As we can see, the YARDMAX 22-inch 201cc Select 6 PACE Self-Propelled Lawn Mower has created a strong position on the home and garden equipment market, particularly for customers interested in a gas-powered, rear-wheel drive mower that can mow diverse ground and offer a number of different cutting styles.
At a retail of between roughly $350 and $450 depending on promotions, it's a middle-of-the-pack model more expensive than budget push mowers but much less expensive than commercial-grade premium models.
Looks Good on Paper
On paper, this mower boasts an impressive spec sheet: a powerful 201cc OHV engine, 6-speed CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) system to control speed, 3-in-1 grass disposal, and heavy-duty 16-gauge steel deck. With its larger rear tyres and rugged, spiked tread tyres, it's clearly designed for uneven and sloping lawns. The product also presents well and is pre-assembled, a neat bonus for new buyers.
Not Everyone is Happy
But although the mower has received lots of great feedback and is a top seller on the major sites such as Amazon, not everybody is pleased. A closer look at customer comments reveals some typical complaints and potential build-quality problems that can affect long-term value. Therefore, this review aims to examine the YARDMAX YG2760 lawn mower from both sides indicating not merely the features and benefits, but also the negatives and issues indicated by real users.
Key Features and Specifications
The YARDMAX Select PACE mower is built around its patented CVT 6-speed drive system, which changes the push of the mower to match your walking speed. Unlike earlier self-propelled systems that used fixed speeds or were tricky to control through levers, the 6-speed gear shift lets you select a constant pace that suits your gait, for even greater control and comfort with longer mowing sessions.
Automatic Choke System
The mower has a robust 201cc OHV (Overhead Valve) engine with an automatic choke mechanism. This does away with priming or manual choke setting to start the machine, something that most clients prefer, particularly in cold climatic conditions or upon prolonged storage. The engine is gasoline powered and suitable for flat, inclined, and rough lawns, offering versatility that cheaper electric or compact gas mowers may not offer.
Less Vibrations
The 22-inch wide cutting deck provides the best possible balance of coverage and maneuverability. It's made from a seamless heavy-duty stamped steel component (16-gauge), which according to YARDMAX reduces vibration and enhances durability. With the firm's "MaxFlow" spiral deck technology, the mower is designed to create a high volume of airflow that lifts the grass for an extended duration, promoting more efficient mulching or cleaner bagging.
Height Adjustments
Additional points of emphasis include a 3-in-1 cutting system (mulching, rear bag, or side discharge), single-lever height adjustment (with 7 settings between 1.38 and 3.55 inches), large 11-inch rear wheels with aggressive traction, and a deck clean-out port to make maintenance easier. Assembled straight out of the box, the mower also folds up for convenient storage, something ideal for those with minimal garage or shed space.
Early Reviews
Customer reviews of the YARDMAX 22-inch 201cc Select PACE RWD Self-Propelled Lawn Mower provide a bitterly polarized customer experience one that reflects the mower's tough set of features but also some reliability and quality issues at its core. Early customers are generally satisfied with the mower's value, enjoying its ease of assembly, cutting performance, and usability with challenging lawns. Others have encountered mechanical failures, erratic performance, and irritating customer service encounters that mar the appeal of an otherwise excellent product.
Easy Assembly
Some users compliment the simplicity with which the mower assembles out of the box. It arrives partially assembled, often complete with oil, a funnel, and assorted other small things included, and is typically operational within minutes. The power of the 201cc engine is a common high point in positive reviews, with one customer dubbing it the "King of Self Propelled Mowers," praising the ease with which it can tackle hard or neglected ground. Others appreciated the way it pulled itself forward with strength, making yard work less backbreaking, particularly for people with mobility issues or large yards.
Self-Propulsion System
But the self-propulsion system, which was promoted as one of the mower's strongest features, appears to be a frequent point of confusion and frustration. While a few users familiar with the six-speed CVT system found it responsive and compliant, others said the mower seemed to only ride at one slow speed regardless of settings chosen. There are reports of the speed selector slipping while in use, and one reviewer described the propulsion as jerky when turning. The need to release the drive handle while turning is viewed by some as an ergonomic shortcoming compared to previous front-wheel drive mowers, where lifting the front wheels would tend to turn the machine more readily.
Reliable Starting?
