Colossus: n. Someone or something abnormally large and powerful.

In Short:

Colossus is one of Thorpe Park's flagship rides; a record breaking 10 looping 'Coaster.

Statistics:

Opened: 2002
Manufacturer: Intamin
Area: Lost City
Ride Type: Sit Down Roller Coaster
On Ride Photo: Yes
Official Rating: Extreme Thrills

Photos:

Video:

See Colossus in action: TTP Park Video can be found in Downloads.

TTP Review:

Colossus opened in 2002 as a world's first ride - the only Roller Coaster with 10 inversions. It cost £10 million to create and is based on the 8 looping "Monte Mayaka" in Brazil, but 'Coaster Designer John Wardley added 2 more inline twists at the end to beat the record.

The lift hill noisily pulls you up to a mighty 98ft, and then simply lets gravity do its work. The track curves down, and the train gets faster as you enter the first inversion - the vertical loop. You then dip under the shop - which gives fantastic airtime, and into the cobra roll. After finishing that, you enter 2 consecutive corkscrews - your on-ride photo being taken after the 2nd. You bend round, and enter 4 clockwise inline twists, which are taken at just the right speed. And, then, just when you think it's all over, you do one last anticlockwise inline twist. Brilliant.

It's not only the ride itself which impresses. The whole area is magical - the Colossus queueline and walkway is right under the whole ride structure - guests are very close to the track, making it an exciting ride just to watch. Special mention must also go to the ride music played in the area and the queuelines - it compliments the theme of the ride superbly, and does a great job of psyching you up for your ride!

When Colossus was opened, it really pushed Thorpe into the major league of UK parks, and rightly so. This 'Coaster really takes you for a ride. It looks great - a huge landmark when approaching Thorpe - and daunting, but anyone visiting Thorpe Park should ride Colossus. However, one word of warning - Colossus has become a bit rough, so beware of headbanging. It's a good idea to keep your head forward when riding.

Colossus excels at almost everything, and is a huge asset to Thorpe Park. Don't miss out.