"Grip strips" for anti-rollbacks

I don't know if anyone else noticed, but there appears to be some kind of textured tape on the outside edge of the I-beams where the anti-rollback drive wheels roll. I noticed in the station, but couldn't see well enough if they went up the entire lift. Do you suppose these intended to give those wheels better grip so that they actually make the anti-rollbacks disengage?

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Jeff
Webmaster/Guide to The Point
Millennium Force laps: 34
*** This post was edited by Jeff on 6/22/2000. ***

I would have to agree. It would definately keep the wheels from slipping, especially during wet conditions.

I have not seen the strips in question, but I have been told by a Not To Be Identified Millennium Force Crew Member that is exactly what they are for, and that they allow the coaster to run in light rain.

--Dave Althoff, Jr.