Start-up reliability is also very variable among owner reports. A number of owners report that their unit will start with ease, sometimes on the first or second pull even after extended storage periods. Others, unfortunately, show the opposite: complete inability to start up even on a brand new or well-worn unit. In some cases, problems were caused by faulty ignition coils, one user noting that the Chinese made engine meant it was impossible to acquire replacement parts in good time. Customer service complaints both against YARDMAX and against retailers like Amazon are especially widespread in negative feedback, such as reports of unresponsive or delayed responses to warranty claims and repair orders.
Build Quality
Build quality is an area where reviews firmly divide. Some customers believe the mower is well built, with a rugged steel deck and heavy-duty wheels. Others experienced more troubling issues: broken wheel assemblies, control levers becoming loose, or arriving in wet or compromised packaging. One review specifically noted that a front wheel came loose and was dragged beneath the mower, presenting safety concerns and questions about the long-term durability of main components.
Design Quirks
Not everything in the first reaction is negative, though. There are many reports of the mower living up to its advertising, especially among those who are content to adjust their expectations or tolerate a little design quirk. Many users with large lawns describe uniform outcomes with satisfaction across entire mowing seasons.
Mixed Reviews
As increasing numbers of users have tried the YARDMAX 22-inch 201cc Self-Propelled Lawn Mower, a pattern of conflicting experiences has emerged unveiling a mower that shines in certain areas but falters in others. For some, the mower delivers solid cutting power and time-saving convenience. But handling issues, starting issues, speed control issues, and design issues have frustrated some purchasers and left them dissatisfied.
Power vs Practicality
One of the most common themes throughout these reviews is that the YARDMAX includes a terrible amount of engine power at times more than some people were expecting out of a mower in this price range. This power comes at the expense of smooth or effortless operation, as will be discussed later.
The weight of the mower is most frequently referenced. Whether it is heavy and difficult to maneuver, especially for smaller users or those accustomed to walking behind the equipment, is noted by multiple reviewers. One user simply commented, "This is a heavy lawnmower," and another, "If this unit had caster front wheels it'd be aces," suggesting improved front-end steering would do wonders to enhance the experience.
Speed Settings - More Labels Than Functions?
One of the standout features of this mower is the 6-speed CVT self-propulsion system at least theoretically, a function that should enable the user to adjust the speed to the exact level desired. In reality, though, most reviewers find that the various speeds feel practically indistinguishable or that the mower tends towards a default pace. One respondent quoted, "They all go the same speed," and another person suggested that the mower "only goes on one speed" after only five uses, which could be a sign of mechanical breakdown or improper tuning.
Speed of the mower is a grievance of several users who report that it simply goes too fast even on the slowest speed setting. One buyer said that they "can't keep up" with the slowest slow setting, with a torn-up lawn and destroyed fence as they attempted to handle it. Another said that when starting the drive, the mower "pulls a wheely," jerking forward rather than rolling smoothly.
Beginning Struggles
While some owners have praised the mower for its relatively smooth pull-starting mechanism, others have struggled with or been hit-or-miss with it. Complainants include having to position the mower just so in an attempt to get it to fire up, to more uncertain portrayals of the recoil cord binding and refusing to move until coaxed. One reviewer penned, "Sometimes it's tough and doesn't want to [start]. I need to get moving the mower in a specific way for the string to really pull."
These initial issues may not be universal, but they point to intermittent quality control or engine calibration inconsistency. For a power- and convenience-oriented product, a finicky start-up procedure can be a real source of frustration in the long run.
A Mower That Needs to Be Pampered?
One of the reviewers with over four decades of mowing experience, called his experience: "A mower that needs pampering." His one regret was not that it wasn't powerful or could not cut, but that it couldn't mulch leaves or deal with country trash like dirt or ant hills. The equipment clogged at the rear opening (if the bag attachment wasn't used) pretty heavily, and it would cut off. This rendered even short mowing sessions a chore, particularly because cleaning was necessary before resuming.
Some of the others had similar gripes regarding minor design flaws becoming daily aggravations. From mispositioned controls that catch fingers to a dismountable grass bag, the mower generally seems like a powerful piece of equipment that wasn't completely honed for daily usability.
Build Quality - A Mixed Bag
Other reviewers note that the mower "cuts as expected" and compliment such aspects as the height adjustment, turnability, and rear-wheel drive. Others, however, write of catastrophic durability issues within a short timeframe specifically with the self-propulsion system. Several owners reported that the drive feature broke after six months. While initial thoughts regarding the steel deck and solid wheels were good, short-term reliability appears to be more questionable.
There are also gripes that the mower is too harsh on some users. The "tiny wife" of one customer was nearly yanked forward by the drive system due to the mower's power and poorly placed throttle controls.
