Shredder

Gerstlauer  |  Nickelodeon Universe, American Dream
East Rutherford, New Jersey

Although “TMNT Shellraiser” is Nickelodeon Universe’s signature coaster, it is elaborately intertwined with another coaster called “Shredder.” Like “TMNT Shellraiser,” “Shredder” is themed to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and manufactured by Gerstlauer Amusement Rides. It is set to open later in 2019.

“‘Shredder’ combines the speed of a roller coaster with the experience of a carousel,” says Natasha Betts, attractions director at American Dream Meadowlands. “Each of the eight vehicles holds up to four riders and is able to spin freely during the ride, reacting to acceleration. The riders face each other and sometimes turn forward and sometimes backward. The lift hill is 85 feet tall and track length is 2,247 feet. Sand-filled tracks ensure a quiet ride, especially important in our indoor environment,” Betts says. 

She says the biggest challenge with constructing this ride was weaving its track with “TMNT Shellraiser,” stressing that accomplishing the feat was a challenge, especially with a roof looming overhead. She adds the coaster supports and track had to be completed before the rest of the rides could be installed, which took coordinated scheduling of personnel and equipment on site. 

Two riders are seated side by side in two rows, allowing for four riders per car. The ride’s name comes from the fictional character of the same moniker, Shredder, who is the archenemy of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Betts says the ride’s purple track will be complimented by custom-painted ride vehicles. She predicts entry into the ride’s queue will become an immediate Instagram moment as riders walk through a large portal themed to the Shredder character.