Knotts Announces Pony Express

[Top Thrill Dragster]

“First Class” thrills will truly be delivered to guests at Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California with the debut of Pony Express. Riders will saddle up on one of two, 12-passenger trains, riding “horseback” as they are launched forward at the beginning of the ride. Featuring low-to-the-ground maneuvers, hairpin turns and steep banks, Pony Express will be ready to thrill riders in the Ghost Town section of the park.

http://www.cedarfair.com/ir/press_releases/index.cfm?current_root=15&mode=story&story_id=142

http://www.screamscape.com/assets/images/db_images/db_2008_PonyExpress_art11.jpg

http://www.screamscape.com/assets/images/db_images/db_2008_PonyExpress_art21.jpg

http://www.screamscape.com/assets/images/db_images/db_ponyexpress4_iaapawall1.jpg

http://www.screamscape.com/assets/images/db_images/db_2008_PonyExpress_aerial11.jpg

http://www.screamscape.com/assets/images/db_images/db_2008_PonyExpress_aerial21.jpg

http://www.screamscape.com/assets/images/db_images/db_2008_PonyExpress_aerial31.jpg


__________________________________________________ ____________________
Knott’s New Pony Express Delivers!
– New Coaster Gets the Job Done, Delivering ''First Class'' Thrills –

BUENA PARK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Knott's Berry Farm is on a mission to deliver “First Class” thrills with the opening of their new coaster, Pony Express, set to arrive Memorial Day Weekend 2008.

Named after the famous Pony Express which promised a faster mail service on the North American continent, Knott’s Pony Express promises a horseback relay at speeds never imagined in the Old West!

While sitting astride one of the team’s 16 horses, riders will leave their post with their stead launching them at a speed of 0-38 mph in less than 3 seconds. The terrain for the mounted riders will be rugged as they navigate an ascending banked turn to a height of over 44 ft. then through a series of heart-pounding 60 degree banked turns, camel backs and tight maneuvers. The team will cover a 1,300 foot route which will take them past Boot Hill and Big Foot Rapids resulting in an exhilarating runaway adventure!

Knott’s will be looking for robust riders over 48” tall who can endure the challenging journey and appreciate the autonomy of the freestyle ride.

Designed and manufactured by the Zamperla company of Vicenza, Italy, Pony Express will fit Knott’s Berry Farm’s Ghost Town area like a cowboy in his saddle!

Knott’s Berry Farm is owned and operated by Cedar Fair, L.P., a publicly traded partnership that is listed for trading on The New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “FUN.” In addition to Knott's Berry Farm, Cedar Fair owns and operates five other amusement parks and five water parks, and operates a seventh amusement park under a management contract. For media information, please call Knott’s Public Relations at (714) 220-5130.

Contacts
Knott's Berry Farm
Michele Wischmeyer or Jennifer Blazey, 714-220-5130

http://home.businesswire.com/portal/...77&newsLang=en (http://home.businesswire.com/portal/site/google/index.jsp?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20071106005377&newsLang=en)

[jolash]

You should include just the Pony Express part of the article. I had to read through paragraph after paragraph to find the three small lines including Pony Express. Or at least bold it.


Sounds like a Booster Bike sorta ride?

[Michael]

So, this is basically going to be a Vekoma Motorbike with little horsies replacing the bikes? :)

*remembers the good ol' days when you could get on the pony ride at grocery stores and not get made fun of* :D

[Top Thrill Dragster]

From what I have read on other forms, its going to be a Zamperla Moto coaster.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRmazaN9ydU

[Tom]

How many more attractions can they possibly put in Ghost Town. I am tired of Ghost Town this, Ghost Town that. Well, like I said just a few days ago, information changes, and its not that big hyper coaster that I was told it was going to be that traveled through the park with the Behemoth type trains. O well, I hope this is Vekoma and not Zamperla personally. I would like to see an actual rendering of the ride before I judge it.

[Jake]

^ Proof that employees really know NOTHING.

Well now that a third of Knott's coasters will be launched.. I dunno, I'm a little dissapointed, but I'll wait for the press release to be sure.

Either way I will not be renewing my Knott's season pass next year.

[Michael]

^ I don't know about that,

that trash sweeper at Cedar Point who mentioned the 500 ft strata coaster comming in next year, he had pretty reliable connections ;)

*back on topic* :)

[Tom]

Dont say employees dont know ANYTHING, there are many things we just know we can't say. I should have never said anything to start with, that was my fault. But there have been many things that I and other employees have been told about that were correct, that came directly from supervisors mouths like some of the information me and others heard about this. It is all misunderstood information really. O well I'll live, another launched coaster, perfect.

[Xcelerator]

^ Proof that employees really know NOTHING.

Well now that a third of Knott's coasters will be launched.. I dunno, I'm a little dissapointed, but I'll wait for the press release to be sure.

Either way I will not be renewing my Knott's season pass next year.


Just as an FYI, I heard this from a <SHOCK!! :eek:> Knott's emplyee several months ago. I must say he was 100% accurate, as I figured int he beginning. I certainly will not be saying more on the matter, however. :rolleyes: I'd say it'll be a good addition for KBF, as it sounds like another "in-between" rides. I'm thinking the next coaster will be a *bit* larger <hint, hint> :D .

[Jake]

I'm thinking the next coaster will be a *bit* larger <hint, hint> :D .

And this was going to be a B&M hyper...yup... lol.

[Michael]

that trash sweeper at Cedar Point who mentioned the 500 ft strata coaster comming in next year, he had pretty reliable connections ;)

^Oh, maybe I misheard him, it's going to Knott's for the 09 season. ;)

[zburns999]

Well at least Pony Express is a beastly name for a ride...

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

[This is your que, Knott's, to go ahead and release the official announcement... :rolleyes:]

[Arez]

This is great news! I for one am excited for this great addition.

I have a feeling it won't be that travel type, compact coaster that TopThrillDragster posted, I'm thinking it will be much more spread out. Just look at all the land they're clearing.
Obviously it's being aimed to attract families, but I have a feeling that it will also have something to offer to the enthusiast crowd.

My guess is that the station will be built where Mystery Lodge currently stands, and from there it will launch toward Big Foot Rapids and play around with the terrain around Wild Water Wilderness. Anyway, sounds exciting to me. I'll be out there on Saturday checking out the construction.

-Alex

Can't wait to find out more info. :)

-Alex

[Brandon]

Well, I'm very excited for Pony Express. It will deffinately give me a excuse to come down to SoCal after this is completed. I hope that Cedar Fair decides to go with either Intamin or Vekoma for this project. *Shudders at the thought of a Zamperla Motocoaster at KBF* I'm very pleased that Cedar Fair chose Pony Express for the name, as anyone who knows the history of the Pony Express knows that the name will give Knott's a good sized loophole to give Pony Express a good storyline-or at the very least, a good backstory. Hopefully some of the missing theming on Maverick will be used on this coaster...

[Jake]

that the name will give Knott's a good sized loophole to give Pony Express a good storyline-or at the very least, a good backstory.

This is what will make or break the ride for me. I'm not too fond of the name, but they could do a ton with this theme if they wanted to. I guess we'll just have to wait and see.

[G-Force!]

^Don't get your hopes too high if your really hoping that a good story and theme is coming to this coaster. We are talking about Knotts here; not Disneyland. If it really makes or breaks it for you, it will break. As for the Pony Express, it should be interesting. Nothing "Wow" about it, but it's again something different and unique to Knotts. I still don't understand the fact they are calling the Wilderness Area Ghost Town now, maybe a name change is in effect for the future. Also, that's launched coaster # 3 for Knotts. I want to check out the ride specs. and layout for this thing. That shouldn't be too far off as well. Anyway, I think this coaster has potential. Let's see how much this area will look and change after all is said and done...

[The Storm Runner]

^Oh, maybe I misheard him, it's going to Knott's for the 09 season. ;)

Yeah, there was a lot of talk of the coaster going in late 2008 or 2009. That would be 3 coasters in 3 consecutive years.


I think it looks fun. :) Though from that youtube video, I don't like the front empty car and the weird back car on the train. They look weird.

And is it just me, or is that Motocoaster not on rcdb?

[zburns999]

as anyone who knows the history of the Pony Express knows that the name will give Knott's a good sized loophole to give Pony Express a good storyline-or at the very least, a good backstory.

Just because it's something from our nation's history that many people happen to be familliar with doesn't make the name any better. It's like naming a coaster "The Watergate Scandal" or "The Trail of Tears."

Ride does look cool though.

[vedved82491]

I thought it was confirmed to be built by Zamperla. Has anybody declared otherwise?

[Michael]

It's like naming a coaster "The Watergate Scandal" or "The Trail of Tears."

he he, I could see them get creative with that one... ;)

"The Nixonator", "That Lying *******"... :p

[The Storm Runner]

"Designed and manufactured by the Zamperla company of Vicenza, Italy, Pony Express will fit Knott’s Berry Farm’s Ghost Town area like a cowboy in his saddle!"

:)

[Top Thrill Dragster]

A more detailed press release is on the first page of this thread.

[Jake]

I just read the more detailed press release, and all I can say is WEAK! Slow, short, this thing better have some sweet terrain interaction, otherwise it's basically a wasted addition in my book. And I love that Knott's still has nothing on their website about this.

[JD71]

^Remember how they handeled Sierra Sidewinder? :p

[Arez]

Sounds like a fun addition. It's obviously being aimed toward families, but I have a feeling it will have a little something to offer for the enthusiasts as well. It will be neat to actually see how the moto coasters feel. The numbers may not be impressive, but I think the terrain interaction will make up for that.

