New Top Thrill Dragster Rumors - Major Operational Changes, Opening Year, and More

[@ElToroRyan]

Go to my sponsor www.aura.com/ElToroRyan to try 14 days free and let Aura go to work protecting your private information online.

[@brianwolf399]

So here is a good question about dragsters changes from a hydraulic launch to an LSM launch since the lightning trains are so lightweight do you think the coaster cars will simulate dragsters again like they did when they first opened?

[@patrickstrahm05]

Don't forget that Kings Island will have Zamperla flat rides going in for 2023 as well

[@cccEngineer]

Cedar Point just put out a cryptic video kzbin.info/www/bejne/e6GwdaGnh9x6kJY

[@Fluffy_Coasters]

I would never let my kid miss out on a ETR block zone explanation for some homework

[@MattMcIrvin]

ElToroRyan's videos could be the basis for a high-school physics course.

[@theloanranger2632]

Your kid isn't very bright to get it done themselves anyway.

[@jzckvsn]

I’m nervous for TTD’s future but I’m hoping Cedar Fair does a good job making the ride more reliable than before

[@timothykaczmarek5871]

Just get rid of that POS ride.

[@austintayloradt]

Yeah, the thought of Zamperla doing the ride worries me, I trust Intamin a lot more and think it would make more sense, but who knows

[@troll9682]

They will. There was too much down time, and CP doesn't want to take down a 420 ft Tower.

[@MarcusDET]

@@troll9682 they removed a 330 foot tower before

[@braddougan1919]

@@MarcusDET the cost to take that 420ft tower down would be massively expensive

[@COASTER_CHASER_1]

I think we have to take into account that dragster is only getting redone because of necessity because of the accident. Unless this was a plan all along. So any projects that may have been in the works or planning prior to the accident are probably still taking place.

[@timothykaczmarek5871]

That ride is nothing but a major maintenance headache so it is no surprise that it needs something needling to be done.

[@COASTER_CHASER_1]

@Jane Taylor I’m not saying something didn’t need to be done. But had the accident that closed not happed would we have even seen this refurbished.

[@DanielBlaney]

@Jane Taylor kingda Ka is actually up quite often. It's much more reliable than TTD was.

[@shortkeys73]

@Jane Taylor That's simply not true - where did you hear that?

[@jansenart0]

you're not factoring in the human element

[@TimLSim]

As exciting and intriguing as it sounds, I cannot feel but massive regret for not traveling to Cedar Point and experiencing Top Thrill Dragster for the first time in its heyday. 😢

[@CoasterCheetah]

I’m worried for Dragster. Sure the LSM launch will be strong but nothing will compare to Dragster’s hydraulic launch. If they don’t extend Dragster’s layout I fear the “new” Dragster won’t have great reception.

[@leeowen4989]

You would be suprised at just how powerful an LSM launch can be. The main limiting factor is how much current you can feed them with.

[@sonic23233]

They put LSM on Storm Runner, and it has a good reputation

[@CoasterCheetah]

@@sonic23233 Storm Runner uses a hydraulic launch

[@bearclaw5115]

I'm always impressed with how thorough your analysis is Ryan. When is someone going to hire you to improve capacity on their attractions?

[@edbrown2998]

I love these videos because so many theme park channels throw wild speculation out there and pipe-dream ideas that will almost certainly not become reality - whereas this one gives us properly thought out scenarios backed up by solid science and insider knowledge. Looking forward to seeing what the future holds for Dragster!

[@Businessmeating422]

Hey Ryan. Please make more videos like this with your mathematical break downs. This was so cool to learn about and my kids are more excited then ever about math knowing that it can be used for things like roller coasters.

[@j.johnson7891]

Agreed. That part really separates him from the rest

[@kiera_rdh6697]

This rides history has been very eye opening for me. I’ve been planning my first ever trip to cedar point for many years but for multiple reasons (including my wedding and then the pandemic) have put it off. Now it’s too late to experience TTD as it was originally operated and now the new version may be years away. It may sound too existential for a discussion on coasters but it was very much a “you never know how much longer you have” kind of moment for me. I’m eagerly awaiting more news but enjoying all of the ETR videos in the meantime!

[@j.johnson7891]

Got there asap! I'm sure the new rendition will be great!

[@alaeriia01]

I am so glad I did Cedar Point and Kings Island in 2019.

