Magic Kingdom’s Tron roller coaster takes steps towards completion

We were first told that the Tron Lightcycle / Run roller coaster would be coming to the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World in a 2017 reveal. Now four years later, we can see the architectural marvel that is the Upload Conduit roofing structure. While many parts of this ride made it famous when it originally debuted in Shanghai Disneyland, the attraction’s signature architecture is certainly one of the highlights. Let’s take a look at this super structure as Disney takes down its support beams and lets it stand on its own.

Tron Lightcycle / Run will be a copy of the original in Shanghai Disneyland.

Based on those specifications, we know the ride goes 60 miles-per-hour. We know it begins with a launch that will take guests through the intricate roofing structure known as the Upload Conduit. We know the ride features remixed music from Daft Punk, originating from the “Tron: Legacy” film score. And, we know the height requirement for this ride will be 48 inches.

During construction of the Upload Conduit, these brown steel supports were necessary to help hold up the unique shape of the roof. As the roof is being completed, these supports can be taken down. The majority of these supports are now gone, leaving us with a look at the shell of the super structure.

Bioreconstruct got this shot of the Upload Conduit construction from the ground. As more and more of the supports come down, the structure’s impressive design is more apparent. After the skeleton is finished, we may begin to see the lighted panels installed. This will help keep the ride open, even during the stormier months in Florida.

Use the nearby Space Mountain building as a size comparison. This structure is huge. While it has taken numerous years to raise it from the dirt, this engineering feat is a true testament to the Imagineers who designed and assembled it.

Originally slated to open this year, by Magic Kingdom’s 50th anniversary date, Tron Lightcycle / Run will now open sometime during the 50th anniversary 18-month celebration.

Tron Lightcycle / Run has been rising over Tomorrowland for years. Pictured here, being built behind the currently-under-refurbishment PeopleMover attraction, is the coaster’s unique build and size. Tomorrowland is full of signature architecture, like Space Mountain and Rocket Tower Plaza; this new roller coaster will be the same.