Let’s face it: roller coasters can be a bit intimidating—maybe even downright terrifying for some. But there’s no need to wear your “scaredy cat” badge just yet! We’re here to take a closer look at some of Universal Orlando Resort’s most exhilarating rides, giving you all the details you need to decide whether you’re ready to take the plunge. The first guide was for Jurassic World VelociCoaster, but next is Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, located in Universal Islands of Adventure. This guide is for everyone, so let’s kick things off with the basics!
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure Height Requirements
Before you take off on this unique “story coaster,” make sure you and your ride companions are 48 inches (122 cm) or taller. This goes for both the motorbike and sidecar.
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure Story
Join the Wizarding World’s beloved half-giant, Rubeus Hagrid, as he guides you through the sprawling grounds of Hogwarts and beyond into the mysterious Forbidden Forest. As you cruise along, marvel at the blast-ended skrewts, mentioned in the books but unseen in the films, and prepare for close encounters with magical favorites like the three-headed Fluffy and the mischievous Cornish Pixies. But of course, since Hagrid is in charge, you might encounter a few hiccups, but don’t worry – nothing Hagrid can’t get you out of!
This truly is a one-of-a-kind coaster that tells you a story as you ride. At various points in your journey, you’ll experience changes in pace – slowing down to marvel at enchanting sights and speeding up for thrilling moments (more details to come). All the while, you can hear Hagrid’s voice and other sound effects coming through the speakers and, of course, see a variety of magical creatures along the way!
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure Ride Vehicle
The ride vehicle is an enchanted motorbike that Arthur Weasley and Hagrid have created in an attempt to duplicate the very one in which Hagrid first delivered Harry to Number 4 Privet Drive.
You’ll be sitting side by side, the motorbike on the right and the sidecar on the left. Both sides have a lap bar that will keep you securely in place. That said, be sure to try out the test ride vehicle ahead of time to see which side you might prefer.
Both sides offer a fun and thrilling experience on this incredibly unique coaster! For those who might be hesitant to ride, consider choosing the sidecar, which provides a more traditional ride experience. However, I’ve found that gripping the bike’s handlebars immerses you deeper into the story, helping to distract you from any fear.
Side note: If you are wearing your house robes, you will NOT be permitted to ride on the motorbike. You’ll need to either ride in the sidecar or tuck your robe safely into one of the lockers before your ride. This Hufflepuff found that out firsthand on a recent visit!
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure Ride Experience
The best way to try before you ride is to watch a ride-through video. Here’s one to give you a sneak peek!
Speed
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is a launch ride, meaning that you’ll be shot forward at faster speeds during several points during the ride, seven in total for his particular coaster! As Hagrid says, “Dragon fire’s got a kick!” The launches occur throughout the ride, usually after you have slowed down to see a “scene” such as the blast-ended skrewts or Fluffy. Feel the rush as you reach top speeds of 50 mph (80 km/h).
Direction
There are no inversions in this ride. Can’t have anybody falling off of their motorbike, after all! At one point of the track, you’ll propel upwards at a 70-degree angle to 65 ft (20 m) before descending backward. Immediately after, you’ll move in reverse for approximately 25 seconds before stopping and gently dropping approximately 17 feet (5 m), then continuing forward for the rest of the trip.
Length
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is the longest ride in Florida at nearly a mile in length! (5,053 feet or 1540 m) The ride lasts a little over 3 minutes.
Height
There are no top hats or major hills on Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. You are more or less pretty even-keeled around the track with some twists and turns, with the exception of the aforementioned 17 ft ascension and subsequent drop.
Other features
This is considered a family coaster, but it includes several notable elements. Before the drop, riders are backed into a dark cave, accompanied by mild light effects. Additionally, you’ll encounter light water misting throughout the ride.
If you choose not to ride…
I know that it sounds counterintuitive to wait in line for a ride you don’t want to ride, but, hear me out – the queue for Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is not to be missed. As you walk down the path, you’ll see the snowy rooftops of Hogsmeade Village, Hagrid’s Hut, and a picturesque view of Hogwarts Castle before you get inside the main building. You are also surrounded by lush trees and foliage, making you feel like you’re walking right into the Forbidden Forest.
As you approach the “ruins” where the motorbikes are, you’ll see a gorgeous mermaid statue and other ancient-looking decor. Once inside, if you remember the Dueling Dragons coaster—also known as Dragon Challenge, the previous attraction in this area—you’ll spot several subtle Easter Eggs. After all, dragons are certainly magical creatures!
As you move further through the cavernous queue, you’ll see a magnificent fireplace fit for Hagrid himself, dragon eggs, books and journals about magical creatures, amazing contraptions, and so much more. There’s even a preshow where you’ll see Mr. Weasley himself and another fan favorite – Hagrid’s dog, Fang!
If you choose to enter the queue but decide not to ride, there are several designated exit points where you can safely leave. Additionally, once you are near the ride platform, team members can assist with any questions or needs, including facilitating a child swap, allowing adults to ride while younger guests opt out and wait.
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