Universal Reopens Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit

A mere few blog posts after I posted about it being closed down, and a mere two days since I myself returned from Orlando (many pictures and posts about that to follow -- never fear), Universal Studios Orlando has reopened problematic coaster Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.

Universal maintains that the closure was about basic maintenance and not the safety alert issued by German parts manufacturer Maurer Sohne. In fact, Universal claims to have already known about and resolved the safety issue -- a concern about a potential flaw in the coaster vehicle itself -- before Maurer Sohne even sent out their official alert. Impressive foresight and exceptional attention to safety on Universal's part, if that proves true.

Despite the reopening, though, the coaster will not be in operation during Halloween Horror Nights -- daytime rides, sure, but not during the massively popular annual event. So get your kicks in early in the day, if this coaster is your ride of choice. The ride features a 90-degree lift hill and a winding track that offers views (though you'll be moving too fast to really see them) of Universal's New York scenery and the edges of Citywalk. You also get to pick your own ride soundtrack from a library of over 300 songs.