My guess is that the station will be built on Mystery Lodges plot of land, at the border of Ghost Town and Wild Water Wilderness, thus making the horse theme appropriate. From there it would launch towards Big Foot Rapids, and interact with Wild Water Wilderness. Maybe, maybe not.

Well, I'm excited. :)

-Alex

[Top Thrill Dragster]

^ Or, they can put the station some were else and get rid of the Wild Water Wilderness name, and make the whole area Ghost Town. My gut felling is that the Station is going to be located here.


http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r68/RyanTTD/IMG_4428ewrwerw_1.gif

[Tom]

Wow, hopes are gone. That is a very depressing read. SiSi was the family attraction that was supposed to take care of families for a while, thats how I saw it. This is very discouraging, the limited space they currently have is being "wasted" to an extent in my eyes. I actually hope its compact, leaving room for other attractions in the future.

[Arez]

I was at the park today for a little..lots of changes. A few things I'd like to share:

-The entire area from Bigfoot Broiler down to Wilderness Scrambler has been cleared out. It was wierd not seeing WS down there. It pretty much a huge pile of dirt running along side of BFR.

-The Ranger Station officially reopened today, in its new location. From what I hear, it will be renamed "The Pony Express Museum and Nature Center".

I have some pictures, but they will come later.

-Alex

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

^Why don't you attempt to add some capital letters and periods so I don't loose my eye site.

Then be sure to read our Forum Policies: http://www.rollercoasterpro.com/community/showthread.php?t=2

[Mike T]

I think that Pony Express looks like it will be a fun ride, or it certainly sounds like one from the stats that were posted. I am not so sure about the trains though. Supposedly 4 of the ride cars will be "blanks" that riders can't sit in. I wonder what Knott's decision was behind doing that? Why not increase capacity instead of showing off useless aesthetics that probably wont do anything for the ride experience?

[Top Thrill Dragster]

Supposedly 4 of the ride cars will be "blanks" that riders can't sit in

Where did you hear this from?

[Dan]

I think that Pony Express looks like it will be a fun ride, or it certainly sounds like one from the stats that were posted. I am not so sure about the trains though. Supposedly 4 of the ride cars will be "blanks" that riders can't sit in. I wonder what Knott's decision was behind doing that? Why not increase capacity instead of showing off useless aesthetics that probably wont do anything for the ride experience?

Maybe they will put in fake riders like below, but with cowboys or something.

http://img229.imageshack.us/img229/3487/6907109nq6.jpg

[Arez]

Update: 11/10/207

Hello, and welcome to Knott's Berry Farm!

http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/6535/34695938mo8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Crowds were extremely heavy today..

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/3873/93858950mi0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
The Ranger Station has officially reopened in its new location.

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/9647/56227786li3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Let's take a look inside, shall we?

http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/2111/21000389bw1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Everything pretty much looks the same in here, except for one thing..

http://img134.imageshack.us/img134/6619/24087194bs8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
This was new. From what I was told, the Ranger Station's name will be changed to "The Pony Express Museum and Nature Center".

http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/1130/53370420oq3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Speaking of Pony Express..Construction has really kicked into high gear. Markings like these have started to show up around the site.

http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/4601/64788607of5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
As you can see, the entire area across from Big Foot Rapids has been cleared out.



http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/5746/86974394lq0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
This is the area that Pony Express will be located.


http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/1293/73395675wb8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
The area is pretty big, but I can't see anything major fitting back here. I am betting that the layout will be pretty compact.

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/8745/48538323fa7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Wilderness Scrambler has been removed, I am not sure if it will be returning or not, but I have a feeling it will be relocated near the 'Pony Express Museum'.

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/9250/10lx8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
I will end the update with a picture of this stick. Things are about to become interesting!

Thanks for checking out the update.

-Alex

[Michael]

^ That's a big stick Alex ;)

he he...

Great update, good to see things rolling along. It's also neat to see KBF designating that area to the ride, this early. Hope to see more updates :D

[Jake]

That's what she said..heh.

Nice update, hopefully this will turn into a moderate coaster *crosses fingers*.

[Jeff]

This will be interesting.. Ethan and I are hitting Knott's today, well try to get some stuff on it. ;)

btw.. The link is broken, it goes to Canada's Wonderland Press Release. :p

[Arez]

Pony Express Layout:

http://www.screamscape.com/assets/images/db_images/db_2008_PonyExpress_aerial31.jpg

http://www.screamscape.com/assets/images/db_images/db_2008_PonyExpress_aerial21.jpg


http://www.screamscape.com/assets/images/db_images/db_2008_PonyExpress_aerial11.jpg


http://www.screamscape.com/assets/images/db_images/db_2008_PonyExpress_art11.jpg


http://www.screamscape.com/assets/images/db_images/db_2008_PonyExpress_art21.jpg

http://www.screamscape.com/assets/images/db_images/db_ponyexpress4_iaapawall1.jpg
Photo Credits: Zamperla

..Meh.

-Alex

[Exceller]

I must say that this is not what I expected. The track is spread out but way shorter than I imagined it would have been. Let's just hope it has a lot of scenery and packs a punch.

I do like the trains though. The KBF logo on the front is nice and it looks detailed. This, though is definately made for families and smaller kids.

[Tom]

If I wasn't upset before I am now. 2 years in a row of family, small children attractions. The thing is you have to be 48 inches to ride, this seems like another Jaguar! to me, and that is not a good thing, since well, that ride sucks and I knew it when I was 6.

[vekoma9]

The layout is good for a family ride. If anyone hasn't noticed; these types of coasters are generally made to be mild. I'm excited to ride this one. The trains look great.

[Jake]

Yeah... mediocre at best, thanks for nothing Cedar Fair.

[Michael]

I'm highly unimpressed CF :(

The layout is dismally short, there isn't any substance to the ride, I'm sorry if I'm bringing this down, it's just that I was expecting much more than this.

[Comet]

These coasters at Knott's don't stop coming.
Personally I love the layout though, and it looks like it will be a really fun ride.

Also, finally a motor bike coaster I have a chance to ride sometime soon!

[rollercoasterfreak91]

I like the concept, and kids will probably enjoy it, but that won't get me to KBF anytime soon. The layout is so simple it's painful for me to look at it.

[R.C.]

I do like the trains though. The KBF logo on the front is nice and it looks detailed. This, though is definately made for families and smaller kids.

I agree, the metal KBF logo on the front is a very nice touch.

I am a little bit let down by the layout, it's just not what I expected from Knott's.

[Arez]

I will say that the trains do look pretty awesome, but red and orange horses? C'mon. I would have much rather seen Knott's add a family flat for '08. This coaster is going to be extremely short. According to Zamperla it will be 36 seconds (launch to breaks), but I'm not sure how accurate that is. I could see this ride being 25, maybe 30 seconds long. I would have much rather seen the travel version.

If anyone cares, the launch will pull 1.9gs (.9 acceleration force [Xcelerator pulls about 5gs]), and it will use the flywheel/catch car launch system. At least this is better than nothing. ;)

-Alex

[Top Thrill Dragster]

I dont think Xcelerator pulls 5g's at launch, its somewhere around 2-3g's.

[Dan]

I don't think your body can take 5g's forward force...that's like 5 times your weight pushing against your chest, isn't it? I thought the limit was 1G, I remember seeing that on TV somewhere.

[Tom]

^The max is 6 G's. Kingda Ka pulls 6, I remember reading that. Xcel pulls somewhere about 3.6 I believe.

[Arez]

^I believe the 6g's are pulled at the valleys of the top hat. I'm almost positive that the launch pulls 4.5-5gs.


I don't think your body can take 5g's forward force...that's like 5 times your weight pushing against your chest, isn't it? I thought the limit was 1G, I remember seeing that on TV somewhere.

You experience 1g sitting in your chair, browsing the web. ;)

^I believe the 6g's are pulled at the valleys of the top hat. I'm almost positive that the launch pulls 4.5-5gs.

Edit: I made a recreation of the ride in NL, it can be found down below.

-Alex

[Top Thrill Dragster]

Nice recreation.

Its a shame that this ride is so painfully short.

[jolash]

Sheesh. So much for CP being the one to cram in coasters. This will be the 3rd coaster in five years for the park.

[Jeff]

Not liking the layout at all! And I think they should have did more of a thrill ride (B&M Hyper) instead of another family one. That's two family rides in a row. It's not a problem but the next project after this one let's hope it's a thrill ride.

btw.. Sucks they took out the scrambler for this.. :( They should replace it somewhere in the middle of it if it would fit. XD Which would make it cool.

[Voyage100]

^The max is 6 G's. Kingda Ka pulls 6, I remember reading that. Xcel pulls somewhere about 3.6 I believe.

I don't think Kingda Ka pulls 6g's since that 'way too intense' g-force is almost coming at the breaking point. Most people would get a feel of being blacked out, or being passed out as they are on Goliath at Six Flags Magic Mountain, which pulls 4.5 to 5.0 in the last helix. :(

All the latest coasters don't go over 5g's to secure the riders from any accidents.

[Haunt-Freak]

If they could do anything to improve it. . .

1. Make at LEAST 2 airtime hills.

2. Longer. Definitely Longer. . .

3. More spread out. ( I know they don't have that much land to work with but still. . . )

[Arez]

1. Make at LEAST 2 airtime hills.


It already has two airtime hills. I don't know how much airtime they will produce, but they are still airtime hills nonetheless.



3. More spread out. ( I know they don't have that much land to work with but still. . . )

I don't see how a spread out layout can make a ride better. I personally enjoy more compact layouts, with quick tight maneuvers. Actually, this ride is far more spread out then I expected.

