Dive Coaster
The Dive Coaster is a steel roller coaster model developed and engineered by Bolliger & Mabillard. The design features one or more near-vertical drops that are approximately 90 degrees, which provide a moment of free-falling for passengers. The experience is enhanced by unique trains that seat up to ten riders per row, spanning only two or three rows total. Unlike traditional train design, this distinguishing aspect gives all passengers virtually the same experience throughout the course of the ride. Another defining characteristic of Dive Coasters is the holding brake at the top of the lift hill that holds the train momentarily right as it enters the first drop, suspending some passengers with a view looking straight down and releasing suddenly moments later.
| Dive Coaster | |
|---|---|
Griffon, Busch Gardens Williamsburg | |
| Status | In Production |
| First manufactured | 1998 |
| No. of installations | 14 |
| Manufacturer | Bolliger & Mabillard |
| Vehicle type | Floorless or normal seats located above the track |
| Rows | 2/3 |
| Riders per row | 6/7/8/10 |
| Restraint Style | Over-the-shoulder/Vest restraint |
| Dive Coaster at RCDB | |
Development of the Dive Coaster began between 1994 and 1995 with Oblivion at Alton Towers opening on March 14, 1998, making it the world's first Dive Coaster. The trains for this type of coaster are relatively short consisting of two to three cars. B&M also uses floorless trains on this model to enhance the experience. As of July 30, 2022, sixteen Dive Coasters have been built, with the newest being Dr. Diabolical's Cliffhanger at Six Flags Fiesta Texas which features a drop of 150 feet or 46 meters. Featuring a height of 68 m (223 ft), a length of 1,105 m (3,625 ft), and a maximum speed of 130 km/h (81 mph), Yukon Striker, as of 2019, was the world's tallest, longest, and fastest Dive Coaster.