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Ryobi RY906500S - 6500/8125W Portable Generator

The Ryobi RY906500S is a portable open frame generator with a rated wattage of 6,500 W and a starting wattage of 8,125 W. (Read full specs)

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Highest Price
$899.00
Lowest Price
$800.59
Current Price
$849.00

Description

The RYOBI 6,500-Watt Portable Generator is the perfect power solution at home or on the jobsite. This generator delivers 6,500 Running Watts and 8,125 Starting Watts of power. A durable wrap-around hand truck frame and 10 in. wheels help protect the unit while making it easy to transport. An Automatic Voltage Regulator ensures reliable and consistent power while preventing damage to the generator and the devices plugged into it. The easy-access control panel has four 120-Volt 20 Amp (GFCI Protected) outlets and one 240-Volt 30 Amp Twist Lock Outlet to meet all your power needs. (source: Ryobi (opens in a new tab))

Zoom on the Ryobi RY906500S

In a nutshell, the Ryobi RY906500S is a portable generator mostly geared towards:

  • Food van owners who know that just a short power outage could lose them hundreds of dollars
  • Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
  • Professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment

In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device.

Power & Run Time

The Ryobi RY906500S in use

The Ryobi RY906500S

The Ryobi RY906500S is powered by a 420 cc (13 hp) OHV 4-stroke engine. It delivers 120/240V, runs on gasoline and offers a running wattage of 6,500W as well as a peak wattage of 8,125W.

The generator features Ryobi's EasyStart pull-start mechanism (more information below). It is rated for a noise of 72 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a dishwasher).

The fuel capacity of 6 gallons allows the RY906500S to operate for around 10 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.6 GPH).

As the RY906500S exhibits a THD of less than 20%, which is high, it is best avoided for powering sensitive electronic devices.

Outlets

The control panel features 5 AC outlets as follows:

Two Duplexes 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI
120/240V 30A (L14-30R) receptacle

Thanks to its twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the RY906500S is transfer switch ready, facilitating easy hookup to your breaker box to provide backup power for your home during blackouts.

Portability

At L39 x W29 x H24.5 in, the traditional open frame structure of the Ryobi RY906500S ensures stability while facilitating convenient maintenance access to components and promoting air cooling. The featured design is ideal for the outdoors and all tough environments.

With a weight of 195 lbs, the generator is still labeled as 'portable,' denoting its ability to be moved, although its heaviness might restrict easy portability. However, its challenging mobility is solved by its wheel kit (⌀10") and its folding handle, which will ease its displacement, once it is on the floor.

EasyStart Mechanism

ryobi easystart starting mechanism

Ryobi's 3-step EasyStart mechanism

The unit benefits from Ryobi’s EasyStart mechanism. This 3-step starting system allows you to easily start your generator. It works in the following way:

  1. Put the engine switch on the “ON” position, and place the lever on the “START” position
  2. Pull the recoil until the engine runs
  3. Let the engine run 15 to 30 seconds and place the lever on the “RUN” position

Features

Panel of the Ryobi RY906500S

The RY906500S's control panel

The RY906500S's status and activity may be monitored conveniently via the control panel, as it features a convenient meter, offering voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours readings.

From a security standpoint, the product offers an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, allowing you to use it with a peace of mind.

It also includes a carbon monoxide sensor. This sensor is designed to monitor the level of carbon monoxide present during the generator's operation. If the generator is positioned incorrectly and carbon monoxide levels rise to an unsafe level, the LED on the sensor will flash red and the generator will automatically shut down.

While the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), helpful for starting the device promptly, come with the Ryobi RY906500S, the following accessories are also included: tool kit and oil.

Product Videos

The Ryobi RY906500S versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Ryobi RY906500S compare to generators of similar power (between 6000 and 7000 W).

  • Weighing in at 195 lbs, the Ryobi RY906500S fits within the expected weight range for devices producing 6000 to 7000 rated watts. If you are mindful of weight, the Pulsar PGDA70BiSCO is among the top contenders in this power range, with a dry weight of 118 pounds.
  • The generator's noise output, rated at 72 dBA, falls within the average range expected for devices in its power range. If you’d prefer a less noisy device, one of the most quiet devices, which share the same power range with this one, is the Powerhorse 7500i, whose lowest noise levels reach just 55 dBA.
  • With around 10 hours of runtime at a 50% load on a full tank, the RY906500S is in line with the average autonomy range for generators of comparable power. If you consider autonomy on a single full tank as one of the deciding factors, one of the generators in the same power range that offers the highest run time is the Pulsar PG7500, with around 13 hours.
  • Run time is a key metric, but it's dependent on the generator's fuel capacity. Therefore, discussing fuel efficiency is necessary to get the full picture. With a fuel usage of about 0.6 GPH at a 50% load, this generator falls within the typical gasoline consumption range observed in comparably powerful products. If fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the Pulsar PGDA70BiSCO, which has a fuel consumption of only 0.42 GPH and thus, is one of the most efficient devices in our database.

Price comparison

As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 6000-7000W generators, the Ryobi RY906500S is on the average side of the price range.

Therefore, this generator nicely fits in the expected budget for this kind of product.

The bottom line

STRENGTHS:
  • In the expected price range
  • CO sensor
  • Several accessories included
  • GFCI Outlets
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (195 lbs)
  • Acceptable noise (72 dBA)
  • Decent run time
  • Decent fuel efficiency
WEAKNESSES:
  • No 50-amp output
  • No electric start

Do you own the Ryobi RY906500S and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?

