XLR-8, Steel roller coaster in Houston, United States
XLR-8 was a suspended roller coaster where riders dangled freely with their legs hanging in the open air as the train moved along the track. The ride carried trains with multiple cars that moved through a winding path with two lift sections that propelled it upward.
This suspended coaster was built by Arrow Dynamics and began operating in 1984 at an amusement park. It ran for over twenty years before the park closed in 2005.
The coaster received multiple paint schemes throughout its life, starting with light blue tracks and white supports before changing to dark blue and orange.
The train held multiple riders across its cars and there was a minimum height requirement for guests. Visitors should be prepared to ride with both feet dangling freely in the air, which can feel intense for some people.
During a special event in 2002, the ride's rear cars were turned backward, a configuration never attempted before on suspended coasters of this type. This experimental setup gave riders an entirely new perspective on an already thrilling experience.
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