[@DLXRY2]

I hate to be negative but no matter the change, nothing will be better than how it was. That launch was the best launch of any ride in the world and it is a shame none of us will ever feel that force again.

[@rmasterstudios]

Wait and see. All I’m gonna say is LSMs are extremely punchy now.

[@lastone032085]

Red Force still exists. Nothing has changed. 👀 With that said, Intamin's current Gen LSM motors can hit over 120mph. Couple that with Vertical boost and suddenly 5-600 foot launch coasters are possible.

[@austintayloradt]

@lastone032085 takes longer to get to that speed though, that's the big difference - but I don't think I've heard anyone call the tunnel launch on Maverick weak, so...

[@rmasterstudios]

Also remember, Intrasys hasn’t even maxed their lsm system out yet. No one has needed to until now most likely. Digging on their website will tell you that their slim drive technology is capable of sending objects weighing tons really fuckin fast.

[@lastone032085]

@@austintayloradt LSM also have the benefit of climbing into the top hat where the hydraulic launch lets you go before the incline. The speed going up the top hat might offset the initial launch for some.

[@pryocrazy9529]

Yay it’s finally out

[@tahjo7]

Ex Xcelerator Op here from 2005, I love these Intamin Launch videos, the memories keep rushing back when I watch them. I miss the Op life, don't miss the pay tho.

[@WestcoastAudiGuy]

I have a feeling CP was going to refit TTD to LSM.. But the schedule got pushed forward due to the accident... That hydraulic launch was a lot to maintain

[@jricedrums]

Absolutely excellent detective work! It's so exciting to speculate about what's going to happen in the future!

[@jasonbush9038]

Capacity was zero when it was broken down half the time I would be there, so if this is happening this is a major improvement if it keeps uptime up.

[@happyteesandart5740]

I love that you actually worked on the dragster! We go to cedar point often and I rode the dragster many times but it was broken down sooooooooooooooo much! If it was too windy the train would not go over the top or whatever! it would be shut down for hours at a time! Or at least that was what we would theorize by watching the test runs and see the train not make it over! 😒 it was broken at least once each day that i have been to CP. I think if the new technology can make the ride operate consistently and all day long, even if there are a few less riders per train, many more people will get to ride 😉 😀!!! That's my math! Lol.

[@coasterconquistador2517]

Keep up the great work, Ryan! Awesome video, it’s always great to hear about the status of one of the best Intamins!

[@ajhummel9187]

This lines up almost exactly with the whispers I've been hearing about the ride for the past couple months. Only discrepancy is I've been hearing a mid season 2023 reopening may be possible (with the rethemed area complete with new flats for 2024), but Cedar Point isn't going to say anything until they're certain it will be ready by then. Based on my experience with Red Force, I actually wouldn't be surprised if capacity increased as that ride can launch ~80 trains per hour compared to the ~50 per hour I've observed with Dragster.

[@JamesonThomas24]

Eltororyan is the only KZbinr who tells you how not to watch his videos in a sponsored segment

[@michaelcarpenter2498]

Glad to hear that there is some movement on this. This is going to be different but interesting. I trust you to keep everyone informed about Dragster.

[@pyrocatfx]

4:47 sol spin and cargo loco at ki are also Zamperla

[@Verlisify]

Can't wait to see the announcement prove you right against the doubters

[@nito209]

I've been waiting for this all day!!!

[@CPguildVid]

I love me some napkin math. Great video as always. Whenever I'm planning out block zones in roller coaster tycoon, I always hear your voice in my head telling me how to get to that max capacity.

[@MadameSomnambule]

This is gonna be interesting to see play out, I was always too chicken to ride the top thrill dragster up until last year when I decided to try almost all of the intense steel coasters at Cedar Point. That was an awesome experience. Hopefully it'll be safer than it was so no one will be injured by it.

[@jarrodbabel533]

You were right. Cedar point just posted a video featuring TTD with a ‘coming 2024’

[@amapan81]

Four 12 person trains that reliably run without substantial down time and are less complex to maintain sounds like an increase in practical/actual capacity. Especially if they can get the coaster to run within more variable weather conditions, this thing will seemingly churn out way more rides lol

[@j.johnson7891]

Plus with the addition of pavilion, wild mouse, along with this, should really help to reduce wait times across the park

[@abdhashmi]

@@j.johnson7891 that side of the park is a dud without ttd. Magnum has no lines. Corkscrew is boring and dated power tower is a bad ride. You want to shorten lines need more attractive new rides. Add something like ride to happiness. Adding a family area will only increase the beach and hotel population. Shortening lines requires more interesting rides.

