Mitch Hawker's "Internet's Best Roller Coaster Poll" 2007 Steel Poll Results

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

http://xs221.xs.to/xs221/07444/bestcoasterpoll.jpg







-------------


It's that time when many enthusiasts grab a tub of popcorn, a 2-liter of sugar, and hammer out their top picks for Mitch Hawker's annual coaster poll.


The 2007 Steel Ballot has now closed. Results pending...


-------------




Official Site: http://www.ushsho.com/bestrollercoasterpoll.htm





-------------




Full 2007 Wooden Coaster Results posted: http://www.ushsho.com/woodrollercoas...esults2007.htm (http://www.ushsho.com/woodrollercoasterpollresults2007.htm)

Top 10 Wood:
1- The Voyage
2- El Toro
3- Thunderhead
4- Troy
5- Balder
6- Boulder Dash
7- Phoenix
8- Tremors
9- Hades
10- Thunderbird


Full 2007 Wooden Coaster Results posted: http://www.ushsho.com/detailedsteelrollercoasterpollresults2007.htm

Top 10 Steel:
1- Superman - Ride of St SF New England
2- Expedition GeForce
3*- Eagle's Fortress Everland
4- Millennium Force Cedar Point
5- Katun Mirabilandia
6- Nemesis Alton Towers
7- Goliath Six Flags Over Geo
8- Goliath Walibi World
9- Nitro Six Flags Great Ad
10- Maverick Cedar Point

-------------



All questions, commens, or discussion on Mitch's poll may be discussed here.

[jolash]

Don't forget coasterfanatics.com's easy-to-use form for the ballot.


http://www.coasterfanatics.com/sec_poll

[Michael]

Gah, I wish I had time for this! :(

How late are the polls open?

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

^Try clicking the official link.

Ballots will be accepted until the end of November, results will be posted very soon thereafter.

[Jake]

Don't forget coasterfanatics.com's easy-to-use form for the ballot.


http://www.coasterfanatics.com/sec_poll

I'd like to point out that last year, there were coasters not listed on that form. It's my opinion that we should do it the "old fashoined way", but do it however you so choose.

[jolash]

Well, I've only been on 6 woodies, and they are all listed, so there would not be a problem doing it. They only time there would be a problem is if they do not have a coaster listed that you have been on.

[Jake]

My ballot. I think I did it right... I hope, lol.

[jolash]

Looks right. Except, your favorite steel needs a "y" in the first column. Otherwise, you're saying you've never ridden it. The 2nd column denotes whether or not you've ridden it this year.

[Jake]

Oops, looks like I'm gonna have to email Mitch again..

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

^I would worry, it should't affect the results.

[SnooSnoo]

Mine looks nice and sexy.. rode an amazing 31 woodies this summer.. yay!

[Top Thrill Dolphin]

Top 10:

1. Cyclops
2. Raven
3. The Voyage
4. Pheonix
5. The Beast
6. Hades
7. New Mexico Rattler
8. Cornball Express
9. Twister
10. Blackpool's Mouse

Bottom 5:
44. Mean Streak
45. Son of Beast
46. Psyclone (SFMM)
47. The Villlan
48. Rolling Thunder

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

Top:
1- The Voyage
2- Phoenix
3- Raven
4- My Favorite Steel
5- Thunderhead

---

Bottom:
36- Scooby Doo (Fairly Odd Coaster)
37- Beastie (Fairly Odd Coaster)
38- Psyclone
39- Mean Streak
40- Son of Beast


See attached for complete list

[jolash]

1 Favorite Steel
2 Shivering Timbers
3 Blue Streak
4 Wolverine Wildcat
5 Zach's Zoomer
6 Mean Streak

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

Already at 417 votes within the first week...last year was at 490 votes total. Keep em' coming!

[sirloin]

Top 5 (leaving steel out of this):

1-Phoenix
2-Wildcat (Hershey)
3-Lightning racer (both)
4-Grizzly (Kings Dominion)
5-Thunder Run (SFKK)

Bottom 5:

28-Mean Streak
29-Racer (Kennywood)
30-Judge Roy Scream
31-Scooby Doo (Kings Dominion)
32-Rolling Thunder

I accidentally put Mean Streak up twice. Hope that doesn't screw ol' Mitch up too badly.

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

I accidentally put Mean Streak up twice. Hope that doesn't screw ol' Mitch up too badly.
E-mail Mitch again. He'll let you make the changes you need to until the deadline.

[sirloin]

Do I just need to e-mail him the ballot, or do I specifically need to tell him to eliminate my previous entry?

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

Find your ballot here (might not be posted yet): http://www.ushsho.com/processedwoodballots2007.htm


Sub: "Error In Submitted Ballot #[whatever the bottom right number of your ballot is]"
Text: "Mitch, I made an error in my my ballot, number __. I accidentally rated Mean Streak twice. Attached you'll find a .txt file which serves as my revised ballot."

[theRock-steel]

I don't know many, but here goes:
Top Five:
--Thunderhead
--Lightning Racer
--Beast
--Comet (Hersheypark)
--Wildcat (Hersheypark)

Not Very Good:
--Mean Streak
--Thunderhawk (Dorney Park)
--Rolling Thunder (SF Great Adventure)

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

Voting has officially ended! Results are pending.

If you didn't get to vote, there might be another chance if Mitch decides to do a steel poll.

[theRock-steel]

If you didn't get to vote, there might be another chance if Mitch decides to do a steel poll.

I hope he does; I'm more into steel.

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

Full Results posted: http://www.ushsho.com/woodrollercoasterpollresults2007.htm

-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Top 10:

1- The Voyage
2- El Toro
3- Thunderhead
4- Troy
5- Balder
6- Boulder Dash
7- Phoenix
8- Tremors
9- Hades
10- Thunderbird

[Dan]

Wow...I'm extremely please with the results. Although they were pretty predictable, I'm super happy that The Voyage beat El Toro for the number one spot. Though I haven't ridden either, I'm an avid supporter of it for some reason. Thunderhead, Troy, and Balder all seem to deserve there positions, as do all five on the bottom half.

