By Comdet
This review is from: Lawn Boy 10640 20-Inch 6.75-Gross-Torque Briggs & Stratton Gas-Powered Push Lawn Mower
Buying a mower is tough, especially if you want a push model. Most of the lower-end push models are just that - very low end. Sure, they will run, but performance (i.e., even cut, good mulching, good bagging) is so-so. And, if you can find a decent performing one, the build quality/durability when it comes to handles, wheels, etc. is lacking.
On the opposite end of the spectrum you have high end push mowers from Toro (their Super Recycling series) and Honda. Great mowers - built well, perform well, will last for many years. But, the push models they make are only available from dealers (not sold at the big-box stores) so you're looking at some big bucks.
The Lawn Boy is a perfect compromise. No, it's not as well-built as a mower costing twice as much, but it is much nicer than what you'd find at a big box store. Excellent engine -- the B&S Ready Start is just that: no priming, no choke, just pull and go. The wheel assembly is also excellent, with the same wide, easy turn wheels found on the higher end Lawn Boys. That is especially nice in a push mower since you're doing all the pushing!
The bag is not as nice as the higher end Lawn Boys that have a larger opening and a one-hand design. Still, this works well. The bag is of decent quality, but on the small side. That's not a bad thing in a push mower, however, since again, you're doing all the pushing!
Cut height goes up to 4 inches. Rare to see that in a mower in this price range. The one-piece handle is sturdy, but you may want to add a piece of foam if you're using the mower for a long period of time since that will cut down or eliminate "numb hand" from the vibration.
Performance is great. No problems getting through tall grass - mulched right through it with no visible clumps. I don't use the bag attachment unless I'm picking up leaves in the fall, so I can't comment on how well it bags yet. I'll update this in the fall after I have some experience. I can say that this is one of the best mulching mowers I've used. The "Consumer" magazine gives this a very high rating, and I concur - performs like a champ.
I don't find the weight to be a problem at all. Very easy to push, and turns (with the fat boy tires) are easy as can be. Solid construction means you have to deal with some weight -- the deck is solid and does not flex at all. Need thick steel (and therefore weight) to do that. If you can't push this you should look at a self-propelled model (or hit the gym a bit -- anyone who is in reasonable good shape should not have a problem).
It's getting ever more hard to find a decent push mower. Seems everyone wants a self-propelled these days. Nothing wrong with that, but I look at lawn mowing as a form of exercise. Plus, I have several planting beds in the lawn, and a push mower is a perfect fit for getting around the obstacles easily. Good to see that Lawn Boy is not ignoring this segment of the market. Highly recommend this mower if you're looking for a push model.
>> Click here for more detail and customer reviews
No comments:
Post a Comment