Rattle Explained – Theme Park Definition

A rattle is the buzzing, shaking or shuffling sensation that develops when a coaster's wheels no longer track perfectly against the rails — often a sign of track wear, wheel condition or ageing construction. German enthusiasts call it "Rattern" or "Geruckel". A rattle can turn an otherwise excellent layout into an uncomfortable experience and is one of the most frequently debated flaws in the community, especially on older Arrow and Vekoma steel coasters. Its absence is praised as smoothness, or Laufruhe.