Mickey driver’s licenses will soon expire. Tron Lightcycle Power Run is said to replace Tomorrowland Speedway at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
Leading up to this week’s D23 Expo, the Disney announcements and rumors are in high gear. One rumor is believed to be confirmed. According to WDWNews Today, Tron Lightcycle Power Run ride will be coming to Magic Kingdom. The WDWNews post states that the Tron ride will replace the iconic Tomorrowland Speedway.
The Tron ride rumors have been swirling for years. Shanghai Disneyland ride has a Tron ride. The futuristic coaster ride looks like a scene from the movie. Bright lights and a futuristic appearance are common themes.
Although I’ve never ridden the Tron coaster in Shanghai, the YouTube videos show riders in a cycle- looking seat. Facing forward, the riders glide along a steel track. While it doesn’t appear to go upside down, the ride looks to be a thrill ride.
One downside to this potential ride is the seating. Not every rider wants to be in a forward facing, prone position. This seating is different than a traditional roller coaster car. Although the new Banshee ride in Pandora has a similar motorcycle style seat, not every rider will feel comfortable with this. Also, not every body type will be able to ride this type of set-up.
This new ride addition would be part of the park’s 50th birthday celebration in 2021. As just one of the many changes to the Disney World parks, the additions seem to appeal to a younger, savvier audience. Additionally, the rumored changes seem to reflect Disney’s commitment to including more of its own brands. From the Guardian of the Galaxy rides to possibly Ratatouille, the Disney brands are popping up more and more.
Even though Magic Kingdom and Disney World need to keep pace with the technological advancements and trends, I will miss the iconic Tomorrowland Speedway. Like many others, I loved getting my official Mickey driver’s license at the ride. Yes, the racecars are on tracks. Yes, they don’t go fast. And, yes, it is cheesy. But, it was a memory that parents could pass on to their own kids. No one would want the super cheesy, yet iconic, It’s a Small World ride to be replaced with a Moana ride.
While WDWNews believes that the Tron coaster ride is confirmed, the official announcement hasn’t been released. July 15, at D23 Expo, is said to be the announcement date. What else will be announced that day? Check back to see.