I want to see a video from someone who can figure out why Disney Vekomas are all good, even when Vekoma was mostly building trash. Between Expedition Everest, Rock N Rollercoaster, Space Mountain at Disneyland Paris and more recently Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (overrated but it's still smooth) and Tron, it seems like Disney has only gotten smooth well done Vekomas. How did they pull this off before Vekoma had its rebirth? Is it just a matter of money?
Disney mostly ordered family coasters. Reduced intensity and lap bars help a lot eliminating the perceived roughness. When it comes to the few thrill coasters like Paris' Space Mountain, my guess is that Disney required their coasters to have higher specs to suit year-round operations. For example, see how Tron's track spine is noticeably bigger than most Next Gen Vekoma tracks. In a nutshell, Disney was smart to buy upcharged Vekomas with a presumably sturdier build than your regular, cheaper off-the-rack clone.
@@CoasterHipster that's fair. But I still am puzzled. Vekoma's family coasters have historically also been rough so I don't know that this explains things like Expedition Everest or the overseas versions of Big Thunder Mountain. And as for the more thrilling coasters, was Vekoma always capable of making any coaster smooth and only Disney was willing to pay the up charge for a smooth coaster? It's very strange that a company would have smooth coasters in their portfolio and only one park chain was willing to buy them. And if it's not that then somehow Disney was able to order custom coasters and force Vekoma to make them smoothly despite the fact that they didn't already have a smooth coaster track design ready to build. I just feel like there's some story to be told here.
I agree that the types of coasters Disney ordered were...more simple in design? No inversions no bulky OTSR. Im sure Disney maintenance helps keep them running well
One benefit that Expedition Everest has is that it's one of the only Vekoma models to have a custom track not seen anywhere else, so Disney wanted to be a lot more intuitive with how they wanted to design Vekoma coasters.
@@AirtimeThrills Rock 'n' Roller Coaster and Paris Space Mountain do have inversions and OTSRs, though. R'n'RC is basically Vekoma's version of a Flight of Fear-type ride.
I think Aerosmith's Rockin' Rollercoaster is my favorite Vekoma I've ridden... It doesn't really feel like a Vekoma to me... It feels like a really good arrow... Like Tennesee Tornado mixed with the Premier flight of fear clones lol.
Rock n Roller coaster is #1 and Everest #2 for American Vekomas I’ve ridden, which admittedly isn’t many of them, but I’ve ridden F.L.Y. at Phantasialand, and that’s definitely the best one I’ve ridden
@@Joshwake that’s a totally fair position, I think I personally prefer RNR but that’s probably because it seemed like such a crazy thing when I first rode it as a kid. But it’s def close for me
The sea serpent was my very first big rollercoaster. I remember the old, old train that was actually an Arrow train. Yes, I'm that oldish. The Great Nor'Easter was my very first inverted coaster. I remember when it went up and opened in 95 and when it was bright red color. Both rides located at wildwood and they will always hold a special place in my heart. I remember I once road the Nor'Easter 15 times stright without getting off the ride when I was 15. 😄 🤣. My head and legs where so sore after that I had marks under my legs from riding it soo much.
@@annaisntcool lol. Right! But, it was during the time that Verkoma and Arrow had that partnership, I believe Arrow contracted with Verkoma to manufacture Arrows tracks, before Verkoma went off on their own to design coasters themselves. Hence both companies had the same track design due to an agreement and Verkoma was givin the permission to use Arrows trains on their early boomerangs and looping coasters. One can say that in Theory, Verkoma is the soul successor of Arrow.
I'm grateful for Orion but man I miss Firehawk so much. KI really takes care of their vekomas, I've always felt like they run smooth (minus flying ace)
God I'm thrilled to see Nor'Easter on the list. Morey's is basically my home park and the nor'easter is so underrated. That view before the drop, then the turn near the station. Oh it's so great. Honestly it stands up to top tier b&m inverts to me.
My favorite vekoma I've ever ridden is Space Mountain at Disney Paris. I wasn't a thoosie when I rode it so I don't really remember if it was rough or not, but I remember really liking the inversions and the space theming surrounding the ride.
Honestly, the two Disney coasters are probably the best Vekomas in North America. Both of them are really fun, not even to mention the incredible theming.
Rock N Roller Coaster and Expedition Everest are my favorite Vekoma’s. Both incredibly fun on top of being well themed. Steven Tyler’s count down to the launch on Rock N Roller Coaster is one of the best hype up moments on any ride
My favorite Vekoma is by far FLY at Phantasialand. Its so smooth that I can't still believe that this is the same manufacturer that build Limit at Heide Park.
Lech Coaster smash it all. Tbh pepole say that it is one of best suprises but you still go on it like: okey its gonna be a good coaster. After I rode it this year I was blown away. For me Top 5 in Europe.
I'd put Expedition Everest at Disney's Animal Kingdom, Rock n' Roller Coaster at Disney's Hollywood Studios and even Big Thunder Mountain Railroad near the middle of the list personally. The theming to all those rides is incredible and I find them to be smoother and even more enjoyable then some of the rides mentioned in the first half of the video.
And here's me, an European coaster enthousiast for 30ish years, being completely oblivious that vekoma did a mouse coaster. Thank you for that nugget of knowledge!
I was lucky enough to get to ride F.L.Y. at Phantasialand in Germany a few times this year. It really is amazing and so unique. It is my top Vekoma I have ridden so far. I also rode Limit, another SLC at Heide Park in Germany, and would rate it highly. It was my first SLC. Based on my UA-cam-only understanding of SLCs, I was a little nervous to ride Limit and avoided it all day. I ended up riding it a few times in a row because I was so pleasantly surprised at how much I liked it.
Invertigo was shocking to me in how much I really enjoyed it. I was like "Okay I need this credit since I'm here." It was super smooth and forceful. Such a pleasant surprise!
