There’s been talk for years about a new Bolliger & Mabillard roller coaster type. Last week, the rumors about the ride’s design were confirmed as Italian theme park Gardaland released an image of their 2011 roller coaster X-Raptor.
Gardaland is pleased to introduce a spectacular new attraction in 2011:
X-Raptor – the most extreme roller coasters, the flight that defies limits. Caught in a terrifying flying beast that has destroyed the land, we attempt a flight adrenaline of terror through forests and devastated lands, while trying to escape from the clutches of the ruthless animal.Suspended in empty seats on the sides of the tracks
Awesome station of underground
800 m (2624′ 8″) path
30 m (98′ 5″) high with a dizzying ascent
90 ° bends at high speed
Referrals are very close to spectacular obstacles
Low-flying on a lake surface with water effects
2 spins with a sensation of zero gravity (2 zero-g rolls?)
At first glance B&M’s new ride concept seems reminiscent of a 4th Dimension 
roller coaster like X2, but rumors are that the seats will not spin like 4D’s do. So, it will be more like Intamin’s Furius Baco at Port Aventura in Spain (pictured left).
This is a really exciting development as Bolliger & Mabillard are responsible for a number of ground-breaking roller coasters designs. This seating position has been done, but I have to believe that B&M will bring something new to the table. It just so happens that I’ll be attending Coaster Stock this Saturday at Carowinds where B&M engineer Bob Mampe will be available for questions. Maybe I can get a few more details about this new concept when I speak with him.
While we don’t have all of the details for this new ride, it’d still be cool to get your first impressions. Vote in the poll below:
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What’s Your Take?
What do you think of B&M’s new coaster type? Leave a comment below. Image 2 courtesy of CanobieFan.com.