Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Reviews 2023. Cub cadet self propelled lawn mower • CIMFLOK.COM

Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Reviews 2023

Deciding on the best self-propelled lawn mower isn’t as easy as it used to be. Do you need commercial or residential quality? Do you want to use gas or batteries for power? How much grass do you need to cut? Are you a mulcher or a bagger?

Having tested dozens of the best walk-behind lawn mowers from entry-level residential to the top professional models, we got our Pro team together to choose our top mowers in a range of scenarios.

One of the big things changing in the market is Honda’s announcement that the brand is exiting the lawn mower market. While you can still buy Honda mowers until they run out of stock, 2023 marks the end of production. We still highly recommend them, but due to the news and iffy availability, we’re not considering Honda as part of our choices this year.

Want to see more, including ride-on and robotic recommendations? Read out Best Lawn Mower Reviews main article!

As we bid adieu to Honda this year, the HRC series still gets two thumbs up from us while you can get them. From there, we turn to Exnark and its Commercial X line that complements its Lazer Z zero-turn mowers well. Some professionals will certainly turn to the higher-capacity 30-inch model, but we expect the 21-inch model will find its way onto more trailers.

Exmark wisely uses a Honda 163cc GXV engine with a legendary reputation for reliability. It’s fed by a generous 1-gallon fuel tank and turns the blade at tip speeds up to 18,500 fpm. There’s also an option for a Kawasaki FJ180V engine if you’d like to step up to a 179cc engine.

The deck is 1/4-inch aluminum construction that keeps the weight down (112 pounds) while maintaining high durability. The deck is adjustable from 4.5 inches on the high side all the way down to 1 inch while the drive runs at speeds up to 4.2 MPH.

Residential: Toro Super Recycler Series 21-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

Toro runs deep in the residential lawn mower sector and our favorite among them is the Super Recycler series. Getting the best of all the technology Toro has to offer, our top recommendation (model 21565) includes the Personal Pace drive system and the Smart Stow design that allows you to vertically store the mower even though it’s a gas model.

It uses a 163cc Briggs Stratton engine that produces 7.25 ft-lbs of torque and just under 17,000 fpm blade tip speed.

Toro touts a commercial-grade construction on this model and includes a lighter aluminum deck rather than steel. In addition to that, you get outstanding cut quality, especially on the mulching side (you better with the name Super Recycler!). Wrapping it up, the Personal Pace drive system adjusts to your walking pace so there are no levers or dials to adjust.

Best Self-Propelled Electric Lawn Mower

Just a few years ago, if you wanted to find the best battery-powered lawn mower, you could only find residential models. Now, there’s an emerging class of professional-grade options and we have picks for both Pros and homeowners.

Professional: Milwaukee M18 Fuel 21-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

There aren’t many true commercial self-propelled lawn mowers with lithium-ion power sources. Milwaukee launched their effort in 2022 with a monstrous 10 ft-lbs of torque that tops what you typically see from a 200cc gas engine. It’s more than just muscle, though. Its blade and deck combine to handle mulching and bagging better than most.

As you roll into fall, the mower’s high-lift mode keeps the blades at 3300 RPM to help pull those lightweight leaves and clean up your lawn. Other features include 180° LED lighting, LED battery indicators facing you, variable speed thumb bar (in addition to the speed wheel), a durable build, and much more.

Price: 1099.00 with two 12.0Ah batteries and dual-port Rapid charger

Residential: EGO Select Cut XP 21-Inch Lawn Mower with Speed IQ

The evolution of EGO’s flagship mower is interesting. It started with the dual-battery Peak Power model that raised the bar of what lithium-ion is capable of. Then, we saw the first stacked-blade SelectCut options that improved cut quality and effectiveness in tall grass. The two technologies combined in the SelectCut XP. Now EGO adds Speed IQ to the mix.

Speed IQ is a self-propelled drive system that automatically adjusts to your pace. However, it’s not a spring-loaded set of handles like Toro uses on its Personal Pace models. Instead, there’s a sensor doing some serious engineering magic… and it works like a charm from our brief time with it at Equip Expo 2022 (formerly GIE).