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

I'm thoroughly impressed with Thunderheads and Troy's position. Phoenix fell from the sky like it was hot. :( It also looks like Balder's days of supremacy are over.

[zburns999]

The lack of El Toro in the number on spot bestows in me feelings of great sadness. Excuse me while I mourn this loss...:(

Seriously though. How the hell is it not the best wooden coaster?

[Dan]

If you're actually looking for an answer, probably because the majority of riders who have been on both prefer The Voyage.

[jolash]

I'm proud to see Troy way up there. It looks to be, in my opinion, the best GCI out there.

Sad to see Shivering Timbers so low though. Looks as if its reign is over for good, not having broken the 10 spot since 2004.

[zburns999]

If you're actually looking for an answer, probably because the majority of riders who have been on both prefer The Voyage.

I disagree. I think its the people who havn't been on either will vote for Voyage because the vast majority have something against Six Flags. It's a shame.

[Jake]

I disagree. I think its the people who havn't been on either will vote for Voyage because the vast majority have something against Six Flags. It's a shame.

How in the hell could you possibly come to that conclusion? Do you realize that there are just as many if not MORE El Toro fanboys than there are Voyage? For Christ's sake there is a whole website dedicated to Great Adventure! Honestly, it's obvious that Voyage is the preferred ride, whether you agree with it or not. Besides, you haven't even been on Voyage, so your whole statement is utter bull!

[Brandon]

Sad to see Shivering Timbers so low though. Looks as if its reign is over for good, not having broken the 10 spot since 2004.

And it still amazes me how it even was up there in the first place...


I'm glad to see that Tremors remained in the Top 10 this year. From the looks of it, it looks like it really deserves a Top 10 spot. However, I can see it being knocked off the Top 10 in the next few years, with all these new "rox your sox" woodies being introduced year after year, with some wooden coasters introducing stuff we rarely see on other woodies.

[sirloin]

How do you really feel, Jake? ROFL!

I'm pleased to say I've been on one of the top 10. Seriously, I've been on many of the best steelies out there. Time to get some good wood under my belt.

Oh, and to those of you with dirty minds, shut up. ;)

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

Okay guys, it's not "bash time." Let's think of innovative ways and reasons behind our thoughts other than name calling.

^I think the name of the little white bottle starts with a 'V', but I'm not sure.

[sirloin]

^I think the name of the little white bottle starts with a 'V', but I'm not sure.Death is in the near future for you, good sir.

[jolash]

And it still amazes me how it even was up there in the first place...

Have you even been on it?

[Brandon]

Have you even been on it?

No, but I don't need to ride a coaster whose train barely clears the hills on a hot day...or the dozens of negative reviews about the rides downfall during the past five years. If those voters got a recent lap around it I'm sure they'll see just how the neglected coaster really has become.

But really, have you even ridden Voyage to be such a fanboy of it? It goes both ways.

[jolash]

But really, have you even ridden Voyage to be such a fanboy of it? It goes both ways.

What kind of claim is that? A completely unsupported one, that's for sure. I guess it's a crime to have a coaster on your "wish list" now-a-days?

And I have ridden Shivering Timbers recently, just this August. It's a fantastic ride. Not the airtime *****s pipedream, but it's a blast nonetheless.

[Jake]

Brandon, you really can't know seeing as you haven't been on it, ever. And since when is Joel a Voyage fanboy? Just because he wants to ride it, doesn't mean he's a fanboy. If he likes Shivering Timbers, than that's what he likes. Everyone is entitled to their own preferences and opinions.

Unless of course their view contradicts mine.

I kid.

[Top Thrill Dolphin]

Time to get some good wood under my belt.

I can help you with that.

It's awesome how I've been on four of those top 10 coasters.

[Mike T]

Really man, I know the only reason you call out Shivering Timbers is because of who you talk to on AIM, but instead of listening to one person's opinion (who's never ridden the ride to begin with) you might want to rethink things before you give the ride a snowball's chance in hell of being good.

And I have yet to hear your review on rides like Timber Terror and Tremors? Have you not ridden them, because if you haven't, comments like...


But really, have you even ridden Voyage to be such a fanboy of it? It goes both ways.

...are a bit contradictory. So again, before you take the time to let your fingers dance around that keyboard of yours, try flying to Michigan to ride it, or better yet, try riding the coasters that you say...


deserves a Top 10 spot.

[sirloin]

I can help you with that.I highly doubt that. You aren't a beautiful young lady.

To anyone who wants to make fun of me further, read the small text on the back of this plane, in front of the tail (http://www.airliners.net/open.file?id=0257294&WxsIERv=Nveohf%20N340-642&Wm=0&WdsYXMg=Ivetva%20Ngynagvp%20Nvejnlf&QtODMg=Abggvatunz%20%2F%20Yrvprfgre%20%2F%20Qreol% 20-%20Rnfg%20Zvqynaqf%20%28Pnfgyr%20Qbavatgba%29%20%2 8RZN%20%2F%20RTAK%29&ERDLTkt=HX%20-%20Ratynaq&ktODMp=Whyl%2029%2C%202002&BP=0&WNEb25u=Qnaal%20Uvyy%20-%20JbeyqNveyvarVzntrf&xsIERvdWdsY=T-IFUL&MgTUQtODMgKE=Avpr%20ersyrpgvba%20ba%20gur%20fvyire %20cnvag%20va%20gur%20riravat%20fhafuvar.&YXMgTUQtODMgKERD=4872&NEb25uZWxs=2002-08-01%2000%3A00%3A00&ODJ9dvCE=&O89Dcjdg=383&static=yes&width=1024&height=699&sok=JURER%20%20%28nvepensg_trarevp%20%3D%20%27Nveo hf%20N340-600%27%29%20NAQ%20%28nveyvar%20YVXR%20%27Ivetva%20 Ngynagvp%20Nvejnlf%25%27%20BE%20nveyvar%20YVXR%20% 27Ivetva%20Avtrevn%20Nvejnlf%20%28Ivetva%20Ngynagv p%20Nvejnlf%29%25%27%20BE%20nveyvar%20YVXR%20%27Zn egvanve%20Ubyynaq%20%28Ivetva%20Ngynagvp%20Nvejnlf %29%25%27%29%20%20beqre%20ol%20ivrjf%20QRFP&photo_nr=227&prev_id=0752770&next_id=0294240).

