Thrill-seekers, start your engines! After an extended delay, the new West Coast Racers is open at Six Flags Magic Mountain and, trust us, the wait was worth it. Situated in the back of the park in the former thematic wasteland that stretched from Jet Stream to Apocalypse, we have a brand new themed area, The Underground, and a spectacular new thrill ride. West Coast Racers invites guests to hop aboard tricked-out ride vehicles and race… twice.
The new area evokes west coast street racing culture, plenty of asphalt and street art. I will say that this area is going to need a lot of landscaping to help soften the look and offer needed shade on the hotter months. Let’s hope we get some palm trees and SoCal greenery at some point. Despite that, the restrooms for the area have been refurbished and look amazing.
West Coast Racers track jumps over the entrance for Apocalypse.
The station itself is part showroom and shop for West Coast Customs
Entering the two-story station, we are treated to a sleek lower level with a show vehicle, and shop. A spiral staircase leads to the second level (yes there is an elevator for ADA compliance).
On the load station, there are six rows with two riders a row. The interesting gimmick on this ride is that there are two tracks, but you get to experience both! When you board, the ride launches and tears through the course, when you return to the station, you are not at unload, but getting ready to race the next vehicle. After your second trip around you end up on the right side again and disembark.
West Coast racers feature a total of 4 powered launches to hurl it through the serpentine twists, turns, near-misses, and inversions for what we can confidently call one of the best coasters in the park. What makes this ride so satisfying, so unique is, first off, ride time. Long enough to be fun, but short enough to make you want to jump back on. Next are the elements. This isn’t about loops per se, it’s about force, speed, and power. To that point, while the coaster features some intense moments, they aren’t prohibitive for the less daring riders. Finally, the seating is pretty accessible to most body types.
Check out the video of Remy and Norm riding the new coaster for a full-ride through with commentary. This was our very first time on the ride, so all the reactions are genuine.
Nicely done Six Flags. We can’t wait to come back!
