), but to drill out the wing as suggested, this put the pin in my middle finger. Out of box, it was very even through the mids and did not overreact at the end of the pattern. I was able to manage the lane transition throughout the league session better than most nights, mostly because the ball never gave me any over/under and it still continued through the pins. I can see a variety of uses for this layout because it is so versatile.

Storm Transformer Coverstock: V-R1 Solid Finish: 4000 Grit Abralon Core: Morph-Wing Core (14 pd) RG: 2.53 Differential: 0.053 Int Diff: 0.013 Layout #1: 5 x 4 1/2 x 3 - 2LS Layout #2: 5 x 5 x 6 - 2LS Layout Extras: 2 1/8 Finger Depth, "X" - 4 1/2 D and 1 Inch Left Tester: PAP 6 1/2 R, 1 1/4 D A similar ball to compare the Transformer to is the Storm Absolute Power. If you recall, the Absolute Power was sneaky good and a bit under the radar. However, both the Absolute Power and the Transformer provide very forgiving length. The Transformer provides good carry potential if you miss in or out on your shot. Please be sure to visit your favorite pro shop today and don't forget to check in on Hit the Lanes with Danelle and Mike at: https://youtube.com/channel/UC1VA-MgFBo9mIZde-G3T11A for occasional video reviews. Be sure to grab your Storm Tranformer today! Michael Slatky 900 Global Staff Member York, PA

My Transformer was drilled to miss the wing mainly because I wanted to really see what this ball had to offer and I truly am impressed. I was able to use it on multiple nights of league. Depending on who we were bowling I was able to move left and shape it a little more and then a couple of the nights I was able to move right and play a little straighter. I was able to put up a couple of 250+ games so far with the ball. I have been contemplating drilling another one but this time through the wing as I am very curious to see the shape and motion this gives. Even with a 4000 grit finish this cover fits my eye.

Roto Grip Transformer Coverstock: V-R1 Solid Reactive Finish: 4000-grit Abralon Core: Morph-Wing Core RG: 2.51, Diff: 0.051, PSA: 0.015 (15 lbs.) VLS Layout: 3 3/4 x 5 1/4 x 1 3/4 Dual Angle Layout: 65 x 3 3/4 x 30 PAP: 5 3/16” right x 5/8” up Rev rate: 400 rpm Average speed: 16.5 mph Location: Prairie Lanes, Sun Prairie WI Pattern: Medium volume THS Roto Grip has introduced the all-new HP5 line and the first ball to be launched is the Transformer. The innovation of this ball centers around the asymmetric Morph-Wing Core which is designed to transform the core dynamics depending on layout and how the finger and/or thumb holes are drilled into the ball – thus transforming the core shape to help provide a tunable motion. Together with the V-R1 (Versatile Response) solid reactive cover, the Transformer is designed to provide versatile ball motion that aims to bridge the gap between benchmark and strong reaction balls. I put a fairly strong layout on my Transformer to take full advantage of the asymmetry in the core. This pin up layout kept much of the Morph-Wing Core intact (i.e., I did not drill into the wing). The result has been a strong, versatile, and controlled motion that can be used on all the oiliest or driest of lane conditions. Overall, I think the Transformer is similar in strength to something like the Roto Grip X-Cell but makes a stronger and more pronounced moved on the backend of the lane. The Transformer is a great first ball out of the bag and will give you a good read of how the lanes are playing. Plus, you can stay with it for an entire night of league as it has no issues with transition as the lanes open up. However, if you’re looking for something that rolls a bit smoother, the Transformer offers unparalleled drilling versatility – so you could have 2 in your bag that react completely different out on the lanes. Chris Pollentier Storm Products Pro Shop Staff #StormNation #SquadRG

I drilled a pin up and a pin down to see the difference. Pin up was more hook stop and the pin down is more continuous. BOTH are super strong and angular

Roto Grip Transformer Ball specs: Morph-Wing core with V-R1 solid reactive cover stock with a factory surface finish of 4000 grit. Layout is 3 ½ x 5 ½ x 2 ½, we drilled out the wing with the most mass removed from the wing then drilled the finger holes, then calculated the layout from there. My Specs: Rev rate 420’s, ball speed 15.3 to 15.8 mph off the hand, axis tilt of 16 degrees and axis rotation of 70 degrees, PAP is 3 13/16th up 1/8th. Tested on Pro-lane surface on a 43ft medium volume house pattern and 45 and 46ft sport pattern. The Transformer has been a premier performer for myself since drilling the ball a month ago, especially in my sport shot league at ABC North Lanes in Harrisburg. For comparison I matched up the RST Hyperdrive and Equinox solid and both would burn up in the front part of the patterns and have almost no energy in the backends. The Transformer kept more energy to still allow better backend reactions even with the smoother layout that this Transformer has. On regular league night, I usually start with my benchmark Roto Grip Rockstar then move into stronger stuff, but more recently with the one center changing their house pattern to have more volume, the Rockstar is not strong enough to start out the night with. In the past 2 nights of league, I have been able to stay with this Transformer all 3 games and my sets were 724 and 738 with only 1 open frame in those 2 matches. Still going to keep my Roto Grip Rockstar in the bag, but with the most recent volume change at the one center, the bag will consist of the Transformer, a stronger drilled 900 Global Vengeance, and Roto Grip Gremlin. Now, if you want a stronger reaction, make sure you let your ball driller know to miss the morph wing and then it will get you a MUCH STRONGER reaction in the backend, strength similar to a hybrid cover with a storing asymmetrical core. The Transformer is definitely changing the sport of bowling with this updated innovation. Make sure you catch up with the Transformer and other new releases at the Matchmakers coming to your area soon. My next month’s events are: 3/1 - Colony Park Lanes and Bowlers’ Supply - York, Pa. 3/14 - Spins in Pittsburgh - Duff’s Pro Shop 3/15 - Hanover Bowling Centre - Hanover, Pa 3/22 - Bowlers Discount Pro Shop, Ellicott City, Md. 3/29 - Penndel Lanes - Penndel, Pa.