-Alex

[p0tat0]

You can just do some simple physics to figure out the gs in launch

Kingda Ka's acceleration is 128 mph over 3.5 seconds. (128 mph = 57.22 m/s) (1g= 9.81 m/s^2)
57.22m/s / 3.5s = 16.35m/s^2 which is about 1.67gs

You assume you are able to sustain a greater g force perpendicular with your body since the blood flow to your head is as near as slowed down as the g force were to be parallel.


I didn't see this ride coming lol. Cool to have another small coaster around though. Making it more like how it used to be before CF bought it, a family park

[Dan]

You're assuming KK's launch has a constant acceleration, which it doesn't.

This ride looks fun, but it's so short :(

[p0tat0]

You're right about that, but it doesn't make my estimate completely invalid. I calculated the average acceleration, which could make the acceleration at one point bigger than that estimate or smaller. It's simply an estimate to give you a ballpark figure.

[Michael]

You're assuming KK's launch has a constant acceleration, which it doesn't.

He's taking the average acceleration over the lanch. :cool:

*back on topic*

[disneylhand]

Mike, if you really think that the discussion has traveled "off topic", as you often do, why contribute to it?

I, for one, do not see the harm in comparing this launch with those of some other coasters. If the discussion happens to travel off what would strictly be considered the topic, but ignores obviously incorrect statements made earlier, it's not worth reading. I personally would not bother to read and contribute to a thread that is so focused on being "on topic" that it chooses to ignore a potentially worth-wile argument.

-disneylhand

[Michael]

^ To correct a point.

I was being polite and showing that I made an off topic post. I'm sorry if you took that the wrong way.

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

I do agree with disneylhand that making corrections to content-based information is important to keep things truthful/factual, it's the pointless jokes that don't contribute.

Furthermore, saying "back on topic" doesn't give anyone the right to post content that contributes nothing, nor is there really a need to try and do a moderators job by attempting to control the thread.

[Michael]

Any progress on the construction? Or news? :D

[Jake]

Who cares? ;)

I might go to the park this weekend, I'll bring back an update if I go.

[socalMAN123]

^ You Jake, go to Knott's?! Ha, I thought you hated that place.:p Anywho, take pictures if you do end up going.
---Brent :cool:

[Jake]

I paid 125 bucks for my Maxx pass, so I figure I better get some good use out of it.

[G-Force!]

^Drop by SS, I'll be there all day...

As for construction, still nothing more than dirt being moved around and holes dug. Panda Express is looking nice though. They are still installing the Freezer/Refrigeration system and Food Prep. in the back and work on the inside dining area is slowly coming together as well.

[Brandon]

^Will the Panda Express be indoors or will it be opened up in the front? Also, have they removed the western theming on the exterior of the building at all or is it still there?

[theRock-steel]

"Top Thrill", that was a great job with the first post that introduced us to this new ride. After that everyone just wanted to argue. I'm looking forward to going to California someday. I haven't been there since I was twelve. Knott's Berry Farm seems to be the place that I'm looking forward to the most.

[Tom]

Brandon it will be just like a Panda Express you find on the street, so its sit in, which should make it quite busy.

[Top Thrill Dragster]

The Panda Express will look like this.

Photo from Westcoaster.net


http://www.westcoaster.net/images/updates/112607/112607-kbf027-sm.jpg

IMO, it looks 100x's better than what was there before.

[Brandon]

^Ah, that does look very nice indeed.


After giving it much thought, the only thing I like about Pony Express is the trains, which says a lot. The layout is a dissapointment, as well as the low speed launch. While this is something that will be nice for the family, it's not really something that would make me want to travel over 1,000 miles to ride. As I stated early on in this thread, I really hope they theme the coaster at least a little. Theming that isnt "Wow! That looks awesome!" but isnt "That looks crappy" quality.

[JD71]

1) I think everyone is disappointed because they believed rumors of a giant B&M or Intamin. :p

2) I'm disappointed in everyone who is already making assumptions because none of you have ridden it, track hasn't even appeared yet. You guys are judging a book by its cover. And if it does end up sucking, you can't forget its not some giant mega intense ride. Its being made for the kids and family, not hard core coaster enthusiasts.

[Dan]

2) I'm disappointed in everyone who is already making assumptions because none of you have ridden it, track hasn't even appeared yet. You guys are judging a book by its cover. And if it does end up sucking, you can't forget its not some giant mega intense ride. Its being made for the kids and family, not hard core coaster enthusiasts.
It's not judging a book by its cover, it's judging a book after reading the sparknotes. Although it looks like a bit of fun to me, it's obviously not the big coaster many were hoping for, so I can't blame anyone for being disappointed.

[Jake]

1) I think everyone is disappointed because they believed rumors of a giant B&M or Intamin. :p

2) I'm disappointed in everyone who is already making assumptions because none of you have ridden it, track hasn't even appeared yet. You guys are judging a book by its cover. And if it does end up sucking, you can't forget its not some giant mega intense ride. Its being made for the kids and family, not hard core coaster enthusiasts.

1) I think we all believed that it was going to be something a little more than this. Although I agree, a big B&M or Intamin would have been fantastic.

2) Whose to say we can't judge the ride by looking at it's layout, and statistics? I think that these statistics give us a good idea of what the ride is going to be - boring. I love Sierra Sidewinder because it has a neat layout, and packs a punch for what it is. This layout is extremely weak, will probably feature no theming (ala Maverick), and the statistics aren't impressive at all.

So, as far as I'm concerned I can judge this ride if I so choose.

[sirloin]

2) Whose to say we can't judge the ride by looking at it's layout, and statistics? I think that these statistics give us a good idea of what the ride is going to be - boring. I love Sierra Sidewinder because it has a neat layout, and packs a punch for what it is. This layout is extremely weak, will probably feature no theming (ala Maverick), and the statistics aren't impressive at all.You know, I said the same thing about Ultra Twister and Batman-The Escape at the late great Six Flags Astroworld. Heck, I said it about the park in general. I had a fantastic time down there, and I found the park to be excellent.

Go ahead and prejudge if you wish. Just consider the fact that you may very well be wrong.

[Exceller]

I don't know if this has been mentioned, but think of the little kids.

Just imagine, for one moment, you're a five year old kid who just got off a ride themed to horses. You scream at the top of your lungs," I rode a horsey!" You want to keep riding the horsey all day.

See, that is what this ride is about, not dropping 200 feet straight down. its for the little kids, not for us. I can't stress this enough, its for the kids.

For us, its a another credit on a unique ride. Be happy with what KBF got. 2 coasters in two years dosen't happen at almost any park.

[Jake]

For us, its a another credit on a unique ride. Be happy with what KBF got. 2 coasters in two years dosen't happen at almost any park.

This is one of the biggest things I'm NOT happy about. I've discussed this with a few of you on AIM, but I will re-iterate it on here. Think about it for a moment - when Magic Mountain got three coasters in one year, than another coaster the next year - would you say that is a good business move? The SMART thing to do, would be to milk Sierra Sidewinder for all its worth. Meaning that they should have waited another one - maybe two years before building another coaster. That's what Magic Mountain did with Tatsu - they advertised it as a "new ride" both this year and last year.

I'm just saying from a business standpoint this is a really bad idea.

And yes, your right. I'm disappointed it wasn't the B&M hyper that everyone said it would be.


You know, I said the same thing about Ultra Twister and Batman-The Escape at the late great Six Flags Astroworld. Heck, I said it about the park in general. I had a fantastic time down there, and I found the park to be excellent.

Go ahead and prejudge if you wish. Just consider the fact that you may very well be wrong.

Sirloin, your also a Texas fanboy - you know it - I know it - we all know it. So, of course you "loved the park." Because news flash - most people didn't, hence why its closed.

Your right, I could be wrong, if they seriously theme the heck out of this ride, than, yes. I'll be extremely pleased. But will they theme it anymore than the trains? Probably not, thank you Cedar Fair!

[sirloin]

Sirloin, your also a Texas fanboy - you know it - I know it - we all know it. So, of course you "loved the park." Because news flash - most people didn't, hence why its closed.

Your right, I could be wrong, if they seriously theme the heck out of this ride, than, yes. I'll be extremely pleased. But will they theme it anymore than the trains? Probably not, thank you Cedar Fair!Loving the park had nothing in the world to do with Texas. It could've been in Fargo, North Dakota and it still would've been awesome. And I didn't know how awesome Texas was until I showed up there. It was the first of many experiences I had that made me a Texas fanboy.

And actually, alot of people loved it. From what I understand, it was one of the better performers in the chain. It was closed because Kieran Burke was an idiot and drove the chain into debt, and he thought the land was more valuable to Six Flags than the park on top of it (and we all learned that was bogus when SF didn't get nearly as much money for it as they thought they were going to). The parking situation was another reason. It wasn't the park's fault at all it was closed. That was a great park and the citizens of Houston knew it, and so did I.

And kudos on the theming comment. You and I are in the same boat on that one. After all, if gray supports are the extent of the 'silver' in Silver Bullet, I don't hold out much hope.

[Exceller]

Jake, maybe this is a bad move if they don't market it right. But what if they "double marketed" them. Taking both rides and marketing it as "two new coasters for the whole family" and showed images of the new roller coasters. People usually look and say, "Wow, two new rides. I want to go ride those."

And you have to remember these are not major rides we are talking about. In total, the combined track lengths will be about 2700 feet. That is not a lot of track we are talking about here. If we were going to get a B&M hyper this year, it would have been a miniscule chance for it to happen. Knott's isn't just going to dump $20 million something in two years. Right after putting in a family ride, then turning around and building a 200 ft+ mega. It really dosen't make sense to me.

Yes, this is 2 coasters in 2 years. But are these major coasters, not even close. 2 small coasters in a year will not kill a park like 2 major coasters will. 4 coasters in 2 years is a major mistake, but this is a different company and two less coasters in the same time. That means everything, wether you want to believe it or not.

