Rotor – Pluschies
Centrifugal-force classic with a lowering floor
Operator: Manfred Pluschies / Familie Pluschies (Hamburg)
Rotor by Pluschies is one of the most unusual classics at the fairground. Instead of sitting in a gondola, you stand against the inner wall of a large, round drum. Once it spins fast enough, the floor lowers — and you still stay pinned to the wall.
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What to expect
Highlights & records
Centrifugal force keeps standing riders pinned to the drum wall as the floor lowers.
The drum spins, the floor lowers — and you still stick to the wall: Rotor is physics you can ride.
What it’s like to ride Rotor by Pluschies
You enter the drum, stand with your back against the wall and wait for it to start. As the speed increases, centrifugal force presses you harder and harder against the wall. Then the floor lowers, creating the astonishing impression that gravity has been switched off. In fact, the force of the rotation alone keeps you in place until the drum slows down again and the floor returns.
As is usual with rotors, spectators can look down into the drum from above. That’s why Rotor is also fascinating for anyone who would rather not ride it themselves.
Video
General
- Manufacturer
- Siemens (drive); facade: Dietz (1985)
- Year built
- 1973
- Also known as
- Original Rotor; Zyklon
Ride
- Height
- 12 m
Set-up & transport
- Footprint
- 20 × 15.5 m
Rotor by Pluschies: the story of a Dom classic
The rotor was invented by German engineer Ernst Hoffmeister, who patented the principle in 1948. In 1968, Hamburg showman Richard Pluschies bought a rotor from the Hoffmeister family. Today, his son Manfred Pluschies continues to run it as Original Rotor. It has been a fixture at Hamburger Dom for decades.
According to Ride-Index, the current ride dates from 1973; the family’s older rotor ceased operating in 1976. In 1985, the ride received a new facade by Dietz and also travelled under the name Zyklon for a time. Rotor measures around 20 metres wide, 15,5 metres deep and 12 metres high. It is announced for Hamburger Winterdom 2026. Find more classics in our attractions overview.
Timeline
Rotor principle by Ernst Hoffmeister (patent 1948). Richard Pluschies bought a rotor from the Hoffmeister family in 1968. According to Ride-Index, the current ride was built in 1973; the family’s older rotor ceased operating in 1976. New facade by Dietz in 1985; called Zyklon for a time. Now run by Manfred Pluschies.
- Operator
- Manfred Pluschies / Familie Pluschies (Hamburg)
- Type of operation
- Travelling
- Status
- Active / in operation
Who is Rotor suitable for?
Rotor is an experience for anyone who wants to feel physics at work in their own body. However, the strong spinning can upset your stomach. If you’re sensitive, watch how it works from above first. The current height and health requirements are posted at the entrance. The facade, redesigned by Dietz in 1985, is a great photo spot.
Upcoming funfair dates
Ride Rotor – Pluschies live
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