Thread Number: 28194  /  Tag: Brand New Vacuum Cleaners
My new Kirby Avalir....
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Post# 315130   2/10/2015 at 18:48 (3,334 days old) by kirbymodel2c (Nottingham, England)        

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Well I went to collect my new Kirby Avalir today. I've been itching for one of these ever since I saw them unveiled.

So far I'm very impressed with it. I love the smell of the new Kirby when you get it out of the box.

I'll give it a more thorough inspection tomorrow. I'm still waiting for all the extras to come in. I can't wait!laughing

 

Anybody else got hold of one yet?

 

Jamessmile


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Post# 315133 , Reply# 1   2/10/2015 at 19:23 (3,334 days old) by KirbyClassicIII (Milwaukie, Oregon)        

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James,

Congratulations!

~Ben


Post# 315141 , Reply# 2   2/10/2015 at 22:39 (3,334 days old) by gottahaveahoove (Pittston, Pennsylvania, 18640)        
I hope you enjoy

gottahaveahoove's profile picture
your long awaited new model.

Post# 315150 , Reply# 3   2/11/2015 at 03:29 (3,333 days old) by Mike81 ()        

Here is detailed video. It doesn't have major improvements, but why fix it if it isn't broken :)





Post# 315152 , Reply# 4   2/11/2015 at 04:22 (3,333 days old) by marcusprit ()        

Kirby's motto. Never change never innovate. Imagine being a Kirby designer, must be the most boring job on earth! :-)

Post# 315153 , Reply# 5   2/11/2015 at 04:43 (3,333 days old) by Turbo500 (West Yorkshire, UK)        
Kirby's motto. Never change never innovate

turbo500's profile picture

Oh dear god, I can't bear to look. This is going to turn into a blood bath!

 

James, congratulations! I know how much you wanted one, really pleased that you've managed to get one so early on and looking forward to more details :).


Post# 315154 , Reply# 6   2/11/2015 at 04:53 (3,333 days old) by marcusprit ()        

Hahahaha!

Post# 315157 , Reply# 7   2/11/2015 at 06:37 (3,333 days old) by Kirbyloverdan (Egg Harbor Twp . NJ aka HOOVERLOVERDAN ❤️)        
Great video Mikko

kirbyloverdan's profile picture
Thanks for that I Love KIRBY vacuums that new shampooer looks amazing I am impatiently waiting for mine . Enjoy a lifetime of use with the best .

Dan


Post# 315158 , Reply# 8   2/11/2015 at 06:59 (3,333 days old) by Ctvacman (CT)        

glad to see they still have the price list on the side of the box, I'm sure many dealers will cover it up which is how they get clueless people paying 3,500

Post# 315159 , Reply# 9   2/11/2015 at 07:07 (3,333 days old) by Miskini (Northville, Michigan )        
Marcus

miskini's profile picture
I absolutely love my kirbys, but I have to agree with you 100%. What do you think the day of Kirby engineer consist of. Is there even a need for engineering dept. It seems the only thing they have to engineer is a color pallet. Where do I sign up, for a job that easy.

Post# 315164 , Reply# 10   2/11/2015 at 08:23 (3,333 days old) by suckolux (Yuba City, CA)        

suckolux's profile picture
Great video, handsome machine.

Post# 315173 , Reply# 11   2/11/2015 at 10:04 (3,333 days old) by Kirbysthebest (Midwest)        
Marcus

Kirby is Quality, Reliability and Performance.

You don't have to change the design every two days if you test your prototypes at the factory and not on the buying public.

Kirby has always been known to make their changes under the hood so that the machine remains familiar. As the OP said, "why change what isn't broken".

Best way to avoid a machine you don't like, don't buy it. If you don't like Kirby, don't buy one. Problem solved.





