Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21" Multi-Blade Push Mower

Owning a lawn mower that combines power, convenience, and eco-friendliness can make yard work a breeze. The Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21" Multi-Blade Push Mower, model RY401220, promises to deliver just that. Let me share my hands-on experience with this battery-powered mower, highlighting its strengths and areas where it could improve.

Unpacking and Setup

The unboxing and assembly experience of the Ryobi 40V mower was straightforward and user-friendly. Within minutes, I had the mower assembled and ready to charge the batteries. The mower comes with two 6Ah batteries and a charger, which is a thoughtful inclusion as it ensures you can get started without any additional purchases. However, the initial charging time was slightly longer than expected, but once charged, the batteries were easy to install.

Build Quality and Design

The first thing I noticed about the Ryobi mower is its robust yet lightweight design. Weighing in at 77 lbs, it strikes a balance between being sturdy and easy to maneuver. The 21-inch deck is corrosion-resistant, which is a significant plus for longevity. The collapsible handles are a well-thought-out feature, making storage simple and space-efficient.

Performance and Cutting Ability

The Ryobi 40V mower boasts a CROSS CUT™ Multi-Blade System, which indeed provides a clean and efficient cut. The brushless motor is designed to adjust its speed based on mowing conditions, and I found this feature particularly useful. Whether the grass was thick or a bit wet, the mower adapted well, though it did struggle a bit in extremely thick patches.

One standout feature is the quiet operation. The Whisper Series design ensures that mowing is a less noisy affair, which is a blessing for both me and my neighbors. Starting the mower is hassle-free with a simple push-button start, eliminating the frustration of yanking a cord.

Battery Life and Runtime

Ryobi claims up to 70 minutes of runtime, which I found to be fairly accurate under normal conditions. However, the runtime can significantly decrease when tackling thicker grass or using the self-propelled feature extensively. I have a yard that's close to 0.25 acres, and the mower managed to handle it mostly on a single charge. For larger lawns, you might need to swap out batteries midway, so having extra batteries or a quick charger could be beneficial.

Self-Propelled Feature

The self-propelled feature is a mixed bag. It offers adjustable speed control, which is great for customizing to your walking pace. However, the design of the self-propelled paddle could use some improvement. It requires activation with thumbs, which can be uncomfortable during extended use, especially for those with arthritis or hand issues. Additionally, the mower occasionally stopped abruptly, requiring a restart, which was a bit frustrating.

Handling and Maneuverability

Maneuvering the Ryobi mower around my yard was relatively easy, thanks to its lightweight design and large rear wheels. However, in tighter spaces, it could be a bit cumbersome. The height adjustment lever is user-friendly, allowing for quick changes in cutting height from 1 to 4 inches. This feature is handy for adapting to different grass lengths and types.

Maintenance and Storage

Maintenance is minimal with the Ryobi 40V mower, which is a significant advantage over gas-powered counterparts. There are no oil changes or spark plugs to worry about, making it a low-maintenance option. The integrated LED fuel gauge on the batteries is a nice touch, giving a clear indication of remaining power.

Storage is another area where the Ryobi mower shines. The folding handles make it easy to tuck away in a corner of the garage or shed, taking up minimal space. This feature is particularly useful for those with limited storage space.

Warranty and Support

Ryobi offers a 5-year limited warranty on the mower, which is reassuring. However, my experience with customer support was less than ideal. When I encountered an issue with one of the batteries, the process of getting a replacement was cumbersome and time-consuming. Additionally, finding a local service center was challenging, and the wait times for repairs were longer than expected.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Quiet Operation: The Whisper Series design ensures a quieter mowing experience.
• Clean Cut: The CROSS CUT™ Multi-Blade System provides a crisp and even cut.
• Eco-Friendly: Battery-powered, eliminating the need for gas and reducing emissions.
• Easy Storage: Collapsible handles make storage straightforward and space-efficient.
• Adjustable Speed: Self-propelled feature with adjustable speed control.

Cons:

• Battery Life: Runtime can be shorter than advertised under heavy use.
• Self-Propelled Paddle Design: Can be uncomfortable to use for extended periods.
• Customer Support: Slow and cumbersome process for warranty claims and repairs.
• Maneuverability: Slightly cumbersome in tight spaces.
• Initial Charging Time: Batteries take longer to charge than expected.

Final Recommendation

Would I recommend the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21" Multi-Blade Push Mower? The answer is nuanced. For small to medium-sized yards, especially those up to 1/4 acre, this mower offers a quiet, efficient, and eco-friendly solution. It’s particularly appealing for those who prioritize easy storage and minimal maintenance.

However, if you have a larger yard or require a mower that can handle thick grass consistently without frequent battery swaps, you might find this model lacking in power and battery life. Additionally, the design of the self-propelled paddle and the challenges with customer support are areas that Ryobi needs to address.

In conclusion, the Ryobi 40V mower is a solid choice for certain use cases but may not be the best fit for everyone. Assess your lawn size, grass type, and personal comfort needs before making a decision.