Expedition Everest is top 3. I do miss Fire Hawk. I spent a long time hating it, but I came to love it in its final 2 years. My very last ride I was in the front row and it broke down. I was just over the crest of the lift hill so I was on my back tilted downwards for 45 minutes with wasps swarming around us because a nest was on the control box. What a last memory, going out with a sting and a headache is the Vekoma I've come to love 🥲
Silverwood is my home park, up here in the pnw it's our saving grace of theme parks no matter how small it is. We get decent expansions and upgrades for a smaller park, and it always makes me happy to see other enthusiasts talk about silverwood. Aftershock is really the only thing that puts us on the map, but we've got our new RMC raptor Stunt Pilot that steals the show now! I'm dreaming of the day I can make it out to the six flags and cedar fair parks
Flying Dutchman is probably my second favorite way to ride a ride. I’ve only ridden Batwing and it almost made going to SF America worth it. Such a unique experience and I loved every second of it
Ninja at SFOG was an ear smashing, head bashing nightmare. Advil was required after it was over. The new trains/restraints and track work have elevated its status to acceptable.
Rock n Roller Coaster is my favorite Vekoma. It’s not super intense, but the theming and music makes it so much fun, and I’m a sucker for launch coasters.
Rode dejavu when it was at six flags over Georgia. Rode it 50 plus times when we had it. Front row was my favorite because when you go vertical and all your weight is on that harness, and there is noting in front of you to make it scarier.
sea serpent will always have a special place in my heart because of my fond memories riding it on school field trips. but i will always favor rock n’ rollercoaster and expedition everest. haven’t ridden the disney vekomas since 2011 but they were incredible back then
I'm glad someone else appreciates X-Flight. I got on it the same summer you did and for the longest time, thought I imagined it because of everything that happened at Geauga Lake.
The Wild Mouse at Idlewild has a slanted lift hill because at it original location there used to be a spinning tunnel over the lift. If you take a look at your footage of the lift you can see in the supports that this used to be the case. The tilt was to add to the effect.
I'll always find some joy in a Vekoma Boomerang (the only Giant Invert Boomerang I've been on is the SFNE so yeah, that hurt). I used to always hate the SLCs but am now willing to try the ones with new restraints. Expedition Everest is one of my favorite coasters that I could ride ALL day (the backwards helix gives the best tummy tickle), and Rock N Roller Coaster has a great launch but then loses its steam. Living in NYC, can't wait to go try the new one in Brooklyn too!
Sea serpent is one of my favorite rides so far. I was just on vacation their at wildwood recently and I went on it. I managed to get a cart near the back and the first lift hill feels never ending. at the peak of the hill you can see all of wildwood. One of the best parts of sea serpent is it goes what seems 60 mph through the station. Everybody in the station just looks like a white streak 😂
As someone who lives in the Pacific Northwest (just east of Seattle), for us Silverwood is basically our home park. Also Spokane is pretty close by so it's not entirely out in the middle of nowhere. Not to mention RMC's headquarters is minutes away from the park. :)
Have you not ridden Expedition Everest or Rock n Roller Coaster? You mentioned how they were left off the list and asking us for our opinion. They are most certainly top 10 Vekoma coasters.
I got to ride fire hawk in 2017, and it was absolutely incredible. It was nearly butter smooth and as forceful as a b&m Flyer. I really miss that ride and wish they could’ve fit orion and FH together
The Disney coasters are ok, but I think you got it right. I remember the first time I rode X-Flight it was in my top 5 too. Boy was I shocked when I rode Nighthawk almost 20 years later. I don’t know if it was because I have ridden so many B&M fliers since, because of its age, or because the track on this one was really that much worse (the corkscrews were a really bad idea on this model), but it was the only coaster I’ve ridden where the whole time I was praying that I make it off safely. I don’t think I’ve had a less enjoyable coaster experience before or since. The new ones in Europe look sick though!! Good content as always.
Rockin Roller Coaster would be near, if not at the top. For the longest time it was my favorite coaster period. Then I rode Seven Dwarves Mine Train, and then I finally got to BGT and rode Montu and Kumba. RRC is still in my Top 5 because it's such a fun ride.
You really need to come and do a tour through Europe. We have alot of awesome VeKoMa coasters. The new ones are top notch (Lech Coaster, Abyssus, etc), but even a few older ones (Xpress / Rock n Rollercoaster). Hyperspace Mountain is fkin amazing
Good list, I've been around and ridden some Vekomas, so I'll go ahead and give my top 10... 10. Flight of the Hippogriff - I'd like to single this one out from the other Vekoma juniors as it's got a few things that make it better. It has the best theming, with the wicker Hippogriff train and Hagrid's voice in the station. It's also elevated, giving it a whimsical and somewhat daunting feeling as you walk straight under it. I'm genuinely surprised they were able to make a Vekoma junior of all things feel daunting. You also get a surprisingly good view from the lift hill. The ride itself is your typical Vekoma junior, a short, mild ride, but smooth and breezy. The only unfortunate thing is that it attracts long waits being in the Hogwarts section of the park, so kids (and adults) may have to wait much longer than they want to for such a short and mild ride. 9. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train - I only rode this once, so I may rank it above Freedom Flyer if I ever get a reride. It was butter smooth, well themed, and a good family ride. It is somewhat overshadowed by the similar Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in the same park, but this one still has its place, as long as you can justify waiting 90 minutes for a kids ride when you can wait 30 for Thunder Mountain. 8. Freedom Flyer - This is the coaster I've ridden the most. While it has lost the fear factor it used to have for me, it's still a fun family coaster, especially the ending helix. Ride the front for a great view and to fly into the station, or ride the back for better drops. 7. Boomerang (Wild Adventures)/The Flying Cobras - These are the 2 boomerangs I've ridden, and I like them so far. They provide a unique and intense experience with good drops. I like the Wild Adventures one better as although it has the old restraints, the ride is smooth, so no headbanging occurs. The Flying Cobras was smooth in the back, but rattled in the front, so maybe it's best it has the vest restraints. 6. Blue Hawk - This ride gives a fun, intense experience with 5 good inversions and great head choppers. Sadly, it does shake a little and I'm not a fan of the vest restraints, but since this one shakes it's probably for the best. I'll ride this when I go if it doesn't have a long line, which can easily happen because it takes FOREVER to climb the lift hill... 5. Dragonflier - I expected this to be as good as, or a little better than Freedom Flyer, but it was quite a bit better. The drop in the back rows is actually really good, the overbank is fun, the double helices are both good (though not as good as Freedom Flyer's individually), and even the final turns and little dip are interesting. I'd stay in that area and get several rides at a time if it didn't have a bad capacity... 4. Twisted Typhoon - When I found out this was an SLC, I was confused as I heard they were awful. This ride had no bumps at all. It does cause a bit of headbanging still due to the restraints, but they are so soft that they absorb any pain you'd otherwise have. I don't remember if it was intense or not, but at least it's fun and not rough, which is what counts. 3. Nighthawk - I was expecting this to be completely inferior to the B&M flyers and to be pretty rough, but what I got was a smooth, fun, intense, and unique experience that feels nothing like but also very much like a B&M flyer at the same time. The front was smooth for me, but the back is a little bumpy. It also looks incredible over the water. I just hope this doesn't suffer the same fate as Firehawk, at least not until I'm too old to tolerate riding coasters. 2. Rock 'n' Roller Coaster - This ride is underrated; it's really good! It wouldn't be that great in the light but the darkness really adds to the experience. The launch is great and the inversions are intense. Aerosmith music also plays, which is cool (despite me not really knowing who they are). 1. Expedition Everest - This ride is very smooth and fun. The backwards part is fun and it has 2 great drops (especially in the back) and a fairly intense helix. It's overall a great "family thrill" coaster. I've ridden a few others, one (Dragon at Legoland) which has potential to be top 10 if I get a reride today (as I rode it as a kid). TRON and Cosmic Rewind look to be candidates for #1 when they open! So far, I haven't ridden a bad Vekoma yet!