Price: 599.00 bare, 999.00 with a 12.0Ah battery and Turbo charger

Best Large Walk-Behind Lawn Mower

Commercial: Greenworks Commercial 30-Inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

Can a battery-powered commercial mower really displace gas models? Greenworks Commercial has an 82V 30-inch model that got our attention at the Equip Expo in late 2022, and it’s hard to ignore as a legitimate option. It has the power to replace a 200cc gas engine with blade speeds up to 16,000 FPM. On a full charge, it can cover up to 2 acres.

There are drive system features worth considering as well. Independent hub wheel motors engage what Greenworks calls the Easy Turn System (ETS), making the mower easier to maneuver. Another big deal is that there is a powered reverse function—something that’s incredibly helpful with the weight of mowers in this class. The controls are all up next to your hands and there’s even a display to help you keep track of your battery levels.

Price: 1999.99 bare, 2999.99 with three 8Ah batteries and a dual-port charger

Residential: Toro TimeMaster 30-inch Personal Pace Mower

With 10 ft-lbs of torque delivered from its Briggs Stratton 223cc engine, the 30-inch Toro TimeMaster is our pick as the best large walk-behind lawn mower. Not only does it deliver big power to turn its time-saving 30-inch blade, but it also features Toro’s Personal Pace self-propelled drive and Spin-Stop that lets you stop the blade without shutting off the mower.

It all adds up to big-time savings on larger lawns. Grab model 21200 if you want an electric start or the 21199 if you don’t mind a recoil start and want to save 100.

Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mower for the Money

Toro’s 21-inch Recycler (21352) offers an excellent value for budget-minded homeowners. It’s a Made in the USA rear-wheel drive system powered by a Briggs Stratton 140cc engine. It comes ready to mulch, bag, or side discharge and you don’t have to worry about changing the oil. Just check the levels and add more when it’s necessary.

Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Brand

No one in the self-propelled lawn mower market dominates like Honda. Their engines enjoy a reputation for quality and durability every other manufacturer is shooting for, and their mowers are simply outstanding.

They typically run at a premium, though. Both Honda mowers and Honda-powered mowers are more expensive than similar designs from other brands. The big kick in the pants is Honda leaving the market, though.

That opens the door for Toro. There are a lot of Toro models we recommend for good reason and hit a wide range from budget-friendly homeowner mowers to commercial zero turns. It’s one of the best-selling brands of walk-behind mowers.

Getting hard sales figures is tough to come by, and it’s always possible we missed the mark. However, we see more Honda and Toro walk-behind mowers on commercial trailers and residential lawns than any other brand.

Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mower for Bagging

You don’t have to ditch your current self-propelled lawn mower and buy a whole new one to improve your bagging efficiency. In most cases, adding a high-lift blade to your current mower will make a significant difference. With the exception of electric mowers, you don’t need to worry too much about matching the brand making the blade, but you do need to match the arbor style and the length. The package should tell you which brands it is compatible with.

If you’re still in the market for a new mower, higher RPMs make for better airflow and bagging. Check mowers with a 160cc or higher engine and compare the top blade speeds. You can always swap blades, but you can’t change the speed.

Pro Tip: If you have a 2-point or 4-point deck height adjustment, set the front wheels of your mower one notch higher than the rear to improve bagging.

Best Self-Propelled Mulching Lawn Mower

Similar to a high-lift blade for bagging, you can improve your mulching efficiency with a mulching-specific blade. These usually have additional cutting edges that cut the clippings more times before they drop back into the grass. Keeping the blade sharp ensures you get the best mulching results every time you mow.

If you’re in the market for a new mower, look for a 160cc or higher engine to give you the torque you need to keep your blade speed high in thicker grass. Remember, you can always add a mulching blade, but you can’t make up for an underpowered engine.

CUB CADET SC500Z (21") 159cc Self-Propelled Lawn Mower w/Swivel Wheels

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Cub Cadet self propelled rear wheel drive (SOLVED)

I picked up this Cub cadet for free from a yard sale. The drive cable and starter rope were broke so I replaced both of them. It also needed the carb cleaned out and did that and it starts and runs great. HOWEVER. when mowing and you need to pull backwards it is a struggle. the wheels do not turn going backward and you have to completely drag it. The wife does not like that. I have searched and watched YouTube and have found a few similar cases but no resolution. Any ideas.