I still do not know why you guys thought it would be a hypercoaster. There never was a chance of this happening when you keep analyzing. To me, it looks like your wants went above what you know what was going to happen.

[Jeff]

Ethan and I just went to KBF this last Monday, they had that whole section blocked off. So Big Foot was closed too... what a good excuse to close that, but I guess they would rather save money that way eh?

[EmperorNorton]

I was just wondering, what colors were you guys hoping for? Or what colors would you want on this coaster?

I think it will be a fun ride for kids, and maybe Cedar Fair will give Knotts a B&M or Intamin that we all would love and I can see that happening in the next 5 years or so.

[Jeff]

Well so Ethan and I went Monday, he took picks of whats going on.

I think this is where the station will be, not sure...
http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/5363/015gp5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/8795/016pc0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/8795/016pc0.4e825a9995.jpg (http://g.imageshack.us/g.php?h=529&i=016pc0.jpg)

All blocked off, including RAPIDS!!!
http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/7509/022ub8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/8923/023yw6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

And I believe there was more images than this, but Ethan has them.


I was just wondering, what colors were you guys hoping for? Or what colors would you want on this coaster?

I think it will be a fun ride for kids, and maybe Cedar Fair will give Knotts a B&M or Intamin that we all would love and I can see that happening in the next 5 years or so.

I was expecting a more realistic color scheme than this, such as brown supports and maybe an orange/green track... But it's all good.

[Michael]

Wow! :)

That looks great! We just need the trackwork to start :(

Thanks for the update!

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

The update looks good!! I am totaly looking forward to this coaster, I think Knotts made an extremly smart choice going with another family coaster with it's thrill style in it. Most people thought SierraSidewinder would be calm and easy for kids, it turned out to be a great thrill for all. So I feel the same for Ponny Express! I hope it fixes up that area of the park with the constrution being almost everything back there, I look forward to some new theme parts and redone parts! It will also totaly make that back part of the park a lot more interesting!! I mean I go to Knott's every single sunday and I never feel like going to that leg of the park!! Now I will!! 2 thumbs up for another great choice by Knotts!! :D

[Xtreme Descent]

I don't know if its just me thats noticed, but Knott's has started advertising for Pony Express on the front page of their website. It basically just says their getting Pony Express as a "New coaster for 2008." It also shows some red track in the picture. Maybe thats what color the ride's gonna be? I think so, since some pictures in this thread showed a red-orange track. http://www.knotts.com

[Youhow2]

No track work this late? Spring is in two months...

I hope dominator goes up fast too

[Jeff]

^ I noticed that today too. And I think the track will be red. It's pretty well disturbing though because most of their rides are red or orange or some other color. But like Jake said, can they NOT build a ride that's red or orange. :p

I agree 100&#37;, they should have chosen a different color scheme for this ride, but oh well, I guess this will be my first experience on a Zemperla Motorbike so I'm not worried. :)

[Jake]

^ Sorry to burst your bubble, but it's Zamperla, not Vekoma.

[Xtreme Descent]

^ I noticed that today too. And I think the track will be red. It's pretty well disturbing though because most of their rides are red or orange or some other color. But like Jake said, can they NOT build a ride that's red or orange. :p

I agree 100%, they should have chosen a different color scheme for this ride, but oh well, I guess this will be my first experience on a Zemperla Motorbike so I'm not worried. :)

I agree with you. The color scheme you mentioned earliar with the brown supports and orange/green track, or something similar, would've looked better. But how would I know, they haven't even brought the track in yet. :p I'm pretty excited on my first ride on a Zemperla Motorbike, too though. :)

[The Storm Runner]

^I know they're very similar, but this is a Zamperla Motocoaster, not a Vekoma Motorbike. :)


^^It seems like either these new coasters have been built already, or haven't started that much:

Completed (Or almost completed): Led Zeppelin and the rest of Hard Rock Park, Behemoth, Piraten, the Nickelodeon Universe rides, and Vertical Coaster (Chimelong Paradise).

Have a lot to do: Pony Express, Fahrenheit, the Dark Knights, Goliath (SFFT), Dominator, Thunderhawk, Steel Hawg, Motocoaster, and many, many others.

The only in-between one I can think of is Evel Knievel (which Idk how far that's gone).

EDIT: Ok, the "^"s are for the last two posts on the previous page.

It seems like Jake's covered the Zamperla-Vekoma thing. :)

[Xtreme Descent]

BUENA PARK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Knott's Berry Farm is on a mission to deliver “First Class” thrills with the opening of their new coaster, Pony Express, set to arrive Memorial Day Weekend 2008.

Yeah, Pony Express hasn't really had much done. The opening is four months away. And if I remember correctly, when I visited Knott's last year in March, they hadn't really done much work on Sierra Sidewinder(atleast not that I could see). But when I went back at the end of April, I saw that a lot of the ride was nearing completion. So I Pony Express will come on time.

[Jeff]

Yeah see I don't think it will be done until about 5 months(if they work hard) at the rate everything is going as of now. But I would at least would like to see some track soon, it really seems as if they are about to get started on the work, maybe they are just waiting on track, or some other resource they need? Who knows, we will just have to wait it out and see. :)

[Jake]

Has everyone forgotten that someone posted pictures of the track earlier?

Pony Express will be done by memorial day weekend, as Sierra Sidewinder was last year. Honestly the track isn't that long, nor that high off the ground. It probably wont take that long to complete this coaster.

[Cyrus]

I agree. It will come.
The colors, however, don't matter to me. Its going to look great and knowing Knott's, it's going to be an awsome ride.

[Tom]

It took 28 days for Xcel to go from a pile of dirt/footers to what it is now.

[EmperorNorton]

^Hopefully Pony Express will be put up even faster.

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

I thought the track color was orange? and maroon supports? From this photo? :)

http://www.screamscape.com/assets/images/db_images/db_2008_0107_PonyExpress15.jpg

[Dan]

It does look that way...looks just like your avatar...and Sierra Sidewinder. The park really is becoming a hodgepodge of orange, yellow, and red.

[thedeadfrog]

I really have to say...It looks nice though. Could you see a ride with any other color in the park?

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

Thought I just point this out. Being a huge Knotts lover and living 25mintues away. I just noticed that Knotts has finally update there site with all new ride info and backgrounds, and everything I must say it looks extremely nice, now some people might now of this but I thought it was an interesting discovery to post about. (It looks like it is still in the progress for the other attractions in the other areas of the park, other then BoardWalk.)

This is a link to what I am talking about.
http://www.knotts.com/park/tour/brdwalk/xcelerator.shtml

[Top Thrill Dragster]

^Its been like that for over a year. The Knotts web site is one of the most unorganized web sites I have ever been to, especially for a big company. I find it funny how they put Sierra Sidewinder in the Camp Snoopy part of the web site and still have not put Silver Bullet, La Revolution, and Screamin Swing into the site.

[Xtreme Descent]

^Yet they find time to advertise for Pony Express. :p
Silver Bullet and Screamin' Swing are listed, but there is no way to find out details about the ride. I remember during the time Silver Bullet opened and about a year or two following it, they had a page for it stating all the info for the ride, including a little video. What do you think happened to that?

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

^Its been like that for over a year. The Knotts web site is one of the most unorganized web sites I have ever been to, especially for a big company. I find it funny how they put Sierra Sidewinder in the Camp Snoopy part of the web site and still have not put Silver Bullet, La Revolution, and Screamin Swing into the site.

The layout for all the major boardwalk rides are totally new though. That is what I was pointing out. So maybe there finally going to organize it and fix it all up! I do agree the Knott's website is a mess for such a great park..

[Jake]

I've got a Pony Express update for those interested..

http://www.amusementcast.com/images/knotts/pony%20express%20017%20(Small).jpg
Batman: The Member shows off the Pony Express: The Ride sign.

http://www.amusementcast.com/images/knotts/pony%20express%20002%20(Small).jpg
Ooo.. wood things!

http://www.amusementcast.com/images/knotts/pony%20express%20005%20(Small).jpg
This large motor.. thing was over by the new ranger station.

http://www.amusementcast.com/images/knotts/pony%20express%20007%20(Small).jpg
Another look.

http://www.amusementcast.com/images/knotts/pony%20express%20008%20(Small).jpg
Zamperla.

http://www.amusementcast.com/images/knotts/pony%20express%20010%20(Small).jpg
This is about all that was showing..

http://www.amusementcast.com/images/knotts/pony%20express%20011%20(Small).jpg
Gears.

http://www.amusementcast.com/images/knotts/pony%20express%20013%20(Small).jpg
One last look at what's "under the tarp" as it were.

http://www.amusementcast.com/images/knotts/pony%20express%20014%20(Small).jpg
Zamperla again!

http://www.amusementcast.com/images/knotts/pony%20express%20016%20(Small).jpg
One last shot.. the guys getting ready to start the work day!

I hope you enjoyed this update! The area of this coaster is much larger then I originally anticipated. It will wrap around the theater, over by the ranger station. It should be interesting seeing this ride in action!

[Xtreme Descent]

^^Are you talking about how when you click on a boardwalk ride like Xcelerator or Perilous Plunge, it gives you details and a little video or picture?

EDIT: Thanks for the update Jake! :) The last time I was at the park was New Years Day and they didn't really have anything started. Yes, it should be interesting to see this ride when it opens, I look forward to being there on opening day! :D

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

^^Are you talking about how when you click on a boardwalk ride like Xcelerator or Perilous Plunge, it gives you details and a little video or picture?

I am talking about that, and the background picture and the tables that all the info is in. Also the boardwalk rides are all under the same look as the main page, the blue and black. You click on the other attractions and you get the old orange and white and purple.:thumbdown: (lol)

[Michael]

Thanks for the update, neat to see this finnally comming on site!

