Why does Top Thrill Dragster always shut down?

Question

Dragster is my favorite ride, and I ride it every time I go to Cedar Point. However, it has been shut down for short (and sometimes not so short!) periods of time while I've been in line sooo many times. What is the problem? Why do they have to shut it down? Most times it hasn't been windy or rainy, so it must be something with the ride. Is it safe??

Answer 1

just safety reasons

that's my guess.

i rode it once because the line wasn't that long... it's an A+ ride for me.

Answer 2

Wow, I didn't know about this. I'm heading to C.P. in 2 weeks and was looking forward to riding the Dragster. Looks like fun on the commercials.

Answer 3

Yes, it is safe, or else the staff would not let anybody ride it, but since it is one of the most complicated rides there (not to mention the tallest and the fastest), it is bound to have many technical difficulties.  But don't worry, the absolute worst thing that could happen would be to stall at the top or roll back, which aren't HORRIBLE situations.  Although, those are very rare.  Also, if there was something going wrong with it, the attendant would most likely see it before they launched you, so you will be safe.  By the way, it is such a FUN RIDE!!!! LOVE ITT!!

hope this helps and happy CEDAR POINTING!!!

Answer 4

Top Thrill Dragster like any newer roller coaster is basically computer controlled.  As such there are a lot of sensors that are set to detect just about anything you could think of.  If one of those sensors detects an error it will signal the operator to shutdown the ride.  

Most of the time these sensor errors are either false alarms or minor issues.  Once they fix the error they can then reset and start up the ride again.  If it is more major they may need to replace a piece of equipment and that may take a bit longer.

Also, in this case remember that TTD is over 400 feet high.  So even though there is no wind at ground level, at that height there might be enough of a wind causing them to halt the ride due to wind.

Answer 5

I go to Cedar Point every year about 5 times.  I have never been brave enough to ride this ride yet!  Although I have seen it many times be shut down.  My guess is that is a very complex ride compared to many....Most coasters have a chain that pulls you to the top of the ride before you fall.  This ride is the total opposite.  It needs to build a very significate amount of pressure to get you even up to the top of the hill.  Even though I am to scared to ride this coaster, I watch in amazement everytime that I go.  The most normal thing that I have seen go wrong with this ride is that it doesnt build enough pressure before it is sent up the hill, and in result will come down backwards....Normally they will just pull the cart back and try again.  It is a very interesting ride..  My boyfriend has been on it once just to say that he did it, but hasnt been back on it since:) lol