Ryobi 40V 21 In. Brushless Smart Trek Self-Propelled Mower
Ryobi 40V Self-Propelled Mower RY40LM10-Y Review
Ryobi 40V 21 In. Brushless Smart Trek Self-Propelled Mower
Manufacturer: Ryobi
Model number: RY40LM10-Y
Price: 599.00
Power source: 18 Volt
Weight: 70 lbs\
Ryobi SMART TREK Self-Propelled Mower
The Ryobi 40V 21 In. Brushless Smart Trek Self-Propelled Mower is the latest offering in their Lawn & Garden line of outdoor power equipment. This mower features new technology such as their SMART TREK self-propel system which automatically adjusts to the pace of the user.
The unit is powered by a massive 40 Volt 6.0 AH battery that provides what Ryobi describes as “gas like power” and up to a half acre worth of run time. This battery is currently only available with the mower. More information and technical specifications on this mower are available at the Ryobi website.
Ryobi SMART TREK Mower Specifications
- SMART TREK Rear Wheel Drive Self-Propelled
- Self-Propelled Speed: Variable, Up to 4.1 MPH
- Deck Size: 21”
- Deck Material: Steel
- Cutting Height 1.5-4”
- Deck Height Adjustments: 7 Point
- Start Type: Push Button
- Cutting Options: Mulching, Bagging, and Side Discharging
- Recommended Yard Size: Up to ½ Acre
- Warranty: 5 Year-Limited
- Weight: 79 Pounds
Smart Trek Mower Features
- SMART TREK Self-Propelled Technology
- Easy Lift Single-Motion Release & Lock Bagger
- High Capacity 40V 6.0AH Lithium-Ion Battery
- Single Point Height Adjustment
- 21” Steel Deck
- Series V Brushless Motor
21″ Cutting Capacity
This mower is the largest in the Ryobi cordless mower series with the largest cutting capacity at 21”. The steel deck is a stamped/non-fabricated construction and is on par with any similar gas powered mower. The steel deck offers better durability and enhanced safety for the user.
Deck Height Adjustment
Adjusting the height of the blade deck is simple and intuitive using a handle on the top of the deck with a trigger mechanism. Simply pull the trigger and push down or pull up in the direction of the clearly marked height settings. After releasing the trigger the deck will lock into place using one of the 7 factory detent settings.
EASY Tilt and Lift Bag Attachment
The Ryobi also includes a bagger attachment that can be emptied with one hand in a “tilt and lift” motion. If you prefer to mulch your clippings a plug kit is provided for the rear bagger opening. This plug kit is easy to install, but I found that it frequently became packed with grass clippings and had to be cleaned out.
Ryobi 6.0 Ah Battery Powers the SMART TREK Mower
Ryobi had to step up their battery offerings in order to provide constant and uninterrupted power for this new larger mower. Their new 6.0 AH battery is simply a beast! It is about the same size as a Belgian block paver and just as ergonomic. The battery weighs approximately 4 pounds and has a push button green LED charge level gauge.
Ryobi Compact Slide On Charger
Ryobi included a compact slide on style charger that also doubles as a portable power station. The charger clips onto the battery for charging but also has a power port for a USB cable. When used as a power station the charger will produce 2.1 Amps of output. A great option for charging electronic devices during a power outage or camping or other outdoor activities.
The battery compartment for the mower is located on the top of the main drive housing. There is a spring loaded translucent plastic lid that covers the battery compartment. This lid has a waterproof seal as well. Inside is an attachment point for the battery as well as a spare battery holder and a red plastic master safety key.
Ryobi SMART TREK Mower – SMOOTH AND POWERFUL!
The best part of this mower is the complete lack of excessive noise, gas and oil. The thing sounds like a warp drive engaging when it starts up! The brushless motor is smooth and powerful and the entire design is compact and less bulky than traditional mowers.
Folds For Storage
I can fold the Ryobi up with the push bar folded down and store the unit upright in my garage to save space. Plus I never have to worry about spilling gas or oil when doing this. The only maintenance requirements for general use are sharpening the blades, charging the battery, and cleaning off the deck.
SMART TREK Self-propel System – Needs Improvement
SMART TREK self-propel system that is advertised as one of the biggest features ended up being an issue for me. The SMART TREK system engages when pushing down on the telescoping control handle during use. The system then speeds up or slows down based upon the downward pressure of the user. This system worked well on flat and even terrain, but seemed to stall out completely for me when used on slightly uneven terrain. I ended up wrestling the mower the same as I would with a traditional push mower.
The overall control handle design and push bar mechanism was also somewhat awkward to use. To start the mower, all handle bar sections need to be fully extended and in the lock position. With all of the safety switches that are built in this became a guessing game at times to get the mower started. The handle fully extended is also rather tall, which wasn’t an issue for me but could be uncomfortable for some users. To start the mower, squeeze the left control lever and then press the on switch. The right control lever activates the drive for the self-propel feature.
The Ryobi SMART TREK Self-Propelled Mower User
Ryobi’s new 40V 21” mower is excellent option for a homeowner with a flat and level yard up to about ½ acre in size. For anything larger you would need to keep an extra battery on hand as a backup. The quality of cut is acceptable, but not on the same level as a professional machine. You won’t see these mowers on the trailers of your local landscaper.
For my larger 2+ acre piece of property I found this mower to be perfectly suited as a trim mower supplement to my larger zero turn. The convenience of the battery power, ease of maintenance, and compact storage make it perfectly suited for this. I plan to continue to using this mower all grass cutting season to see how it holds up.
Ryobi SMART TREK Mower – COST
The Ryobi 40V 21” self-propelled mower is available now. This mower is an exclusive to Home Depot and is available as a kit with the large 6.0 AH battery for about $600.00.
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About the author
Wes Bartosik
Wes Bartosik is a Connecticut native with strong family ties to the construction world. Wes’ father and grandfather both were builders and developers and taught Wes the values of doing things right from an early age and getting hands on experience with every facet of the construction industry. Wes apprenticed with a carpenter throughout high school and would later attend Central Connecticut State University earning a bachelor’s degree in construction management all while working for a large excavation contractor throughout. Wes would go on to work for a local heavy-highway construction company and gain further experience with all the skilled trades associated with large civil engineering and utility projects. Though working as a manager now, Wes’ true passion is working in the field alongside the tradesman and laborers on site. Wes has been involved in community based service projects throughout his life as well as emergency services. In his spare time he takes on serious DIY projects for himself, friends and family. He is a firm believer that with a quality tool in your hands and some grit, you can accomplish anything.
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