The Ryobi 720R is a curved-shaft, gas-powered string trimmer with a modular layout that takes a number of optional instrument heads. The 720R is no more being maker by Ryobi, as of time of publication, and when compared with modern trimmers, the 720R offers a basic feature set. Although the 720R is stopped, refurbished and used models, along with replacement parts, are readily available.
Engine
The 720R has a 31 cc two-cycle engine which runs at a maximum working speed of 8,300 rpm. Because it’s a two-cycle motor, instead of some four-cycle motor, it needs an oil-and-gas mixture for fuel instead of pure gas. The engine is air cooled and includes electronic ignition, a recoil starter, a centrifugal clutch and a 12-ounce fuel tank. The motor transfers its power to the cutting head via a drive shaft positioned in the tubular steel shaft.
Dimensions
The 720R weighs 12.5 pounds without petrol but with its cutting edge head attached. That burden puts it in accord with the heaviest of Ryobi’s current gas-powered trimmer models, but it’s substantially heavier than new models with similar specifications. The 720R’s cutting diameter, at 15 inches, also lags behind that of Ryobi’s newer trimmers. The 720R uses 0.08-inch-diameter lineup in a dual-line cutting head that is outfitted with a bump-feed line-advance mechanism.
Characteristics
Compared to modern trimmers, the 720R is a no-frills tool. Its broken drive shaft has a quick-release coupling which enables the attachment of optional instrument heads, including a leaf blower, cultivator, edger, hedge trimmer, snow blower, straight-shaft string trimmer or tree pruner. The trimmer’s standard curved shaft theoretically makes it more balanced and maneuverable, but in addition, it limits the trimmer’s reach and sets the trimmer head nearer to you, which can make it easier for flung debris to reach your shins.
Current Model
From the 2014 Ryobi trimmer line, the model closest in specifications to the 720R is that the CS30. Its engine is of a similar size, but in most other respects it outshines the 720R. The CS30’s engine comprises technology which reduces its emissions, and updates to its carburetor make it easier to start. The CS30 includes a 17-inch cutting width, which is 2 inches wider than that of the 720R, and its cutting head has an improved bump-feed mechanism which reduces lineup jams. At 10.7 pounds, the CS30 is significantly lighter than the 720R.