[@PatrickRyan150]

I love those launch tunnels with the futuristic lights that zip by

[@MojitoMadness]

Never would I ever imagine that one day Top Thrill Dragster and Playland in Vancouver would be mentioned in a video, and yet here it is. I really hope that Intamin/Zamperla's new roller coaster at Playland is good because the park desperately needs new and better rides, as well as a cosmetic upgrade which is suppose to start this year. Also, the ride right now is being dubbed as Skybender.

[@rct3isepic]

The thing I've not seen a single person mention, what about an LSM Catch Car launch? To my knowledge the only ones that exist are the 3 Rock n Roller Coaster clones but they achieve a launch from stand still to 57mph in 2.8 seconds. If you were to give that acceleration rate enough track theoretically it would work and also still have the pulling feel of a hydraulic launch since it still uses a catch car

[@OMGpandemic]

I live in Ohio, but haven't been to Cedar Point since 2008. I rode the dragster twice, once during the day, then after sunset, with all the park lights on. It was a fun ride.

[@jeffzaniewski5277]

I think the construction wall staying up during the off season is a great tell about the opening year. They literally took the boardwalk down the Sunday/Monday closing day. They would not leave it up if it was going away soon

[@TP_Recommendations]

Great video! Very in-depth and informative! Excited to see what’s to come of it! I still think it will offer a extended layout of some kind 😊

[@coasters4life388]

i love you brandon

[@ElToroRyan]

Thanks! And an extended layout would always be more than appreciated! Although that could reduce the ride’s capacity

[@TP_Recommendations]

@@ElToroRyan yeah that’s the only issue with that! The Anticipation is so much fun!

[@ElToroRyan]

@@TP_Recommendations 100%!!

[@austintayloradt]

@ElToroRyan how much of a change to cycle time do you think it would be if they added something like a vertical loop after the top hat as part of the old brake run? Maybe it adds a couple seconds to the theoretical interval? Unfortunately I think something like that (or an airtime hill, bunny hop in the launch, etc.) is probably the most we can hope for with changes to the track or new elements besides the LSM launch.

[@brucegibson1813]

cool! can’t wait to watch this when I get back from a trip.

[@colinschmitz8297]

This will be interesting, I still feel a bit skeptical of wisdom of trusting Zamperla with this project since this their prior coasters haven't been that great let alone anything of this caliber but then again who thought Vekoma could make great coasters after decades of Boomerangs and SLCs.

[@DoomPlague]

I think this concern has been overstated by enthusiasts. As long as they hire experienced engineers (and it sounds like they have) and are serious about changing their reputation, then reimagining TTD is doable. A few rollercoasters companies have gone from either making bad or small rollercoasters (or none at all) to massive undertakings in a short span.

[@colinschmitz8297]

@@DoomPlague in theory, it should work out that way, but even proven, competent manufacturers like Premier failed when tasked with building replacement trains for the Giant Inverted Boomerang which should have been a pretty simple job compared to what Premier builds normally. It also seems out of character for Cedar Fair who insists on using B&M for projects instead of other manufacturers have proven capable and more affordable, then to hire a company that is sketchy on smaller less complicated coasters to take on a complicated nightmare that is TTD. Even the great RMC which has some of the best engineers didn't foresee the problems of Lightning Rod or Steel Vengeance. Having great engineers helps, experience also helps, but just as it isn't a 100% guarantee for success for the best case scenario how much more can the probability of serious problems happen with a company like Zamperla? Ultimately, I hope Zamperla proves to do an amazing job in fixing this ride. We'll see how this plays out.

[@OakForestBoys]

Wow dude you called that 2024 date 👌

[@Verlisify]

I'm not even going to theme parks this year but I'm hear for coaster news! Ryan just makes good videos to listen to

[@DJ_JOOD_]

CP just “announced” “a new formula for thrills” for 2024 with all TTD b-roll footage. That wording makes me lean towards a formula 1 theme.

[@sandraweilbrenner67]

They kind of hinted at iappa they were talking a next gen train for dragster. I love the train they showed. I think you are right on 2024.