Grunt

Welcome to MLF wheelie.You could try loosening the cable to the transmission a little. The trans will be engaged if it senses any resistance on the pulley caused by a too tight drive belt. Removing the drive wheels and checking everything moves smoothly might also help.Just a guess, good luck.

I have tried that clear to where the mower will not propell itself. still will not roll backwards. Guess I am going to tear it down again. thanks

Grunt

Did you remove the wheels before? The gears are marked left and right, so maybe they are on the wrong sides.

Been awhile but when I replaced the cable I also replaced the belt but do not remember if I had the wheels off. sorry. old brain fade. I am sure once I tear into it again I will remember more and will look for the left right indicators. thank you

wheelie49

Ok. I pulled the wheels off and while i could not find any obvious problems I cleaned everything up real good and gave it all a spray with lubricant and put it back together. and in the trial it was the same. wheels just did not want top freewheel in reverse. I pulled it down again and put a light coating of axle grease on the ratchet pin, the ratchet gear the wheel axle, and the drive gears. I played with the ratchet system by hand and it started to let loose and ratchet so I did the other side the same. same result. I put it all back together and it will pull in reverse very easily so I started it up. and now it will self propel frontwards and will freewheel when pulling backwards. Perfect. Except I do not think the ratchet part is supposed to need to be greased as there is no type of seal to protect from the dirt and grit. But it is no big job so will plan to service that occasionally. My wife liked this mower because it is smaller, 18 inch blade, and works around her plants better but the fight of pulling it backwards had got to be to much and she wanted me to get rid of it sell it or give it away. HA HA. now she is out mowing around her plants with it and has told me we will be keeping it.

Thank everybody for your input. Stay Safe and Healthy.

cantdw

Thank everybody for your input. Stay Safe and Healthy.

The forum automatically suggested I read your post, believing it was relevant. Not really. but my problem is my wife, too. since the machine does not propel itself, she wants me to get rid of it. I think the problem lies with EITHER, the tension spring, the belt installation or BOTH! If I don't fix it soon, she's threatened to get rid of me, too! YIKES!

Explore Walk-Behind Mowers

Rugged durability meets expert engineering to deliver flawless performance. With features that boast incredible control, unmatched efficiency and increased comfort you’ll get exactly what you need from your mower. And, as always, each model is guaranteed to deliver the pristine Cub Cadet Signature Cut mow after mow, season after season.

With steel cutting decks, these walk-behind mowers are built to resist rust and handle uneven terrain. With a 3-in-1 (bag, mulch, side discharge) cutting deck, you’ll have a clean looking yard every time you mow.

For a professional-quality cut every time, trust the push mowers in the Signature Cut Series. Keeping your grass precise for a picture-perfect yard, no one can match the results of the Cub Cadet Signature Cut.

With durable components and a 3-year warranty, you’ll have peace-of-mind while you enjoy your perfectly manicured lawn.

Shop Compare Walk-Behind Mowers

A 190cc Briggs Stratton engine is built to deliver the strength to power through your yard
Large 23-in. all-steel deck is designed to allow you to mow efficiently with 3-in-1 bagging, side discharge and mulching capabilities
Rear-wheel drive provides strong control on uneven terrain
A 344cc Briggs Stratton OHV engine with keyed start is built with the strength to power through your yard
Variable 4-speed drive system allows you to set your speed based on terrain and personal preference, with 4-forward speeds and 1-reverse speed
Separate drive controls and blade brake clutch, allows blades to be disengaged while operating
A 140cc Briggs and Stratton engine is built to deliver the strength to power through your yard
Push mower ideal for yards of 1/2 acre or less.
11-in. high rear wheels designed for easy mobility over tough terrain
60 Volt Max, 5.0Ah, 300Wh lithium-ion battery
Mow up to ½ acre, or 50 minutes on a single charge, without power fade
Premium ball bearings and 11” rear wheels increase traction and maneuverability
A 173cc commercial-grade Kohler engine is built to provide reliable power and easy starting.
Rear-wheel drive with dual lever control allows you to navigate uneven terrain with either hand
11-in. high rear wheels designed for easy mobility over tough terrain
A 163cc Briggs and Stratton engine is built to deliver the strength to power through your yard
Designed to help you navigate uneven terrain with ease thanks to front-wheel drive with single lever drive control
11-in. high rear wheels designed for easy mobility over tough terrain

The Cub Cadet CC 600 Is a Walk-Behind Lawn Mower That Means Business

When you just need to get the mowing done so you can move on with your day, you need a mower like the Cub Cadet.