You look nothing like your brother :p

[Jake]

You look nothing like your brother :p

Yeah, not everyone can be as good looking as me. :cool1:

[Xtreme Descent]

I am talking about that, and the background picture and the tables that all the info is in. Also the boardwalk rides are all under the same look as the main page, the blue and black. You click on the other attractions and you get the old orange and white and purple.:thumbdown: (lol)

Well the mountain in the background of the home page's banner is new, it was added around Christmas time. But the Boardwalk rides have had ride info and all that stuff for almost a year now, maybe more, I remember checking when I was visiting Knott's for my first time since moving to So Cal. last year. I wonder why they're only doing that with the Boardwalk rides though, and not with the other rides in the park.

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

^ Thats my question too?!?! The boardwalk part is very nice but what about the rest of the park??

[Jake]

Okay guys, this is the Pony Express thread. Not the "Knott's website sucks" thread. Although that would make an amazing thread, I'm not gonna lie.

[Xtreme Descent]

I just got back from the park, and I have some pictures of Pony Express that I'm going to put up later today or tomorrow. From what I saw, some of what looks to be the launched section of the ride has been placed, and they had some supports up to.

EDIT: If I took pictures while riding the railroad, and I put them on the forums, would that be posting on ride photos, and against the rules?

[ArrowOwnzU]

I doubt it. You're allowed to take photo's on the railroad. I'm sure that the staff of the site aren't going to flip out over that.

[Xtreme Descent]

Alright, thanks Arrow.

I was at KBF today from opening to about 3, and I managed to get some Pony Express pictures while I was there! :smile: Some were taken in Ghost Town, and some I took while riding the Railroad.

EDIT: Photos are no longer thumbnails.

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/87/0210081448aov7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/3717/0210081448pp0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/9730/0210081447dyi4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/5057/0210081447cph1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/1684/0210081447bkd7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/1383/0210081418kc6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/6206/0210081414cok8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/870/0210081417aha7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/3120/0210081417btx8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/1383/0210081418kc6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/6209/0210081417ee3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/2816/0210081414mn6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/9664/0210081221asa0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/3892/0210081208crg8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/6922/0210081207amz5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/6457/0210081206axo2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/7944/0210081207hb7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

I'm really starting to like the color scheme! :w00t: Hope you guys enjoyed the update. :smile:

[Exceller]

That looks a lot taller than I thought it would be from what I originally saw. :w00t:

I agree, the color scheme just might blend in.

[Michael]

Sooo... If I'm correct, because the funky supports have been confusing me :blushing:, but red supports, orange track?

[Xtreme Descent]

^It's more of a dark red, brownish-red color. Not like Silver Bullet red.

[The Storm Runner]

I like the maroon supports. :thumbup1: I too am a little confused on this pic:
http://img218.imageshack.us/my.php?image=0210081447bkd7.jpg

But, we'll see. :)

[Xtreme Descent]

^I know. I don't get whats going on there either. :p

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

This coaster is really starting to look magnificent, I am excited to go next weekend and check it out for my self!! If no one has posted an update then I will post pics from my little trip! I get more excited every time I see a new update!!

[Xtreme Descent]

I know what you mean! When I was walking towards that area to see how much they'd have done, I was surprised and excited to see that they'd had some of the launch section done, and some supports for one of the turns.

[ArrowOwnzU]

I like the maroon supports. :thumbup1: I too am a little confused on this pic:
http://img218.imageshack.us/my.php?image=0210081447bkd7.jpg

But, we'll see. :)

The Launch Dog will continue going forward to slow down while the train goes upward, hence the other supports.

[Exceller]

I was at Knott's earlier today and brought back pictures! The quality of this camera is not the best, so on with the update.

Pony Express peeking through the trees.
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd289/Exceller01/DCFC0087.jpg

The launch track.
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd289/Exceller01/DCFC0088.jpg

The turnaround.
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd289/Exceller01/DCFC0089.jpg

From the graveyard.
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd289/Exceller01/DCFC0090.jpg

More turnaround.
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd289/Exceller01/DCFC0093.jpg

To me, it appears this will stay.
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd289/Exceller01/DCFC0091.jpg

Overall, the ride looks great so far. Still, much, much taller than I thought it would be.

[Michael]

It looks rather like an orange Sierra Sidewinder :roll_eyes:

A little dissapointing I must say, but it should be a good ride.

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

I am rather happy with the outcome of the ride so far. It is definitely a lot taller then it seemed like it would be. Yeah the colors are not so great, but I kinda like them. I love it's placement, so if anything for me PE is shocking me more and more each update!! :w00t:

[Xtreme Descent]

Thanks for the update! It's really great to see the progress on this ride and how much work they've done since my visit last week. Were you able to get on the railroad for close ups of the ride? I'd really like to see what's happening with the wierd supports I saw while on it.

[thedeadfrog]

I can't wait to see this construction at Solace...

[Dan]

It looks rather like an orange Sierra Sidewinder :roll_eyes:

A little dissapointing I must say, but it should be a good ride.What makes it look disappointing? The construction hasn't gone far enough for me to judge that, yet.

[Michael]

What makes it look disappointing? The construction hasn't gone far enough for me to judge that, yet.

I was just saying it looks alot like SS. The colors are very close, and the track is similar in appearence.

I'm just not sure the public will respond as well if it had a more unique color scheme.

[Jake]

But the nearly every coaster at Knott's is a shade of orange or red, so I'm sure one more wont hurt, right?

I don't think this ride is a wise investment, but it'll be interesting to see if its any good on opening day.

[thedeadfrog]

The day we judge coasters on their color scheme before they are built is the day we stop riding coasters.

How can you say this is not a wise investment?
It looks like it will attract everyone from Hardcore riders like ourselves,to familys with younger riders.

[Michael]

The day we judge coasters on their color scheme before they are built is the day we stop riding coasters.

How can you say this is not a wise investment?
It looks like it will attract everyone from Hardcore riders like ourselves,to familys with younger riders.

We already know the layout as well, we're just taking the color scheme into consideration.

Hardcore riders? The banking on that turn doesn't go past 50* :stick_tongue:

[Jake]

How can you say this is not a wise investment?
It looks like it will attract everyone from Hardcore riders like ourselves,to familys with younger riders.

Because they just added Sierra Sidewinder last year, and it would be wise to squeeze as much juice out of that coaster as they possibly can. Think of it like this. Magic Mountain advertised Tatsu as their "new ride" for two years, which took care of a couple years of advertising for the park. Knott's would be wise to pull the same thing. Why not wait a year to build Pony Express and make as much money off of the ride as possible?

[p0tat0]

SS does not have near the capacity of Tatsu... I don't think Knotts would like to advertise that ride so much just to have people waiting in a long line for it.

Why not build Pony Express now and make money now!?

[Jake]

What kind of logic is that?

Why build Pony Express now when you can wait until next year and make more money long term?

I sure hope you aren't majoring in business.

[Michael]

What kind of logic is that?

Why build Pony Express now when you can wait until next year and make more money long term?

I sure hope you aren't majoring in business.

Or they could market both. And make a little more money in the long run. By saying, "New for 2008: Pony Express and also featuring Sierra Sidewinder! Two great new coasters!" Essentially adding more profit onto last year's revenues from Sierra Sidewinder. I certainly see some business logic there.

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

I think what Jake is trying to say... those visitors who come every few years to the park, when they build a new major addition, is the demographic that park is going to take a blow on. Spacing new additions so close together is going to bring this select demographic to the park, when theoretically they [KBF], could wait it out and filter those who still haven't returned for Sierra Sidewinder, back to the park. Then in due time open Pony Express as another inclination to allure return visitors.

But I don't know attendance demographics, so I'm not going to get into something I don't know.

[Dan]

Or they could market both. And make a little more money in the long run. By saying, "New for 2008: Pony Express and also featuring Sierra Sidewinder! Two great new coasters!" Essentially adding more profit onto last year's revenues from Sierra Sidewinder. I certainly see some business logic there.Will they make enough of a difference in profit to justify another coaster? I'm guessing not. I'm with Jake, they should have continued advertising SS. I'm sure they will advertise with 'two new family coasters' if they haven't already, but I don't think they will bring in enough money to make it worth the investment. They haven't fully reaped the benefits of Sierra Sidewinder. I would have held this project for a year longer.

And Jake, I for one shall major in business in a few years when college comes my way.

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

I know the reason for SS one year then PE the next year. It's a Knotts 3year family/mild roller coaster plan. So if were going to complain about PE this year, then next year will be complaining about that coaster too. Of course from what I hear it is suppose to be extremely unique. I say PE is a great investment, the only sad thing would to see there be no theme added to it or the area around it not get better theme then before. I am hoping for an extremely Ghost Town feel station for PE well just have to see. Other wise although banking isn't extreme on PE I think the layout and placement is what will make this ride, and if you want to think of it, it is going to draw crowds to that section of the park big time! Which will be great for Knotts. So I say PE is a great investment and part of a 3year plan from what I hear for Knotts leading to a mega coaster on the 4th year. I want say much since things can change very much in years to come... :blush: (Yes I have heard of the Knotts family/mild coaster plan from a source at Knotts that I do highly trust and knows what he is talking about!) Things can change though don't get me wrong at all.

[MaverickManJZ]

Well, I hope for you guys this will be better than Intamin's prototype, Mick Doohan. It was a lame tire launch, short, a repetative figure eight track, uncomfortable cars, and a very....VERY slow moving line. Again, I hope this works out better for Knott's, but I wouldn't expect anything amazing or awesome out of this. I thought Mick Doohan was fun....but that's about it, not worth a 20-30 minute wait. Better colours and theme here, though...but the layout looks abit lame. Oh yeah, DW advertizes theirs as a thril ride....NO! This is deffinately a family ride.