'Nuff said.

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

^I know a special girl named Shantell I need to introduce you to.


but instead of listening to one person's opinion
Why not a bunch of people's reviews? http://www.themeparkreview.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=37033&view=next&sid=e2d13d0e3bf39f9ca13ae1b956a0e5c3 Cause I'm only hearing support from a couple people. And really, the fact you said DBH had stronger airtime than Timbers really turns me off of it. It's okay to say that a ride is good and you've ridden it, but to say it's better than 14 other rides you have not ridden is ludicrous.

Yes, there are some rides that probably shouldn't be rated that high. Be it they've had a downfall, or they just have pure nostalgia on their side, but that is life.

[Brandon]

Really man, I know the only reason you call out Shivering Timbers is because of who you talk to on AIM, but instead of listening to one person's opinion (who's never ridden the ride to begin with) you might want to rethink things before you give the ride a snowball's chance in hell of being good.
Because of who I talk to on AIM? Not sure what youre talking about, but I can develop my own opinions about things. I've seen a lot of photos, videos, read a lot of reports, and came to my own conclusion about Shivering Timbers. I'm not a mindless robot who is told what to say and do. I call out Shivering Timbers for a reason, and thats because the ride isnt what it was opening season. Because of the rides neglect, it has turned into what it is today. And because of that neglect, people have been reporting about it's said downfall for the past few years.


And I have yet to hear your review on rides like Timber Terror and Tremors? Have you not ridden them, because if you haven't, comments like...



...are a bit contradictory. So again, before you take the time to let your fingers dance around that keyboard of yours, try flying to Michigan to ride it, or better yet, try riding the coasters that you say...
Your right, I havent been able to review Timber Terror or Tremors because guess what Mike? I just moved up here about a month ago, and, guess what? Parks up here are seasonal. So, I have to wait about 6 months until I can post these reviews you haven't been able to read. Furthermore, if I had the money I would of flew out here to go to Silverwood a long time ago so I can post these said reviews. But, unfortunately I didn't, and my mom didn't share the same intrest in going to Silverwood as I did, so, I went to parks like the Disneyland Resort, Knott's Berry Farm, and Six Flags Magic Mountain instead because they were within driving distances. Not over 1,000 miles from me, as they are now.

Getting to the Top 10 comment, I say that Tremors deserves to be in the Top 10 because of a few things.

A) It has a fun and intresting layout.
B) It's actually not neglected by the park.
C) It draws in the crowds to the park and actually gets a near full train 5/6'ths of the season.

Do you want me to go on, Mr. T?

[jolash]

B) It's actually not neglected by the park.

Saying that this ride is not and that Shivering Timbers is, is a completely ignorant comment, because you do not know that.

[Mike T]

The difference between what I say and what you think I say is the fact that in my opinion, Shivering Timbers is the best wooden roller coaster I've been on. Its funny how I can tell you something on my birthday, about how I think you should try riding it, because I thought it was amazing, and you take that and spin it, and 6 months later you still continuously talk about it as if its crap. I don't know about you, but theres a difference between saying "yeah that looks like a lot of fun and I'd like to ride it" and "Wow, its a piece of crap roller coaster, even though I've never ridden it." I just think its funny how my preference gets spun on me to the point where you've got 15 year olds from Idaho trying to claim its a garbage ride. Its like you accuse rides of being "guilty" until they are proven innocent.

And no, I don't think Shivering Timbers is the best ride in the world, but I have a hard time reading somebody's opinion on it, having never ridden it themselves.

[sirloin]

Because of who I talk to on AIM? Not sure what youre talking about, but I can develop my own opinions about things. I've seen a lot of photos, videos, read a lot of reports, and came to my own conclusion about Shivering Timbers. I'm not a mindless robot who is told what to say and do. I call out Shivering Timbers for a reason, and thats because the ride isnt what it was opening season. Because of the rides neglect, it has turned into what it is today. And because of that neglect, people have been reporting about it's said downfall for the past few years.You didn't come to your own conclusion about Timbers. You came to everyone else's conclusions about Timbers.


Your right, I havent been able to review Timber Terror or Tremors because guess what Mike? I just moved up here about a month ago, and, guess what? Parks up here are seasonal. So, I have to wait about 6 months until I can post these reviews you haven't been able to read. Furthermore, if I had the money I would of flew out here to go to Silverwood a long time ago so I can post these said reviews. But, unfortunately I didn't, and my mom didn't share the same intrest in going to Silverwood as I did, so, I went to parks like the Disneyland Resort, Knott's Berry Farm, and Six Flags Magic Mountain instead because they were within driving distances. Not over 1,000 miles from me, as they are now.

Getting to the Top 10 comment, I say that Tremors deserves to be in the Top 10 because of a few things.

A) It has a fun and intresting layout.
B) It's actually not neglected by the park.
C) It draws in the crowds to the park and actually gets a near full train 5/6'ths of the season.

Do you want me to go on, Mr. T?Here's what I thought about Six Flags Astroworld.

A) Its coaster collection seemed to be something out of the 80's with a SLC thrown in for good measure.
B) It can't be that good, because Texas Cyclone was the only coaster there people really raved about.
C) No Batman-The Ride? That's a bad sign...

Or how about Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom?

A) Everybody says it's terrible, and it therefore must be.
B) T2 can't be good, because nobody likes it.
C) Chang is the only reason worth going.

