Intamin recently unveiled its new “Surf Family” line of spinning launched shuttle coasters, revamping its existing “Surf Rider” model while introducing a larger “Ultra Surf” model. Both coasters feature forward and backward launches and spinning ride vehicles, offering an out-of-control, airtime-infused ride experience. The coasters occupy compact footprints and allow for various thematic features and unobstructed views for onlookers.
Both Surf Rider “2.0” and Ultra Surf will come equipped with some of Intamin’s latest innovations, including the company’s state-of-the-art, water-cooled linear synchronous motor (LSM) launch technology, allowing Surf Family trains to reach a top speed of nearly 60 mph from the first launch. The company also touts a smoother ride experience thanks to a simpler and wider track design that requires a smaller support structure.
The below video includes animation of the Surf Rider 2.0 and Ultra Surf in action:
As demonstrated in the videos, the Surf Family models’ small footprints make them an attractive addition to parks that are strapped for space.
Surf Family Trains
Both Surf Family coaster models will come with new styles of trains.
The Surf Family trains now seat 20 instead of 12 riders, nearly doubling the models’ hourly capacity. The trains also feature Intamin’s relatively new style of over-the-shoulder restraints, which allow for a less restrictive ride experience.
Intamin is using lightweight construction methods and materials to reduce the weight of the vehicles.
Keep reading for more information about both of the new Surf Family models from Intamin:
Intamin Surf Rider 2.0
The Surf Rider 2.0 model is an upgrade of Intamin’s original Surf Rider. Currently, eight of Intamin’s “first-generation” Surf Rider coasters are in operation across the globe including models at various Disneyland and Nickelodeon Universe theme parks.
The Surf Rider 2.0 model comes in two sizes: 30m and 40m.
The 30m variation’s track stretches 262 feet in length and stands 98 feet tall. Its 20-person ride vehicle reaches a top speed of 43 mph. The 40m version is 328 feet long and 131 feet tall. It reaches a top speed of 56 mph.
Riders will enjoy up to 12 moments of weightlessness as the ride vehicle launches backward and forward.
One of the unique features of the Surf Rider model is its’ beyond-vertical spikes.
The Surf Rider models sport a minimalistic “self-supporting” structure.
Parks can implement water, fire and other effects into the ride experience.
The coaster’s smaller size makes it a great option for indoor parks.
See the Surf Rider 30m model in action in the video below:
New to the line of Intamin Surf Family coasters is the Ultra Surf.
Intamin Ultra Surf
The larger Ultra Surf is a more thrilling take on the “Surf Family” model.
The model encompasses just under 200 feet of track and stands roughly 144 feet tall. The ride vehicle seats 20 riders.
An optional feature of the Ultra Surf model, the “spin-incitation” enhances the spinning motion of the ride vehicle.
Water effects can further enhance the experience for both riders and onlookers.
Vehicles can be sent through a water vortex tunnel or a water curtain, and parks can control the effects to adjust for weather and other factors.
Fire, fog and other thematic elements can also be used to add to the ride experience.
See the Ultra Surf “Surf Theme” in action below:
Visit Intamin’s website to learn more about the new Surf Rider 2.0 and Ultra Surf launched spinning coaster models.
What parks would you like to see build Surf Family coasters? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
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