Baby, We’re Ready to Go….Practical

While Blue Sky ideas are fun to speculate about for the future of this coaster, the reality is that Cedar Point is likely wanting to address two main concerns with this reimagining.

The first is obviously to eliminate any safety concerns following incidents that the coaster has had, and the second is to make these changes in a cost-effective way. Here are a few ideas that seem much more likely to happen with the reimaging of Top Thrill Dragster.

1. New LSM launch system

The first change that is looking the most likely is a new launching system. Much of the launch and brake areas of the track have been removed, leading us to believe that this is the section of the coaster that will receive the most work. So, what might change? Well, Top Thrill Dragster had a hydraulic launching system, and while these systems offer a smoother acceleration, they also are much less reliable since they literally have more moving parts.

Hydraulic launching systems have many components, and they can easily be affected by wind, temperature, and moisture. It is possible that Top Thrill Dragster will be modified to have a linear synchronous motor launching system or LMS. This is an electromagnetic launching system we have seen in a coaster similar to Top Thrill Dragster called Red Force at Ferrari Land. This launch type is a bit more reliable than the hydraulic and would eliminate some of those literal moving parts which incidentally were the cause of the August 2021 accident where a guest was injured by a flying part.

2. Modified queue line

Next, it is possible we will see a modified queue. The queue could be moved from its current location between the tracks or perhaps placed inside a (hopefully airconditioned) enclosure. Both ideas are strong possibilities as Cedar Point will want guests waiting to ride the new attraction to feel safe. Another way to do this would also be to enclose the launch. This would be very cool as a tunneled launch could really change the feel of the coaster.

3. Include lighting and music?

They could also include lighting and music. We have seen something like this done at Hersheypark when they reimagined Sidewinder into Jolly Rancher Remix and added a tunnel with lights and music. This would also be a great way to add additional elements to a very short ride.

4. Change the name and/or theming?

Finally, although we would hate to see it go, the name Top Thrill Dragster and the theming are likely reaching their checkered flag. It is possible that the reimaging will utilize the same name and theming, but to distance the ride from its past and market it as a new ride experience, Cedar Point may choose to change the name and retheme the entire experience. It simply is not very common for reimagined attraction to retain all their old theming and name.

A new queue, launch system, and theme seem likely for Top Thrill Dragster. Only time will tell exactly what will become of this problematic coaster icon. The reimagined Top Thrill Dragster is slated to reopen at Cedar Point in 2024. What do you hope to see come of this steel giant? Let us know in the comments or on our Facebook page!