[@PorcuPineAppleSauce]

I'm disappointed you didn't explain your sponsor as a block zone for Internet usage

[@meatballofdeath9846]

With the change to LSM, the throughput would increase due to the lack of system tests and launch preparations that bogs down hydraulic. The trains could launch straight out of the station now. Even with the reduced train capacity, they could still achieve similar riders per hour numbers. Also with and LSM launch, it's possible we could see a launched airtime hill. At 200 kmh even a small hill will have huge airtime. Even the brake section could be modified slightly to something more akin to Red Force. The switch to LSMs could really change the dynamic of the ride. Who knows what could happen, with the tophat in place already, that reduces the amount that Zamperla has to spend on this. Would be crazy to see a small blitz type layout at the beginning with the 200 kmh launch being the big finale.That's a huge stretch but not impossible. Could be a huge success for Zamperla either way.

[@orion_aethena7076]

Just some food for thought, I might have a theory on what the name might be…. When opening Orion, Cedar Fair trademarked the name Polaris. It has not since been used, and it would be easier and cheaper for Cedar Fair to use a name already trademarked rather than trademark a new one while still giving it a new theme. As for the possible retheme of the midway around corkscrew, Dragster and Magnum, the Polaris theme also would make sense since Magnum is already loosely space-themed, which could be ramped up. The theming could also span back towards Gemini, as well, since it would make sense with that theme as well.

[@austintayloradt]

That all makes a lot of sense, and I think they did something similar with the Banshee name, maybe when Mantis was being converted to Rougarou?

[@orion_aethena7076]

@@austintayloradt they did it with Mantis before conversion…. Mantis was gonna be banshee, but was named Mantis instead, so the name went to the banshee we know today since it was already trademarked

[@j.johnson7891]

Nice catch

[@Rollercoaster_breath]

I just can't believe how much love and info u put into one video, Thanks so much!!!!!

[@leisterj]

Other than cooling, lsm launchers provide power per car. So numbers of cars does not change power per motor like old top thrill. It just means the motor needs to run longer for the extra car without overheating.

[@Nicklmeyer]

Nobody's mentioned it, so I'm going to. Remember when Cedar Fair used "TEOTWAWKI" for Orion's teaser campaign? Of course this was an acronym for "the end of the world as we know it" and it was for a space-themed ride. What words did Cedar Point use in their closing announcement for Dragster? "Top Thrill Dragster, AS YOU KNOW IT, is being retired". Hmm... funny choice of words. Not to mention that at the end of the same midway is Magnum, which (despite having just about no theming) was originally space-themed. Coincidence? I think NOT!

[@austintayloradt]

Very interesting...the one problem would be Back Beat Que - theoretically they could theme it to a space cantina, but that seems unlikely... but it isn't a Disney, so maybe not a huge issue if the restaurants are out of place - would be cool though if a theme like that was fully integrated

[@UberBeavis]

Thanks for another well thought out video. I hope that this succeeds, and Knott's can bring Zamperla in to give Xcelerator a reliable launch, too.

[@IntaminFanGRLPowerCoasters]

Or Just work with Intamin already…. Their LSM Launch coasters have no troubled history whatsoever.

[@UberBeavis]

@@IntaminFanGRLPowerCoasters intamin has had all the chances they deserve.

[@christiwright3604]

I agree that Zamperla will reimagine the Dragster. I saw the same video about the new trains from IAAPA. I didn’t ride the original 😢but the reimagined one sounds great!

[@jorge5275]

I'm sorry You missed out babe

[@scottmarks4734]

Great bit of info, thanks! I believe you are right on with the opening date. I can’t see CP having the new version open at the same time that the new boardwalk opens, but it’s still a slight possibility. The Corkscrew midway is severely lacking in attractions and hasn’t had many changes made to it since Dragster was built. Given that CP has spent the last several years upgrading the other midways in the park, I’m guessing that that will be the next one to get a major renovation. As much as I would hate to see it go simply for the pure aesthetic and historical value it holds, I think Corkscrew will be removed during that renovation to make room for a more modern and less violent coaster, or possibly some more aggressive flat rides. My theory on Dragster’s future is that it will become partially enclosed. The launch track and brake run will be enclosed in tunnels and feature a space escape theme: a callback to Disaster Transport, perhaps. Hopefully, we don’t have to wait until the end of next season to find out.