Post# 315174 , Reply# 12   2/11/2015 at 10:12 (3,333 days old) by marcusprit ()        

Yes they are quality machines but I wouldn't want to work for their design team. Yawn yawn :-)

Post# 315176 , Reply# 13   2/11/2015 at 10:22 (3,333 days old) by Kirbysthebest (Midwest)        
Design is not just cosmetic

Engineers work on motor efficiency and durability.
They modify and redesign the air path for greater air flow.
Fans and bags are updated and materials tested.

Like I said, they want the machine tested and perfected before they put it in the consumer's hands.


Post# 315177 , Reply# 14   2/11/2015 at 10:26 (3,333 days old) by Turbo500 (West Yorkshire, UK)        

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I wouldn't say that, Marcus. Whilst Kirby haven't really changed in terms of aesthetics, the design changes under the hood are noticeable. You only have to listen and feel the TechDrive on a G3 compared with a Sentria 2 to know that. The Sentria 2 had greater airflow than the Sentria 1, despite both cleaners looking almost identical. There are subtle changes to each machine be it to the tech drive, the emptor, the brushroll, tools, shampoo system etc, but Kirby have stuck to a tried and tested blueprint that has really never let them down.

Whilst some of the brands with a long history like Kirby have had models which can be a bit hit and miss, Kirby have remained consistent throughout and never made a bad machine. It seems to have worked in their favour too, they have a loyal fanbase and a strong reputation for performance and reliability.

Don't get me wrong, I think they're an absolutely pain in the a$$ to use, but I wouldn't exactly say they lack innovation.


Post# 315179 , Reply# 15   2/11/2015 at 10:45 (3,333 days old) by marcusprit ()        

Hmmm very subtle changes! The Diamond G is still the best model made but to be honest it terms of performance there's very little difference just cosmetic really.

Post# 315180 , Reply# 16   2/11/2015 at 10:47 (3,333 days old) by Turbo500 (West Yorkshire, UK)        
The Diamond G is still the best model made

turbo500's profile picture
What makes you say that?

Post# 315181 , Reply# 17   2/11/2015 at 10:51 (3,333 days old) by marcusprit ()        

It has variable power it's more solid than the later sentria that have more plastic it has the same performance and you can pick them up quite cheaply.I had one but we sold it. If you were thinking of buying a used Kirby this would be the model I'd go for.

Post# 315182 , Reply# 18   2/11/2015 at 10:54 (3,333 days old) by Turbo500 (West Yorkshire, UK)        

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I personally found the Sentria more solid than most of the G series, despite having more plastic on the machine, it didn't suffer from "wobbilly handle syndrome" and require the plastic hand grip constantly tightening up.

Post# 315185 , Reply# 19   2/11/2015 at 10:58 (3,333 days old) by marcusprit ()        

Really? Well that's not my experience. I'd be interested to hear Kirby lovers views as to which Kirby is their favourite? I did have a Heritage which was a looker :-)

Post# 315187 , Reply# 20   2/11/2015 at 11:03 (3,333 days old) by Turbo500 (West Yorkshire, UK)        

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So, because I'm critical, my opinion doesn't count? Right then. Have you used a Sentria, Marcus?

Incidentally, my favourite model is the Heritage 2.


Post# 315191 , Reply# 21   2/11/2015 at 11:09 (3,333 days old) by marcusprit ()        

Huh? I didn't say your opinion doesn't count.Everyone is entitled to their opinion.
And yes I've used a Sentria. It's more streamlined but I wouldn't say it was better built than previous models. Not that I'm an expert on Kirbys. I did dismantle one once for fun :-)


Post# 315195 , Reply# 22   2/11/2015 at 11:20 (3,333 days old) by Kirbysthebest (Midwest)        
Actually

The Diamond's two speed motor was it's weak point. It was a change from the norm that had been set since the 60s where Kirby automatically chose the speed for the application as in Hose or Rug nozzle.

When the choice was put in the consumer's hand they didn't adjust the speed correctly and complained that it didn't clean right or in some cases they were having burned motor claims at a higher than expected rate. Hence the two speed went away the next model.

Now as far as which model was the best. It will be debatable amongst the gang here. Some like one machine for one reason, another will like a different one.