Six Flags Astroworld was one of the nicest and classiest parks I've ever visited, and I'm sorry it left. You want to know what it beat out? I was choosing between SoCal and Texas for a senior trip, and Texas won. Good thing I didn't take the word of RCPro members for it, or I'd have missed out on a Houston legend.

Oh, and Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom? Fantastic park, and I'd recommend it to anyone. Chang is wicked fun, and T2 was the coolest SLC in town. Nevermind that Thunder Run rocked my face off, and Greezed Lightnin' was no slouch either.

As I said and I thought people understood, you can't take other people's opinions and make them your own. That's bogus, and a good way to find lots of disappointment in the places you visit and the rides you ride. I have more fun at parks than probably everybody here because I wait until I've ridden it or visited the place. Not only that, I have more places I want to go than you do, because again, I want to visit everywhere and make my own opinions.

So Brandon, it would probably be in your best interest not to continue.

[Dan]

Getting to the Top 10 comment, I say that Tremors deserves to be in the Top 10 because of a few things.

A) It has a fun and intresting layout.
B) It's actually not neglected by the park.
C) It draws in the crowds to the park and actually gets a near full train 5/6'ths of the season.If a ride gets on the top ten for having those three things, I think we'd have a huge tie among the top fifty or so wooden coasters.

I've never ridden Shivering Timbers, and never read a 'formal' review of it. From videos and pictures, I must say like it looks like a ton of fun. The modern out and back wooden coaster.

Let's calm down everyone, this is getting a bit too heated for my liking.

Its like you accuse rides of being "guilty" until they are proven innocent.
Good point! It's never a great idea to think too negatively about coasters, or anything else, until you experience them. Note, 'experience' does not include hearing from someone you talked to, or reading all the reviews in the world. In a situation like this, one shouldn't be angry or disappointed that El Toro was beat out by another ride if that person hasn't ridden both of them (Which is why I feel guilty saying I'm on Voyage's side here). If someone has ridden both and preferred El Toro, I can understand that disappointment.

I'd like to point out that Mitch has us rate different 'feelings' on coasters, and order them from our favorite to our least favorite. Looking at the ballots, it becomes apparent that there are dozens of combinations of those 'feelings'. We should take something from that. Let's say Mike prefers airtime and Brandon prefers the out of control feeling. the wooden coasters they will prefer will, obviously, be different.


I want to visit everywhere and make my own opinions.I feel the same way. If you tell me Shivering Timbers is rough and you've ridden it, I'll listen to you more than I will someone who heard that from someone else who hea...you get the idea. But, better yet, of course, ride it yourself! Then there will be no doubt in your mind about how rough it is. We can't all visit every park, but as enthusiasts I think it is our responsibility as enthusiasts to aspire to ride everything we can, visit every park we can visit.


Good thing I didn't take the word of RCPro members for it, or I'd have missed out on a Houston legend.
I don't really think that is fair. Most of us haven't been to Texas but can still say that California has a great collection of parks and rides.

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

The difference between what I say and what you think I say is the fact that in my opinion, Shivering Timbers is the best wooden roller coaster I've been on. Its funny how I can tell you something on my birthday, about how I think you should try riding it, because I thought it was amazing, and you take that and spin it, and 6 months later you still continuously talk about it as if its crap. I don't know about you, but theres a difference between saying "yeah that looks like a lot of fun and I'd like to ride it" and "Wow, its a piece of crap roller coaster, even though I've never ridden it." I just think its funny how my preference gets spun on me to the point where you've got 15 year olds from Idaho trying to claim its a garbage ride. Its like you accuse rides of being "guilty" until they are proven innocent.
First off, your impetuosity has blinded your vision and you missed the big picture...that being Mr. Joel can't say Shivering Timbers is rated 'so low' when in fact he has not ridden any of the 14 coasters rated before it. That was the very simple objective, but now it's a fiasco where you're turning me into the bad guy when backed up in a corner.

You didn't say Shivering Timbers probably would've killed Voyage its opening year? You didn't say the people on TPR's Mid-West trip that liked Voyage would enjoy Shivering Timbers a bit more? Or are you going to say I take things too serious again, or pull the trick that you were only joking (again)? ...cause you need to stop with switching sides when it's convenient for you. You're going to assume I say these things and you're Mr. Angel, but I'll call you out in front of everyone. Before you said you don't like to rate coasters against one another, then you started pulling out the card about how good it is against something you haven't ridden, then back to the old method. I don't believe I outright called Shivering Timbers "trash". I have just made the connection about it's "fall"-which has been backed up by many sources and only countered by someone who remembers opening day so vividly at age 8, and apparently it's "just the same" as today. That said, the ride is very gracious to have taken a top 15 spot.

Let's not get carried away and start disregarding the common logic to say something is good just because we have ridden it, and this enables an excusable act to disregard the other 14 that we haven't ridden.

But whatever, you can twist stuff around to try and manipulate people. Some [smarter of us] will just see right through it. I'm done with this nonsense.

"On Dasher, On Dancer, On Prancer, On Vixen, On Comet, On Cupid, On Donner, On Fanboyism!"

[Top Thrill Dolphin]

You can't really be THAT sure of how you'd like a coaster until you've ridden it.

[theRock-steel]

59 The Beast / Kings Island

^^ This seems to be a lot lower in the poll than I would have expected. Oh my gosh ! :eek:

32 Lightning Racer - L / Hersheypark
33 Lightning Racer - T / Hersheypark
52 Wildcat / Hersheypark
93 Comet / Hersheypark

^^ These seem to be lower in the poll than I would have liked. (I haven't ridden that much wood - and none outside the US.) :(

170 Mean Streak / Cedar Point
177 Son of Beast / Kings Island

^^ When no one likes you there is payback.

[jolash]

Let's not get carried away and start disregarding the common logic to say something is good just because we have ridden it, and this enables an excusable act to disregard the other 14 that we haven't ridden.BS point. You cannot tell me that there is a coaster on there in which you are unhappy with its position. If not now, you have in past years.


