Six Flags confirms Batman the Ride backward for 2013

By | February 21, 2013

Six Flags Great AmericaGURNEE, Ill. — Go Big. Go Backward! For a limited time only, the world’s first suspended looping coaster, Batman The Ride, will be more intense than ever when riders dare to take on an all new experience – going backward!

As the roller coaster climbs the 10-story lift hill, riders will take in the full scope of Batman The Ride’s track as they anticipate the adventure that lies ahead. The train will reach speeds of 50 mph and travel through 2,700 feet of track, all while maneuvering hairpin turns, vertical loops, corkscrews and a zero-g roll. The excitement is magnified since guests cannot see the maneuvers that await.

“Batman The Ride will open for its [22nd] season this spring, offering our guests an entirely different ride experience by going backwards. No matter how many times you have been on Batman The Ride, nothing compares to the thrill of racing down 10 stories facing the other direction,” said Hank Salemi, Six Flags Great America park president. “You literally have no idea what is coming next. This is a tremendous new experience for our guests and one to take advantage of quickly since it will only be available for a limited time.”

Six Flags has given Amusement Today confirmation that all of the seats on both trains will face backward. No forward-facing seats will be available during this limited time period.

Since opening in 1992, Batman The Ride has given more than 28 million thrilling rides and reigns as one of the most popular roller coasters in the world. Batman The Ride backward will launch on Saturday, May 4 – the park’s opening weekend – and be available for a limited time this summer.