Kings Island 10-02-16

My wife and I decided to head west and make a stop in Mason Ohio Saturday night on our way to Pigeon Forge. We stayed at the Comfort Suites down the street from KI.

We processed our 2017 platinum passes. I haven't been to Kings Island since BeastBuzz in 2003, so there was a lot of new since my last visit.

We got right to the Beast at the start of the day. It brought back great memories from BeastBuzz and the great ERT. Once in the front seat, and once in the back. Good way to start the day.

Next was Diamond Back. Another new for us coaster. Front row for the first lap. First time trying the different configuration. Comfortable as always. We both enjoyed, and it wouldn't rate at the top of our favorites. It's good fun.

We then walked back to Vortex. My wife got beat up pretty good on it. I enjoy it. Good classic Arrow.

We then rode, Flight of Fear, Firehawk, Stunt Track Coaster, the Racer. Nothing really to report on except Stunt Track and Firehawk were new credits for us.

Our highlight of the trip had to be Banshee. It was at the top of both our lists when we were done. Took 2 laps. Front row and back row. Perfect intensity and pacing. It's about as good as you can get. Really love the inline twist before the brakes.

We walked back and hit the Bat. It's the best arrow suspended since BBW was removed from BGW. Good ride.

We rode invertigo and called it a day. We left the park at 3pm and made it to our hotel in Sevierville TN at 930 pm Sunday night. Dollywood awaits. A new park for both of us. More on that later.

Wow, first visit since 2003? That is a significant gap in time, especially considering the Paramount to Cedar Fair transition. I think you will agree that Banshee and Diamondback are excellent replacements for Son of Beast and Tomb Raider.

Yeah there were a lot of changes. I still rode Sonny when it had its loop and Tomb Raider with all its theming. I agree Banshee and Diamond Back are outstanding additions.

"Good classic Arrow"

There's an oxymoron if I've ever heard one.

I cannot think of a better engineered coaster than Banshee. At least opening year, it was the smoothest and most graceful looping coaster I've ridden.