I'm just about through with this site. Nearly every major topic leads into a back and forth ranting about what we can and can't say about a ride or to eachother. Regardless of who's fault it may be, it's something that I don't need to be wasting my time with.

I'm entitled to my opinions. I don't need someone else putting those down, in any way, shape, or form.

Edit: No, I'm not outta here. I'm just really pissed off with the way some of these discussions turn out.

[MaverickManJZ]

Mine went:
1 - Thunderhead - Dolly
2 - Beast (A good ride) - KI
3 - SoB ( A good ride) - KI
4 - Blue Streak - CP
5 - Tornado - Stricker's Grove
6 - Racer (F) - KI
7 - Racer (B) - KI
8 - Thunder Road (B) - Carowinds
9 - Thunder Road (F) - Carowinds
10 - Mean Streak - CP
11 - Teddy Bear - Stricker's
12 - FoC - KI/Carowinds

...................

13 - Hurler
14 - SoB/Beast (Bad rides. It's like a whole different coaster)

Been to CP, KI, Carowinds, Strickers, WDW. Don't think I missed anything...

New #1 woodie expected in a two weeks! Heading down to Beech Bend for Kuntucky Rumbler!

[sirloin]

BS point. You cannot tell me that there is a coaster on there in which you are unhappy with its position. If not now, you have in past years.There's a difference in being unhappy with a position and outright saying it doesn't deserve it. I'm not saying Mike said that it deserved better, but I did want to clarify the difference.


I'm just about through with this site. Nearly every major topic leads into a back and forth ranting about what we can and can't say about a ride or to eachother. Regardless of who's fault it may be, it's something that I don't need to be wasting my time with.Fair enough. Then you'll leave, and in all likelihood, you'll be back again when the dust settles. It's happened before and may quite possibly happen again. You're a cool dude, Sir Lawrence. Mike's a cool dude and Ryan's a cool dude as well. The fact of the matter is, things outside of this forum should've stayed outside this forum, so don't blame an innocent website for these fights.

Not only that, but I'd hardly call some so-called fights fights. That Florida vs. the world thing was not a fight. That was a very friendly debate between Ryan, Jake, and myself. None of the three of us were even remotely mad at each other. Same for the Intamin vs. B&M thread. Disagreements and fights are two different things.

[Jake]

I'm entitled to my opinions. I don't need someone else putting those down, in any way, shape, or form.

Fair enough, however, aren't you guys doing the exact same thing to Ryan and Brandon? Are they not entitled to an opinion as well? I think we all need to take a chill pill, and relax. Some of you are taking this way too serious, just because I have not been on any given ride, does not mean I can't say that it looks boring. I think that the Golden Compass looks like a terrible movie, and yet no one gets upset over things like that. What is it about coasters that makes them so damn personal? You didn't build it, it isn't at a park you own, so, if someone doesn't like it, or thinks it looks lame, than so be it. If you don't want people judging your opinion on a ride, than don't turn around and do the same thing to them.

*This was not only directed at, Joel. It was directed to whoever it applies to.*

Edit:
Not only that, but I'd hardly call some so-called fights fights. That Florida vs. the world thing was not a fight. That was a very friendly debate between Ryan, Jake, and myself. None of the three of us were even remotely mad at each other. Same for the Intamin vs. B&M thread. Disagreements and fights are two different things.

Wise words, from the mouth of Justin.

[sirloin]

Fair enough, however, aren't you guys doing the exact same thing to Ryan and Brandon? Are they not entitled to an opinion as well?Brandon is entitled to an opinion. It has to be his own opinion, though. He's not entitled to the opinions of TPR, unless they're sold to him. Even after that, there's a long court proceeding, deeds changing hands, and so on and so forth. It's a messy process, and nobody wins.

Go Phoenix! Rock on!

[Jake]

Whose to say he can't use their reviews, and/or pov's as the basis of his review? Or would that be copyright infringement?

[sirloin]

Copyright infringement. Hence the long, drawn-out court proceedings.

And last I checked, other people's opinions and POV's are a bad basis for your own reviews. It's one thing to tell somebody that they can't go off of what other people say all the time. It's a whole 'nother ball game when I bust out two examples of how everybody else was wrong about some parks, at least in my opinion. I presented proof of the dangers in taking everyone else's word for it and using it as your own. All ye who doth not heedeth my warnings, prepare thyselves for a thrashing.

[Jake]

And last I checked, other people's opinions and POV's are a bad basis for your own reviews. It's one thing to tell somebody that they can't go off of what other people say all the time. It's a whole 'nother ball game when I bust out two examples of how everybody else was wrong about some parks, at least in my opinion. I presented proof of the dangers in taking everyone else's word for it and using it as your own. All ye who doth not heedeth my warnings, prepare thyselves for a thrashing.

Well, who else can we trust, if not our fellow enthusiast? As far as I'm concerned, if a hundred people say that Uncle Mike's Kiddie coaster sucks, and one person says "OMG, ROXORZZZZ!!!" I can tell you right now who I'll be siding with (it wouldn't be the roxorz, boy).

[sirloin]

Why do you even need a side before you go ride something or visit a place? Why does everyone have to have an almighty vote? Seriously, sometimes staying out of a debate thread until you've done everything is the best thing in the world to do. I would definitely take horrible reviews into account and that might alter how badly I want to go visit said park, but I'm not going to go the extra mile and say the place is horrible, which many people around here thoroughly enjoy doing.

And Jake, having this AIM conversation on RCPro is straight-up hilarious. I hereby declare this thread the Justin & Jake show, with various guest stars.

[Jake]

It's human nature to have a "side" on something. Honestly, I think the majority of humans have an opinion on everything, even if they say they don't. However, I suppose having an opinion and sharing it are two very different things. I agree that some people like to take a bad review, and than immediately take it as truth, or as you said, go the extra mile and flat out say it sucks.

It still makes me chuckle, though. "PSH!!! Voyage is GAY!!!! ELLLLL TOOORRROOOOO!!!!!!!" "Have you even been on Voyage?" "NO! But ROBB ALVEEEYYY SAID IT WASNT AS GEWD!!!!!"

