Departing the station the coaster car makes a quick U-turn that leads to the 52-foot tall lift hill. As you ascend the lift you'll get a view of the layout and you'll see other cars speeding along the course.
Ricochet starts of with a punch and something that is not typical for most Wild Mouse coasters. Leaving the lift hill the car makes a right turn and then plunges off the edge of an impressive 50-foot drop. Down you go with your stomach left behind, but more important don't forget to smile for the camera that is taking your picture.
 Following the surprise drop the cars enter the traditional hairpin turns found on a Wild Mouse. As you whip around each turn, you'll likely fear that the car going to fly off the track as it picks up more and more speed.
There is nothing more exciting than watching people ride a Wild Mouse roller coaster for the first time. From the midway first time riders often size up this type of ride as being just an oversized kiddie coaster. Once on board it's the hairpin turns that usually turn out to be a big surprise.
 It's important not to let the ride's appearance fool you. Many small rides can deliver big thrills and this Wild Mouse coaster is a prime example.
Just when you reach the point of feeling out of control, the track bends around another curve and then dives down the second biggest drop on the ride complete with a pop of "airtime".
Ricochet concludes with a couple quick turns, followed by a few more airtime bunny hops and then its into the final stretch of track, also known as the brake run.
 While the ride is a bit short, it's still a lot of fun.
Overall, Ricochet is an excellent addition to Paramount's Kings Dominion. Now with the addition of Ricochet, the park is now in the company of the few US theme parks that can boast of having twelve roller coasters. |
RICOCHET
Barry Short
