Pretzel Loop

The pretzel loop is one of the most intense inversions in theme park design, found exclusively on B&M flying coasters where riders lie in a horizontal (Superman) position. The element sends riders diving steeply downward while inverted, through the low point of a large vertical loop, then pulls them sharply upward again — the overall track shape resembling a pretzel when viewed from the side. Because the lowest point of the loop is at the bottom and riders are face-down, the positive G-forces experienced at that moment are extremely intense, often exceeding 4g.

The pretzel loop is the signature centrepiece element of every B&M flying coaster. Famous examples include Manta at SeaWorld Orlando, Tatsu at Six Flags Magic Mountain, and Superman: La Atracción de Acero at Six Flags México. The element is universally regarded as one of the most physically demanding inversions in any theme park experience, and its placement determines much of the overall intensity profile of the coaster layout it anchors.