Length, breakpoint and ball advice for the Cheetah sport pattern.
| Length | 35 feet |
|---|---|
| Oil volume | 20.59 mL |
| Ratio | 1.32:1 |
| Rule of 31 breakpoint | Board 4 (35 minus 31) |
Sources: FloBowling, "Pattern Breakdown: Analyzing the Six 2021 World Series of Bowling Patterns"; length cross-checked against the PBA Experience pattern list on bowl.com. Oil specs can change from year to year and event to event, so always read the sheet posted for your tournament.
Cheetah is the short one. FloBowling lists it at 35 feet for the 2021 World Series. The PBA Experience list on bowl.com shows 33 feet for its version, so always check the sheet posted for the event you bowl.
The 2021 breakdown shows a very low volume of 20.59 mL and a 1.32:1 ratio, nearly flat. The article notes that on short patterns with ratios that close to 1:1, hitting your target is critical. The ball can lose reaction on a short pattern, so carry through the pins matters, especially on deeper angles. Urethane can control the back end while still hitting the pocket, and cleaner reactive covers help through the front.
Rule of 31 puts the breakpoint near board 4 (35 minus 31). That is a tight, outside look. Do not hook it into the gutter early, and do not count on the lane to send a miss back.
Not sure how the Rule of 31 works? Read the Rule of 31 explained or use the calculator.
More ball speed and a lower axis tilt help the ball stay out of trouble. Clean, controllable covers go in front of urethane in your bag.
Back to the PBA animal patterns guide. Other patterns: Scorpion, Chameleon, Viper, Shark.
Book a session with a 2009 PBA Scorpion Champion. In person at Strike Force Lanes in Greenfield, or by video from anywhere. See lessons for Indianapolis, Carmel and Fishers, or virtual video lessons.
Text Mike (702) 701-1494The PBA Cheetah pattern is 35 feet long, according to the published pattern lists cited on this page.
The Rule of 31 gives a starting breakpoint of board 4 (35 minus 31). Treat it as a starting point and adjust to the lane.
Yes. Mike coaches sport pattern play in person at Strike Force Lanes in Greenfield, IN, and by video review for bowlers in Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers and anywhere else.