Euro-Fighter destined for Darien Lake

According to documents submitted to the Genesee County Planning Board, Darien Lake, Darien Center, New York, plans to add a custom Euro-Fighter roller coaster from Gerstlauer Amusement Rides for the 2018 season. The new ride, a $5 million investment,  will replace the Thunder Rapids log flume, one of the park’s oldest attractions.

The yet-to-be-named roller coaster, similar to those installed in 2017 at New Jersey’s Casino Pier and Tennessee’s Dollywood, will feature a 72-foot (22 m) vertical lift and a beyond vertical first drop of 97°. Reaching speeds of 45 mph (72 kph), passengers will navigate 1,049 feet (320 m) of coaster track including a vertical loop, an Immelman turn, and a heartline roll. Riders will be transported in eight-passenger cars equipped with comfortable lap-bar restraints with redundant hydraulic cylinders that safely holds passengers in ergonomic bucket seats. Durable magnetic brakes guarantee comfortable vehicle deceleration as they enter the station.

“We believe this ride, and the investment level into its size, scope and family thrill level will entice families from all over the northeast and into southern Ontario and Canada,” commented Darien Lake general manager Chris Thorpe. “People will reap the rewards of visiting Darien Lake and see what Genesee County has to offer.”