Len Soled's New Jersey-based Rides 4-U is going all in on the 2026 IISF Gibtown Trade Show, featuring a large outdoor display. According to Soled, interest from carnival customers has been strong leading into the event.

“A lot of our carnival customers have been calling and asking about new equipment,” Soled said. “The vibe has been upbeat and positive, and we think it will be a strong show.”

To help manage transportation costs, several pieces that appeared at IAAPA Expo in Orlando will also be shown in Gibtown. Among them is the new portable Pirate Ship from SBF/Visa.

“We sold several park models at IAAPA and are hoping to close deals on portable units that were discussed there,” Soled said.

The Pirate 32 model on display, owned by Stewart Amusements, is a high-capacity attraction that seats between 30 and 40 adults per cycle. The ride features a simple drive system and can be assembled or disassembled in approximately three hours.



“We've seen strong demand for pirate ship rides,” Soled added. “These high-capacity pieces are dependable, visually impressive, and appeal to both midway operators and fair committees.”

Also on display will be the updated portable Compact Spinning Coaster from SBF/Visa. While the coaster was showcased racked on its trailer at IAAPA, it will be fully erected at Gibtown. Improvements to the racking system allow for faster and easier setup.



“I think people are getting tired of the traditional dragon coasters,” Soled said. “It's time to raise the bar with a more modern design.”

Another attraction making its debut is the Mini Tagada, a new kiddie ride that seats 12 riders per cycle. The attraction features a colorful design and eye-catching backwall lighting.



“It's a perfect piece for shows of all sizes, as well as rental companies,” Soled said. “It's attractively priced and works for a wide range of operators.”

Beyond new equipment, Rides 4-U has seen increased activity in the used ride market. Sales of used family and thrill rides have risen, particularly to showmen in Central and Latin America.

“They're looking for equipment that's in good condition,” Soled said. “The days of dumping junk equipment south of the border are over.”

The company has also experienced increased demand for secondhand two-story carousels, many of which are being liquidated from shopping malls affected by declining foot traffic due to online shopping.

“We recently sold a two-story Bertazzon carousel to Blake Huston of NAME, and we have other shows actively looking for similar pieces,” Soled said.

Thanks to long-standing relationships with mall operators nationwide, Rides 4-U has become a primary source for used carousels. Used units typically sell for about half the cost of new models and are available without lengthy lead times.

Looking ahead, Soled and his team will travel to SBF/Visa's factory in Italy this March to preview several new rides currently in development. While details remain under wraps, Soled believes the new attractions will appeal to both park and portable markets.

Soled is looking forward to reconnecting with customers and industry friends at the Gibtown show. He encourages customers to contact his office to schedule one-on-one meetings during the event.

“The added bonus is that SBF/Visa has some delivery slots available in early August,” Soled said. “That's almost unheard of in today's market.”