The Troika* was the first ride of its kind, manufactured by HUSS in the early 1980’s, described as “…an ideal family ride … with high capacity and harmoniously balanced ride patterns.” Due to its large size however, it is rarely seen on the midways of travelling carnivals, but instead in permanent locations in the USA, Europe and Australia.
The ride consists of 3 arms, each bearing 7 gondolas - seating 2 people. The three arms turn one way , while the “planet wheels” turn in the opposite direction. The arms then lift upwards with the aid of hydraulic lifting cylinders to an angle of about 40°. The ride sensation is very smooth, and fairly slow in comparison to similar rides such as Tivoli’s Scorpion. Nevertheless, it is a great family ride enjoyed by people of all ages.
The family-oriented HUSS Troika folds up onto 3 trailers, while the faster Tivolli Scorpion is surprisingly compact, fitting on a single trailer.
There is only 1 HUSS Troika [1988 model] & 1 Tivolli Scorpion [1994 model] in Australia.
The word Troika has 2 known definitions:
- A traditional Russian dance
- A traditional term for the cheapest way to get drunk in Russia – share a bottle of Vodka between 3 people!
