I sometimes clap on rides when I really enjoy them. However, for me it's not the same as "applauding." Usually when I'm clapping, I'm laughing with friends, and we're on a high from the roller coaster.
Something I found humorous, though. At Cedar Point people clap after ALMOST every ride. It's hilarious to see people get back from their ride on the Mean Streak. No one is smiling. No one is laughing. I remember when they asked, "How was your ride?" I responded with a scream of pain.