Desert Race, Steel roller coaster in Heide Park, Soltau, Germany
Desert Race is a steel roller coaster in Heide Park, Soltau, Germany, with black rails and sand-colored supports that span roughly 650 meters (2,130 feet). The layout runs through several low turns and finishes with a brake section after a ride lasting just under 50 seconds.
The roller coaster opened on May 15, 2007, and was the first hydraulic launch coaster built in Germany at Heide Park Resort. Its introduction marked a new technical standard for acceleration rides in European amusement parks.
The name refers to desert racing and matches the sandy tone of the structure, reinforced by rock-themed decoration around the track. Visitors often see this ride as a highlight of their park visit because the launch happens without warning and you accelerate directly from a standstill.
Riders must be between 140 and 195 centimeters (55 and 77 inches) tall and at least 12 years old to board. It helps to store loose items in the lockers provided, since the acceleration starts very suddenly.
The hydraulic launch system accelerates the cars from zero to top speed in roughly 2.4 seconds, producing forces close to five G on riders. This technology creates one of the most intense launches among all roller coasters in Germany.
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