[@EsOne4200]

I feel like they're also waiting for 2024 to make decisions on Corkscrew (or ID). The move of the Matterhorn and Scrambler to the new midway opens that area up, retire Corkscrew (or maybe ID) and now that whole area is way more open for a reimagining for TTD

[@elehcarykztorban0360]

What’s ID?

[@EsOne4200]

@@elehcarykztorban0360 Iron Dragon, which sits just south of TTD

[@elehcarykztorban0360]

@@EsOne4200 thanks! I hope they don’t get rid of ID, it’s one of my favourites!

[@EsOne4200]

@idkwhattoputhere I don't know. It's not getting any newer, and, even though S&S took over maintaining Arrow, I can't imagine the maint costs are inexpensive. It's lived a long life, and it is taking up a good amount of usable space. Of all the rides at the park, ID and Corkscrew would be in my top to be next on the chopping block, especially since both open up real estate for TTD

[@austintayloradt]

Removing Iron Dragon I think they would need to add another family coaster, especially if they remove Corkscrew as well (which is a good ride for kids to get their first experience going upside down) - I think Corkscrew would be first to go given the relocation of those flat rides, and just imagine if they also put a Zumanjaro drop tower on New Dragster, then they could close Power Tower and have a ton of space for a new ride! Although I think that's extremely unlikely, I think it's more likely to put an entirely new ride in the Corkscrew plot than to use it for an expanded Dragster layout.

[@ejectorairtime73]

So glad I go to Cedar Point every year, and I have rode this coaster almost 5 times. But, I am excited to ride this new reimagined one by zamperla!

[@totallycoasters]

Thanks for the update!

[@jeffrey_live1748]

I'm skeptical all they do is a downgraded launch and a new coat of paint. That'd be a dud

[@ZMSaypol]

BABE WAKE UP! RYAN POSTED!

[@lwatz7009]

Top Thrill is back on the Cedar Point website.

[@Habreno]

I don't expect Dragster will keep its existing layout. I suspect it will get a second element to improve throughput - just like Kingda Ka has a "bunny hill" I think Dragster may get one as well (maybe not quite as large) to improve throughput. I would honestly love to see something crazy like a zero-G roll but that might be a bit much, although it *would* allow Cedar Point to market it as the fastest roller coaster with an inversion. All in told, I expect the 2024 re-launch (pardon the pun) is accurate, because I expect that this is more than simply "new launch, new trains".

[@leeowen4989]

It's interesting that the original trains are still there and that you mention Intrasys. The brake magnets under the trains are Intrasys Prolim LS200s and as far as I know are compatible with their LSM stators without any modification.....

[@zachkelley1867]

Thanks for doing this. Can’t wait for the next update video. You bring so much knowledge. I was hoping for some kind of update when people go for winter chill out

[@history_leisure]

If its a space theme, just continue up to Gemini and move the Flying Scooters and add 2-3 new flats in the area as well (Flying scooters replacement, give Power Tower a smaller queue and squeeze another flat in). The Flying Scooters would fit well behind Valravn's Immelmann if the backstage area by the restrooms by the train station were moved (maybe use most of that back area as storage so the flying scooters would be closer to guest view. Guests would clearly see the storage area from Valravn, but a theming element could probably be added in that space too no problem). I have thought for years that a medieval/beastly motif over the midway from Valravn Midway up to Rougarou's entrance. Even though Raptor would still be classed as "Main Midway", it could loosely fit into the new area too with some loose theming at the exit of the Zero-G Roll and its Helix finale. Blue Streak and Chickie's and Pete's would go back to the pirate themes of that area of the 80's, Valravn and Raptor's turnaround an abandoned castle, the Flying Scooters the Headless Horseman, Iron Dragon ala Big Bad Wolf with the village theme, and Rougarou would remain with its loose bayou motif-maybe just let the station get covered in plants and stuff on the outside and paint vines on some supports. No rides removed, 2 new areas (although I guess 1 is made of mini lands anchored by a coaster: Siren's Cove [Blue Steak + Chickie's nautical retheme], Castle Bookling [Valravn + part of Raptor], Old Town [Iron Dragon, Lake Erie Eagles s spooky retheme, Dive In Medieval Retheme, possible games area, Dragon's Inn, overhauled restrooms], Wilderness [Rougarou and Millie/Trail rail crossing])

[@chekherjoy]

Yes, continue the space theme up through Gemini. I want the flying scooters to get a copper paint scheme and theme them to solar sails. I'm thinking Treasure Planet (although clearly we can't theme that to Disney IP). Monster could be cute space aliens. Music Express could be lunar or mars rovers hoping over rocky terrain. Power Tower is clearly a rocket launch.

