Description
About the Wicked Gremlin
The original Gremlin became a superstar on the strength of its maxed-out core densities. The Roto Grip Wicked Gremlin takes that iconic Gremlin Series to a more aggressive level, pairing the same proven engine with a refined, nano-free solid cover built for controlled heavy-oil traction.
The Wicked Gremlin keeps the asymmetric Rondure MaxD Core, the high-density block that powered the original Gremlin, and wraps it in the new G-R1 Solid Reactive coverstock at a 2000-grit finish, in a bold Citrine, Red, and Purple cosmetic. The result is a grippy, high-friction footprint without the over-aggressive bite of its predecessor: more mid-lane traction with a smoother, more continuous transition through the backend. It is the high-performance HP3 piece in Roto Grip’s lineup. The Wicked Gremlin is part of one of the deepest new-release seasons in years, which you can see in our 2026 new bowling balls roundup.
Understanding the Roto Grip Rondure MaxD Core and Roto Grip G-R1 Solid Reactive
Roto Grip built the Wicked Gremlin for controlled traction on medium-heavy oil. Specifically, the asymmetric Rondure MaxD core uses maxed-out densities to read the mid-lane strongly and keep driving, while the new G-R1 Solid cover delivers a high-friction, grippy footprint engineered as a refined, nano-free alternative to the more aggressive V-R1. As a result, you get a predictable mid-lane read and a smooth, continuous transition rather than an over-aggressive, jumpy bite, which is exactly what makes it handle fresh house shots and transitioning tournament conditions wickedly well. The full per-weight specs are listed below.
The Maxed-Out Asymmetric Engine Behind the Original Gremlin
At the heart of the Wicked Gremlin is the asymmetric Rondure MaxD Core, the same maxed-out weight block that propelled the original Gremlin to superstar status. At 15 lb it measures RG 2.50, a strong .058 differential, and a .010 intermediate differential (mass bias), numbers that produce heavy flare and a strong, continuous, hard-driving motion. The maxed-out densities are the key: they let the core read the mid-lane early and keep storing energy deep into the pattern instead of rolling out.
That strong, continuous motion is what makes the Wicked Gremlin a true heavy-oil piece. The Rondure MaxD core delivers an early, powerful read and keeps driving through the pins, and the high differential creates the flare needed to clear medium-heavy volume. It is an aggressive engine that, paired with the right cover, stays controllable rather than jumpy.
A Nano-Free Solid Built for Controlled, Continuous Traction
What separates the Wicked Gremlin from its predecessor is the new G-R1 Solid Reactive coverstock. The G-R1 (GRIP-Response) shell delivers a high-friction, grippy footprint, but it was engineered as a refined, nano-free alternative to the more aggressive V-R1, so it reads strongly without the over-aggressive bite. Finished at 2000 grit, it provides a predictable mid-lane read and a smoother, more continuous transition through the backend. As a result, the Wicked Gremlin gives you heavy-oil traction with controlled, continuous motion, which sets it apart from other nano-free solids.
Wicked Gremlin Specs
| Weight | Radius of Gyration (RG) | Differential | Mass Bias |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 lbs | 2.50 | .056 | .011 |
| 15 lbs | 2.50 | .058 | .010 |
| 14 lbs | 2.54 | .058 | .008 |
| 13 lbs | 2.57 | .032 | .010 |
| 12 lbs | 2.59 | .029 | .008 |
RG and differential vary by weight. Specifications provided by the manufacturer.
Who This Ball Is Right For
Good to Know Before You Buy
Where It Fits in Your Arsenal
In the Roto Grip lineup, the Wicked Gremlin is the controlled heavy-oil solid you throw on the fresh. Where an aggressive asymmetric can read too early and over-hook, the Wicked Gremlin grips strongly but transitions smoothly, keeping its motion continuous. It pairs naturally below your strongest asymmetric and above a pearl, giving you a benchmark traction piece for medium-heavy volume.
Surface Adjustments
The 2000-grit finish is a traction setup out of the box. Raise the grit or polish for more length when the oil drops, or refresh the 2000 surface to restore traction. Have surface changes done at your pro shop for an even, consistent finish.
Coverstock Care
Solid covers absorb oil over time, which dulls the read. Wiping the Wicked Gremlin down after every set and deep cleaning periodically keeps its strong mid-lane traction consistent over the life of the ball.
| Bowling Ball Coverstock Type | Solid Reactive |
|---|---|
| Bowling Ball Cover Name | Roto Grip G-R1 Solid Reactive |
| Bowling Ball Core Shape | Asymmetrical Core |
| Bowling Ball Core Name | Roto Grip Rondure MaxD Core |
| Radius of Gyration: RG (15LB) | 2.50 |
| Differential: Diff (15LB) | .058 |
| Mass Bias Strength | .011 |
| Flare Potential | 4 – 5 Inches |
| Surface Finish | 2000 Grit |
| Preferred Lane Conditions | Medium – Heavy Oil |
| Ball Weight | 12LB, 13LB, 14LB, 15LB, 16LB |
| Bowling Ball Color | Orange, Purple, Red |
| Ball Performance Level | High Performance Bowling Balls, Roto Grip HP3 Bowling Balls |
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.