Agreed about Twisted Typhoon. It runs glossy smooth. Those restraints are quite soft and easy to manage, especially since the ride is smooth. It is quite intense. If you like Nighthawk, you will adore Batwing. It's a better layout, glossy smooth throughout the train, and very intense.
@@OklahomaCoasterFan Cool, I do look forward to riding it someday. It's hard to justify taking a trip to SFA though as I hear ride shut down all the time. Btw, I've seen you before, I should go and watch some of your videos
@@Wesley-76 Yeah, I've been around the coaster channels, and I just posted my vlogs from my recent visit to SFA. I understand what you're saying. My first visit to SFA, Batwing never opened. This year, it opened an hour late (standard) on my first day, and was up all day, but you just never know with it. Ragin Cajun seems to only be open 10-15 minutes per week.
As a European Coaster Enthusiast, this is my Top 5: 5) Raik 4) Temple of the Nighthawk (Crazy Bats) 3) Colorado Adventure 2) Hals über Kopf 1) F.L.Y I am absolutely in love with F.L.Y, that ride is freaking amazing. Colorado Adventure freaking slaps, Temple of the Nighthawk (Crazy Bats) is so much fun and I can't wait to ride the Phantasialand Vekoma's again on October 28th and 29th. I love Vekoma.
I've ridden Xpress: Platform 13 at Walibi Holland, which is a near clone of Rock 'n' Rollercoaster, and it's really good. It has a forceful launch, and it has zero headbanging despite the over-the-shoulder restraints. It's not very intense except for the launch, but it's graceful.
I still don't understand how Vekoma made a smooth inverted boomerang in the late 1990s when their standard boomerangs and standard inverts around that time were rough.
RnRollercoaster was a lot more intense than I thought it was going to be. Had a nice launch, and got a small punch in the stomach going into the entry of the sea serpent. Everest was underwhelming to me on my first ride, then got a second ride a few days later in the back, and it was so much better. I think RnR would be pretty high in this list, Chris.
The only two Vekomas I've ridden are Expedition Everest and Rock 'n' Roller Coaster, but in regards to the latter, while it has a great aesthetic, it's too head-rattling. Expedition Everest, on the other hand, it's one of the most intense, yet smoothest rides I've ever had on a roller coaster, and it makes _phenomenal_ usage of the custom track model that Vekoma outfitted it with.
I guess I'm blessed ... the only Boomerang AND the only SLC I've ever ridden are both at Morey's Pier in Wildwood NJ. (It's funny how those were included in that April 1st video, and now they're lauded.) I've been on the Aerosmith coaster at Walt Disney World ... it was good. (Been some time for me, so I don't remember much.)
I remember Stinger at Dorney Park was remarkably smooth for a Vekoma with those old SLC restraints. Too bad it had way too much down time and was sadly removed
Blue Hawk is definitely my favorite vekoma I've ridden, I think Aerosmith is a great introduction to a more intense coaster for those who have just ridden small scale rides prior and Everest is a good and intense family coaster that pulls some heavy positive gs in the reverse section
If you're ever in the U.K Kumali at Flamingo Land is well worth a ride. It's a custom layout SLC (or at least not the standard layout) and runs smooth even with the bulky OTSR. On the flip side, Infusion at Blackpool Pleasure Beach is a pretty terrible example of a U.K SLC. It'll be interesting to see how many of the new generation Vekoma's make their way outside of mainland Europe and Asia.
Best US Vekomas I've ridden are Blue Hawk and Aftershock. They're the only two that would have a shot at a Worldwide Top Ten. In Europe I'd say the best I've ridden are Lech, Formula, Dragon at Energylandia, Velocity at Flamingoland and Colorado Adventure at Phantasialand, which may be the only coaster in the world with a dedicated back row queue! You'd love the airtime 😉
On my only trip to Kings Island in 2017, I actually waited around 20 minutes for Firehawk, before getting out of line to go ride something better and decided to ride Firehawk on my next visit. I never did. Rest In Peace. Anyways, I’ve only ridden a few Vekomas, but I would rank them: 1. Expedition Everest 2. Invertigo (KI) 3. Rockin Roller Coaster (Disney’s Hollywood Studios) 4. Dragonflier (Dollywood) 5. T3 (I’m sorry, I really didn’t think it was too bad) 6. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (Magic Kingdom) 7. Flying Cobras (Carowinds) 8. Kiddy Hawk (Carowinds) Although my opinions are always changing so 😂
For European Vekoma's: Formula, Abyssus, F.L.Y., Lech, all world class stuff. And Speed of Sound, Platform 13, Space Mountain for some good older rides.