-J "I think this will be another coaster 'fad'." Z

[Dan]

I say PE is a great investment, the only sad thing would to see there be no theme added to it or the area around it not get better theme then before.What is your reason for believing it's such a great investment?


So I say PE is a great investment and part of a 3year plan from what I hear for Knotts leading to a mega coaster on the 4th year. I want say much since things can change very much in years to come... :blush: (Yes I have heard of the Knotts family/mild coaster plan from a source at Knotts that I do highly trust and knows what he is talking about!) Things can change though don't get me wrong at all.So basically you're saying, "If I'm right I'll rub it in your face for questioning me Dan, but if I'm wrong...well, things change a lot in this business."

[Jake]

I know the reason for SS one year then PE the next year. It's a Knotts 3year family/mild roller coaster plan. So if were going to complain about PE this year, then next year will be complaining about that coaster too. Of course from what I hear it is suppose to be extremely unique. I say PE is a great investment, the only sad thing would to see there be no theme added to it or the area around it not get better theme then before. I am hoping for an extremely Ghost Town feel station for PE well just have to see. Other wise although banking isn't extreme on PE I think the layout and placement is what will make this ride, and if you want to think of it, it is going to draw crowds to that section of the park big time! Which will be great for Knotts. So I say PE is a great investment and part of a 3year plan from what I hear for Knotts leading to a mega coaster on the 4th year. I want say much since things can change very much in years to come... :blush: (Yes I have heard of the Knotts family/mild coaster plan from a source at Knotts that I do highly trust and knows what he is talking about!) Things can change though don't get me wrong at all.

And Knott's is building a B&M hyper this year, right? I mean that's what all the employees were saying. What's that? You mean they're wrong frequently? No way?

Get real dude.

[p0tat0]

^Stop being a douche...

sarcasm doesn't help

[Tom]

Jake, it seems like you are trying to tear apart anyones post who doesn't agree with you and lower them as a person.

All employees, current and prior, know a hyper is in the works. 2008-2010. Those were the target years we all knew of. Now I haven't worked there for a year and a half, but I still have friends there who are telling me that from everything being told to them is that its either 2009 and 2010, and then I have heard as far as 2011. Someone I know saw the blueprints for it, so its real, not an employee rumor. Just live with the fact its coming. They build some rides to help out for future rides.

O and I am a Business Marketing/Management double major. Yet I am considering switching to become an Agent, but I understand business principles.

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

^ thank you, I have heard the idea for the Hyper for almost a year or so now. My source has seen the blue printes as well! I wasn't saying staff as far as like ride-ops and stuff I am talking higher up on the chain. Is where I hear my info from.

^^^ For the great invesment, everytime I go to Knotts I hear little kids and young teens, scared to go on GhostRider, SilverBullet, Xcelerator, Montazooma, Boomerang, So PE is a much tamer ride then thoughs rides, so I imagen it will be a great draw for the little thrill seekers. Also I even look very forward to PE, so it's drawing bigger thrill seekers to, so I say its a good investment! (Thats just my opnion :roll_eyes:)

[Jake]

^Stop being a douche...

sarcasm doesn't help

Stop posting for no reason, calling names doesn't help.


All employees, current and prior, know a hyper is in the works. 2008-2010. Those were the target years we all knew of. Now I haven't worked there for a year and a half, but I still have friends there who are telling me that from everything being told to them is that its either 2009 and 2010, and then I have heard as far as 2011. Someone I know saw the blueprints for it, so its real, not an employee rumor. Just live with the fact its coming. They build some rides to help out for future rides.

So now there are target years? Funny, because I don't remember any target years being mentioned initially.


^ thank you, I have heard the idea for the Hyper for almost a year or so now. My source has seen the blue printes as well! I wasn't saying staff as far as like ride-ops and stuff I am talking higher up on the chain. Is where I hear my info from.

Have you seen the blueprints? The way I see it, unless you see them with your own two eyes, take it with a grain of salt. And when it comes to park employees, take an extra large grain of salt.


^^^ For the great invesment, everytime I go to Knotts I hear little kids and young teens, scared to go on GhostRider, SilverBullet, Xcelerator, Montazooma, Boomerang, So PE is a much tamer ride then thoughs rides, so I imagen it will be a great draw for the little thrill seekers. Also I even look very forward to PE, so it's drawing bigger thrill seekers to, so I say its a good investment! (Thats just my opnion )

I'm not saying that the ride itself is a poor investment. But the time that they decided to unveil it is. If they were building this ride next year, you wouldn't hear any complaining from me.

I'm not picking apart anyones post. I'm taking them at face value, and responding to them. If that bothers you, then don't post, or better yet think before you do.

[disneylhand]

^Why not follow your own advice and take the rumors pointed out in this thread "with a grain of salt?"
For all you know these thoughts about blue prints etc. are 100% true. Dismissing anything heard from an employee at a park while calling someone out for believing it makes you seem rather closed-minded.
Now, I'm not taking sides here or anything of the sort as I would personally rather talk about Pony Express in its respective thread than a coaster that's quite a few years away.

-disneylhand

[Dan]

^ thank you, I have heard the idea for the Hyper for almost a year or so now. My source has seen the blue printes as well! I wasn't saying staff as far as like ride-ops and stuff I am talking higher up on the chain. Is where I hear my info from.

^^^ For the great invesment, everytime I go to Knotts I hear little kids and young teens, scared to go on GhostRider, SilverBullet, Xcelerator, Montazooma, Boomerang, So PE is a much tamer ride then thoughs rides, so I imagen it will be a great draw for the little thrill seekers. Also I even look very forward to PE, so it's drawing bigger thrill seekers to, so I say its a good investment! (Thats just my opnion :roll_eyes:)That's why Sierra Sidewinder was introduced. I'm saying, I don't see how your explanation covers for the millions spent on this ride. They already have SS, so the timing for this one's introduction seems odd.

Also, just because you look forward to it doesn't mean it attracts thrill seekers. I'm guessing most members who live outside of California won't have Knott's on their list because of this ride. If I like Barbie dolls, it doesn't mean all men like them.

[Jake]

^Why not follow your own advice and take the rumors pointed out in this thread "with a grain of salt?"
For all you know these thoughts about blue prints etc. are 100% true. Dismissing anything heard from an employee at a park while calling someone out for believing it makes you seem rather closed-minded.


I'm just saying that I think people take too much of what employees say to heart. Especially when we know that they are often unreliable.

[Jumpman23]

Alot of parks unveil new coasters in a span of a few years, look at SFGA Kingda ka and El Toro, both were built in two years time, I dont understand why you guys are making a big deal on PE and SS being built on a timeline so close together so what.

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

So to try and bring everyone back to the topic of PE, has anyone here ridden a motorcycle style coaster?? Are they smooth?? and how is it sitting in such a wired position??:stick_tongue:

[Jumpman23]

I went on the one at Chimelong a few months ago, it was very uncomfortable for me, but im 6'6 290 lbs.

[Jake]

Alot of parks unveil new coasters in a span of a few years, look at SFGA Kingda ka and El Toro, both were built in two years time, I dont understand why you guys are making a big deal on PE and SS being built on a timeline so close together so what.

Magic Mountain built 3 coasters in one year.

Just because a park did it, doesn't mean its a good idea.

I think the ride should be smooth, and although a little sore on the back, should be a "fun" ride.

[Jumpman23]

Yeah it is sore when your huge but when your a shrimp like you guys it might not be that bad.

[Dan]

Yeah it is sore when your huge but when your a shrimp like you guys it might not be that bad....what?

[Tom]

Yeah it is sore when your huge but when your a shrimp like you guys it might not be that bad.

Well, I am in the exact same boat you are, I am not a "small" guy by any means, so hopefully its not that bad. I want to ride it not only for the credit, but its a new type of coaster, which should be enjoyable regardless. New coasters are being taken for granted, and thats sad.

[Dan]

Oh...I think a lot of us are pretty tall, Jumpman.

[Jumpman23]

^but not like me

[Jake]

^ Unless your seven feet tall I don't think you can be sure about something like that.

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

I am 5 11" and 145!! I usually have a comfortable ride on most things!! (lol) Thanks for the info guys!! I am looking forward to Solace to finally see vertical track on PE face to face!!

[thedeadfrog]

I'm 6'6 and 180+...
I have a feeling this won't be a problem though. This isn't a clone by any means, and the trains/cars will be differant than the motobike model.

[MaverickManJZ]

So to try and bring everyone back to the topic of PE, has anyone here ridden a motorcycle style coaster?? Are they smooth?? and how is it sitting in such a wired position??:stick_tongue:

Well, the Intamin restraints are half of the car folding down over your legs. You sit as if you really are riding a motorcycle. It's pretty uncomfortable...and it was a very smooth ride because it's new. I have all the details in my Dreamworld TR.

Oh, BTW I'm 5'9" and like...130.

[p0tat0]

Jake, it seems like you are trying to tear apart anyones post who doesn't agree with you and lower them as a person.
:thumbup1:

Seems like you have some sort of god complex Jake.



I remember hearing that the restraints on these rides are reaaaalllyy comfortable, but that was back when they first came out.




Building PE later on could help with Knotts later on...

but I don't think their reason for building is for Knotts, its for CF. CF reported a $4.5 million loss for the year (http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080208/BUSINESS03/802080327). PE is among CF's $88 million investment, which includes several of their parks.



edit: Oo did someone say shrimp? :drool:

[WickedPhantom]

Where the hell are they going to put it? I have no idea how Knott's squeezes so many rides into that space.