Let us know and write your own review.

Features and Specifications

General
InverterNo
Parallel capableNo
RV readyNo
FuelGasoline
Engine420 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil
Warranty3 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120/240V 60 Hz
Running watts6,500 W
Starting watts8,125 W
Running amps (@120/240V)54.2/27.1 amps
Peak amps (@120/240V)67.7/33.9 amps
Run time @50% load10 h
Run time @25% loadUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsYes
Covered outletsYes
Automatic Voltage RegulationYes
AC outlets
  • 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI
  • 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R)
DC outletsNo
Data centerVFT
IndicatorsNo
Fuel tankPlastic, 6 gal
Fuel gaugeNo
Misc
Weight195 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)39 x 29 x 24.5 in
Noise (lower limit)72 dBA
THD< 20%
ComplianceEPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection, CO monitoring
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralBonded to frame
Accessories includedOil, tool kit, and wheel kit
Country of originChina
UPC046396023483

Unlike many websites, we did our best to research each of the specs above. That being said, we are not immune to making the occasional mistake or omission. Should you notice any missing or incorrect values, don't hesitate to suggest improvements so we can address the issue.

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About Ryobi

Founded in 1943, Ryobi Limited is a Japanese based manufacturer that throughout its history mainly focused on electrical and automotive components. However, their quite recent power tool branch has proven to be popular for the quality and reliability of its products, which are nowadays found globally on the shelves of popular retailers. Ryobi products are listed to be produced in various locations globally, mainly US, Germany, Japan and China.

Warranty Information

The Ryobi RY906500S is covered under a warranty for up to 3 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Ryobi generators, please consult Ryobi's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-800-525-2579.

Questions & Answers

What can it power?
Examples of items that can be simultaneously powered.
The examples below are based on a maximum load of 80% and estimated wattages. For a more accurate estimation, use our wattage calculator.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeSump pump (1/2 hp)10502150
Furnace fan (1/2 hp)8752350
Refrigerator (energy star)1921192
Electric range21002100
Washing machine9001650
Set of 5 LED light bulbs5555
Total5172 W6647 W
For campingRadiant heater13001300
RV refrigerator180600
Hair dryer18001900
Electric grill16501650
Satelite receiver250250
Total5180 W5600 W
For workTable saw18004500
Air compressor (1 hp)16006100
Bug zapper8080
Total3480 W7980 W
Who makes the engine for this generator. (Asked July 13, 2019)

The 420cc engine of the Ryobi RY906500S is manufactured by Ducar.

What type oil is recommended for the RY906500S? (Asked April 24, 2020)

For general, all-temperature use, SAE 10W-30 is recommended.

Can you get in inverter to connect with the model RY906500S? (Asked June 10, 2020)

Unsure what you are trying to achieve. This unit outputs AC power. An inverter converts DC into AC. If you need clean power, you should consider an inverter generator.

Both my oven and A/C need 50 amps. Will this unit be able to run my oven and A/C during a blackout? (Asked June 14, 2020)

This unit does not feature a 50-amp outlet. Assuming that you were talking about their combined draw, and that they both operate on 120V, you'd be pulling 6000W out of the 6500W. As we recommend to keep the load under 80%, you should be looking at a unit able to deliver around 7500 running watts.

How many gallons does it use per hour? (Asked July 09, 2020)

Fuel consumption depends on load. At 50% load, it should be around 0.6 gallon per hour.

Is this unit OK to operate in the rain? (Asked August 03, 2020)

Please refer to our article on rain and snow operation, which applies to any existing unit.

What kind of gasoline does it use? Is just regular unleaded or a mix? And which mix? (Asked August 26, 2020)

Gasoline should be unleaded, with no more than 10% ethanol. The engine is 4-cycle, so gas shouldn't be mixed with oil.

Can you convert this generator from gas to natural gas? Is there a certain converter kit you need to make this happen? (Asked August 27, 2020)

There are no official conversion kits.

what is the oil capacity on model RY906500S generator? I purchased new and without oil. However, a bottle of oil came with the unit. It is 32 fluid ounces. How much do I put in the generator? (Asked August 28, 2020)

Engine oil capacity is approximately 32 fl. oz.

Is there a special kit to purchase to attach to breaker box (Asked October 04, 2020)

The L14-30R outlet allows for an easy connection to a majority of transfer switches. This connection should be done by a licensed electrician.

what are the little black "buttons" next to the outlets and how do you use them? (Asked December 21, 2022)

These are reset buttons for the circuit breakers. Circuit breakers will automatically switch OFF if there is a short circuit or a significant overload of the generator at each receptacle.

What is the difference between inverter and regular generator (Asked July 02, 2024)

Inverter generators are more fuel efficient, and usually produce cleaner power. You may want to read our article on the differences between inverter and conventional generators.

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Ryobi RY906500S
9.3 Total Score
1 review
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Price
7
Value
10
Quality
10
Performance
10

User Reviews

  1. 4.65
    Price
    70
    Value
    100
    Quality
    100
    Performance
    100

    Very happy I purchase this life saver generator 5 hurricanes in the pipe line Paline just past last week Monday knocking out 25,000. home and teddy’s bearings down on us as I write this post some folks just getting power back after 5 days.

    + PROS:
    • very large fuel tank, easy start,quality built, easy assembled, clear instructions, great warranty, reliable, mobile, run more appliances then I first thought it would, very happy I brought it.
    - CONS:
    • noise level should be lower plenty of room in the chassis to put a muffler, does not have duel running speeds.
    Helpful(5) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this

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