Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21" Self-Propelled Mower

Owning a Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21" Self-Propelled Mower has been an enlightening journey in the world of battery-powered lawn maintenance. As someone who has always leaned towards gas-powered mowers, switching to a battery-operated model was a significant change. The initial appeal of this mower was its promise of a quieter, more environmentally friendly mowing experience, and in many respects, it delivered on these promises.

Setup and Initial Impressions

Upon unboxing the mower, I was immediately impressed by its sleek, modern design. The assembly process was straightforward and took less than ten minutes. The foldable handles are a thoughtful feature, making storage a breeze, especially for those with limited space. Charging the 40V batteries was the first task, and while the charger worked efficiently, it did take longer than I anticipated. The inclusion of two 6Ah batteries is a considerable advantage, ensuring that you can swap out and continue mowing without too much downtime.

Performance and Usability

The mower's self-propelled rear-wheel-drive system is a game-changer, particularly for larger lawns or uneven terrain. The variable speed control allows you to adjust the pace to your comfort, and on its highest setting, the mower can move quite briskly. However, this speed can sometimes make the mower feel a bit unwieldy, especially if the front wheels lift off the ground slightly.

The 21-inch deck size strikes a good balance between maneuverability and cutting width. The 7-position single-point height adjustment is incredibly convenient, allowing for quick changes to the cutting height without fiddling with multiple levers. The cutting height ranges from 1.5 inches to 4 inches, accommodating various lawn conditions.

Cutting and Battery Life

The mower excels in cutting performance, providing clean, precise cuts. The brushless motor adjusts blade speed based on the thickness of the grass, which is particularly useful for tackling denser patches. However, in thicker grass, the mower can occasionally bog down, requiring a slower pace to avoid stalling.

Battery life is a mixed bag. On a full charge, the mower can run for approximately 30 to 40 minutes per battery, which is sufficient for smaller lawns but can be limiting for larger areas. If you have a lawn larger than 1/4 acre, you may find yourself needing additional batteries or taking breaks to recharge. The charger itself is efficient but has a cooling period before it starts charging, which can add to the downtime.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Using the mower is generally comfortable, but there are a few ergonomic issues. The power-on paddle is sensitive, and any slight release can shut down the mower, which can be frustrating during turns. The self-propel paddle, operated by the thumbs, can be painful for those with arthritis or similar conditions. These design choices may not suit everyone, and it's something to consider if you have any hand or wrist issues.

Maintenance and Durability

Maintenance of the mower is relatively low-effort. The brushless motor means fewer moving parts to wear out, and the lack of gas and oil eliminates much of the traditional maintenance hassle. However, durability is a concern. Some users have reported issues with the self-propel function and battery errors after a few charge cycles. My own experience has been positive so far, but the long-term reliability of the mower is something to keep an eye on.

Additional Features

The 3-in-1 mowing capability—bagging, mulching, and side discharge—adds versatility. The bagging function works well, with the bag being easy to attach and remove. Mulching is effective, though in very thick grass, it can sometimes leave clumps. The side discharge is handy for less frequent mowing or when dealing with taller grass.

Noise and Environmental Impact

One of the standout features of this mower is its quiet operation. Compared to gas mowers, the noise level is significantly lower, making it more pleasant to use and less disruptive to neighbors. The environmental benefits of using a battery-powered mower are also noteworthy, contributing to reduced emissions and a smaller carbon footprint.

Final Thoughts

The Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21" Self-Propelled Mower offers a lot of positives, especially for those looking to switch from gas to electric. Its performance, ease of use, and environmental benefits are compelling. However, it's not without its drawbacks. The sensitivity of the controls and the battery life limitations are significant considerations.

Would I recommend this mower?

For those with smaller to medium-sized lawns (up to 1/4 acre), this mower is an excellent choice. It's easy to use, provides a good cut, and is much quieter than traditional gas-powered models. The convenience of battery power and the reduction in maintenance are substantial benefits. However, if you have a larger lawn or require a mower that can handle very thick grass without stalling, you might find the battery life and power limitations frustrating. In such cases, investing in additional batteries or considering a more powerful model might be necessary.

Overall, Ryobi's 40V mower is a solid, environmentally friendly choice that performs well under typical conditions but may require some compromises for larger or more demanding lawns.