1. Kingda Ka – Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson Township, New Jersey, USA
Top Speed: 128 mph / 206 km/h
Kingda Ka is not just the
fastest, but also the tallest roller coaster in the world. A hydraulic
launch mechanism rockets the train from 0 to 128 miles per hour (206
km/h) in 3.5 seconds, pulling about 1.67 g’s. At the end of the launch
track, the train climbs the main tower, twisting 90 degrees to the right
before reaching a height of 456 feet (139.5 m). The train then descends
418 feet (127 m) straight down through a 270-degree spiral. Finally,
the train climbs the second, 129 foot hill, producing a moment of
weightlessness before being smoothly brought to a stop by the magnetic
brakes. Due to the high speed and open nature of the trains, this ride
will not operate in even light rain, as rider contact with rain drops
can cause discomfort.
2. Top Thrill Dragster – Cedar Point, Sandusky, Ohio, USA
Top Speed: 120 mph / 193 km/h
Top Thrill Dragster was the
first “Strata Coaster,” loosely defined as a complete circuit coaster
that is 400 to 499 feet tall. It was the last one to use lapbars instead
of over-the-shoulder restraints due to mechanical problems. Shortly
after reaching its maximum velocity in less than four seconds, the train
begins its ascent up a 90-degree incline that has a 90-degree
counter-clockwise twist that takes the train straight over the top of
the 420 foot hill, where riders will experience significant airtime
(zero g-forces). On the way down the other side, there is a 270-degree
clockwise twist that leads into the magnetic braking section that brings
the train to a swift but comfortable stop.