Xcelerator and S:TE Closed For Modification

According to a local news station, both Xcelerator at Knott's and Superman: The Escape have been closed to examine the possibilities of changing the restraints.

The report, along with the timing, seems to point to the fact that both parks were not forced to close these rides, but made the choice to do so on their own terms.

S:TE has been closed for months, with no opening in sight. But Xcelerator has operated constantly even after the S:RoS accident. I figure that the timing, after Memorial Day, but before Summer means that they want Xcelerator to be back before the summer season begins.

I know I'm in the minority when I say this, but I think I'd rather have the simple Storm Runner restraints on Xcelerator than the clumsy modifications that S:RoS has.

Anyway, it'll be interesting to see what happens for these two rides.

I just hope someone attacks both with a tape measure before committing to doing anything stupid.

I don't know how Superman: The Escape compares to Supermen: Rides of Steel. But I'm 99% certain that the issues found on S:RoS are already addressed in a different way on Xcelerator.

--Dave Althoff, Jr.

I seem to recall that STE has the same bar as the "hyper" Superman did.

I agree that the system on XCelerator is actually quite different and addresses the issues found. The differences may be subtle to the casual observer, but they're significant in how the restraint holds the occupant.

...Which is, after all, what is important. In fact, the shin bar, which may well be the most important modification to the S:ROS rides, probably wouldn't fit on Xcelerator because the toe box (which serves the same purpose) would be in the way.

I don't know what "fixes" the DOSH wants, but it would sure be a lot easier to implement a fix if someone would find a problem first.

--Dave Althoff, Jr.

I bet Magic Mountain is all too happy to close Superman for "modification reasons," as opposed to "we're cheap, and we have no staff."

So, let me ask the question, is it possible this is going to affect the rest of the Intamin rides here in the US?

Also, how many days did it take SFNE to modify the Superman trains? Should we expect about the same amount of time for Xcelerator?

I understand they're being cautious with Xcellerator, but I'm not sure it's necessary. I'm 6'-4" and have never felt safer in a coaster than I did on this ride. The deep bucket seats, racing seatbelts, and tight lap bar all make for one snug fit; even for us large framed folks.

As for Magic Mountain, I'm with Antuan on this one.

Now SFMM can blame the closure on modification rather than inclement weather. We all know those 70+º days in CA are treacherous.

so what are the modifications like? I felt safe on both styles of seats, The Xcellerator /dragster seats, and the more stadium, shallower seats of millienium force/STE. I thought with the seatbelts that they are more than safe.

Please move discussion to the ongoing news topic. Thanks.