Wicked Cyclone is a steel-wood hybrid roller coaster located at Six Flags New England in Agawam, Massachusetts. This thrilling ride is known for its unique combination of intense drops, airtime hills, and inversions, blending the classic feel of a wooden coaster with the smoothness and precision of a steel track. Since its debut in May 2015, Wicked Cyclone has become a fan favorite, attracting thrill-seekers from all over the Northeast. The coaster is part of Six Flags' ongoing effort to revitalize aging wooden coasters by transforming them into hybrid masterpieces, offering a new ride experience while maintaining a nod to the original structure.
History and Construction
Wicked Cyclone is a reimagining of the classic wooden coaster, Cyclone, which originally opened in 1983. By the early 2000s, Cyclone was experiencing declining popularity due to a rougher ride experience and outdated design. In response, Six Flags partnered with Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC), a company known for its innovative track systems, to revamp the ride.
The original Cyclone was completely transformed using RMC’s I-Box track technology, replacing the wooden track with a sleek steel track. While much of the coaster’s wooden frame was retained, the new steel track allowed for sharper turns, smoother transitions, and inversions that would not have been possible with the previous structure. Wicked Cyclone became Six Flags New England's first hybrid coaster, combining the aesthetic charm of a wooden coaster with the high-tech elements of a modern steel coaster.
Design and Ride Experience
Wicked Cyclone is a compact coaster that packs an exhilarating punch in its relatively small footprint. The ride stands 109 feet tall and features a 78-degree initial drop, plunging riders down 100 feet at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour. The coaster’s unique layout includes three inversions and more than 20 moments of airtime—more than any other hybrid coaster in New England.
The ride begins with an immediate lift hill, after which the train crests the peak and drops into the first airtime hill. From there, Wicked Cyclone dives and twists through a series of overbanked turns, high-speed rolls, and zero-G stalls. One of the standout features is the "double reversing bank airtime hill," where the train shifts riders from side to side, creating a sensation of weightlessness and unpredictability. This is followed by a 200-degree stall, a rare element that suspends riders upside-down, seemingly defying gravity.
The ride’s finale is a series of rapid-fire airtime hills and tight turns that keep riders on the edge of their seats until the final brake run. The experience is relentless and varied, making it a must-ride for adrenaline junkies.
Key Features
- Height: 109 feet
- Drop: 100 feet
- Top Speed: 55 mph
- Track Length: 3,320 feet
- Inversions: 3
- Airtime Moments: 20+
- Ride Duration: Approximately 1 minute and 30 seconds
- Manufacturer: Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC)
- Opening Date: May 24, 2015
Theming and Queue Experience
Wicked Cyclone’s theme centers around a powerful storm, reflecting its wild and unpredictable ride layout. The queue area is lined with storm-related props and visuals, including torn-up road signs, storm chaser vehicles, and a weathered look that sets the stage for the chaotic ride ahead. Riders can watch the coaster zoom by as they wait, building anticipation for what lies ahead.
The theming extends to the coaster’s trains, which are designed to resemble storm chaser vehicles. Each train seats 24 passengers and has a unique design to fit the storm-chasing motif, featuring wind-ripped metal panels and distressed paintwork. The trains' design provides an open-air experience that enhances the feeling of flying through a tempest.
Comparisons and Accolades
Since its debut, Wicked Cyclone has been lauded as one of the best hybrid coasters in the United States. It frequently appears on coaster enthusiasts' top 10 lists for hybrid coasters, praised for its creative layout, intense airtime, and smooth ride experience. It’s often compared to other RMC hybrids like Steel Vengeance at Cedar Point and Iron Rattler at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, standing out for its unique features and compact design.
Tips for Riding Wicked Cyclone
- Best Times to Ride: To avoid long lines, consider riding early in the day or during meal times. The ride tends to draw long queues due to its popularity, especially on weekends.
- Preferred Seat: For the most intense airtime, try to sit in the back row. If you prefer a smoother experience with a more controlled sense of speed, the front row is ideal.
- Weather Considerations: Like many roller coasters, Wicked Cyclone may close during heavy rain or high winds. Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly.
Wicked Cyclone is a testament to the ongoing evolution of amusement park attractions. By blending old and new elements, Six Flags New England has created a thrilling hybrid coaster that appeals to a wide range of visitors. With its relentless pace, innovative inversions, and non-stop airtime, Wicked Cyclone is a must-experience ride for anyone visiting the park. Whether you’re a seasoned coaster enthusiast or a casual rider, this unique hybrid is sure to leave a lasting impression.