I personally have favorites. I also have some I did not like but won't name them or give reasons as to not poke the bear.

I would love it if Kirby would give me a closed handle like on the Oreck. I have carpal Tunnel and even with the tech drive it holds my hand in a position that sometime is uncomfortable. Luckily with Tech-drive I am able to hold just the end of the handle in my palm and drive the machine pretty well.


Post# 315198 , Reply# 23   2/11/2015 at 11:35 (3,333 days old) by sptyks (Skowhegan, Maine)        

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Mark,

Why would you ever say that the Kirby Diamond is the best Kirby ever made? Since you don't seem to know what you're talking about, maybe you should refrain from commenting on a machine you never owned.

 

The 2 speed switch caused more problems than any other model Kirby. One of the biggest is that customers didn't realize that when the switch was lit up, it was in low speed and off for high speed. Customers were constantly returning their machines complaining that their machine was not cleaning well because they didn't read the User's manual. 

 

Another problem was that the Diamond edition actually had 4 speeds confusing users even more. The switch produced hi and low speed in carpet mode and a separate hi and low speed in hose mode.

 

No wonder Kirby discontinued the hi - low switch. It carsed so many problems.




This post was last edited 02/11/2015 at 12:02
Post# 315201 , Reply# 24   2/11/2015 at 11:39 (3,333 days old) by marcusprit ()        

I explained my reasons earlier. Just my opinion.

Post# 315205 , Reply# 25   2/11/2015 at 12:04 (3,333 days old) by sptyks (Skowhegan, Maine)        

sptyks's profile picture

Mark, check reply #23.


Post# 315206 , Reply# 26   2/11/2015 at 12:08 (3,333 days old) by marcusprit ()        

I have owned actually can't say I had a problem with the high low switch but I bow to your superiorty. We had it for a year and sold it. You're a cheeky one aren't you!Not related to Chris are you?

Post# 315207 , Reply# 27   2/11/2015 at 12:13 (3,333 days old) by kirbymodel2c (Nottingham, England)        
Hi,

kirbymodel2c's profile picture

Thanks Ben and John, Yes I'm grateful to finally have one. I am still looking forward to seeing the new redesigned (gold rated by CRI)  multi-surface shampooer. A great piece of innovation right there! Like other things I sure they're looking in too. The new carry handle is comfortable to use as well as the better designed handle grip which is a better fit in your hand than the previous design.  It also glides and effortlessly moves around.  I love the black and red accents. Mirrors the colors of the C/R series and the 505. This is one very stylish Kirby. Even better looking in person.cool

 

Jamessmile

 

 

 

 

 




This post was last edited 02/11/2015 at 13:36
Post# 315211 , Reply# 28   2/11/2015 at 12:52 (3,333 days old) by Turbo500 (West Yorkshire, UK)        
You're a cheeky one aren't you!Not related to Chris

turbo500's profile picture

Pot calling kettle black, much?

And no, we're not related. Stan thinks I'm an idiot because I'm not really a fan of Kirbys. Although clearly we sure a mutual annoyance.


Post# 315212 , Reply# 29   2/11/2015 at 12:54 (3,333 days old) by marcusprit ()        

I'm not cheeky I have impeccable manners :-*

Post# 315225 , Reply# 30   2/11/2015 at 15:31 (3,333 days old) by sptyks (Skowhegan, Maine)        

sptyks's profile picture

I don't think you're an Idiot Chris. We have had many disagreements in the past, but I respect your opinions as I assume you respect mine. I think most of your posts contain very useful information about Sebo, Miele and other popular brands found in the UK. I also enjoy reading your posts regarding the European decision to reduce vacuum cleaner power levels and the testing of the new lower wattage cleaners.

 

From what I've seen from Mark, I can't say that I have the same respect for his posts.

 

 


Post# 315227 , Reply# 31   2/11/2015 at 16:06 (3,333 days old) by marcusprit ()        

Meeeeow! Hahahaha!

