Diamondback Changes the Landscape for Thrill Seekers
New $22 million ride tallest, fastest, meanest roller coaster at Kings Island
KINGS ISLAND, Ohio – If you think riding the Beast roller coaster at Kings Island is an adventure (and it is – it annually ranks in the Top 10 in surveys done by several coaster experts), wait until this year!
Kings Island has changed the landscape for thrill seekers in 2009 with its tallest, fastest and meanest roller coaster ever, Diamondback. The $22 million steel coaster stands 230 feet at its highest point with a first drop of 215 feet at a 74-degree angle. Riders snake their way around 5,282 feet of track at speeds up to 80 miles per hour!
Diamondback was designed by Bolliger & Mabillard of Monthey, Switzerland, a recognized industry leader in roller coaster development, and becomes the park’s 15th roller coaster and the first from B&M. The addition of Diamondback compliments the park’s already impressive lineup of more than 80 world-class rides, shows and attractions.
“Diamondback has all the elements which make for a great coaster,” Greg Scheid, Kings Island’s vice president and general manager said. “It has height, speed, twists and turns, incredible airtime, and a spectacular splashdown ending. We couldn’t be more excited about our new signature attraction.”
Adding to the overall ride experience on Diamondback is the use of open-air, stadium-style seating, the first of its kind in the United States. The design gives all riders an unobstructed view of all the thrills and excitement of Diamondback’s 10 vertical drops, incredible hammerhead turn, two helixes and splashdown finale.
Located in Rivertown, Diamondback preys over flat land, woods, water and rocks.
“The diamondback is the king of all rattlesnakes with a fearsome reputation,” Scheid said. “They’re big, mean, aggressive and terrifying. The name Diamondback accurately conveys the image and characteristics of the coaster, as it resembles that of a coiled snake ready to strike.”
Diamondback has been far and away the most popular ride in the park, even for sightseers who just want to get a glimpse of the coaster’s awesome structure. But most people come to ride Diamondback, and from their responses to the new coaster, the challenge was all they anticipated – and more! Here are some typical reactions to Diamondback:
“It’s the fastest coaster I ever rode!”
“Great! The first drop is a total attack!”
“I’ve never been on anything like this before. It’s great.”
“I was so scared I couldn’t scream.”
“Nothing short of fantastic!”
Diamondback will continue to thrill Kings Island visitors on weekends (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) until May 17, and then daily from May 22 through August 30.
