“Time Rider”: World’s Tallest Coaster Wheel Opens in South Korea

(eap) A new 51-metre-tall attraction named “Time Rider“ has recently been put into operation at South Korea‘s Gyeongju World theme park – the tallest Coaster Wheel in the world. Like other installations of this ride type, Time Rider offers two distinct ride experiences.

Photo: Courtesy of Intamin Visitors can either enjoy a classic giant wheel ride with panoramic views of the surrounding area or opt for a more dynamic experience in mobile gondolas. A total of 16 mobile cabins are mounted on a coaster-like rail structure. Their movement is driven by gravitational forces generated through the rotation of the Coaster Wheel. Riders are meant to feel as if their gondolas are detaching from the structure before swinging back into their “rest” position. For a more relaxed experience, guests can take a seat in one of the eight fixed gondolas.

The new ride, supplied by manufacturer Intamin, is located at the heart of Gyeongju World, which celebrates its 40^th anniversary this year and has chosen the Coaster Wheel as its landmark novelty for the occasion. Reflecting its name Time Rider, the attraction is themed around the concept of time travel and is further accentuated in the evening by a custom-designed LED lighting system.

There are now five installations of this ride type worldwide – other Coaster Wheel attractions can be found, for instance, at the Hello Kitty Theme Park in China and at VidantaWorld Nuevo Vallarta in Mexico. ■