Batwing was riding glossy smooth this summer! My rides on it might have been better than my rides on Firehawk. Batwing is now my favorite Vekoma, maybe my favorite flying coaster, and it's in my top 50. Nighthawk is just outside my top 100, so there was quite a gap in how they rode on my July trip.
I had to go look-I have 54 Vekoma credits. Nighthawk is one of my favorites, but I think The Walking Dead and Raik are probably at the top of my list. Dragonflier is great, but short. I’m looking forward to riding some of the new European additions. When I rode Space Mountain V2 at DLP I didn’t realize it had inversions and spent the whole ride grabbing for my glasses. I hear the new restraints are a major improvement on that ride-I wish we would install them on Rockin Rollercoaster.
I come from Germany and I recommend "F.L.Y." in Phantasialand and "Haly über Kopf" in Tripsdrill. Both are great coasters, very nicely themed and buttery soft. Come over to Europe with your family next year if that is possible for you. A couple of the coasters, e.g. the crazy Cobra in Connyland, I could even show you personally during your visit. With the SLC, I have to agree. I only know Blue Tornado in Gardaland, but I really like the layout and the intensity of the coster. Unfortunately, the rough ride wrecks a lot of it. A soft SLC with good vests is certainly a really great coaster that I would like to ride more often.
Expedition Everest is my favorite Vekoma and close to my top 10 for it’s long ride, theming, and a few intense moments. I don’t think I’ve been on any of your top 10 vekoma’s though so I don’t know how it would compare. I’ve just done tons of crappy boomerangs and SLCs…
Here's some European coasters for you guys. Formula and Abyssus, both at Energylandia in Poland, certainly top my list. Great coasters with loads of airtime. Python at Efteling in the Netherlands has been great after a retrack they did a couple of years ago, and Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain at Disneyland Paris were great when I last visited the park 2 years ago.
I’ve ridden 18 Vekomas all in America, and Everest is by far the best of them. I’d say Deja Vu would be second. RNRC is ok but it’s easy to stand out in this manufacturer’s lineup. Dragonflysr was surprisingly great also.
I’ve ridden Expedition Everest and Rockin Roller Coaster dozens of times each. I’m not going to rank them vs the flying Dutchman’s since I have not ridden those, but they are great coasters. They would be close to the top though. They both benefit from being two of the few rides at WDW that have single rider lines. I marathon each of these when I visit WDW. Everest is the smoothest and the most re-rideable. That and it seems like no one uses the single rider line on Everest. In 2019 I got 5 rides in less than 30 min using single rider on a fairly busy day. No headaches, no pain…just a good ride with the disco yeti. Rockin is a little bit harder to marathon. After about 2-3 rides in a row I started to get a headache. It’s not rough, but maybe it’s the rattle or slight head banging that caused it. Either way both great coasters with great theming.
Got lucky enough to ride Firehawk the one time I went in 2018. I was able to marathon it 9 times because it rained a little in the afternoon and everyone left.,
Vekoma went from “I’ll bring her home by eight” to “I’ll decide when she goes home”.
I want to see a video from someone who can figure out why Disney Vekomas are all good, even when Vekoma was mostly building trash. Between Expedition Everest, Rock N Rollercoaster, Space Mountain at Disneyland Paris and more recently Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (overrated but it's still smooth) and Tron, it seems like Disney has only gotten smooth well done Vekomas. How did they pull this off before Vekoma had its rebirth? Is it just a matter of money?
Disney mostly ordered family coasters. Reduced intensity and lap bars help a lot eliminating the perceived roughness.
When it comes to the few thrill coasters like Paris' Space Mountain, my guess is that Disney required their coasters to have higher specs to suit year-round operations. For example, see how Tron's track spine is noticeably bigger than most Next Gen Vekoma tracks.
In a nutshell, Disney was smart to buy upcharged Vekomas with a presumably sturdier build than your regular, cheaper off-the-rack clone.
@@CoasterHipster that's fair. But I still am puzzled. Vekoma's family coasters have historically also been rough so I don't know that this explains things like Expedition Everest or the overseas versions of Big Thunder Mountain. And as for the more thrilling coasters, was Vekoma always capable of making any coaster smooth and only Disney was willing to pay the up charge for a smooth coaster? It's very strange that a company would have smooth coasters in their portfolio and only one park chain was willing to buy them. And if it's not that then somehow Disney was able to order custom coasters and force Vekoma to make them smoothly despite the fact that they didn't already have a smooth coaster track design ready to build. I just feel like there's some story to be told here.
I agree that the types of coasters Disney ordered were...more simple in design? No inversions no bulky OTSR. Im sure Disney maintenance helps keep them running well
One benefit that Expedition Everest has is that it's one of the only Vekoma models to have a custom track not seen anywhere else, so Disney wanted to be a lot more intuitive with how they wanted to design Vekoma coasters.
@@AirtimeThrills Rock 'n' Roller Coaster and Paris Space Mountain do have inversions and OTSRs, though. R'n'RC is basically Vekoma's version of a Flight of Fear-type ride.
Fun fact: invertigo is taller than shivering timbers
It’s weird to think about
WHAT??!! Doesn't look like it. Shivering timbers looks like a hyper coaster!
@@360coasters that’s because there aren’t any hyper coasters around.
@@360coasters so is Gale force
That’s hard to believe
I think Aerosmith's Rockin' Rollercoaster is my favorite Vekoma I've ridden... It doesn't really feel like a Vekoma to me... It feels like a really good arrow... Like Tennesee Tornado mixed with the Premier flight of fear clones lol.
I've ridden Xpress: Platform 13 at Walibi Holland, which is a near clone, and it's really good. Forceful launch, no headbanging, no rattle.
Yes, I was surprised not to see it on this list. It's kind of like the 'secret' Vekoma.
That’s actually really accurate
Vekoma is my “top ten” ways to have a pounding headache for the rest of the day.
