MASON, Ohio — Kings Island introduced Banshee, the world’s longest inverted coaster, during a media preview today. Banshee screams onto the scene as the park’s 15th roller coaster. With a price tag of $24 million, it is the largest investment in Kings Island’s history.

“The ride has been designed with the thrill-seeker in mind. It’s an incredible ride delivering two and one-half minutes of non-stop action. The elements incorporated into this ride make for a ride experience that is unmatched on an inverted roller coaster,” said Greg Scheid, Kings Island vice-president and general manager.

The new thriller replaces and takes over the same real estate previously occupied by the Son of Beast wooden coaster, which was removed in 2012.

Supplied by Switzerland’s Bolliger & Mabillard, Banshee stands 167-feet tall and treats riders to a 68 mph tour of the ride’s 4,124 feet of track. The ride layout, specially designed for Kings Island, includes a unique collection of elements: a 150-foot Curved Drop, Dive Loop, Vertical Loop interacting with the lift, Zero-G-Roll, Batwing, Outside Loop, Spiral, In-Line-Roll, and Carousel.

Constructed over undulating terrain, Banshee offers several unique elements that distinguish the ride from others of its ilk. Two of the most unique features about Banshee are the massive size of every loop, and unlike other roller coasters, the top speed isn’t reached until halfway through the ride’s course. Since Banshee’s lift hill is on a higher elevation than the other side of the ride that goes down into a valley, the total elevation change is 208 feet from the highest point at the top of the lift hill to the lowest point, which is the bottom of the Batwing between loops four and five.

“The in-line roll near the end of the ride is one of my favorite elements. It will surprise you.” – Greg Scheid, Kings Island ice-president and general manager.

Banshee utilizes three trains with eight cars per train. Riders will be arranged four abreast for a total of 32 riders per train. Hourly capacity with three trains is expected to be 1,650 guests.

Banshee is themed to a wailing mythological messenger from the underworld with flowing white hair and gleaming eyes. Textured lighting and other lighting effects will bring the Banshee legend to reality, creating the ultimate night ride experience.

“If you think riding the Beast at night is a thrill, wait until you experience a night ride on Banshee. Like the Beast, it’s something you’ll always remember and look forward when you visit Kings Island,” said Don Helbig, public relations area manager, Kings Island

“It’s everything an inverted roller coaster should be, and more,” added Richard Zimmerman, chief operating officer, Cedar Fair Entertainment Company.

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