CAROLINA CYCLONE

This Arrow Dynamics steel looping coaster has been operating since 1980 and I would be tempted to say that it’s showing its age were it not for the fact that I didn’t ride it 35 years ago and therefore have no basis for comparison.

Seating two across in 14 rows for a total capacity of 28 riders, the train turns left from the loading station and ascends a 95-foot lift hill before making another left turn and descending 65 feet.   It then travels through two consecutive vertical loops, traverses a small hill, turns and sends the riders through two consecutive corkscrews.   This is followed by a short helix and brake run.  And that’s all she wrote.

The layout of the track is actually pretty good.  I liked the fact that the two loops came up one right after the other, with no break in the action, as did the corkscrews.  What I didn’t like was the roughness of the ride.  The loops were fine but the corkscrews were another story altogether.  I found myself getting banged up – on the elbows - during these two elements.  At least it’s not a headbanger.

Carolina Cyclone can be appreciated for what it is:  a mostly enjoyable coaster offering moderate thrills.  2 ½ out of 5 stars.  For more information about rides at Carowinds, visit https://www.carowinds.com/