Is Motiv’s new ball Shocking?
This is an interesting piece that looks to possibly be one of the most versatile in Motiv’s current line up. The Venom Shock offers a predictable ball motion and driller friendly layout possibilities. We had a chance to test a pin up and pin down version and the results were very good.
Keep in mind that coverstock accounts for 70% of ball reaction, but the core creates the dynamic shape of the reaction. Your driller will alter the shape to suit your game.
Our tester:
Brad Crouse is testing the Motiv Venom Shock. The young Crouse’s phenomenal bowling has helped him make Motiv’s Regional staff.
Power Tweener: 450 rpm
Layout 1 (Pin down): 30 x 5.25 x 75
Layout 2 (Pin Up): 40 x 5.5 x 45
Test Pattern: 41ft THS, 12:1, 24ml
Ball Info
The Motiv Venom Shock is a good looking ball that uses a new cover called Turmoil MFS or Medium Friction Solid. It is a very nice compliment and step down to the Covert Revolt. The core used is the Gear core with 2.48 RG and Diff of .034. This is a very reliable core for Motiv, offering a smooth and consistent roll.
Brad’s Thoughts:
Pin Down Motiv Venom Shock is my favorite out of the two I drilled. It’s much more rolly than the pin up one. Should be great to use on some long patterns with less volume and fresh medium patterns. Very clean throughout the lane but still rolls pretty strong off of the end of the pattern.
My Pin Up Motiv Venom Shock is pretty good when I need to move left and hook them. It gets down lane very well and is very strong off of the end of the pattern. Ball is going to be great on any burned long or medium pattern.
Our Thoughts:
8.5/10
The Motiv Venom Shock, especially in the pin down layout with a smaller drilling angle and larger VAL angle will be the benchmark favorite for many bowlers, especially those with medium to higher revs. It blends the THS nicely while still offering the backend punch needed to carry well. The pin down layout allowed Brad to have more room for forgiveness. The rollier nature of this drill allowed it to read before the end of the pattern, creating a strong arc. It will be that middle of the road ball that smooths out fresh shots.
With the pin up version, the reaction was very predictable. Basically, it offered about a foot more length, meaning it was reading the end of the pattern, allowing it to be snappier off the dry boards. It’s a little more finicky if facing a fresh shot or a heavier pattern that hasn’t broken down a bit. The pin down ball has a better reaction to those kind of conditions.
Motive has created some decent balls over the years, but the Motiv Cover Revolt, Venom Shock, and Primal Rage in my mind finally make Motiv ready for primetime.
Comparison video: