Six Flags reveals first-of-its kind roller-coaster featuring hovercycles

Six Flags Magic Mountain announced a “next-generation, first-of-its-kind coaster” equipped with “hovercycles” will open at the theme park next year.Thrill Glider roller coaster “combines flying, motorbike and suspended coaster technologies,” according to an announcement from Six Flags Magic Mountain Thursday.The new ride at the Valencia park has been described as having a “suspended glider train design combined with over half a mile of twisting, turning, diving track,” built into the park’s unique mountainside.Riders will “soar above the landscape through sweeping maneuvers, sudden dives and weightless moments that simulate piloting a high-speed hovercycle powered by tomorrow’s technology,” the theme park said.“It will combine the freedom of flight with the intensity of a multi-launch thrill coaster, delivering an experience unlike anything guests have ever ridden.”The roller coaster was developed by world-renowned manufacturer Vekoma, offering riders “an action-filled 80 seconds” that will see riders reach speeds of 50 mph, with “12 airtime moments.” “Enhanced by synchronized onboard audio and immersive lighting effects, every moment is designed to amplify the sensation of speed, flight and freedom,” the these park said.The new ride will also set a series of new records including, “World’s Longest Thrillglider – 3,380 feet, which is more than half a mile” and “World’s Tallest Thrillglider,” standing at 107 feet tall.“Thrill Glider is more than a new attraction.It is the latest milestone in Six Flags Magic Mountain’s renaissance and a reflection of the park’s enduring role as an industry innovator,” said Six Flags Magic Mountain Brian Oerding.Construction on the massive project is already under way, with it slated to open sometime next year.

Additional details and opening information will be announced at a later date.The new ride arrives on the heels of two deaths and a dozen injuries over the past 24 ye...