[@Amelia.S23]

Zamperla and Cedar Point watching this thinking no one knows their plan: 👁👄👁

[@techpappee]

It’s not just Cedar Point. All Cedar Fair parks that are getting new addition are made by or changed by Zamperla. Kings Island, two flats and a retheme of a area, Canada new family coaster, Carrowinds new flats etc etc. Don’t forget the Wildmouse at the point. Cedar Fair can save a lot of $$ by buying several products from one manufacturer. They’ve went all in apparently.

[@bigblueamusementproductions]

Wonderland's new family coaster is by ART Engineering not Zamperla.

[@techpappee]

@@bigblueamusementproductions I thought it was Zamperla, good to know.

[@whereisrvggie]

THIS is how you do a prediction video! Bravo!!

[@techpappee]

I'm also in the camp of those who believe it won't open until at least 2024. CP already has their new boardwalk, wildmouse and restaurant/bar for marketing this season. They'll wait to use the new Dragster and revamped area for another seasons marketing.

[@jalenpadilla7744]

Based on the announcement that the experience as we know it is retiring, and that it will be reimagined, that seems to imply that a bigger change is coming, so we wouldn’t be left with a ride that just launches up a top hat and then ends… from a GP perspective, that would not be a reimagined experience at all.

[@austintayloradt]

But to the GP, adding new themed elements like a tunnel (with the same layout) would probably count as a reimagining as well - they don't tend to pay as much attention to specific coaster elements as they do to the overall experience...I would guess that many of them never knew that Mantis and Rougarou have the same track layout. But for the enthusiasts, I think reopening with just a new launch and trains will make people wonder why CP felt like such a major announcement was warranted - I'm certainly hoping for more than just a new launch and a new color, but who knows what's realistic at this point.

[@kanadalithium]

Cedar point just confirmed 2024 reimagined dragster launch

[@osteoman]

El Toro Ryan, I know you are trying to put together a puzzle with very few pieces, but you have done a great job of explaining some of the technical requirements and what we may see in the future. Thank you and I hope it's not 2024 before we see TTD 2.0

[@ka8s1]

2024 updated TTD!!!! CP just put a teaser up!

[@zachstammen9337]

It would be interesting to see what the train length will be. I have a feeling we might see 16 riders per train and not 12 by also eliminating the extended front car you also eliminate that extra length of the trains. Shorter trains and lighter trains also means you would probably need less of the main brake. I have a feeling we will see 5 trains for this ride with the first train launched come back into the station with the single waiting train.

[@directronica]

Man, I know you don’t hear this often enough, but I hope they take as much time as they need to make the ride safe.

[@ckilbarger01]

I feel like Cedar Point won't reveal everything but they'll give the people something on TTD's 20th anniversary. It seems unlikely to me that they'd let it pass without using it as an opportunity to keep there coaster in the Zeitgeist.

[@carysage]

I gotta tell ya mang, your channel is amazing. With vids like this and the Problematic Roller Coaster series you are absolutely the most technically involved and accurate channel around... Then Coaster Idiots is the most goofy and Fun series around... The way you hit both ends of the spectrum so well always amazes me. Heh heh heh..,Napkin Math....

[@michaeltaylor1603]

Zamperla has been consistent in providing quality flat rides,. They've really branched off like Vekoma and become a proven leader! When I made working roller coaster models, I used aluminum and a little steel in fabrication. The car bodies often times were "mint tins" Altoids Lol! I could seat 2 Playmobile figures in them. They would give the train a little weight. I can just see how Zamperla could knock this ride out of the park in reliability.

[@charli.ward.]

I really don’t have much faith that zamperla is equipped to take something of this magnitude on, but cedar fair has alienated every other manufacturer at this point soooo. Idk, I just think that it’s silly that they think it’s too risky to work with intamin but are totally chill about a wild mouse company being in charge of a strata coaster without actually having done this ever before.

[@j.johnson7891]

$$$

[@IntaminFanGRLPowerCoasters]

Yeah. And Intamin is not as unreliable anymore imo. Their LSM Coasters are very good with uptime.

[@charli.ward.]