Well, if you would log on to aim... ;).

[sirloin]

I'm at school. No can do.

Returning back to what I believe was the topic, I find it interesting that all but two of those top 10 were built from 2000 on. I'm almost inclined to say that we are perhaps in the next golden age of wooden coasters. I also like the variety we have in our wooden coasters today. GCII with their amazing twisters, GG with their mega-woodies (and now some smaller rides), and Intamin with their airtime monsters.

[jolash]

Perhaps the newer coasters are rated higher, simply because they're new. Of course, a smooth woodie is almost always preferred over a(n overly) rough woodie.

And to add to what you said about the variety of design we have; GG isn't so much known for their "mega-woodies", but really their outstanding versatility in design. They can give you a ride with the best of both worlds. IE, Voyage, with monster airtime on the way out, a great twister section on the turnaround, and a combination of the two on the way back. Hades is similar.

[Dan]

Returning back to what I believe was the topic, I find it interesting that all but two of those top 10 were built from 2000 on. I'm almost inclined to say that we are perhaps in the next golden age of wooden coasters. I also like the variety we have in our wooden coasters today. GCII with their amazing twisters, GG with their mega-woodies (and now some smaller rides), and Intamin with their airtime monsters.
Oh, we are in that next golden age. And the public is beginning to become aware. Hell, half of the kids in my science class didn't know wooden coasters were still built. I think GG and Intamin are the two companies responsible for it, not as much GCI. Whiel they may have sparked these other two companies in a way, as far as I'm concerned, they are the future. Even if prefabs aren't considered true wooden coasters by all, I don't think I've heard one person who hasn't liked El Toro, or Balder. What does it matter what the ride's made of exactly? It's an awesome ride (I haven't ridden it, this is based on things I've heard), and that should matter the most. I can't wait to get on some of the rides on that top ten because I think they may surpass my favorite steel coasters. Would I be saying that when Mitch's poll started years ago? I don't think so.

[sirloin]

Even if prefabs aren't considered true wooden coasters by all, I don't think I've heard one person who hasn't liked El Toro, or Balder.I can name two...*gives Mike a funny look as Mike knows who I'm referring to*

But then, I completely understand the reasoning those two gave, and respect them for it.

I don't know that I totally agree with GCII not being the future. If you mean as far as radical new wooden coaster concepts, I can understand that, but again, that's not their fault. All they did was build some wild, amazing twisters and now everybody asks them for those only. I don't doubt GCII could build a wicked airtime out-and-back monster if they wanted to. As I said before, their forte has now almost become a sort of curse on them, and it's a shame, because they have exceptional talent and I'd like to see someone give them a chance to expand their product line.

[Dan]

*wonders who you're talking about*. Do enlighten me. And if it's a rep from another company, you can consider that comment invalid :p

[zburns999]

How in the hell could you possibly come to that conclusion?
While I have no fact backing this up, it seems pretty apparent to me that Holiday World is pretty widely regarded as "a mom and pop park." People like mom and pop parks. People like the fact that Voyage was a coaster built for airtime. People like Gravity Group and their "enthusiast" roots. Voyage is, in a way, the under dog ride. It's in a family owned park and was built by what was then a fairly unknown company.


Do you realize that there are just as many if not MORE El Toro fanboys than there are Voyage?
No. I don't actually. If you think back to 2005 when El Toro was announced, it was the most unappreciated ride. I think Robb Alvey at TPR said something along the lines of "You all wanted your pre-fab so bad, and then you got it and everyone complains." This is totally true. While those who have ridden El Toro understand how high quality of a ride it is, those who havn't usually don't respect it as much as Voyage. El Toro was built by Intamin (an obviously well-known company) in a Six Flags park (the chain everyone loves to hate). Compare this with Voyage. Voyage is simply the more appealing ride to those who havn't ridden either. Also, just look around the forums for a minute. I can think of a few people who have Voyage either in their sig or avatar. Does anyone have El Toro in their sig or avatar? No.


For Christ's sake there is a whole website dedicated to Great Adventure! How is this a valid point? Everything has a fan site the way the internet works today. Holiday World has its own site...


Honestly, it's obvious that Voyage is the preferred ride, whether you agree with it or not.
Really? I though second place was better than first. My bad.


Besides, you haven't even been on Voyage, so your whole statement is utter bull!
Well, you've got me there. I'm sorry for my countless false claims to have ridden Voyage. I don't know what I was thinking. In all seriousness though Jake, what does this have to do with anything anyway? El Toro vs. Voyage in terms of what's the better ride is not my argument. I'm bringing up the point that Voyage is the preferred ride for those who havn't ridden either coasters--so much so that even in this particular poll which allows you to vote only for what you've ridden, Voyage is still racking up votes. Now, is this true just because I think it might be? Of course not. It's my opinion, but it's in no way "bull."

[Mike T]

Dang it Zack, you really know what you are talking about. Its always great to hear your thoughts. All of the things you mentioned are spot on, and you've opened my eyes a bit more about the situation. I like how you present it from a psychological perspective. It's kind of neat to look at it when you factor in the un-heard issues.

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

While I have no fact backing this up, it seems pretty apparent to me that Holiday World is pretty widely regarded as "a mom and pop park."
Not as much as you'd think.

People like mom and pop parks.
Yes, because the crowds are light, staff is polite, food is usually good un-premade stuff, they're affordable, there's lots of hidden treasures (like rides), and heritage.

People like the fact that Voyage was a coaster built for airtime.
Voyage wasn't just built for airtime, that's El Toro. If it was built for just airtime, it'd look like El Toro. It doesn't. It was built to do everything and that's why a lot of people like it. This is always the misconception. Maybe if it has some decent airtime, and does everything else (kind of like laterals, positive g's, speed, pacing, direction changes), people who haven't ridden it will start getting the bigger picture. It's not about just airtime.


