Roller coasters are popular rides for people of all ages – and have been for many years – but did you know these five interesting roller coaster facts?
The First Roller Coaster was Built in 1817
The first roller coaster in the world opened in Paris in 1817. Named the Promenades Aériennes (or “Aerial Walk”), it was essentially a cart on a track that went down a ramp. Those who wanted to ride it climbed up a set of stairs, then rode the bench down a 600-foot track. It travelled at about 65 kilometers per hour (around 40 mph).
The ride was inspired by a Russian tradition of riding sleds down hills made of ice.
Britain’s Oldest Surviving Roller Coaster was Built in 1920
Dreamland Margate is home to the Scenic Railway, the oldest working roller coaster in the United Kingdom. A brakeman is required for the ride to manually apply the brakes when needed. In 2002, it was granted Grade II listed status, meaning it became the first roller coaster to be given any form of protection against demolition.
It was a victim of an arson attack in 2008 and was once blown over by a storm. However, the ride was restored and reopened to the public in 2015.
There are More Than 2,400 Roller Coasters in the World Today
Roller coasters are incredibly popular all around the world! A small percentage of them (about 7%) are made of wood, while the rest are made of steel. Some are designed to children while others have been constructed with adult riders in mind.
Some popular children's roller coasters include the Apple Coaster, the Ghost Train, the Go Gator Roller Coaster, the Pony Express, the Mine Train, the Train Roller Coaster, and many others!
Roller Coaster are Among the Safest Rides
Roller coasters at busy theme parks are checked for safety several times a day. During these inspections, bolts, seatbelts, tracks, and everything else that’s important is checked and tested to ensure safety. At We Are Tricycle, all our rides are continually inspected and maintained and are always supervised by a trained operator, examined under the ADIPS scheme.
Roller Coaster Loops are Never Perfectly Circular
Many roller coasters have loops where the cars go upside-down, but have you ever noticed that these are never perfectly circular? The reason is because of centripetal and centrifugal forces. In short, in a loop that is a perfect circle, the cars would move too quickly at the bottom and too slowly at the top, which was uncomfortable and potentially dangerous for riders. In a teardrop-shaped loop, the speed can better be controlled.
Did you know that there are roller coasters for hire? That’s right! If you’re in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, Swansea, or anywhere throughout the UK, We Are Tricycle has a number of great roller coaster hire options available! You don’t need to have a massive space or a huge event either! Some of our roller coasters have a very small footprint, making them perfect for situations where space is at a premium.
Want to learn more, find out what we have available, or hire a roller coaster for your next event? Contact us today.
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