Popular coaster types, typical stats, and a recognizable real-world example for each model.
Sky Rocket II
A compact vertical launch model with forward and backward launches, a tall twisting spike, and a non-inverting loop.
Debuted2014
TypeCompact multi-launch shuttle coaster
Typical height150 ft
Typical speed62 mph
Typical length860 ft of track traveled multiple times
Inversions1
Capacity500-700 riders per hour
Sky Rocket II coasters are popular because they deliver a 150-foot visual landmark on a very small plot. The layout uses repeated passes to increase ride duration without long track length.
Recognizable coasterTempesto
Tempesto at Busch Gardens Williamsburg is one of the most recognizable Sky Rocket II installations, using repeated launches, a vertical twisting spike, heartline roll, and non-inverting loop on a tiny footprint.
Tempesto photos pulled from rcdb.com. User submitted photos are under View all photos. Open on RCDB
A launch coaster platform commonly used for shuttle launches, spaghetti bowl layouts, and dark-ride hybrids.
Debuted1996
TypeLinear induction motor launch coaster
Typical height80-200 ft
Typical speed55-70 mph
Typical length2,000-4,000 ft
Inversions0-4
Capacity800-1,200 riders per hour
Premier helped popularize electromagnetic launches in the 1990s. Typical installations emphasize quick acceleration, compact layouts, and inversions or high-speed turns.
Recognizable coasterFlight of Fear
Flight of Fear at Kings Island and Kings Dominion is a classic Premier LIM launch coaster, placing a spaghetti-bowl inversion layout indoors after a forceful electromagnetic launch.
Flight of Fear photos pulled from rcdb.com. User submitted photos are under View all photos. Open on RCDB
A milder launch platform designed for family audiences while retaining the excitement of magnetic acceleration.
Debuted2019
TypeAccessible LSM launch coaster
Typical height40-80 ft
Typical speed35-50 mph
Typical length1,200-2,400 ft
Inversions0
Capacity600-900 riders per hour
Premier family launch coasters bring launch technology to younger riders. Layouts usually include moderate turns, airtime bumps, and repeatable pacing rather than extreme inversions.
Recognizable coasterBacklot Stunt Coaster
Backlot Stunt Coaster is a recognizable family-accessible Premier launch coaster with a punchy launch, themed car chase elements, helices, and show moments that make the ride feel larger than its height.
Backlot Stunt Coaster photos pulled from rcdb.com. User submitted photos are under View all photos. Open on RCDB