The Raptor at Cedar Point is a thrilling steel inverted roller coaster located in Sandusky, Ohio. Designed by Bolliger & Mabillard and opened in 1994, it was one of the first inverted coasters of its kind, with riders seated beneath the track. The Raptor features a striking green track with six exhilarating inversions, including a 100-foot-tall vertical loop, a zero-gravity roll, and a heart-pounding corkscrew. The ride reaches speeds of up to 57 mph and spans 3,790 feet of twists and turns, providing an intense, smooth, and adrenaline-pumping experience that has made it a beloved attraction at Cedar Point for decades.
The Raptor's excitement comes from its high-speed inversions, smooth, unexpected twists, and its unique inverted design. Here's what contributes to the thrill:
- Inverted Design: With riders suspended beneath the track, feet dangling, the Raptor provides an intense sensation of flying, enhancing the thrill of each twist and turn.
- Speed and Height: The ride reaches speeds of up to 57 mph and includes a 137-foot initial drop, giving riders a rush of adrenaline right from the start.
- Multiple Inversions: Raptor features six inversions, including a vertical loop, a zero-gravity roll, and a corkscrew. These elements create sudden changes in direction and intense forces, giving the feeling of weightlessness and disorientation.
- Smooth Transitions: Unlike some older roller coasters, the Raptor offers smooth, fluid transitions between elements, allowing riders to fully enjoy the thrill without discomfort.
- Close Calls: The coaster’s design makes it feel like you are narrowly avoiding obstacles, such as the ground, supports, and nearby structures. These near-misses add an extra layer of excitement.
- Length of the Ride: With a track length of 3,790 feet and a ride duration of over 2 minutes, Raptor provides a lengthy, action-packed experience filled with nonstop twists and turns.
These combined elements create a mix of speed, disorientation, and smooth, suspenseful surprises that keep riders coming back for more.