Post# 315232 , Reply# 32   2/11/2015 at 16:25 (3,333 days old) by Luxman107 (USA )        

Great job and very informative video.

Post# 315234 , Reply# 33   2/11/2015 at 16:31 (3,333 days old) by sptyks (Skowhegan, Maine)        

sptyks's profile picture

Bump, bump!

 

Uh oh. I think I just ran over a cat!

 


Post# 315236 , Reply# 34   2/11/2015 at 16:38 (3,333 days old) by marcusprit ()        

You'd have to do it nine times :-)))

Post# 315246 , Reply# 35   2/11/2015 at 19:06 (3,333 days old) by danielsand ()        

Since I'm a newbie here, I have no idea "who rubs who's back" here, who is cheeky, and who knows what they are talking about.

But I know machines, and I tore apart five Kirbys in the scope of six weeks, refurbished them, and I'm using them DAILY (not all five on the same day obviously).

I have no idea who "Marcus" from Cardiff is, but I agree that Ultimate G Diamond IS the best (for me!). I also must add that I never used Sentria (I've seen one in the pawn shop, but I was not handling it at all, just looking). The wobble I have on my G4 and my Diamond, I attribute to "one connecting point" vs. two (on older Kirbys). The ones that have the pin through the handle, connect the handle fork with the motor at TWO points (one on each side). No wonder this connection will feel more positive, than one contact point in the middle of the mass of the motor unit.

This is the ONLY gripe I have with the Diamond, and I LOVE the speed switch. If someone can not tell when the machine is on reduced power, they are either deaf, blind, or high (or all of the above at the same time!).

Now,....if Sentria doesn't have the "wobbly handle syndrome" (I don't know), it would be a GREAT improvement, but the fact that it has too much plastic on (which I detest), and it looks like something Dart Wader would vacuum with, keeps me away from it.


Post# 315253 , Reply# 36   2/11/2015 at 19:45 (3,333 days old) by daknx1994 (Southern Indiana)        
R&D...

Not to reiterate what other members have posted but why change something that has been working for a company for over two decades? I have no idea what Kirby does spend on their R&D but obviously they put whatever budget they have to good use. Whereas some companies spend a fortune on R&D and those companies have more problems than Kirby. So something tells me that Kirby is doing something right, that or I must be missing something. Well other than the obvious that 80% of must vacuum companies design their vacuums to fail within 3-5 years. So for the time being I am going to side that Kirby is doing the right thing.

BTW, I do not have a single passion for Kirby. I have a passion for all different machines and have almost every brand in my possession including a Dyson (which I am currently selling), and I work in a vacuum shop, The Vacuum Authority, and I have a good feeling of what vacuums are good and those that are not so good. However to each their own. (My personal disclaimer)


Post# 315261 , Reply# 37   2/11/2015 at 21:42 (3,333 days old) by gottahaveahoove (Pittston, Pennsylvania, 18640)        
Very

gottahaveahoove's profile picture
well put.
John


Post# 315265 , Reply# 38   2/11/2015 at 22:23 (3,333 days old) by cb123 (Mobile, Al.)        

cb123's profile picture
Kirby's motto: If it ain't broke don't fix it, besides, how can you improve upon perfection...can't be done! Now, I can really see why other vacuum companies are always innovating, and the simple answer is: Because they started off with a cheap piece of plastic trash design to begin with...just saying.

James, your Avalir ROCKS...vacuum on...vacuum on my friend!!!


Post# 315274 , Reply# 39   2/12/2015 at 02:40 (3,332 days old) by marcusprit ()        

There are plastic Vacs made in Germany that will last 10 possibly 20 years that cost a quarter of the price of a Kirby in the UK. They are also lighter and more user friendly. :-)

Post# 315275 , Reply# 40   2/12/2015 at 03:08 (3,332 days old) by Turbo500 (West Yorkshire, UK)        

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Thanks Stan, that's very nice of you to say. The feeling is entirely mutual, whilst I may not agree with you all the time, I still very much respect your opinion and experience. Heck, no one vacuum is perfect for everyone. If it was, we'd all own the same machine and this would be a very boring forum.

