QuestionHello Eric,
I am new to owning a lawnmower so I would like to ask you some Q's. First, my lawn is fairly small and it's flat. My questions are, I've seen so many options on lawnmowers that my head is spinning. What then, are the advantages/disadvantages of= 1. RWD vs FWD 2. large sized rear wheels 3. I've noticed that Craftsman mowers have a very long handle that go way back, versus say a Husqvarna model that was sitting right next to it (which had a much shorter handle). What is the advantage of this longer metal handle? Wouldn't a shorter handle be better for maneuverability/handling? Finally, since my lawn is fairly small, and also I would like to do what I can to help the environment, what are your opinions of an electric mower?
Thanks
Tim
AnswerI prefer rear wheel drive mowers over front rear wheel drive models. The drive is the same as an automobile, as far a front or rear wheel drive. Most lower priced self propelled mowers are front wheel drive. The problem with FWD is when you bag your grass all the weight is on the rear of the mower. With all the weight in the rear the FWD looses traction.
Large rear tires makes the mower a little eaiser to turn. The downside is most of the large rear wheels are cheaply made and frequently break...they cost quite a bit to replace.
Longer handles are better suited for tall individuals so they don't have to bend over. Again, the longer handles are usually made cheaply and break more often than the shorter handles.
If you lawn is small, you might consider a 110/120 volt electric mower that plugs into a standard power outlet. The downside with these are having a cord to drag around. The upside is very little maintenance, no gas or oil and no batteries to fail. I would not recommend a cordless battery electric mower. They have limited power and the batteries only last a few years plus the mowers are much more expensive to purchase as compared to a 110/120 electric model.
Let me know if this helps.
Eric
