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Free Traveling Guides » States » Florida » Universal OrlandoDueling Dragons
Dueling Dragons, situated at the Islands of Adventure theme park of the Universal Orlando Resort, is the world’s only dueling inverted roller coaster. Designed by Bolliger & Mabillard of Switzerland, this ride features a pair of dueling roller coasters, themed to two dragons, Fire and Ice. The two different trains share adjacent lift hills, but pass through two unique courses. There are three ‘near misses’ between the two trains, which bring the feet of the riders within a few inches of the riders on the other train.
Both the rides last for 2 minutes and 25 seconds. The Fire Dragon moves at the top speed of 60 mph, while the Ice Dragon reaches a maximum speed of 55 mph. The former features 5 inversions, including two corkscrews, a vertical loop, and two Immelmann’s, while the latter has 4 inversions, including a cobra roll, zero-g roll, a corkscrew, and a vertical loop. The ‘Ice’ ride features more loops and vertical movements, whereas the ‘Fire’ ride emphasizes more on maintaining top speed and its lateral motion. After ambling through elaborately designed, long queues, the riders are required to come to a decision in the path they follow.
The Fire Dragon train’s restraints are yellow, whereas the restraints of the Ice Dragon train are blue. After loading and shortly before launching, each train is weighed and timed accordingly. A major attraction is the circle, with a star map within, drawn on the ground in front of the entrance to the Dueling Dragons. By standing on the circle, and looking forward, the guests can have a glimpse of each of the three ‘near misses’ of the Dragons perfectly. The ride is suitable for all ages but has some restrictions for guests that may be overweight.
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