Launched Rides

I always thought that a good park could only use one, or MAYBE two launched rides, and that after that it would just get repetitive. However, the variation on the traditional launch with Maverick has conformed me to love the launch. The lift is fast, so it feels like a major part of the ride, but it is also VERY quiet. I hope other parks look to using a launched lift like Maverick's instead of the chain. The elevator is also a breakthrough lift mechanism... great job CP!

I agree. If only it was practical to install them on chain lift coasters.

I think in 10 years nobody will remember what chain lifts are.

I think 3 fast-launched rides are enough (WT, Maverick, and Dragster) but I agree; a launched lift would be great on any ride.

I think wooden coasters should keep the traditional chain lift and leave the launch and elevator lifts to the steel coasters.

I'd agree CP doesn't really need another ride with a launch, but I think WT, Maverick, and Dragster all have launches that seem "different". And plus on Maverick, there is so much else to enjoy it doesn't matter.

Colts Fan #20 said:
I think wooden coasters should keep the traditional chain lift and leave the launch and elevator lifts to the steel coasters.

I agree. Wooden coasters are usually designed classically anyway.

Good point on the woodies. I don't think we'll ever see a launched wooden coaster. PKI tried to use newer technology on a wooden coaster with Son of Beast, and that landed them in a heap of trouble. I think the wooden coaster is fine where it is, especially with the introduction of 90 degree banks. I've still never experienced one of those woodies, but it has to be incredible.

I agree also, about the wooden coasters. I doubt that would ever work (not to say someone won't try at some point). But replacing the chain lift on coasters like Magnum with a launch lift would be great.

What other ways could a train get to the top besides a launch or Elevator? Lets see if we can come up with a new way.

I've always thought it would be interesting to see a company try to use compressed steam to launch trains. I saw the idea on a National Geographic special comparing Hydraulic launch to steam launch like they use in the Air Force...

I got it! Let's get creative with Maverick's theming and have a team of horses pull it up the hill!

On a more serious reply to the other ways a train could get to the top, a few thoughts came to mind. What about an actual elevator, such that the train would roll onto a block brake section that would pneumatically/hydraulically lift straight up to the top of the ride, and then release the train down the hill? Being lifted straight up (i.e. Power Tower) is a LOT scarier than going up an incline I.M.O. If there are questions about this, see Scooby Doo's Ghoster Coaster at kings island for a (very scaled down) example.

especially with the introduction of 90 degree banks. I've still never experienced one of those woodies, but it has to be incredible.

Dvo, trust me its pretty awsome. I'm close to Holiday World and rode The Voyage 9 times last season and yea they're pretty amazing. That and the incredible airtime on that coaster are my highlights of the coaster.

Dvo, that is already used on some coasters.

Lost Coaster of Superstition Mountain (Indiana Beach):
http://www.rcdb.com/ig460.htm?picture=19

And Others:
http://www.rcdb.com/ir.htm?propulsion=94

Wow I had no idea... I'm all out of ideas for now. Anyone else got any?

Still, there is nothing more nostalgic (sp?) than riding a good ole woodie hearing the clank clank sound of the chain lift!! AND the smell of the grease from the chain too! Like on blue streak for example. now imagine old blue with a launched track:)

this right here would be a new idea. I don't know if it would work though. How about no lift hill. As in the station is at the top of the ride. When you left the station you would just go down the first hill. throughout the ride or towards the end of the ride their would be a launch that would speed it up again so it could make it back up to the station or break run.

wow. that would be a lot of stairs to climb. maybe they could incorporate an elevator to the station. lol! good idea.

I know. An employee sitting in the front of the train could insert a series of color coded logs into some sort of steam boiler. The logs would spontaneously combust, each one in turn providing an explosive kick to reach ever greater velocities, until finally topping out around . . . oh, 88 mph, let's say.