@@IntaminFanGRLPowerCoasters oh absolutely, their reliability is way better and they have made so many improvements that could easily remedy dragster’s issues. Plus they’re the original manufacturer, nobody knows the intricacies of the coaster better than the manufacturer themselves, not a third party. I think the petty grudge has dragged on (pun unintended) for way too long, and they’re going to be shooting themselves in the foot when the quality of the coasters they receive nosedives because their only options are small companies who have never delivered a world class coaster. Something from zamperla can’t hold a candle to what intamin, b&m, and rmc are capable of. And I haven’t seen them working with Mack since copperhead as far as I’m aware, and I have no idea what they could have possibly done wrong. I assumed at first that Mack would take the project, it seemed like a very reasonable prediction.

[@IntaminFanGRLPowerCoasters]

@@charli.ward. way rather prefer slow Mack then rough, inexperienced Zamperla

[@DDImagineerCreations]

A new space-themed area in the midway of Cedar Point could actually work pretty well. Magnum already has a retro sci-if appearance and if they wanted to replace Corkscrew with something else, that could fit in with it (this would further make sense on it all opening up in 2024 probably).

[@alaeriia01]

I don't think Corkscrew is going anywhere. That ride takes up zero space and runs sweet as a nut.

[@jandrew1994]

Space theme for CP wouldn't make sense. It works for KI. We all know that that northeast quadrant of CP is bleak right now with TTD (and Gemini) SBNO and the area very dank and sparsely populated especially at night. Magnum is the top attraction and it needs TLC too. As for theming of that area... CP is Cleveland metro. Cleveland is all about sports and rock and roll. Sports makes sense since it's Top Thrill f'n Dragster. Formula One or similar racing theme with big emphasis in the theming on the area about team sports and local team sports history. Rock 'n' roll also makes sense, because Cleveland is a music city and they already have Backbeat Bar-B-Que in that area with live music. Perhaps they should do a hybrid of both, or the south half of it themed for sports and the north half starting with the barbecue restaurant all the way to the train tracks (before you get to Frontierland) being themed for music/rock n roll. That would be a MUCH better idea than the generic space crap which is ubiquitous in other, lesser theme parks.

[@j.johnson7891]

If they add the fake rear wheels and wing back, that might help with weight. Or if this is a new theme, they can always get creative with adding a sufficient amount of weight to it with aesthetics

[@steelers393]

Love your content as always Ryan! Can’t wait to see what’s to come for my home park.

[@pandabytes4991]

not only do empty trains carry less momentum, but that lack of mass means wind resistance has a greater effect. It is why you can have 2 items with the same shape, but different terminal velocities.

[@bonham4994sts9]

You're a genius man! All of the operational stuff you talked about really makes since🤘

[@ginog5037]

It would seem a spike of any size would limit ride capacity in a big way...

[@UKThemeParks]

Love watching this channel, honest and more importantly clear reasoning. Keep it up!

[@spinba11]

While watching the last segment I thought of something, no idea if it will have an effect. there’s no waiting for LSMs launches to rest like there is for hydraulic launches, but I suspect it was able to reset before the block cleared

[@thegeniusman8757]

Yeah, that's what I was thinking. It should operate at about the same capacity with better restraints, less downtime and reduced interval between dispatches

[@Heywooo]

I went down that thing backwards for the very first time and got launched again immediately after. Mind blowing adrenaline. RIP

[@CrazyCoasters]

I really hope it doesn't get a retheme because I just love the racing theme it just fits the ride so well, and well the station music 🤩

[@j.johnson7891]

All good things must come to an end. But yes, they better not change the station music lol

[@PatJones82]

You do a fantastic job with these videos. Well done, and thank you! :)

[@Gocats829]

for those looking for the highlight of the video i suggest 21:23

[@CoastingThePlanet]

My man ElToroRyan has united roller coasters with equations from my engineering classes 😂 Heck yeah

[@j.johnson7891]

I couldn't wait to show these equations to my math friend. lmao

[@michaelanderson5209]

im really gonna miss that hydraulic launch man, i hope they can provide a launch with similar torque

[@Fregler]

Makes sence to only announce big things in August/early September since that is closure to the fiscal/budget year and keeps the company at the forfront of investors' minds when it comes to solidifying next years budget. Simply put new TTD gives a garantied investment-pleaser for next year since this year has already been secured.

