ON TEST

TurfPro editor, Laurence Gale writes . . .

I have been testing EGO Power tools over several years now, and they keep on increasing their product range year on year. Their attention to detail and the robustness of their products are becoming increasing popular amongst a wide range of professional end users.
 

Me using the EGO LM2236E-SP 55cm self propelled mower 

Over the course of a few recent months, I have had the opportunity to test their newest model designed for the semi and professional markets. It’s their largest pedestrian mower powered by the Ego Arc Lithium 56v batteries and the first in its portfolio to feature a super composite deck. The LM2236E-SP 55cm mower kit is a new entry to the marketplace.

Users can choose a side-discharge accessory to disperse of grass cuttings. Additionally, the kit also comes complete with a 10.0Ah battery which can cut up to 2000sqm on a single charge.

The mower was delivered in a well packed box with appropriate instructions on assembly. It was simply a case of removing any packaging, assembling the grass box, lifting the complete mower out of the box, charging the battery - and away you go.

Easy to pick up 

Weighing in at 31kg makes it is at least 17 kg lighter than several other brands of mower of the same size. It can be picked up with ease. One feature I like about their pedestrian mowers are they are easy to store in a upright position and fit comfortably in my Ford Mondeo Estate. 

Blade configuration 

Having a super composite cutting deck, which is notably lighter in weight compared to aluminium or steel decks, makes the mower easier to lift into my car.

Height adjustment 

For further ease, grass-cutting height can be adjusted via the 8-position spring loaded adjustment (between 25 to 100mm), and the select cut interchangeable multi-blade cutting system allows users to alternate incrementally between mulching or grass collection with a single lever.

I personally like the operation controls on the handles. They are easy to use, featuring a push button start. Users can simply push the handle and the mower will self-propel forward. The addition of a variable cutting speed helps make for an even more effortless mowing experience.

Battery compartment 

Over the course of several weeks, I have been using the mower to cut all manner of lawns and grassed areas. 

I have found the 10.0Ah battery to perform very well and last for longer periods than other batteries I tried, such as the 4 and 5 0Ah batteries. Only recently, I managed to mow four large lawns on a single charge of the 10.0Ah battery. 

This battery also charges quickly. Using their fast charger it fully charges in less than 30 minutes.  

For added convenience, the aluminium telescopic handle boasts a quick-release lever enabling easy access to the collection bag, while the powerful LED lights make the mower suitable for applications in low-light environments.

Most of my domestic customers’ lawns which tend to be around the 300-500m2 in size, were mown at a height of cut set at settings 1 or 2 (25mm-40mm). The mower cut well and did not scalp any of the lawns I was cutting. For some domestic lawns I would like the mower to be able to cut down to 15mm - but generally for most lawns the cutting heights were suitable.

Long grass before

I did have a couple of lawns that had been left to grow long - 150mm-900mm in length - and the mower coped well with that amount of growth and left a nice finish.

The grass box fills well and is easy to empty. Like most mowers, when cutting long grass in wet weather you do get a build-up of grass cuttings on the under deck which needs cleaning off to ensure it allows the grass to fly into the grass box.  

Completed job 

I found the self-propelling dial easy to use and you can easily control walking speed while on the go. The mower turns well and is light to handle.

It is robust and simple to operate with the added bonus that it can be stored easily, standing on it end, taking up less space than other pedestrian mowers. 

This larger 55cm size of deck enables you to cover more ground efficiently and the design of the cutting blades create a good lift for collecting the arising grass. This mower offers a choice for collection or mulching the grass clippings/ arisings.

All in all, this larger unit is a well-built pedestrian mower and compliments the now vast range of EGO pedestrian mowers for both the domestic and professional markets.

It is simple to use and easy to clean. Its light weight and cutting quality is good, and finally the backup service from Ego is second to none. 

The LM2236E-SP 55cm mower kit retails at £1199, including a 10.0Ah battery and rapid charger.