The Roto Grip Transformer is the first ever HP5 line ball by Roto Grip and I was pleasantly surprised to not see a price increase with the new line! Roto Grip introduces the Morph-Wing core that gives a greater opportunity to change the post-drilling core numbers based on whether you drill one of the wings out or not. I drilled mine 4 1/2 x 5 x 2, which gives me a pin-up layout that did not take the wing out. I’ve not seen a solid ball with back end reaction like the Transformer has… it’s very easy to forget you’re throwing a solid coverstock… Just another reason why I think people get too hung up on the solid/hybrid/pearl designation. My Transformer has lane shined quickly, and I can say I really like how it performs lane shined and plan to keep it that way, so I don’t feel like this is going to be one of those balls that I’ll have to be constantly resetting the surface on.

For my Transformer I drilled it missing the wing. The motion I am seeing is that it is very sharp off the spot. The ball is relatively clean through the fronts, but you can see a sharp defined motion on the friction. For me the ball is a bit too much over under on the fresh, however when the lanes see a bit of break down that is when this ball shines for me. I could see drilling two. One drilling the wing out and one missing the wing. They could make a good one two combo during league play.

Orientation: Right Handed Rev Rate: 400 RPM Speed: 16-17 MPH PAP: 4 1/8 over and 1 up Location: Enterprise Park Lanes, Springfield MO Pattern: High Volume THS VLS Layout: Layout 1: 4 3/8 x 4 x 2 ½ (Pin above bridge) Layout 2: 4 x 4 x 3 7/8 (pin below bridge) Strength Rating (out of 10) : 7 Shape: Medium Smooth Best Use: Medium Oil Transformer is the most tunable piece Roto Grip has ever made. The core has the wing that can be drilled a bunch of ways but to be honest, I tried with or without hitting the wing and both are good. So you could just drill it normal it’ll be good. Or drill it different and tune the performance. Your choice. The cover is also really clean so you can keep it at box 4000, or you can sand it with a lot lower surface and get it to see the lane a lot earlier. Hit wing, don’t hit wing, surface, no surface. It responds extremely well to all changes. Transform it to your desires!!

I have drilled two Roto Grip Transformers and kept one at the box finish and used the Storm Power Edge finish on the other and both have been in my bag ever since the release date. They are both Pin up drillings to keep the Morph-Wing in tact and they seem to come back from anywhere. The VR-1 solid cover is not the strongest cover, but can handle all but the highest volumes. I drilled the 4000 grit ball at 4.5x5x2 and the polished one at 4x5.5x2 and they both give me a round shape on the backend. I’ve used both with very nice results. I tend to throw weaker covers with being a senior with lower ball speed. These two fit below my Optimus Solid and above the Phaze II Pearl. I don’t think you can go wrong. I’d like to get another to try the pink down version that hits the wing of the core.

The Transformer brings new tech to the storm umbrella. Using the Morph Wing Core, you can drill your Transformer to either hit the wing or miss the wing. Changing how you lay this ball out drastically changes your on lane performance. I chose to drill the wing out of my Transformer to take full advantage of the extra performance I could generate. Doing so, I saw a quite violent reaction on this ball downlane. Paired with the V-R1 Solid Cover (a non-nano based formula), this ball really got down the lane and kicked off the back end. I see myself using the ball more in the transition phase of a block or league night. To me, the cover is just a bit too weak to start with this ball, unless there is enough friction already developed in the mid lane. For player with less rev rate than myself, I can see the extra post-drilled dynamics this ball offers to be beneficial at getting the ball to be a little more continuous downlane. Storm offers lots of YouTube videos on the technical aspects of this core you can find. Check out my review here: https://youtu.be/m5-RikIpQns Coverstock: V-R1 Solid Reactive Cover Core: Morph Wing Core RG: 2.51 - Differential: .051 – PSA: 0.015 (15lbs/undrilled) Layout: 4.5 Pin to COG (Drilled into wing) Pap: 5 right, 1 1/2 up Rev Rate: +-500 Speed 17-18mph

Introducing the Roto Grip Transformer featuring the innovative Morph-Wing Core design. This ball is ideal for medium to heavy oil conditions when you need predictable, repeatable ball motion matched to your bowling style and lane conditions. I am speed dominant, average rev rate 250-275ish, low-medium tilt and medium rotation. I drilled mine 30x4x20. My axis point is 4 3/8 over 1 3/8 up. This ball is great for me on medium oil conditions. I love starting with my Transformer then migrating right into the Roto grip RST Hyperdrive. These two are great one two punch. Go get yours at your local Storm VIP shop today! Check out my video at: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/189k5wTWvY/?mibextid=wwXIfr #sm2proshop #SquadRG #Deviousbowling

This ball is the introduction of a new innovation by SPI: the morph wing! This part of the weight block allows you to increase the axis rotation the ball gains as it travels down the lane. That rotation also accelerates into the change of direction. All of this is what you'll see if you have the wing in tact when drilling. What does that mean for you? More downlane motion, more continuation through the pins, and stronger mass bias positions are opened up because you don't have to sacrifice downlane motion when drilling Transformer stronger. That's how I drilled my Transformer, and I've already bowled 800 with it! What are you waiting for? Go pick up the newest innovation in bowling NOW!! - Chase Valenzuela

As a high end ball, the transformer works as expected.

united states

Great gift for my dad

united states