I personally liked it better when there was some open space in the park, and there wasn't coaster at EVERY corner.

[Xtreme Descent]

They're going to put it in the area between Big Foot Rapids and Screamin' Swing.

I was at the park today, and managed to get some pictures of the ride. I wasn't able to get as many shots as I hoped because I was with my friends and they were getting annoyed of me taking pictures of all the rides.:stick_tongue: Enjoy!

http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/5633/0309081137zv1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/3598/0309081133km8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/5624/0309081134cha3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/1699/0309081136dxn3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/6981/0309081137aas7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/296/0309081137bpo4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/4316/0309081136hf1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/9181/0309081137cma1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/3249/0309081141bl8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/2076/0309081139aa9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/2959/0309081143ib9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[Dan]

Those of us who went to Solace got an up close and personal tour with the ride, so expect those photos to show up in the next few days.

[Xtreme Descent]

^Yeah, I saw it on the schedule in the thread. I really wish I could've gone. :sad:

[thatdancingbear]

Will be posting more in my Solace PTR!

http://img119.imageshack.us/img119/8564/img0112ot4.jpg

[Xtreme Descent]

I'm REALLY jealous now! Can't wait for the PTRs! :w00t:

[thatdancingbear]

http://travel.latimes.com/daily-deal-blog/?p=1472

You can find comprehensive Pony Express construction photos at Roller Coaster Pro! That would be us!

[p0tat0]

Nice little plug for RCPro!

[G-Force!]

Nice! Loving the trains!

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

I like the trains are Awesome!! I totally am stocked for PE after Solace!!

[G-Force!]

Pony Express is complete. Expect pictures on our site later tonight....

[JD71]

http://www.coasterrealm.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=1455&start=225
Heres the pics that were posted last night.

The course looks sweet, and I must say, I'm really surprised how quick the PE crew is.

[Exceller]

More and more, it seems like PE is getting better almost every day. I cannot wait until I get to ride this!:w00t:

[Jeff]

Wow, within a week they finished it... Very nice! I think I will be more interested in going to this opening day than X2, way more interesting, as X2 is just re-painted with new trains.

It also seems as if they could release it way before than when they said, well just see what happens. Thanks for the update G-Force! ;)

[Michael]

The layout is.. well.. yeah. Boring :blink:

But the trains look nice. Colors are also good despite the current trend at Knotts :sleep:...

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

The layout all though short looks exciting at parts, one being the launch, and two being the ending starting at the Sbend type turn all the way into the breaks!! I am stocked 4 opening I will be there 4sure!!

[Batman: The Member]

Those are some sweet picture's you got, but they all look the same.

[G-Force!]

^Well, a coaster is a coaster. It won't just change over night unless construction is happening:wink2:

As for the update, you should thank Matt for the most part. He's the one who helped out and I thank him.

[Arez]

The layout is.. well.. yeah. Boring :blink:

But the trains look nice. Colors are also good despite the current trend at Knotts :sleep:...

I think everyone will be pleasantly surprised with the layout. I agree that the coaster looked a little dull from the renderings, but from looking first hand at the construction, Pony Express looks as if it will be an all around fun coaster, packing a decent punch in there as well.

-Alex

[Michael]

^ I agree that the layout itself isn't half bad, but looking at those bankings, it looks as if it won't be going very quickly at the top of those sweeping turns. Either the trains will whip around them with some considerable later force, or they will sort of glide around them at a slower pace - from what I can tell from the banking :unsure:

[p0tat0]

Then again we weren't expecting something overly exciting. It's a kiddie ride; it's not supposed to have any force lol.

[DV87]

^Exactly. You have Xcelerator and Ghostrider (and Montezooma's Revenge, depending on who you ask) for your massive thrillers. If you were expecting Pony Express to be the monstrous motorbike coaster of extreme thrills, excitement, and the inevitable post-ride vomit for the weak of stomach, you must have been misinformed or optimistic to the point of forgoing logic in the name of fantasy. These are family coasters, especially these Zamperlas. Simply put, there isn't enough room in a park to pack it to the hilt with monstrous thrillers.

Besides, these family rides are where the money's at. The big thrillers need only come once every 5 years or so (if that), with the rare exceptions. Cedar Fair has had plenty of time to watch the former SF mentality of adding monsters like crazy fall flat on its face and drive the company into the poor house, so they made a wise decision with this one. Not only that, these rides don't eat up that much space comparatively, so kudos to CF for installing a ride that will hopefully appeal to all ages. And who knows? Maybe those of you bent on thrills will find something enjoyable about it as well.

[thedeadfrog]

I can't view PTR's on this computer...So My question is...

Is the tunnel built as well?

[Jake]

Besides, these family rides are where the money's at. The big thrillers need only come once every 5 years or so (if that), with the rare exceptions.

But for some reason we need a family coaster two years in a row? That's what's getting me. I understand that Knott's doesn't need a thrilling coaster every couple years, but the idea of building two family coasters in subsequent years is one that I do not understand.

[Dan]

If they offset the costs of both and end up making money from both, then why not build a new family coaster every year until there's a risk they won't make money anymore?

[Jake]

Because I think they would make more money if they spaced them out to capitalize on the "There's a new coaster, lets go to the park!" mentality.

[Dan]

The park thinks differently obviously...if you ever start a park, you can space your coaster introductions out more. Then again, there are some parks that space their rides out more, though that may be due to financial reasons. So, you're not alone in your mentality, and I partially agree with you, but Cedar Fair has a different approach. We'll see how it works out for them.

[DV87]

Jake, I do agree with you in your belief that slapping 2 coasters of any size for that matter together in 2 consecutive years is overkill. However, I say that Sierra Sidewinder would have been the one that the park didn't need. Pony Express at least has some theming to it, whereas Sierra Sidewinder was just an excuse to put more track up (at least in my opinion).

I'm telling you, Cedar Fair needs to learn the art of getting the most out of their installations, giving them the ability to pace new additions a little better. Until then, I guess they'll just keep putting track on concrete until there isn't much of a park left. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't think KBF has much in the way of spare room, so hopefully this ride lasts them a while.

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

For me although there is not much of a break between Sierra Sidewinder and Pony Express, I still think there two great coasters that were smart moves for Knott's. Know whether they should have waited longer to install Pony Express, isn't a big deal for me, to me they seem to be crawling up the ladder in coasters, Sierra Sidewinder is a small kiddie coaster short track, and Pony Express is a bit bigger and hopefully a bit more thrilling well see... Idk, thats how I look at it...

[Dan]

Pony Express is only 1mph faster than Sierra Sidewinder, and SS has a longer track (and not to mention ride time). I think its placement is also better - Camp Snoopy needed something to keep it popular, and keep people going through that part of the park. Now they're covering the back of the park, which will get more people going through the original western area as well as the usual route through the middle of the park.

[Jake]

For me although there is not much of a break between Sierra Sidewinder and Pony Express, I still think there two great coasters that were smart moves for Knott's. Know whether they should have waited longer to install Pony Express, isn't a big deal for me, to me they seem to be crawling up the ladder in coasters, Sierra Sidewinder is a small kiddie coaster short track, and Pony Express is a bit bigger and hopefully a bit more thrilling well see... Idk, thats how I look at it...

But that isn't looking at it from a business standpoint, that's looking at it from an enthusiast standpoint. You're happy with the addition because you hope this means that now they have gotten the family additions out of the way, we'll get something more thrilling. While I don't believe that is the case, I see where your coming from.

But from a business standpoint.. I think it would have been better to wait a year.

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

But that isn't looking at it from a business standpoint, that's looking at it from an enthusiast standpoint. You're happy with the addition because you hope this means that now they have gotten the family additions out of the way, we'll get something more thrilling. While I don't believe that is the case, I see where your coming from.

But from a business standpoint.. I think it would have been better to wait a year.

Your totally right, I am thinking of it from a enthusiast point of view. In business terms it would totally make sense to wait a year or so... Well just have to see if Pony Express can draw the crowds!!

[G-Force!]

Old news, but apparently one of the PE trains has arrived. Also, extensive work right now is being done on the station...Will have an update on things after work tomorrow.

[Brandon]

Old news, but apparently one of the PE trains has arrived. Also, extensive work right now is being done on the station...Will have an update on things after work tomorrow.

Speaking of the station, I'm very curious to see how old they can make this station look, considering where it will be located in Ghost Town. Hopefully they give the building the look it needs in order to blend in with the rest of the nearby buildings, as so it does not look out of place.

I will not be exactly happy if they give it a new, fresh look, like how they did with Panda Express.

[Sam]

I was at the park on Wednesday. Here are the construction pictures I got.


http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg208/sfjohnson3000/DLR%20and%20KBF%202008/100_0146.jpg

http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg208/sfjohnson3000/DLR%20and%20KBF%202008/100_0143.jpg

http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg208/sfjohnson3000/DLR%20and%20KBF%202008/100_0140.jpg

[coastermatt]

The station is coming along great!!! Is the whole course done?

[Exceller]

Yes, the course is now complete.

Pictures can be viewed here:http://www.coasterrealm.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=1455&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=225

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

^ The track as been complete for a little while now. The station work is nice to see!! :cool1:

[Dietcokevan]

I found a picture of one of the trains:

http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/4987/36605025qn5.jpg

[JD71]

http://www.rollercoasterpro.com/community/showthread.php?p=12762#post12762
Old news. :p

[Voyage100]

This trains are really looking like 'horse-themed' ones, but sounds like a good addition to Knott's Berry Farm so they can attract all aged people.

[Exceller]

An update has been posted at coasterrealm and contains many close-up photos.

http://www.coasterrealm.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=16519

[ArrowOwnzU]

What did they make the station out of? Lincoln Logs? I hate the station so much, its gonna suck hard waiting in it during summer. FTL.