[@Fregler]

Sorry for my less than stellar English, since it is not my first language I tend to ramble when writing in it.

[@austintayloradt]

I've never heard of that being the end of their fiscal year...I think they follow a calendar year end schedule with their earnings disclosures. But I agree that August or September makes the most sense for their big announcements because it's a great way to sell season passes for the next year.

[@dustanglx50]

Unfortunately Cedar Fair does not have seem to have a good relationship with Intamin. Cedar Fair asked manufacturers to push the limits, and do what has never been done before. When these experimental coasters have some bugs, they blame the manufacturer (rumors of a RMC rift also). So, you get smooth working, perfectly boring, almost cookie cutter B&M coasters. (Raptor is the exception. Valraven and Gatekeeper are OK, defiantly not for the enthusiast. Rougarou is a mess.) Off-topic tangent- Rougarou should be replaced by a Gertshlauer infinity coaster. How awesome would that be, a "Smiler" like coaster in the swamp.

[@j.johnson7891]

That would awesome for a Rougaru replacement

[@moekitsune]

Found the thoosie

[@austintayloradt]

Your napkin math also doesn't account for the incline of the track, or any fiction from air or wheels, so some buffer would be needed to overcome those opposing forces as well. The decreased capacity worries me, I would think that CP would want to address that as a high priority, second only to reliability/maintenance (although the two are somewhat related) - but they'll lose any capacity gains from less downtime by limiting the number of riders per train. Also, I think a 2024 opening with no change to the layout (even just 1 new element within the current footprint), or without some additional themed elements like a tunnel, would be a disappointment...especially since the launch acceleration will be so much weaker.

[@ElToroRyan]

The kinematic equations I used in my napkin math don’t technically account for the forces that move an object. And when you think about it, for the established conditions like the launch speed and acceleration time of Red Force and OG Dragster, whatever losses due to the incline of the launch track, friction, and air resistance are a part of the numbers I calculated since those losses are already accounted for in the established conditions. For example, if Dragster launched from 0-120 mph in 3.8 seconds, any energy losses are already accounted for in that statistic.

[@austintayloradt]

@ElToroRyan yes, good point - having additional buffer probably just allows for other variables like higher winds, varying temperature, different weight in the trains, etc. like you said

[@CoasterObsessed]

I still think that Togo is the manufacturer of choice

[@willjenningsfly]

And now 4 hours ago they posted it will be re-opening in 2024! Awesome

[@DavidsfarmlivesFAN]

I am still straight up disappointed with how this is playing out. Where's my S&S air launch? This thing could have an incredible forceful launch. I've got nothing against LSMs, but why do that when you could do better? This isn't a family coaster

[@deletedaccountdnd]

Won’t mind waiting until 2024 so long as that entire midway gets a revamp as well.

[@j.johnson7891]

My thoughts exactly

[@deletedaccountdnd]

@@j.johnson7891 except with the announcement today, it just annoyed me a bit that it will in fact be 2024 😂😂

[@amusmentinfo9642]

I might be at work, but I will always find time for a new ETR video

[@jaycillisfacial7391]

2:56 mans eyes really be looking like ‘don’ ever by no weed from the gas station bro.’

[@BartendingAndBaseball]

My brain is just trying to get over some major hurdles in understanding that Zamperla is dragster's new manufacturer. To me, hearing that is like hearing somebody say that this Bugatti Veyron is getting refurbished at a Volvo dealership. 🤣I look forward to seeing what Zamperla does, though!

[@danielwirth8388]

If the track are split in two we can double the trains so that 2 trains would alternat load on one side of the station while the other 2 trains are running when they switch over the other two trains be unloading and loading while the other two trains are leaving so you have more trains being filled which will give you a higher capacity like what they used to do with the water rides with the boat. They could have 8 trains which could move launches up faster than your prediction.

[@ElToroRyan]

And with that, I’d say keep the launch and brake blocks separate so that the next pair of trains could dispatch as soon as the 2nd train in the last pair cleared the top hat

[@danielwirth8388]

Thats what they should do. How many riders could go per hour?? Launches every 20 seconds??

[@BrendenChase77]

Great video! What i didn't hear was the difference in launch considering these new trains are aluminum. Less weight should be easier to launch.

[@ColiwoodStudios]

Amazing video as always! This project really has me intrigued, and I can’t wait to see it unravel throughout the year!