Post# 315276 , Reply# 41   2/12/2015 at 03:11 (3,332 days old) by tolivac (Greenville,NC)        

Still waiting on mine---Will it come today???GREAT VIDEO.Do like the improved shampooer.I have a REALLY dirty section of carpet to try it on!And like how you can use it for hard floors.Since homes are going to more hard floors-good Kirby changed their shampooer.

Post# 315277 , Reply# 42   2/12/2015 at 03:15 (3,332 days old) by Turbo500 (West Yorkshire, UK)        
And like how you can use it for hard floors

turbo500's profile picture
Agreed, I thought that was a very welcome addition.

Didn't Kirby have a hard floor feature before where you disengage the belt and attach a plate to the nozzle to make it suction only? Not sure how well it worked though, I never had the chance to try it.



Post# 315280 , Reply# 43   2/12/2015 at 03:29 (3,332 days old) by tolivac (Greenville,NC)        

Yes,Kirby had a hard floor mode with the floor nozzle on the machine.You disengaged the brushroll belt with the lifter and attached the felt hard floor shoe to the nozzle.Or-if you didn't have the felt shoe you set the floor nozzle close to the floor without scraping it and the belt lifter disengaged.The Kirby could then gulp up large things like cerial or crumbs-but don't think it could get fine dust and such unless you had the felt shoe attachment.Other way to clean hard floors-Remove the floor carpet nozzle and go to the hose and use their floor-carpet tool.I cheat and use a standard 1.25 In hard floor tool from the vac store-Simplicity-Riccar makes an EXCELLENT one that fits on the Kirby wand and is better than the Kirby tool.The tool has castle cut front bristles and solid rear ones.And the tool swivels up-down and sideways-like a similar Meile tool-which WON'T fit the Kirby wand.And with the Kirby in the hose mode you get high suction sort of like a canister.This will allow you to get that fine dust-dirt that clings to hard floors by static charges.I do this when I am in the mood to use my Kirby like a canister vacuum.

Post# 315355 , Reply# 44   2/12/2015 at 14:06 (3,332 days old) by cb123 (Mobile, Al.)        

cb123's profile picture

That's uncanny! I was just thinking, that over here " In the land of the free and the home of the brave,"  we have vacuums which last a hundred years or more! And they are really, really much cleaner to use than those plastic rattletraps.winktongue-out

 


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Post# 315359 , Reply# 45   2/12/2015 at 14:40 (3,332 days old) by marcusprit ()        

Excellent! I'd still prefer my Sebo or Miele though but different strokes for different folks :)

Post# 315365 , Reply# 46   2/12/2015 at 15:58 (3,332 days old) by cb123 (Mobile, Al.)        

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As Arnold would say, " Whatcha talkin' bout Mr. Drummond!" There can be no doubt nor mistake, Kirby is in it for the long-haul! Here's a new jingle: Kirby is strong enough to shred a concrete highway, but gentle enough to clean you finest Persian rugs...Not only in this life, but the one yet to come. Now, that's both performance and reliability you can count on!smile

 


Post# 315448 , Reply# 47   2/13/2015 at 10:40 (3,331 days old) by marcusprit ()        

Don't forget there are plastic cogs in the tech drive that wear out. So there are weak points.

Post# 315452 , Reply# 48   2/13/2015 at 11:55 (3,331 days old) by cb123 (Mobile, Al.)        

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The forward cam which wears out in about the first thirty years can be substituted with its rev. cam, and conversely use the rev. for it forward - for it now wears on a new spot. If you like being cheap, this is a good way to get more life out of its cams. But for an inferior platicVac...What can you say: This is the end...The end my friend.cry 


Post# 315453 , Reply# 49   2/13/2015 at 11:57 (3,331 days old) by marcusprit ()        

Haha to be honest for build quality reliability and performance Kirbys are hard to beat I'm not denying that.


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