By Roy Berendsohn Published: Mar 5, 2019

As much as I love cutting grass, there are times when I just want the job done. If you feel the same way, have a look at Cub Cadet’s CC 600, a rear-drive mower with a 28-inch dual-blade deck. Homeowners who f ind that their standard 22-inch mower is a bit too small for their cutting surface, but don’t want a riding mower or tractor, may find the CC 600 a perfect fit.

Cub Cadet describes the machine as a wide-area walk mower—that’s landscaper jargon for a self-propelled walk mower with front caster wheels and engines as large as 14.5 HP. These mowers have cutting widths that range from about 34 inches all the way up to 52 inches. You’ve seen landscapers trotting behind them, particularly those who cut small, intricate yards.

Cub Cadet Cub Cadet 28 in. 195 cc 3-in-1 Rear Wheel Drive Gas Push Button Electric Start Walk Behind Self Propelled Lawn Mower

Cub Cadet’s machine isn’t commercial duty, but it packs plenty of mower for homeowner purposes. The 195-CC engine provides more than enough oomph for normal cutting conditions. The mower can be equipped with dedicated mulching blades or blades for bagging. Both provide a good cut quality. The bagging blades provide the necessary air flow to move grass clippings into the 2.25-bushel rear bag. We found the mower to be extremely effective at picking up leaves and clippings. (Note: the mower will fill the bag and pack it tight—and then fill the blower tube. It takes some experience to find the sweet spot when you need to empty the bag before the tube is plugged.)

The mower’s many clever attributes include a push-button start that was reliable in our tests, even in cold weather. The Cub Cadet's battery is self charging, like your car's, which means you don’t need to plug the battery into a wall charger. Control the ground speed by pushing forward on the pivoting drive bar (it’s similar to the mechanism pioneered by Toro on its Personal Pace mowers). With the bar full forward, you’re moving at a brisk walk.

Cub Cadet SC 300 HW Self-Propelled Gas Mower

Self-propelled push mowers deliver a powerful drive system and up to 23" wide, steel decks, giving you the ability to mow up to a ½ acre with hills and obstacles. The Cub Cadet Signature Cut line offers a 3-in-1 solution with the choice of bagging grass clippings, mulching or side discharge.

159cc Cub Cadet Performance Tuned Engine
11" high rear wheels for easy manueverability over uneven terrain
Effortless MySpeed Drive Control that adjusts to your pace
3-year limited residential warranty
Brand Cub Cadet
Weight 50
Manufacturer Number 12ABB2M5710
SKU 766456
Fuel Type Gas
HeightCutting 1.25". 3.75
Trim Name SC300
Generic Type (Primary) Walking
Engine Manufacturer Kohler HD775
Displacement 173cc
Starter Recoil
ChokeSmart choke
Drive Control Single-Lever
Wheels Zag
Tires, Front Specification 8 in
Tires, Rear Specification 11 in
Cutting WidthDeck 21 in
HeightCutting 1.25". 3.75
Fuel Capacity 1.0 qt
Oil capacity 20 oz
Cargo CapacityGrass Bag 1.9 Bushel
Cutting System Signature Cut
Handle Adjustable
Mulch Plug Integrated
Positions 6
Height Adjustment Dual-Lever
Bearing Hanger Type Poly Bushing

"Sources:"

https://www.protoolreviews.com/best-self-propelled-lawn-mower-reviews/
https://www.amazon.com/Cadet-SC500Z-Self-Propelled-Swivel-Wheels/product-reviews/B00IBTR4FG
https://www.mylawnmowerforum.com/threads/cub-cadet-self-propelled-rear-wheel-drive-solved.68838/
https://www.cubcadet.com/en_US/walk-behind-mowers/walk-behind-mowers-view-all
https://www.popularmechanics.com/home/lawn-garden/a26624707/cub-cadet-600-cc-push-lawn-mower/
https://www.stinehome.com/home-improvement/lawn-and-garden/outdoor-power-equipment/lawn-mowers/cub-cadet-sc-300-hw-self-propelled-gas-mower/766456.html