Roto Grip Attention Star S2 Review

Performance Analysis

Independent testing revealed the Roto Grip Attention Star S2 to be a notably clean-lane player with exceptional length before hook. On the test pattern, the ball demonstrated minimal front-end friction, traveling straight down the lanes with minimal early read—a characteristic the reviewers compared favorably to the Rubicon in terms of skid length. When moved across various boards and surface-adjusted with a 2,000-grit pad to knock down box shine, the ball produced a sharp, defined angular motion in the mid-lane and backend. The transition from skid to hook was distinct and gradual rather than abrupt, making for predictable motion. Testing showed the Attention Star S2 significantly outperformed the Roto Grip Clone in usability; while the Clone proved erratic and required excessive oil to be controllable, the Attention Star S2 maintained consistency across different board positions and delivery speeds. Notably, the asymmetric core with its longer pin design appeared to prevent early lock-up, allowing the reactive hybrid coverstock to display its responsive potential without premature hook.

The full-game session on a sport shot pattern yielded a 212 score with minimal spare misses, demonstrating the ball’s reliability in actual play. Reviewers noted that the Attention Star S2 requires bowlers to adjust their angle of play due to its clean, angle-generating motion—it’s not a ball that reads heavy friction in the front and recovers. Instead, it rewards proper line selection and prefers to play deeper in the oil. The ball appeared to excel on medium-heavy oil conditions and shorter sport patterns, though testers suggested it may gain traction on PBA tour-style patterns with greater oil volume. Surface adjustments proved effective; even minor pad work significantly increased midlane friction and backend response without making the ball overreactive.

Who Is This Ball For?

The Attention Star S2 is ideally suited for bowlers with moderate to high ball speed who need a skip-through, length-preserving piece for medium-heavy oil conditions. This ball works best for players who prefer defined angular motion and can adapt their lines to accommodate extended length; it rewards accuracy and proper angle selection over relying on early oil reads. Bowlers transitioning into the asymmetric core category or those seeking a responsive alternative to early-hook equipment will find this ball’s motion profile approachable and forgiving when thrown with decent technique.

The ball is less ideal for bowlers with slower arm speeds or those who depend on equipment to bail them out of marginal lines. It also may not suit dry-lane specialists or players who prefer equipment that reads front-end oil heavily. However, for league bowlers and competitive players willing to develop their game around a skip-through, angular-motion core, the Attention Star S2 offers excellent value at its $189.95 price point and should merit consideration as part of a medium-oil arsenal.