Ridden Rita

April 27, 2005 by Tom M
Filed under: General 

(c) Alton Towers

Yesterday, I finally got to Alton Towers to ride their new coaster - “Rita - Queen of Speed“.

My first surprise was that I actually fitted in the train - finally Intamin have produced a restraint system that comfortably holds the “larger person” - although it’s a bit of an obstacle course to get into the seat, once you’re in, it’s comfortable.

The launch itself is smooth, powerful, sudden and provides that “take your breath away” feeling every time, smoothly twisting at a breakneck speed into the first turn. In fact every transistion on the ride gives a smooth move without any noticeable “banging” on the restraints, whilst still delivering some airtime in the twists and hills.

It may not be the fastest Rocket Coaster out there - but then, when the appeal of rides like “Top Thrill Dragster” wanes as they lose the height and speed records, RITA will still be weaving through the trees of Alton Towers entertaining it’s riders.

My only criticism here is that it’s a bit too short, however with the space they had available, it’s understandable. It’s still a lot of fun, and Alton have another quality coaster on their hands here which should continue to entertain riders for years to come.

Photo is Copyright Alton Towers, used under the terms and conditions of the “Ride Rita” website

Tags:

Comments

3 Responses to “Ridden Rita”

  1. James on April 27th, 2005 1:42 pm

    That’s a brilliant point you make about TTD, Kingda Ka, etc. loosing their appeal as the records are taken.

    They’ve all been marketed as being good because they are the tallest, fastest, whatever. Even though their actual speed or height won’t change over the years, the perception obviously will as we see further coaster advancements.

    I’m looking forward to taking Rita for a spin myself - time to check the diary methinks…

  2. Rich Holmes on April 28th, 2005 2:05 am

    Hi Tom,

    I’ve not been brave enough to try Rita’s restraints for size yet, do you reckon I’ll be ok?

    Also, how was the legroom, I hear it’s more cramped than Colossus at Thorpe, a coaster taht I can’t fit on.

    Hope life is ok!

    Cheers

    Rich

  3. Tom on April 28th, 2005 7:22 pm

    Rich, I had plenty of room (about an inch of “give” on the belt)

    You should be fine.

    It’s a bit cramped for legroom, but not as bad as Collie (where the restraints try to clamp your legs - I also don’t fit on that one)

    Tom

Feel free to leave a comment...
and oh, if you want a pic to show with your comment, go get a gravatar!