Walk behind suggestions

[watatrp]

A friend of mine passed away last summer. I took care of his lawn last summer. This year, his widow and two boys, ages 10 & 12 want to do the lawn themselves. I've told them that I will buy them a new walk behind mower. I'm looking for a self propelled with electric start, mulcher w/ option for bagger. Their old one is a push and really hard to start. I'm kind of partial to Toro and Lawnboy. Does anyone have any other suggestions? Anyone seen the new Lawnboy with the 4 cycle engine and one speed? Also, has anyone had any luck with purchases over the internet? My local dealer won't deal with price (is that an oxymoron?)

[65hoss]

I have a honda 21" that was bought in the early 80's. Still cranks on the first pull and runs great. I vote honda.

[AllSeasonsAllReasons]

The Toro personal pace gets my vote! For a home owner of course!

[corycc]

Definetly go with the Toro personal pace. Great machine. Mulches anything.

[Grassman]

All of the above are good units. I'd take the Honda over the Toro though. Go with the unit thats priced the best because repair service won't be an issue. Russ

[summitgroundskeeping]

I use Ariens, and love them. They have all thoes features you listed if you want them. They last long and cut great. Check them out.

[BufalinoLand]

Hands down HONDA!!!!!! I run 2 HRM215 Poly deck, I was a little weary but my dealer was out of the metal decks and i needed some asap. Ive given them both all they can handle and they are still in one piece and both start on first pull

[JOshua Gallerick]

Greg I totally agree with you on the 21 ariens. I have two of them and we have put them through hell in back since 1994 and the only thing I have had to change or replace besides the oil and plugs are the pull cord and the rubber rear tire covers other than that they are still running like new.

[SMB]

We just bought a Toro Personal Pace Recycler, (yes, we didn't buy commercial) we haven't had a chance to crank it up yet because of rain, but I'm definitely not complaining! :) I hope it works as well as most people say Toro does, it seems to be very well designed and it came ready to discharge, bag, or mulch right out of the box. Man, we've got so much rain today, we'll really be mowin' 'fore long!