Today, I want to dive into a hot topic that has been buzzing around the community – the 2024 makeover of Top Thrill Dragster at Cedar Point. I know there are a lot of concerns and skepticism regarding the involvement of Italian manufacturer Zamperla, but let’s take a closer look at the facts before passing any judgments.
First things first, Zamperla may not have constructed any rollercoasters as massive as Top Thrill Dragster before, but they are not newcomers in the industry. Established in the 1960s, Zamperla has steadily built a diverse ride catalog, with a presence all over the world. Their founder, Antonio Zamperla, is even in the IAAPA Hall of Fame alongside Walt Disney.
The focus is often on their family coasters, but Zamperla’s flat ride collection is equally impressive. With 95 different rides in their catalog, they are a seasoned and well-prepared company. Moreover, their new Lightning train design, with an aluminum milled chassis, has great potential to enhance the ride’s reliability and safety.
Some enthusiasts argue that Intamin, with their track record of high-thrill attractions, should have been chosen for the Dragster makeover. While that could have been a viable option, it seems Cedar Point found Zamperla’s Lightning train to be a perfect fit for their needs. The train can reach speeds higher than the original Dragster, and its minimal welding requirements promise cost savings and maintenance advantages.
Now, let’s address concerns about potential downtime. It’s true that prototype coasters like Zamperla’s own Wild Mouse at Cedar Point may encounter initial issues, but that doesn’t define their abilities as a manufacturer. Intamin has also faced challenges with new attractions in the past. We can’t predict how Dragster’s remake will perform until it opens and operates.
Speaking of which, I know many are anxious about the likely shift from hydraulic to LSM launch. I admit that I loved Dragster’s old launch. Still though, that LSM launch could end up blowing us all away.
In conclusion, I understand the concerns surrounding Zamperla’s involvement, but it’s essential to give them a fair chance. Their long-standing presence in the industry, extensive ride catalog, and innovative designs speak volumes about their capabilities. We should await the ride’s completion and experience it firsthand before forming concrete opinions.
Remember, rollercoasters can surprise us – both positively and negatively. Let’s keep an open mind and look forward to the new and improved Top Thrill Dragster.
