First and foremost, I'm going to level with you--it's the most intense coaster on Universal property. You've ridden Hagrid's, and maybe you've ridden Hulk too, but VelociCoaster is a whole different animal. Don't let that discourage you, though. In fact, a lot of the elements VelociCoaster boasts are shared with other attractions around the resort.

It's somewhat of an amalgamation of the other coasters--the tall drop of Rip-Ride, the launches of Hagrid's, the upside down-ness of the Hulk... if you enjoy any of those aspects on the original rides, it may be worth giving VelociCoaster a try. 

One of the things that really adds to the thrills is the lap bar. Unlike the similarly thrilling Hulk coaster, VelociCoaster does not have over the shoulder restraints to make you feel fully secured. Instead, the ride features a lap bar similar to the Mummy or Hagrid's. You feel less secure in them, but it allows for lots of extra movement for your hands and makes your body feel like it's coming up out of the seat as you round tight curves or sail over hills. Steep banking maneuvers and long upside down portions will have you gripping that lap bar a bit tighter, and if you like to scream on rollercoasters, your throat will be sore after a ride on VelociCoaster (I speak from experience).

If you're unsure, try to get a seat near the front of the coaster--you can always make this request to the team member organizing the loading platform--that way you experience less of the weightlessness and intensity that you do toward the back.

For nervous first-time riders, I highly encourage you to give this ride a try. You may love it, you may hate it, but ultimately it's only a few minutes of your life, and maybe you'll even get a good story out of it. Just make sure to take a quick breather afterward until your legs stop feeling like jelly!