Diamondback
Steel Hyper at Kings Island, Mason, Ohio. Opened 2009.
- Height
- 230 ft
- Drop
- 215 ft
- Top speed
- 80 mph
- Length
- 5,282 ft
- Inversions
- 0
- Ride time
- 3 min
- Designer
- Bolliger & Mabillard
Diamondback is a steel hypercoaster located at Kings Island in Mason, Ohio. It was built by Bolliger & Mabillard and opened in 2009. Standing at 230 feet tall, it features a 215-foot drop at a 74-degree angle, reaching speeds of up to 80 mph. The ride is known for its smooth experience and "out-and-back" design, offering airtime with its series of hills and drops. Riders sit four across in open-air, stadium-style seating, giving an unobstructed view. The journey includes ten drops and a splashdown finale. Diamondback is a favorite among thrill-seekers for its height, speed, and airtime.
Diamondback is exciting for several reasons:
- Massive Height and Drop: The ride starts with a 230-foot climb, offering a breathtaking view of Kings Island before plunging riders down a 215-foot drop at a steep 74-degree angle. This initial drop delivers an adrenaline-pumping rush and an intense sense of speed.
- High Speeds: Diamondback reaches speeds of up to 80 mph, creating a thrilling sense of velocity, especially during the ride's fast-paced drops and turns.
- Airtime Moments: Diamondback features numerous airtime hills, where riders experience a feeling of weightlessness as they are lifted out of their seats. This "floating" sensation is a signature element that roller coaster enthusiasts love.
- Smooth Ride Experience: Built by renowned coaster manufacturer Bolliger & Mabillard, Diamondback offers a smooth and comfortable ride despite its high speeds and intense elements, enhancing the overall thrill without causing discomfort.
- Staggered, Open-Air Seating: The coaster's unique staggered seating arrangement provides unobstructed views for every rider. The open-air design adds to the thrill by giving a heightened sense of exposure, especially during the steep drops and turns.
- Splashdown Finale: As the ride approaches its end, it features a dramatic splashdown effect, where the train glides over a water pool, creating a massive splash. This unique element not only adds visual excitement but also gives riders a refreshing finish.
These elements combine to create an exhilarating ride experience that keeps riders coming back for more.
Sources
- sixflags.com/kingsisland/attractions/diamondback (Park page: introduced 2009, Bolliger & Mabillard; 230-foot highest point, 215-foot first drop at 74 degrees, 5,282 feet, 10 drops, up to 80 mph, splashdown finale, open-air stadium-style seating; 54-inch minimum height.)
- rcdb.com/4253.htm (Operating since April 18, 2009; Bolliger & Mabillard hyper coaster; length 5,282 ft, height 230 ft, drop 215 ft, speed 80 mph, 0 inversions, 74 degrees, duration 3:00; 3 trains of 8 cars, 4 across in a single row.)
Numbers are from the ride's manufacturer and park where published; "n/a" means we have not confirmed that number yet. Spotted an error? Tell us.