Facts
Rock n Roller coaster is #1 and Everest #2 for American Vekomas I’ve ridden, which admittedly isn’t many of them, but I’ve ridden F.L.Y. at Phantasialand, and that’s definitely the best one I’ve ridden
Everest is 10x better than RNR
@@Joshwake that’s a totally fair position, I think I personally prefer RNR but that’s probably because it seemed like such a crazy thing when I first rode it as a kid. But it’s def close for me
The sea serpent was my very first big rollercoaster. I remember the old, old train that was actually an Arrow train. Yes, I'm that oldish. The Great Nor'Easter was my very first inverted coaster. I remember when it went up and opened in 95 and when it was bright red color. Both rides located at wildwood and they will always hold a special place in my heart. I remember I once road the Nor'Easter 15 times stright without getting off the ride when I was 15. 😄 🤣. My head and legs where so sore after that I had marks under my legs from riding it soo much.
Sea Serpent’s old trains will NOT be missed
@@annaisntcool lol. Right! But, it was during the time that Verkoma and Arrow had that partnership, I believe Arrow contracted with Verkoma to manufacture Arrows tracks, before Verkoma went off on their own to design coasters themselves. Hence both companies had the same track design due to an agreement and Verkoma was givin the permission to use Arrows trains on their early boomerangs and looping coasters. One can say that in Theory, Verkoma is the soul successor of Arrow.
I'm grateful for Orion but man I miss Firehawk so much. KI really takes care of their vekomas, I've always felt like they run smooth (minus flying ace)
God I'm thrilled to see Nor'Easter on the list. Morey's is basically my home park and the nor'easter is so underrated. That view before the drop, then the turn near the station. Oh it's so great. Honestly it stands up to top tier b&m inverts to me.
totally agree
Kings island is my home park and Firehawk was one of my favorites, but I can’t complain with what it was replaced with.
My favorite vekoma I've ever ridden is Space Mountain at Disney Paris. I wasn't a thoosie when I rode it so I don't really remember if it was rough or not, but I remember really liking the inversions and the space theming surrounding the ride.
Honestly, the two Disney coasters are probably the best Vekomas in North America. Both of them are really fun, not even to mention the incredible theming.
Rock N Roller Coaster and Expedition Everest are my favorite Vekoma’s. Both incredibly fun on top of being well themed. Steven Tyler’s count down to the launch on Rock N Roller Coaster is one of the best hype up moments on any ride
Rocknen roller coaster is the best Vekoma in the US. Intense launch and intense ride I actually blacked out after the launch
“If you’re from Europe or Asia, you’re probably horrified by this list.” It’s hilarious!!
I bet that Expedition Everest will rank up there whenever you do get on it
And Rock N Roller Coaster
@@loabenbozz7430 that too
My favorite Vekoma is by far FLY at Phantasialand. Its so smooth that I can't still believe that this is the same manufacturer that build Limit at Heide Park.
Lech Coaster smash it all. Tbh pepole say that it is one of best suprises but you still go on it like: okey its gonna be a good coaster. After I rode it this year I was blown away. For me Top 5 in Europe.
My favourite Vekoma is an admittedly non-standard SLC, Kumali at Flamingo Land. Closely followed by Velocity in the same park.
I'd put Expedition Everest at Disney's Animal Kingdom, Rock n' Roller Coaster at Disney's Hollywood Studios and even Big Thunder Mountain Railroad near the middle of the list personally. The theming to all those rides is incredible and I find them to be smoother and even more enjoyable then some of the rides mentioned in the first half of the video.
And here's me, an European coaster enthousiast for 30ish years, being completely oblivious that vekoma did a mouse coaster. Thank you for that nugget of knowledge!
I wish they sent Firehawk to Valleyfair. That would’ve been so cool! It was probably a maintenance nightmare though
I was lucky enough to get to ride F.L.Y. at Phantasialand in Germany a few times this year. It really is amazing and so unique. It is my top Vekoma I have ridden so far. I also rode Limit, another SLC at Heide Park in Germany, and would rate it highly. It was my first SLC. Based on my UA-cam-only understanding of SLCs, I was a little nervous to ride Limit and avoided it all day. I ended up riding it a few times in a row because I was so pleasantly surprised at how much I liked it.
Limit wird übrigens als einer der schlechtesten SLCs angesehen xD
Love Phoenix at Denos. After talking with Deno that seemed to be the best investment for the park, even over a raptor. 🤌🏽🥃
it honestly feels like vekoma are the Kentucky Kingdom of Manufacturers, how they basically rose from the dead.
"You ha 17 years to ride it...If you missed your window, too bad" Muhahaha, savage but true!
Great video! I didn't know all of those coasters we're Vekomas including Firehawk. Very informative!
Rock 'n' Roller Coaster and Expedition Everest are my number one and two Vekomas respectively.
Invertigo was shocking to me in how much I really enjoyed it. I was like "Okay I need this credit since I'm here." It was super smooth and forceful. Such a pleasant surprise!
Expedition Everest is top 3. I do miss Fire Hawk. I spent a long time hating it, but I came to love it in its final 2 years. My very last ride I was in the front row and it broke down. I was just over the crest of the lift hill so I was on my back tilted downwards for 45 minutes with wasps swarming around us because a nest was on the control box. What a last memory, going out with a sting and a headache is the Vekoma I've come to love 🥲
Silverwood is my home park, up here in the pnw it's our saving grace of theme parks no matter how small it is. We get decent expansions and upgrades for a smaller park, and it always makes me happy to see other enthusiasts talk about silverwood. Aftershock is really the only thing that puts us on the map, but we've got our new RMC raptor Stunt Pilot that steals the show now! I'm dreaming of the day I can make it out to the six flags and cedar fair parks
I agree with the placement of Phoenix, I loved that ride so much
Its Impressive you actually found 10 Good ones in USA
It was my greatest feat. If i had to choose an 11 id be screwed
@@AirtimeThrills 🤣🤣🤣 getting to 5 was a stretch
Everest is my #1 Vekoma, and Rock N Roller Coaster is my #2 Vekoma! Both rides are absolutely great for a Vekoma
I’m gonna be riding FLY soon and I’m SOOOOO exited. They have improved so much it’s crazy
Flying Dutchman is probably my second favorite way to ride a ride. I’ve only ridden Batwing and it almost made going to SF America worth it. Such a unique experience and I loved every second of it
Ninja at SFOG was an ear smashing, head bashing nightmare. Advil was required after it was over.
