Re: Liseberg | "Project Helix" | Mack Megacoaster
I agree with _koppen and CookieCoasters on this one. I think Kanonen will be redundant once Helix opens.
I don't know what other parks with multiple launch coasters you guys where referring too? But Kings Dominion is the one that immediately springs to my mind. The park currently has 3 launch coasters in operation, but used to have 4 until Hypersonic XLC closed. The difference with Liseberg is that all 4 of the coasters offer very different rides. Hypersonic was a fast coaster with an extreme launch and a tall top hat. Volcano is a full circuit inverted ride with inversions. While Flight of Fear also has inversions, it's a sitdown model completely in the dark. Last Back Lot Stunt Coaster is a smaller family friendly ride with nice effects.
Kanonen and Helix will pretty much be the same with the exception of Helix being newer, bigger and better. Both are outdoor sit down launch coasters with inversions. Liseberg did a similar thing when they added AtmosFear when they already got Höjdskräcken, an S&S turbo drop. The difference is that Höjdskräcken still acts as a stepping stone for those still too afraid of the massive AtmosFear. This won't be the case with Kanonen/Helix. Kanonen will be the more violent one with the typical Intamin transitions and Helix will most likely get a lower height limit (like Blue Fire).
I also agree with _koppen saying that Kanonen has lost a lot of popularity lately. My friends e.g. never want to ride Kanonen since they find it too uncomfortable with all the head baching. And with the addition of Helix the ride will have an even greater loss of interest. Liseberg have said themselves that they will keep Kanonen, as of now. But one can only wonder how long it will take before they consider removing the attraction.
I just want to finish by saying that I still think the addition of Helix was a very good decision! Liseberg initially planned for a more traditional mega coasters with a height taller than Uppskjutet, the S&S space shot. But I think it was a wise decision to add a more integrated attraction, keeping the lush "park" feeling at Liseberg. As already stated Kanonen is far from the most popular roller coaster at the park, and tbh it's a pretty **** ride! The addition of a better launch/blitz style ride is only a good thing
PS Do anyone know if Liseberg have put up the trains for display in park yet? I remeber they said the trains would be put up for display at the end of June, but haven't heard anything since..