Average Wait Time: 45 minutes

When you approach the red and light blue Xcelerator, you can hear the loud screams as the riders are launched from 0 to 82 miles per hour in a short 2.3 seconds. Some people have second thoughts about riding this ride. However, you decided to ride none the less. You approach the queue and walk into the line; be prepared to be truly Xcelerated.

Once you step into the queue, you notice two things: the red track almost right above your head and the scattered car parts that add to theming of a 50’s coaster. You pass nuts and bolts, even a car that is lying on blocks with no wheels. Soon, you get really close to the station, and you hear the hydraulic launch, and you feel a burst of wind as the ride goes over your head. You watch it go through its short layout and continue towards the station. Once you get into the line, you notice how well themed the trains are. They have flames down the sides of the cars and even a license plate in the back. You choose your seat and get in-only strap on your seatbelt, however, because the operator will push down your lap bar for you. The operator tells you to hold on and to get ready for launch. They usually say something, like “You’re off to see the wizard” or “5,4,3,2” and launch on two to trick you, before you are let go by the hydraulic launch cables. You shoot right out of the station and almost immediately take the left twist and are on the top hat. The ride slows down, and you wonder if it will make it over or not, but it soon does. You take a right twist down the drop and are put into the first of two of the ride’s overbanks. The next one is far better, as it takes you close to the supports and if you have your hands up, it will seem like you will hit the light blue supports. Soon, you are gently stopped by the brakes and are put back into the station after a great ride. I only give you two seat suggestions-the front, as it seems faster and your eyes get teary at the launch, and the back, where you get more airtime then any other part of the ride over the top hat. You will mostly likely want to ride Xcelerator again after that experience.

Pros: Airtime on Top Hat
Cons: Short, Forceless Overbanks

Though it has weak forces through the overbank, the great airtime on the top hat and the exhilarating launch make Xcelerator a must ride at Knott’s Berry Farm. The tallest coaster in the park is one of the best.
Overall rating: 8/10

-Nick H. a.k.a. XceleratorScreamin

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