Ripsaw, Thrill ride in Forbidden Valley, Alton Towers, England.
Ripsaw was a Huss Top Spin ride with a 40-passenger gondola controlled by robotic arms that moved through multiple rotating sequences. The machine featured 35 water jets activated during specific rotation phases, creating a complete two-minute experience.
The ride opened in March 1997 as a replacement for the Thunder Looper, marking a shift in the park's attraction offerings during that era. It operated until December 2015 when it was decommissioned.
The machine's central drill mechanism reflected the industrial theme of Forbidden Valley, creating a cohesive visual story within that zone. Visitors could see how the design reinforced the area's mechanical character.
Plan for a two-minute ride with intense movements including face-down positions over water fountains. Be prepared for quick position changes and potential water contact during the experience.
The gondola positioned riders face-down above water fountains during rotation, creating an unusually intense physical sensation. This combination of inverted positioning and water spray made the experience particularly memorable for visitors.
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