People like Gravity Group and their "enthusiast" roots. Voyage is, in a way, the under dog ride. It's in a family owned park and was built by what was then a fairly unknown company.
Wha-!? Are telling me Balder and Colossos had terrible rankings? People were expecting an Intamin prefab to be great.


I don't actually. If you think back to 2005 when El Toro was announced, it was the most unappreciated ride. I think Robb Alvey at TPR said something along the lines of "You all wanted your pre-fab so bad, and then you got it and everyone complains." This is totally true.
So, why do they complain if the ride is so "awesome"?


While those who have ridden El Toro understand how high quality of a ride it is, those who havn't usually don't respect it as much as Voyage.
That's why their ballot doesn't effect it.


El Toro was built by Intamin (an obviously well-known company) in a Six Flags park (the chain everyone loves to hate).
Really, because S:ROS wasn't NUMBER (1) ONE?!?!


Compare this with Voyage. Voyage is simply the more appealing ride to those who havn't ridden either. Also, just look around the forums for a minute. I can think of a few people who have Voyage either in their sig or avatar. Does anyone have El Toro in their sig or avatar? No.
Okay?


How is this a valid point? Everything has a fan site the way the internet works today. Holiday World has its own site...
www.gadv.com (http://www.gadv.com)
There's the GreatAdventure fansite, where is the Holiday World fansite?


I'm bringing up the point that Voyage is the preferred ride for those who havn't ridden either coasters--so much so that even in this particular poll which allows you to vote only for what you've ridden, Voyage is still racking up votes. Now, is this true just because I think it might be? Of course not. It's my opinion, but it's in no way "bull."
Have you even bothered to look at all the submitted ballots? You'll find Voyage all the way in last on a ballot or two, and way down (out of top 20) on quite a few peoples ballots that are intentionally sandbagging the coaster to give Toro the edge. Infact, a couple notoriously high credit riders have intentionally put it ahead of Balder just to boost it.

[Mike T]

I remember when El Toro (which proudly opened on my birthday) was getting a ton of harsh criticisms when one of Six Flag's marketing ploys was to bill it as "The Greatest Roller Coaster on Earth". There was a huge rant on Coaster Buzz about that. I don't really think there's any "excuse" as to why one ride was ranked higher than the other, although it does look as if (from a message board's standpoint) that El Toro got the garbage and the prejudice remarks while Voyage got the praise. Once people began to actually ride the roller coaster, instead of just making presumptuous comments, they figured out that the ride was actually quite awesome. Theres so much competition in the wooden market, and the fact that its generally exclusive to 3 firms makes it "socially" exciting to watch.

And yes, i did also notice a bit of sandbagging in that poll. Its unfortunate that people have to be selfish in order to get what they want. I still believe that the poll is very accurate, and I have faith that Mr. Hawker eliminated the majority of the sandbagging problem from it.

Personally, I think its cool that the rides almost tied for 1st place. That right there just goes to show you that multiple manufacturers are hitting the right formulas to creating fantastic coasters. I think its cool that somebody can ride Voyage and dispute it as being the best in the world, knowing that there is something just as menacing out there that gets just as high of regards.

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

^I agree, some people take it way too seriously and turn defensive thinking it's one sided. Each side is balanced in its own right, they just need to look a little bit harder.

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

For those that don't already know, the 2007 Steel Ballot is currently running until February 20th.

Vote here: http://www.ushsho.com/bestrollercoasterpoll.htm

[Youhow2]

and we all know over-hped maverick is taking first...

[Tom]

If Maverick gets first, I will be livid. Its another Millennium Force.

[Jake]

^ Did you ride it?

I'll be ranking Maverick first, it's definitely the best coaster I have been on.

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

Considering the "My Favorite Steel" position in the wooden ballot, "Favorite Wooden Coaster" should/will be #1. ;)

[Dan]

Woah, good point Ryan! I hope 'Favorite Wooden Coaster' is at the top, woodies deserve a spot up there to bring them all the recognition they deserve. With things like El Toro and Voyage being ranked so highly in the past few years, it is a real possibility that the steel's placement in the wooden ballot will carry over to this poll.

Edit: CoasterFantatic's (http://www.coasterfanatics.com/sec_poll/) poll helper is up.

[Tom]

^ Did you ride it?

I'll be ranking Maverick first, it's definitely the best coaster I have been on.

No I have not ridden Maverick yet, and truthfully, I can't even think of it being as good as TTD, X, Goliath because its already been over hyped too much IMO. For me, it will suffer from the Millennium Force over hypage syndrome that I found with MF. Ya its a fun ride, but its not OMGZ that waz AMAz1ng!! I am sure MAverick is a very fun coaster, but its getting the CP hype, which is unfortunate IMO.

[Dan]

No I have not ridden Maverick yet, and truthfully, I can't even think of it being as good as TTD, X, Goliath because its already been over hyped too much IMO.When you've ridden both, come back to me, because I haven't heard one person say they prefer any of those to Maverick.

Nobody is over-hyping Maverick right now...the only people giving it attention are those saying how it will be horrible if it wins, a.k.a. you and Youhow2. If someone had posted "omgz maverick should sooo win its the best ting evar!" I could understand, but you're the one bringing it up.

[ArrowOwnzU]

^^ I could see Maverick being better than TTD since Maverick actually does something besides launch and go up.

[rollercoasterfreak91]

Anyone know if there's another helper besides Coasterfanatic. It's missing a lot of coasters.

[Dan]

I don't think the CF helper is missing any coasters that the original ballot has...

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

Anyone know if there's another helper besides Coasterfanatic. It's missing a lot of coasters.

I haven't looked at the CF helper to see if it's missing anything, but the point of the "My Favorite..." is too condense the hundreds of kiddie rides, Wild Mouses, etc.

[Jake]

Finished my ballot. It's attached to this post =]].

[rollercoasterfreak91]

Here's mine, and I did end up using CoasterFanatic helper, as it was way too complicated for me. :)

[Dan]

The problem with the CoasterFanatic helper is that if you accidentally include a coaster or leave one out, you've pretty much gotta start over. (Oops.)