The new trains/restraints and track work have elevated its status to acceptable.
I remember Invertigo at Great America and it was great and intense! There was a lot of sadness when it was removed.
Rock n Roller Coaster is my favorite Vekoma. It’s not super intense, but the theming and music makes it so much fun, and I’m a sucker for launch coasters.
Rode dejavu when it was at six flags over Georgia. Rode it 50 plus times when we had it. Front row was my favorite because when you go vertical and all your weight is on that harness, and there is noting in front of you to make it scarier.
sea serpent will always have a special place in my heart because of my fond memories riding it on school field trips. but i will always favor rock n’ rollercoaster and expedition everest. haven’t ridden the disney vekomas since 2011 but they were incredible back then
I'm glad someone else appreciates X-Flight. I got on it the same summer you did and for the longest time, thought I imagined it because of everything that happened at Geauga Lake.
The Wild Mouse at Idlewild has a slanted lift hill because at it original location there used to be a spinning tunnel over the lift. If you take a look at your footage of the lift you can see in the supports that this used to be the case. The tilt was to add to the effect.
Rock and Roller Coaster is indeed smooth. A little head rattle but I believe it adds to the fun of it. Same thing with Expedition Everest.
I'll always find some joy in a Vekoma Boomerang (the only Giant Invert Boomerang I've been on is the SFNE so yeah, that hurt). I used to always hate the SLCs but am now willing to try the ones with new restraints. Expedition Everest is one of my favorite coasters that I could ride ALL day (the backwards helix gives the best tummy tickle), and Rock N Roller Coaster has a great launch but then loses its steam. Living in NYC, can't wait to go try the new one in Brooklyn too!
Sea serpent is one of my favorite rides so far. I was just on vacation their at wildwood recently and I went on it. I managed to get a cart near the back and the first lift hill feels never ending. at the peak of the hill you can see all of wildwood. One of the best parts of sea serpent is it goes what seems 60 mph through the station. Everybody in the station just looks like a white streak 😂
As someone who lives in the Pacific Northwest (just east of Seattle), for us Silverwood is basically our home park. Also Spokane is pretty close by so it's not entirely out in the middle of nowhere. Not to mention RMC's headquarters is minutes away from the park. :)
Have you not ridden Expedition Everest or Rock n Roller Coaster? You mentioned how they were left off the list and asking us for our opinion. They are most certainly top 10 Vekoma coasters.
I love how everyone’s talking about how good the new gen vekomas are but very few people have actually ridden them lol
Few people in the US have ridden them. In Europe a lot of people already had the pleasure. F.L.Y. eg is absolutely amazing.
@@brittariedel3446 yeah cause that’s a flying coaster
I got to ride fire hawk in 2017, and it was absolutely incredible. It was nearly butter smooth and as forceful as a b&m Flyer. I really miss that ride and wish they could’ve fit orion and FH together
LOL you sound so bitter about waiting for that Wild Mouse at Idlewild 🤣🤣🤣
The Disney coasters are ok, but I think you got it right. I remember the first time I rode X-Flight it was in my top 5 too. Boy was I shocked when I rode Nighthawk almost 20 years later. I don’t know if it was because I have ridden so many B&M fliers since, because of its age, or because the track on this one was really that much worse (the corkscrews were a really bad idea on this model), but it was the only coaster I’ve ridden where the whole time I was praying that I make it off safely. I don’t think I’ve had a less enjoyable coaster experience before or since. The new ones in Europe look sick though!! Good content as always.
Invertigo surprised me, that thing was forceful. I greyed out for most of the backwards part and I never grey out on coasters.
I loved Tron at Shanghai Disneyland so can't wait when the one in Magic Kingdom opens up
shoutout to morey's for keeping these subpar vekomas actually enjoyable
facts! surprising for a small town park
Thanks for the dinner reminder
Rockin Roller Coaster would be near, if not at the top. For the longest time it was my favorite coaster period. Then I rode Seven Dwarves Mine Train, and then I finally got to BGT and rode Montu and Kumba. RRC is still in my Top 5 because it's such a fun ride.
Xflight was down for the day when I went to six flags when I was a kid. I remember throwing a fit.
Rockin Rollercoaster is awesome. Like many others have stated it doesn't even feel like a vekoma.
You really need to come and do a tour through Europe. We have alot of awesome VeKoMa coasters. The new ones are top notch (Lech Coaster, Abyssus, etc), but even a few older ones (Xpress / Rock n Rollercoaster). Hyperspace Mountain is fkin amazing
Good list, I've been around and ridden some Vekomas, so I'll go ahead and give my top 10...
10. Flight of the Hippogriff - I'd like to single this one out from the other Vekoma juniors as it's got a few things that make it better. It has the best theming, with the wicker Hippogriff train and Hagrid's voice in the station. It's also elevated, giving it a whimsical and somewhat daunting feeling as you walk straight under it. I'm genuinely surprised they were able to make a Vekoma junior of all things feel daunting. You also get a surprisingly good view from the lift hill. The ride itself is your typical Vekoma junior, a short, mild ride, but smooth and breezy. The only unfortunate thing is that it attracts long waits being in the Hogwarts section of the park, so kids (and adults) may have to wait much longer than they want to for such a short and mild ride.
9. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train - I only rode this once, so I may rank it above Freedom Flyer if I ever get a reride. It was butter smooth, well themed, and a good family ride. It is somewhat overshadowed by the similar Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in the same park, but this one still has its place, as long as you can justify waiting 90 minutes for a kids ride when you can wait 30 for Thunder Mountain.
8. Freedom Flyer - This is the coaster I've ridden the most. While it has lost the fear factor it used to have for me, it's still a fun family coaster, especially the ending helix. Ride the front for a great view and to fly into the station, or ride the back for better drops.
