I just bought a Kirby G7 This machine really is the best I have ever used. I have owned and sold alot of Kirby machines I never appreciated them as much as I do now. The self propelled models are far superior to any other type of machine out there. People say oh but they weigh so much The direct drive tranny makes this machine push and pull with about 2 lbs of pressure. Ovr a period of a day your shoulder and elbow will thank you for it. As far as suction goes how many machines that you know of actually try to pull the carpet into the roller