[Xtreme Descent]

I was at the park all day yesterday and I stopped by Pony Express to check out the progress of the ride. Here are some pictures I got.

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/1268/0410080906hd2.jpg
New sign since my last visit.

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/1808/0410081522lo2.jpg
Older sign.

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/4748/0410081520jk5.jpg

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/6259/0410081520asw2.jpg

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/7982/0410081521apq2.jpg

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/7029/0410081521mj6.jpg

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/9132/0410081520boz4.jpg

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/9457/0410081522aqc0.jpg
The station.

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/8996/0410081522ctj0.jpg

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/466/0410081522dgl9.jpg
And the view near Bigfoot Rapids.

[G-Force!]

The first train is already on the transfer tracks under tarps....

[Xtreme Descent]

Really? I didn't know that. :stick_tongue: Thanks for the info. I should've looked around more. Do you know when they're going to start testing?

[G-Force!]

I don't have that exact information but considering the fact that the trains are already on, it should be very soon.

[Xtreme Descent]

Alright, thanks! I'll be visiting one more time before opening and I want to see it test.

[RollermanDan]

Generally, it's a week or two after the trains are on that they start testing...

[G-Force!]

Anyday now, maybe even today, full test runs should begin. Both trains are on the track now.....

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

I'm so excited for Pony to start testing!! I hope to see some pictures of the test runs if someone gets lucky and gets to get pics of a test run!!

[Mr.Wood]

I hope I'm doing this correct for this is my first post. I feel that Knott's is doing the correct thing with PE. I'm glad it's not a over barring monster but I wish it was around 2000' in length. I'm also happy it's not too close to Ghost Town. Yea I know it's messing with Boot Hill but having it over the train tracks is kinda cool. I just started going to SFMM for the first time in 23 years and they have made improvements but SFMM is a "coaster park" I don't want Knott's to become a "coaster park". To me I feel they should re-install Knott's Berry Tales dark ride or do another Haunted Shack.To me Knott's is all about Ghost Town, Timber Mt.Log ride, Calico mine ride. Don't get me wrong I love coasters but I would love to see more dark rides.

[rollercoasterfreak91]

^ Welcome to RCPro. I agreed with you on pretty much everthing, although I remember hearing somewhere that Knott's will try to beat out SFMM some day for the coaster record. I don't know if that is reliable, but I heard it during SB's construction, and now they've added two more coasters, with rumors for another in 2009. I'm thinking maybe the rumor is true. I just hope Knott's keeps the theme alive and doesn't remove nay of their classic rides that you listed.

[G-Force!]

I have made a video of PE finally in action.

Check it out here:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qziL6RZjbJs

You can also find it here:http://www.coasterrealm.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=16816

Thanks.

[Jake]

For those expecting something of genuine interest, prepare to be disappointed. It's just a video of the flywheel spinning, nothing exciting.

Edit: Sorry, the link didn't work so I searched on youtube and I apparently looked at the wrong video. My bad ;).

[Dan]

I sure hope we get some airtime going over that hill...

[RollermanDan]

Careful with the "exclusive" people seem to get touchy on other sites about that. ;) j/k Cool video...

[Dan]

For those expecting something of genuine interest, prepare to be disappointed. It's just a video of the flywheel spinning, nothing exciting.It shows the ride in action...

[Jake]

I saw the wrong video, my mistake.

[G-Force!]

Yea, I sort of added that in there because that's the first time I have been able to say that, and now it's out of my system:tongue:. Anyway, the footage you really want to see is near the end of the video. It's not much, but it'll hold us all until the opening next month. Enjoy everyone!

[JonJon86]

So did they pick the crew yet for this?

[G-Force!]

Actually, they have. The crew is going to start training really soon. Could be as early as this week. But, I'm not apart of that crew as I missed the opportunity by a hair. Anyway, less than a month away from opening.

[RollermanDan]

A while ago yes.

[JonJon86]

So they still do the whole "your opening crew, lets take your picture and hang it on the wall in the Rides office" thing?

[Mr.Wood]

I have made a video of PE finally in action.

Check it out here:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qziL6RZjbJs

You can also find it here:http://www.coasterrealm.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=16816

Thanks.
Thanks for the video. Looking forward to get on it.

[Brandon]

Looks like Knott's ditched that really nice wrought iron bar in favor of a dust cloud for the front of the train. In my opinion, the wrought iron front looked way nicer than the dust cloud, however, I suppose that dust cloud makes more sense. Anyone know if that wrought iron bar located on the back of the train will be staying, or will that be replaced by dust too?

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r136/Rides22/288815101_ykSiJ-L-1.jpg
Image courtsey of David "Darkbeer" Michael
http://www.darkbeer.smugmug.com/

[Jake]

I agree that the wrought iron bar looked nicer, but this makes more sense.

Does anyone know if all the horses are unique? Or are they all mostly the same? Heck, has anyone here even seen them up close?

Edit:
Way to contribute to the topic at hand :roll_eyes:


Way to backseat moderate.

[Aahz]

If you'd like to be one of the first people to ride Pony Express at Knott's Berry Farm then the auctions just went live a couple of hours ago.

There are four auctions - front row on trains 1 & 2, other rows on trains 1 & 2. Prices start between $60 and $150.

http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZtherealknottsberryfarm

[JonJon86]

I'm still thinking about bidding on 2 seats.

Whatever I spend, I'll get it back at the end of the year anyways.

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

I might try and get some seats, did it for SilverBullet!! IDK, if not I am going Opening day any ways :scared:

[G-Force!]

Honestly, it's not worth buying the seat IMO because the ride is way too short and not enough thrilling for my tastes but it does go to a good cause. I guess if your in the giving mood then it is a good gimmick to do. I'm suprised though that I think no one has even bid the lowest set price yet...

[Dan]

I'm suprised though that I think no one has even bid the lowest set price yet...Well, one of four has two bids on it. The others have none. That's usually how ebay works, people just bid at the last minute.

[Thrill Reconnoiter]

"therealknottsberryfarm"?


You can bid $1,000 and get it all back next year. Tax write-off since it's charity.

[Aahz]

"therealknottsberryfarm"?


You can bid $1,000 and get it all back next year. Tax write-off since it's charity.

Yeah, someone from Germany registered "knottsberryfarm" way back in 2002. You can see their eBay page at http://myworld.ebay.com/knottsberryfarm/

As for the tax write-off, that's all well and good for those who actually pay taxes (and earn enough to have that kind of deduction be meainngful of course. Us anarchists have to just be happy with helping a good cause and having a great experience.

I'm considering picking up four seats if they don't get anymore higher bids on 'em.

[JonJon86]

"therealknottsberryfarm"?


You can bid $1,000 and get it all back next year. Tax write-off since it's charity.

I donated last year and got it all back this year. I guess I'm waiting to see on the last day to see how it goes.

I tend to pick and choose a charity very very closely.

[Jeff]

So just out of curiosity, who is all going to the media day?

[Jake]

I wasn't aware of any media day taking place - or do you mean opening day?

If you mean opening, I am not.

[Aahz]

I'll be there on Thursday for the first ride w/ my daughter. My ex-wife and her son are going to be on the second ride.

[Xtreme Descent]

I'll be there on Monday the 26th. Anyone else planning on going that day?

[coastermatt]

I'm going the 24th

[G-Force!]

I'll be there this Thurday. I have really no reason to bring a camera anymore but nonetheless I'll be there and give my ride review as well. I'll probably take some pictures and post them here...

[CedarFair Kinda Guy!]

I am going Saturday!! Me and my friend will be at the park at 9:30ish or earlier :sneaky2: Running to Pony!! :thumbup2: I can't wait to ride!!

[G-Force!]

Alright guys I just got back from KBF and finally rode PE. I took the front seat and well, I think KBF has a hit on their hands with the GP. I thought it was a great fit for the area and the ride proved to be smooth, not too thrilling but short and sweet. For myself being as tall as I am, it is a tight fit into the horse and honestly I don't think I'd love to be in that position very long but it is unique and awkward at the same time if you get my drift. The ride does provide a station fly-by as well as waiting in line. The tunnel has yet to be completed but they ran the ride today anyways. The surrounding area looks good with many plants and small trees now planted. Could they improve even more after these next weeks? Surely. The area does seemed rushed and you can feel it. Good news is Big Foot finally had water running in it's flume today with very murky brown water. It shouldn't be up in running with guests probably until the weekend, maybe sooner. Now onto my pros and cons.

Pros:
- Fun little ride
- Unique experience
- Coaster interaction with surrounding area and guests
- Last turn into the final brake run (Best part of the ride)

Cons:
- Low capacity
- Short line which will overflow onto the midway
- Uncomfortable seats (For tall people like myself)

Overall Rating: 8/10

PS: Expect some pictures. I took MANY.

[Xcelerator]

Hey, I just got back from KBF, a few notes:

1. Pony express

- perfect for knott's!
- a little short, but still is a pretty fun ride.
- capacity will improve as emplyees get the hang of it
- the tunnel should be a cool addition
- the seats are VERY comfortable, but I'm only about 5'8"

2. Xcelerator

- all seats and headrests are being changed out; however, they are not the turquoise any more! All seats will now be completely black.
- one train operation, as of right now. That'll most likely change by the weekend.


All in all, PE is a great ride packed in a pretty small space. They did a great job with the area, and I know they still have work to do. The sign is simply gorgeous, as are the trains.

Great Job CF and KBF! The GP love it, including teenagers and the elderly. Oh ya, kids too. ;) I'm sure many enthusiasts will complain about the ride, but it wasn't intended for them anyway...