I felt that the one at SFGAm less intense backwards than forwards. The helix after the second loop which I always thought to be really forceful forwards was not intense at all when it was backwards.
Batman backwards was definitely less intense than forward at Sfgam, two reasons.
One less row of seats, due to the trains position on the platform, thus giving it a zero car in the back = less weight.
Softer wheels to slow the train down = less speed. 5 rows had 1 softer wheel on it on each side.
I know this because I still know people who work at the park from when I worked at Sfgam!
Nope. Ride opened with no trim brakes at all. Was wild crazy and (smooth). No head banging at all. Alas though. With all arrows It doesn't stay that way. I say this with love because for over 20 years viper was my favorite ride. I still remember the first time I turned the corner after climbing the hill toward the parking lot and literally stopping in the lane when I saw it. Wasn't open yet. (2 weeks out). I went every weekend waiting for it to open.
The ride was tearing itself apart, so the trims had to be added.
This is what killed the Shockwave at Sfgam. Their was a spot for a set of trim brakes exiting the first loop, but the park never installed them. I can remember almost blacking out on the ride in the second and third loops because of the speed the train was traveling, and that turn into the midcourse brake run was a killer. It has to be one of the most forceful coasters I have ever been on.