Cedar Point has completed the new 420-foot-tall vertical spike tower on Top Thrill 2, set to be the fastest and tallest triple-launch strata roller coaster in the world.
Top Thrill 2 is a rebuild of Cedar Point’s former Top Thrill Dragster, with a second 420-foot-tall tower added to the coaster.
Top Thrill 2 has been engineered and developed by Zamperla, a leading ride manufacturer. It is one of the world’s first coasters to use Zamperla’s ‘Lightning’ trains, which debuted at IAAPA Expo 2022, the leading trade show for the attractions sector.
The new ride is the world’s fastest and tallest LSM triple-launch coaster, and the world’s first reinvented strata coaster.
Guests will launch forwards at a speed of 74 mph before a rollback. After this, a backwards launch of 101 mph sends the train rocketing up the 420-foot-tall spike at a 90-degree angle.
This is followed by a third launch that reaches 120 mph. The train then shoots over the top hat and plunges through a 270-degree spiral.
“As Cedar Point continues its tradition of roller coaster excellence, Top Thrill 2 stands as a testament to the park’s commitment to delivering unmatched thrills and extraordinary guest experiences,” said Ramon Rosario, Zamperla’s director of sales for the US.
World’s first reinvented strata coaster
“The ride’s innovative design, breathtaking speeds, and technological elements will undoubtedly captivate roller coaster enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
“The new 420-foot-tall spike tower will redefine the famous Cedar Point skyline.”
Last month, amusement park operators Six Flags and Cedar Fair reached a deal to merge amid a drop in consumer spending. The move will unite two of the largest US theme park operators.
The combined company will look after 42 amusement parks and 9 resort properties across 17 US states, Canada and Mexico. This includes 27 amusement parks and 15 water parks.
