Barb,
I have an Innova (made right there in Texas!). I can go in any direction with no problem. I have never heard of a quilting machine that could only go in one direction. That would make me crazy!!! Definitely check out the Innova by ABM International at the International Quilt Show in Houston - you won't be disappointed at all. One thing to do while you are checking out all the cool quilting machines is listen to the sound of the machine...some of them are awfully loud and others purr (youtube.com has lots of quilting machines to see and listen to as well before you hit the Houston Quilt Show, just put in the names of the different machines on the main page).
Check out Renae Haddadin's website,
http://www.renaequilts.com/
In the search area put in "choosing a longarm article"...you have to "buy" the article (it's free) to get the download, but she really gives you many things to think about when you are looking to purchase a longarm. She also has an Innova, but the article is NOT brand-specific, just load of information and questions to ask.