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

Mowing the lawn is a routine task that can be either a chore or a breeze, depending on the equipment you use. My recent experience with the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21" Multi-Blade Push Mower (model RY401200) has been quite enlightening. This mower, designed to replace traditional gas mowers, offers a mix of impressive features and some drawbacks that potential buyers should consider.

Performance and Battery Life

One of the standout features of this mower is its battery life. Equipped with a 40V battery, it promises up to 50 minutes of runtime, which should be sufficient for most small to medium-sized lawns. In my experience, the battery life held up well, allowing me to mow my front and back yards, which total around a quarter-acre, on a single charge. However, if you have a larger yard, you might find yourself needing a second battery, which can be conveniently stored on the mower itself.

The mower’s power is comparable to a 170cc gas mower, which means it can handle thick and tall grass without much trouble. The multi-blade system offers versatility with options for mulching, bagging, or side discharge. I found that the mulching function worked particularly well, leaving minimal clumps and distributing the clippings evenly. The bagging feature is also efficient, and the bag is easy to remove and empty.

Ease of Use and Maneuverability

The Ryobi mower is significantly lighter than many gas mowers, thanks to its plastic construction. This makes it easier to maneuver, especially in tight spaces and around obstacles. The self-propelled feature is a game-changer, allowing for adjustable speed settings that range from a slow walk to a brisk pace. This feature made mowing my slightly sloped lawn much less strenuous.

However, the lightweight design does have its downsides. The mower tends to bounce around on uneven terrain, which can lead to an uneven cut. Additionally, the front end is quite light, causing it to lift occasionally when engaging the self-propelled mode, especially at higher speeds. This can be a bit disconcerting and requires some getting used to.

Build Quality and Durability

The build quality of the Ryobi mower is a mixed bag. While the plastic construction contributes to its lightweight nature, it also raises concerns about durability. The plastic tabs and components, such as those holding the grass catcher bag, seem prone to wear and tear. I noticed that the rear flap broke off after a few uses, which is disappointing for a mower at this price point.

Ryobi offers a 5-year limited warranty on the mower and a 3-year warranty on the battery, which provides some peace of mind. However, the warranty process can be cumbersome and time-consuming, as I discovered when trying to resolve an issue with the self-propelled feature. It’s worth noting that Home Depot’s customer service was very helpful in resolving my issue, but the experience with Ryobi’s warranty service left much to be desired.

Storage and Maintenance

Storage is another area where this mower excels. The folding handles allow the mower to be stored vertically, saving valuable space in the garage. This feature is especially useful for those with limited storage space. Maintenance is relatively straightforward, with no need for gas, oil changes, or engine maintenance. The only regular upkeep required is blade sharpening.

Charging the battery is simple, and it charges relatively quickly. However, I did encounter an issue where the charger caused a circuit breaker to trip in my home. After moving the charger to a different outlet, the problem was resolved, but it’s something to be aware of.

User Comfort and Additional Features

The mower is designed with user comfort in mind. The adjustable cutting height, with seven positions ranging from 1.5 to 4 inches, allows for customization based on your lawn’s needs. The handle height is also adjustable, making it comfortable for users of different heights. As someone over 70 with arthritis, I appreciated the ergonomic design and the ease of use.

One minor gripe is the design of the self-propelled control grips. They can be a bit finicky, sometimes requiring multiple attempts to engage the drive. Additionally, the safety handle, which must be held down to keep the mower running, can become uncomfortable during extended use.

Overall Impressions

In summary, the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21" Multi-Blade Push Mower offers a compelling package for those looking to transition from gas to electric mowing. Its long battery life, ease of use, and powerful performance make it a strong contender in the electric mower market. However, its lightweight plastic construction raises concerns about long-term durability, and the warranty process could be more efficient.

Would I recommend this mower? Yes, but with some reservations. If you have a small to medium-sized lawn and value the convenience of a lightweight, easy-to-use electric mower, the Ryobi is a solid choice. Just be prepared to handle some minor durability issues and potentially invest in a second battery if you have a larger yard. Overall, it’s a good balance of performance and convenience, making it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.