SheiKra

Roller coaster in the United States
Watch the on-ride POV
SheiKra
Busch Gardens Tampa
Location Tampa, Florida, USA
Status Operating since May 21, 2005
Cost $13,500,000 USD
Statistics
Manufacturer Bolliger & Mabillard
Product Dive Coaster
Type Steel - Floorless - Hyper - Diving
Riders per train 24
Propulsion Chain lift hill
Height 200 feet
Drop 195 feet
Top speed 70 mph
Length 3188 feet
Inversions 1
Drop angle 90°
Duration 2:20
HELP

SheiKra is a steel roller coaster located at Busch Gardens Tampa in Tampa, Florida, USA. Built by Bolliger & Mabillard, it was the first Dive Coaster in North America as well as world's tallest and fastest ride of its kind.[1] In 2007, two years after it opened, SheiKra was converted into a floorless roller coaster.

History

The ride was topped off in January 2005.[2] Testing then began in April.[3]

SheiKra officially opened on May 21, 2005. It was the first Dive Coaster in North America.

On May 28, 2007, SheiKra was closed to modify the trains. Just two weeks later on June 16, the ride reopened with the new floorless ride experience.[4]

Design

Elements

Color scheme

SheiKra has a red track and blue supports.

Trains

3 cars per train. In each car, riders are arranged 8 across in a single row, for a total of 24 riders per train. A car from SheiKra was on display at B&M's IAAPA 2005 booth.[5]

Name origin

The name "SheiKra" is derived from a Shikra, a hawk that is known to dive straight down for its prey.

Images

References

  1. "SheiKra - Busch Gardens Tampa - Roller Coasters".
  2. "Busch Gardens Tampa Tops Off New Dive Coaster". Ultimate Rollercoaster.
  3. "Busch Gardens Testing SheiKra In Preparation For May 21 Opening". Ultimate Rollercoaster.
  4. "Busch Gardens Africa Switching To Floorless Trains For SheiKra". Ultimate Rollercoaster.
  5. IAAPA Trade Show - Johnny Upsidedown

External links

  • SheiKra on the Roller Coaster DataBase.


Articles on Busch Gardens Tampa