[jolash]

I don't enjoy using Coaster Fanatics' helper. It doesn't allow me to give multiple coasters the same rank, such as the 4 coasters I have ranked at 16. Take a look below.

[sirloin]

Here's my awesome ballot.

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

The poll has officially closed.

Good luck fanboys, patience flagrant-minded, and just ticks away competent.

[Youhow2]

I say maverick is number one...

Not saying that I think it is worthy though.

[Dan]

^ Too bad this is the wood coaster poll...

[rcwhiz]

For those that don't already know, the 2007 Steel Ballot is currently running until February 20th.

Vote here: http://www.ushsho.com/bestrollercoasterpoll.htm

[Dan]

My bad -- stuck in the past, I suppose :crying:

[Matt]

So, Um. Those steel results are up.

Linkage (http://www.ushsho.com/detailedsteelrollercoasterpollresults2007.htm)

[Mike T]

Ironically, Eagle Fortress has been rumored to be removed from the park's roster of rides, which is definately a shame. A few things that surprised me were how the top wooden coaster would of been seated in the 4th spot, how low Furius Baco placed (56), and how rides like Millennium Force and SheiKra are still cranking in enough votes to get placed at #4 and #11. I'm guessing the dive coaster has lost its aura because I've ridden it so many times, but I'm still trying to figure out the Force. Its a very nice ride indeed, but its just funny to see how much people say its "over rated" and then some of those same people vote it #4.

But I guess thats just how the dice rolls. Everybody has their preferences, its just a bit surprising that this is what the majority thinks...

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

Very awesome to see Goliath [SFOG] topping out this year on the B&M Megas.





Note:
Hollywood Dream:The Ride in 69th
Formule X at 72nd
SeaWorld San Antonio's Journey to Atlantis 298th
Tony Hawk:Big Spin at 152nd
Sierra Sidewinder at 235th
And surprisingly, Mystery Mine down in 95th place.
Its a very nice ride indeed, but its just funny to see how much people say its "over rated" and then some of those same people vote it #4.
Those who vote Raptor at 40... :blink:


And how Kraken managed to move up six places is beyond me... But I'm not going to complain. It looks like a very fair list overall of what's the majority rule.

[Tom]

I can't believe the Maverick fanboy's didn't get it higher than #10, but its a relief! I haven't been on enough of the top coasters to rate, but judging from what I have seen/heard, it looks fair.

[rcwhiz]

Glad my home park won best steel coaster again this year. I too am surprised with you Ryan about Mystery Mine being placed so low on the poll. All I've heard of the ride is rave reviews from anyone who has rode it. But I guess not enough people seemed to feel the same way as the people that I've heard comment about how great the coaster is.

[Jake]

Mystery Mine got a lot of pretty poor reviews, with a couple great reviews. I think Maverick at number ten is a fair spot, although I do believe it should be above Millennium Force. And Raptor at 40? What the heck is that all about?

[Mike T]

Raptor has a pretty odd placement indeed. It'd be really fun to sit down everybody who participated to ask them why they like certain rides more than others. Sometimes I think thats more important than seating one ride in front of another. You get reason, rather than just numbers.

And I agree with Jake about the Mystery Mine placing. I heard a lot of comments about the drops being pretty good, but the ride being lackluster. The thematics sure seem to make up for it though. I believe that as more people get to ride it, a lot of these placements will change. For example, I can see Griffon superseding SheiKra, and I can definately see Maverick moving up a few more spots. The more people who get to ride a coaster equates to a better chance that the ride will get rated poorly or highly, regardless of the rule that rates all coasters equally despite the ridership.

[Dan]

What's with Eagle Fortress sitting at the top?

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

What's with Eagle Fortress sitting at the top?
There were six people who actually rode it, so six people decided the fate...and they all rode it at the same time I believe. So it could be the most amazing ride on planet earth, or it could just be that it's one of those rides-on-a-communist-island-where-you-need-to-import-a-kilo-to-the-guards,-hustle-for-a-few-days,-then-eventually-you're-let-into-the-township-type rides that no one will get to experience, and it gets bumped up naturally.

That's why Mitch marks rides with less than 11 riders with asterisks-the more riders, the more accurate.

[WickedPhantom]

Wow...California didn't even break the top 30 in either category. Sad times.

[R.C.]

^^That's if all six of those people actually rode the coaster. Thankfully Mitch knows that his poll is fallible and takes every step he can to ensure that it is as accurate as it possibly can be. All I'm trying to say is that it's a poll based on the honor system, so it's bound to be inaccurate.

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

^^Did or Didn't?


^^That's if all six of those people actually rode the coaster. Thankfully Mitch knows that his poll is fallible and takes every step he can to ensure that it is as accurate as it possibly can be. All I'm trying to say is that it's a poll based on the honor system, so it's bound to be inaccurate.
I've been thinking about a way where one could run the program again, but have it setup like so: Take all the coasters in the Top 25 on the overall results, then run the program so that if there's any ballots with say, a 50 place rank margin between any two given coasters in those Top 25, it discounts that ballot and skips it.

But then we should all be grateful for what we have. There will always be sandbaggers, but it is what it is, and still a great poll. :thumbup1:

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

Bumping up the thread.

I noticed Black Mamba jump from #8 in it's opening year to #30 in the polls. Loss of novelty, perhaps?

[Voyage100]

I am pretty shocked to hear as, Black Mamba was ranked down a lot in the poll, like going down from 8 to 30. It has begun getting to be a bit rough, I mean, some riders would not find it 'comfy'?

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

^I was going to say that it was mostly European voters the first year, then American riders got on it the second year. But looking at the results again, it only went from 78 riders in '06 to 92 riders in '07. :blink:

[JD71]

It was the hype. Remember before it opened? Everyone was drooling over it. Now most enthusiasts are pretty much seeing it as another B&M invert. Correct me if I'm wrong.