What years were Royal Ponys in production?
Royal Ponys really are the more astonishing cylinder vacuum cleaner ensembles considering how recent they seem to be.
I first saw one in one of those minimeet type threads about 4-5 years ago. At first glance I thought 'geez, that's ugly' but thought it was a great take on the tool saddle idea.
Of course we all know the high quality of Royal tools and the fact that they color match the vacuum is a plus.
Then I got my first, the Burgundy one, and exclaimed about the loooooong electric hose in a thread. A few months back I got the blue one for free because it has been in a muddy flood - it cleaned up like new.
Ya gotta use one of these to really appreciate their excellence. First off, it's a classic all metal construction straight through cylinder that uses a cardboard disc-gasketed paper bag similar to an Air-Way. The vacuum has two wheels in back and ball casters in front meaning it spins in it's own length, stays where it's put and follows you and the hose like a faithful puppy. The clever tool saddle at first looks bulky but it acts like padded bumper against obstacles. The tools and nozzles are substantial cast aluminum with coloured rubber/vinyl bumpers or entirely molded of same. The saddle is designed to hug the side curve of the cylinder body, with wells that cradle each and every (ALL) tool in an upright position. They will not fall off or out yet are easy to pluck out at a moment's need.
The electric Hoses are color matched as well and made of a surprisingly flexible high grade vinyl plastic with double spiral coils to carry the AC. They are essentially crush and tangle proof, yet coil compactly for storage.
Judging from my two examples the blue one has a true 7 foot hose and the Burgundy tops that by another 3.5' for a 10.5 foot reach!
Just did a gauge measurement - the one speed Blue pulls 85". The Burgundy has a sliding motor speed adjustment (in addition to the step on toe switch) - low pulls 70" which tops out at 106 paint & plaster sucking inches.
Mine have two different style pns and they are as good as any I have used; track straight without wobble and leave lovely smooth trackless paths.
The only feature mine are missing that would make them all purpose perfect is the cordwinder which I guess would have been the only option? Occasionally the Royal cordimatic comes up on eBay but so far, no luck.
The Pony also came in a yellow version (I have seen one) that I would dearly like to add to the Pony Stable.
I've loaned mine out on occasion to a ladyfriend in vacuum distress whose care and judgement I trust but will always insist on having it back.
I empathize with you Fred at a wistful regret at it's departure and am so glad you have another now. I have every confidence it will indeed clean every square inch and cranny of your home with flair and ease. Frankly, I can't imagine ever letting a Pony get away but I suppose if I had say 2 blue ones...
Rick Asquith is the happy beneficiary of your temporary financial strain. What goes around comes around, etc. Applause for David Bryan.
Dave
