I just got back two weeks ago with DD8 and DD10. Both loved RnR. Both were really cautious people about rides up until this trip. (wouldnt' ride baby rollercoasters at county fair - really cautious, scared even) But then came this Disney trip.
We rode Big Thunder several times.
DD8 and I rode RnR first, while DD10 and DH were at Blizzard Beach for Summit Plummet.
DD8 was so thrilled she happily stood in line 45 min for a second ride. We had fast passes that we used with rest of family later that day.
Then we had 2 fast passes left.
DD's convinced us that they wanted to ride by themselves. So, we took them to the fast pass return line and dropped them off. Then waited at the end of the ride in the gift shop. They were thrilled with riding by themselves (I thought they might get scared without a parent).
In my opinion -
RnR is scary during the initial speed. If you shut your eyes as you start to go up first hill, you don't actually feel like you're going upside down. Then open eyes, and enjoy the scenery.
The ride is much smoother than Space Mtn. I like it better than Space.
It's also smoother and quieter than Big Thunder. Big Thunder has more bumpiness than RnR.
Plus, I think RnR is 90 seconds - so if you don't like it, it's over fast.
there are signs warning you about sudden drops, etc. I asked a CM about the drops, because DD8 wanted to know if drops were big. CM told me there are no drops.
Maybe that's why I like it best of the coasters. I like drops sometimes, but I like this for the fun, and you're never worrying about a big drop.
Now Everest was a huge adrenalin rush - I was scared. DD's could probably have handled it had we been there at end of the week. But we were there before they did space or RnR. So, they had only done barnstormer and big thunder. i figured they would freak out on EE, so I advised against them going.
At this point, I think they coudl handle it, but I'm not sure if they would enjoy it or if it would be too intense to be fun.
Hope this helps.
Enjoy!
Leah