7. Boomerang (Wild Adventures)/The Flying Cobras - These are the 2 boomerangs I've ridden, and I like them so far. They provide a unique and intense experience with good drops. I like the Wild Adventures one better as although it has the old restraints, the ride is smooth, so no headbanging occurs. The Flying Cobras was smooth in the back, but rattled in the front, so maybe it's best it has the vest restraints.
6. Blue Hawk - This ride gives a fun, intense experience with 5 good inversions and great head choppers. Sadly, it does shake a little and I'm not a fan of the vest restraints, but since this one shakes it's probably for the best. I'll ride this when I go if it doesn't have a long line, which can easily happen because it takes FOREVER to climb the lift hill...
5. Dragonflier - I expected this to be as good as, or a little better than Freedom Flyer, but it was quite a bit better. The drop in the back rows is actually really good, the overbank is fun, the double helices are both good (though not as good as Freedom Flyer's individually), and even the final turns and little dip are interesting. I'd stay in that area and get several rides at a time if it didn't have a bad capacity...
4. Twisted Typhoon - When I found out this was an SLC, I was confused as I heard they were awful. This ride had no bumps at all. It does cause a bit of headbanging still due to the restraints, but they are so soft that they absorb any pain you'd otherwise have. I don't remember if it was intense or not, but at least it's fun and not rough, which is what counts.
3. Nighthawk - I was expecting this to be completely inferior to the B&M flyers and to be pretty rough, but what I got was a smooth, fun, intense, and unique experience that feels nothing like but also very much like a B&M flyer at the same time. The front was smooth for me, but the back is a little bumpy. It also looks incredible over the water. I just hope this doesn't suffer the same fate as Firehawk, at least not until I'm too old to tolerate riding coasters.
2. Rock 'n' Roller Coaster - This ride is underrated; it's really good! It wouldn't be that great in the light but the darkness really adds to the experience. The launch is great and the inversions are intense. Aerosmith music also plays, which is cool (despite me not really knowing who they are).
1. Expedition Everest - This ride is very smooth and fun. The backwards part is fun and it has 2 great drops (especially in the back) and a fairly intense helix. It's overall a great "family thrill" coaster.
I've ridden a few others, one (Dragon at Legoland) which has potential to be top 10 if I get a reride today (as I rode it as a kid). TRON and Cosmic Rewind look to be candidates for #1 when they open! So far, I haven't ridden a bad Vekoma yet!
Ily for putting the two disney ones first
Agreed about Twisted Typhoon. It runs glossy smooth. Those restraints are quite soft and easy to manage, especially since the ride is smooth. It is quite intense. If you like Nighthawk, you will adore Batwing. It's a better layout, glossy smooth throughout the train, and very intense.
@@OklahomaCoasterFan Cool, I do look forward to riding it someday. It's hard to justify taking a trip to SFA though as I hear ride shut down all the time. Btw, I've seen you before, I should go and watch some of your videos
@@Wesley-76 Yeah, I've been around the coaster channels, and I just posted my vlogs from my recent visit to SFA. I understand what you're saying. My first visit to SFA, Batwing never opened. This year, it opened an hour late (standard) on my first day, and was up all day, but you just never know with it. Ragin Cajun seems to only be open 10-15 minutes per week.
@@OklahomaCoasterFan Yeah that's unfortunate. Wonder what's so wrong with the park that the rides constantly shut down
"If you're from Europe or Asia you're probably horrified by this list. LOL!
As a European Coaster Enthusiast, this is my Top 5:
5) Raik
4) Temple of the Nighthawk (Crazy Bats)
3) Colorado Adventure
2) Hals über Kopf
1) F.L.Y
I am absolutely in love with F.L.Y, that ride is freaking amazing. Colorado Adventure freaking slaps, Temple of the Nighthawk (Crazy Bats) is so much fun and I can't wait to ride the Phantasialand Vekoma's again on October 28th and 29th.
I love Vekoma.
You'll like Thursdays video then
@@AirtimeThrills I like every of your videos.
My favourite vekoma is lech coaster, legendia, Poland as my 5th favourite coaster and all of them at energylandia are all butter smooth too
I've ridden Xpress: Platform 13 at Walibi Holland, which is a near clone of Rock 'n' Rollercoaster, and it's really good. It has a forceful launch, and it has zero headbanging despite the over-the-shoulder restraints. It's not very intense except for the launch, but it's graceful.
Of the ones I've been on:
Dragonflier
Rock 'n' roller coaster
Freedom Flyer
Invertigo
Firehawk
I still don't understand how Vekoma made a smooth inverted boomerang in the late 1990s when their standard boomerangs and standard inverts around that time were rough.
RnRollercoaster was a lot more intense than I thought it was going to be. Had a nice launch, and got a small punch in the stomach going into the entry of the sea serpent. Everest was underwhelming to me on my first ride, then got a second ride a few days later in the back, and it was so much better. I think RnR would be pretty high in this list, Chris.
I think Invertigo's face-to-face seating is a remnant of the ride being originally themed to Face/Off
Blue Hawk, Firehawk, Deja Vu, Batwing, X flight are all on here 100%
The only two Vekomas I've ridden are Expedition Everest and Rock 'n' Roller Coaster, but in regards to the latter, while it has a great aesthetic, it's too head-rattling. Expedition Everest, on the other hand, it's one of the most intense, yet smoothest rides I've ever had on a roller coaster, and it makes _phenomenal_ usage of the custom track model that Vekoma outfitted it with.
“No pain and not rattle on the booomerangs with vests”
Say that to the flying cobras when my head got bashed on the cobra roll.
How does one bash your head with a vest restraint...unless it was bashed against the seatback
@@AirtimeThrills it wasn’t bashed with the seatback…
I guess I'm blessed ... the only Boomerang AND the only SLC I've ever ridden are both at Morey's Pier in Wildwood NJ. (It's funny how those were included in that April 1st video, and now they're lauded.)
I've been on the Aerosmith coaster at Walt Disney World ... it was good. (Been some time for me, so I don't remember much.)
Thunderhawk at MiA is definitely in my top 10 Vekomas. It ran better after the relocation and still runs smooth today.
My brother rode Rock n Rollercoaster, and he said it was really good. Easily the best part of Disney/MGM.
Fun fact: the sign for fire hawk actually had an open auctioning this past summer. It sold for $700-ish dollars
I remember Stinger at Dorney Park was remarkably smooth for a Vekoma with those old SLC restraints. Too bad it had way too much down time and was sadly removed
Blue Hawk is definitely my favorite vekoma I've ridden, I think Aerosmith is a great introduction to a more intense coaster for those who have just ridden small scale rides prior and Everest is a good and intense family coaster that pulls some heavy positive gs in the reverse section
If you're ever in the U.K Kumali at Flamingo Land is well worth a ride. It's a custom layout SLC (or at least not the standard layout) and runs smooth even with the bulky OTSR.
On the flip side, Infusion at Blackpool Pleasure Beach is a pretty terrible example of a U.K SLC.
It'll be interesting to see how many of the new generation Vekoma's make their way outside of mainland Europe and Asia.
Best US Vekomas I've ridden are Blue Hawk and Aftershock. They're the only two that would have a shot at a Worldwide Top Ten. In Europe I'd say the best I've ridden are Lech, Formula, Dragon at Energylandia, Velocity at Flamingoland and Colorado Adventure at Phantasialand, which may be the only coaster in the world with a dedicated back row queue! You'd love the airtime 😉
On my only trip to Kings Island in 2017, I actually waited around 20 minutes for Firehawk, before getting out of line to go ride something better and decided to ride Firehawk on my next visit. I never did. Rest In Peace. Anyways, I’ve only ridden a few Vekomas, but I would rank them:
1. Expedition Everest
2. Invertigo (KI)
3. Rockin Roller Coaster (Disney’s Hollywood Studios)
4. Dragonflier (Dollywood)
5. T3 (I’m sorry, I really didn’t think it was too bad)
6. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (Magic Kingdom)
7. Flying Cobras (Carowinds)
8. Kiddy Hawk (Carowinds)
Although my opinions are always changing so 😂
I’ve ridden Rock N Roller coaster and Expedition Everest and they are amazing Disney coasters. I’d rank them at #4 for the American Vekoma’s.
For European Vekoma's: Formula, Abyssus, F.L.Y., Lech, all world class stuff.
And Speed of Sound, Platform 13, Space Mountain for some good older rides.
Batwing was riding glossy smooth this summer! My rides on it might have been better than my rides on Firehawk. Batwing is now my favorite Vekoma, maybe my favorite flying coaster, and it's in my top 50. Nighthawk is just outside my top 100, so there was quite a gap in how they rode on my July trip.
Love for blue hawk! It’s in my home park and I love it ❤️
I had to go look-I have 54 Vekoma credits. Nighthawk is one of my favorites, but I think The Walking Dead and Raik are probably at the top of my list. Dragonflier is great, but short. I’m looking forward to riding some of the new European additions. When I rode Space Mountain V2 at DLP I didn’t realize it had inversions and spent the whole ride grabbing for my glasses. I hear the new restraints are a major improvement on that ride-I wish we would install them on Rockin Rollercoaster.
I come from Germany and I recommend "F.L.Y." in Phantasialand and "Haly über Kopf" in Tripsdrill. Both are great coasters, very nicely themed and buttery soft. Come over to Europe with your family next year if that is possible for you. A couple of the coasters, e.g. the crazy Cobra in Connyland, I could even show you personally during your visit.
With the SLC, I have to agree. I only know Blue Tornado in Gardaland, but I really like the layout and the intensity of the coster. Unfortunately, the rough ride wrecks a lot of it. A soft SLC with good vests is certainly a really great coaster that I would like to ride more often.
There is also Limit at Heide Park. Another rough headache inducing slc clone. They are absolute nothing like the awesomeness that is F.L.Y..
Wiener Prater has a boomerang with LAP BARS and it's really wonderful
Expedition Everest is my favorite Vekoma and close to my top 10 for it’s long ride, theming, and a few intense moments. I don’t think I’ve been on any of your top 10 vekoma’s though so I don’t know how it would compare. I’ve just done tons of crappy boomerangs and SLCs…
I felt like rnrc should have been on this list. for the time it was made, its really smooth and has great theming
Here's some European coasters for you guys. Formula and Abyssus, both at Energylandia in Poland, certainly top my list. Great coasters with loads of airtime. Python at Efteling in the Netherlands has been great after a retrack they did a couple of years ago, and Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain at Disneyland Paris were great when I last visited the park 2 years ago.
silver wood is my home park, After shock, spin cycle and tremors are must rides
My favorite Vekoma is both my logo and my all time fav. Coaster called the Python in the Efteling
My last ride was in 2018, but I thought rock n rollercoaster was surprisingly smooth and intense, I would probably rank it under blue hawk
I’ve ridden 18 Vekomas all in America, and Everest is by far the best of them. I’d say Deja Vu would be second. RNRC is ok but it’s easy to stand out in this manufacturer’s lineup. Dragonflysr was surprisingly great also.
Rock N Roller Coaster is a bit rough, but it’s a blast
I’ve ridden Expedition Everest and Rockin Roller Coaster dozens of times each. I’m not going to rank them vs the flying Dutchman’s since I have not ridden those, but they are great coasters. They would be close to the top though.
They both benefit from being two of the few rides at WDW that have single rider lines. I marathon each of these when I visit WDW. Everest is the smoothest and the most re-rideable. That and it seems like no one uses the single rider line on Everest. In 2019 I got 5 rides in less than 30 min using single rider on a fairly busy day. No headaches, no pain…just a good ride with the disco yeti.
Rockin is a little bit harder to marathon. After about 2-3 rides in a row I started to get a headache. It’s not rough, but maybe it’s the rattle or slight head banging that caused it. Either way both great coasters with great theming.
Got lucky enough to ride Firehawk the one time I went in 2018. I was able to marathon it 9 times because it rained a little in the afternoon and everyone left.,
I’ve only been on 85 coasters, but dragonflier is near that top of my list. I got a back row ride and to my surprise was extremely fast and intense.
My favourite 2 vekoma coasters ar FLY at phantasialand and the Python at the efteling. They are so different but both amazing.