Negative Reviews
Despite some positive feedback on performance with ideal conditions, a large number of customers have been disappointed, beset by mechanical problems, and disillusioned in purchasing the Yardmax lawn mower. Enumerated below are the most common complaints, tagged by theme and underpinned by user experience.
1, Unreliable Self-Propel System
Multiple reviewers also noted the self-propelling feature malfunctioned early on occasionally after only a few applications. Buyers complained that when it did function, it was difficult to control, jerky, or too fast on the lowest speed setting.
"After 3 months of use, the self-propelled failed to work." / "Used it around 4 times. Then the axle/wheel broke off." / "Within one year the self-propelled system broke down. It's trash!" / "The self-propelled speed not working, all trash equipment." / "1 too slow, 2 a little better, 3 does a wheelie."
2, Hard to Start or Won't Start at All
Time and time again, users bitched that the mower was difficult to start or would not start at all, even after a few uses.
"Very hard to start. Had to use engine starter fluid." / "It only started good the very first time. Now it takes 10+ tries." / "Less than 12 months later and it won't start." / "Piece of crap. Very hard to start and finally quit altogether."
3, Low Build Quality & Fragile Parts
Plastic pulleys, covers, and structural parts were frequent failure points. Many customers reported that the mower felt cheap and failed even with little usage.
"Two pulleys that change gears are plastic and they don't last." / "Perforation in plastic bottom." / "Completely fell apart underneath." / "Cheaply made. Used it four times needed a new deck plate." / "Plastic pulley melted and ruined the belt."
4, Difficult or Impossible to Repair
One of the repeated problems was finding it impossible to get parts or doing basic repairs. Customers, even experienced technicians, have complained about Yardmax providing limited help and not providing basic part details.
"Fixed, Slipped belt and cut up pulley, now agony to find parts” / “Not made to be fixed, only generic parts available” / “No part numbers list available. Junk where it belongs” / “Required a blade $17 shipping and trade-secret design."
5, Horrible Customer Service
In the case where consumers attempted to contact Yardmax for warranty or service assistance, a number of them indicated that the experience was slow, unresponsive, or downright dismissive.
"They shipped us a box of a 1000 parts, no idea how to use them." / "Customer support sucks and can't even get support." / "I spent a whole year with the manufacturer, never got the issue resolved." / "Support told me to pull the plastic covers off after every mow, outrageous."
6, Poor Speed Control and Handling
Some reviews stated that the mower was too jerky, hard to control, or too fast. Other users complained of a weight distribution problem, which made it create unwanted wheelies or make tight turns difficult.
"Mower wants to do a wheelie every time I use the self-propel." / "Even in slowest speed, it is too fast." / "Jumps every time you reattach the handle." / "Self-propel is slow or slower, no useful useable range."
7, Weak or Failing Engines
While a few had no engine issues, others had failures after weeks or months even with routine maintenance" / "Had to replace engine after 4 mows." / "Had issues with carburettor even using non-ethanol gas." / "Failed after two years of light, intermittent use."
8, Design and Ergonomics Complaints
Some buyers faulted the design choices namely the rigid handles, awkward bagging arrangement, and confusing or poorly worded instructions.
"Bare metal handle, caused bruised hands." / "Bagger is hard to remove always jams." / "Cable snapped into place improperly, engine wouldn't turn off."
9, Short Lifespan and No Durability
Some of the reviewers expressed anger that the mower expired soon after purchase occasionally in weeks and described the item as disposable.
"Used it twice and now won't start or even turn over." / "Only operated after one summer. No visible warranty." / "Operated well for about 3 months." / "Not worth $5.00 at all, bolts loosened in week one."
10, Buyer Regret and Strong Warnings
All but the top two reviewers ended their review with a strong warning to others not to buy this mower. There was an obvious sense of regret and disappointment.
"Stay clear of this lawnmower, it's all trash." / "Money down the drain, don't purchase." / "Total garbage, I wish I'd returned it when I was able to." / "Never going to buy Yardmax again. I really regret purchasing this."
A Pattern of Failures
The negative reviews on this Yardmax lawnmower present a clear and repeated message of unreliable operation, poor construction, and crappy customer service. While some customers managed to get some good life out of it, the others found the mower frustrating, fragile, and not worth the cost in the long run. The most common complaints broken self-propel systems, hard starts, cheap parts, and unavailable parts, suggest that perhaps this product is not for anybody who demands durability or simplicity to last.
Benefits of the YARDMAX 22 inch 201cc Select 6 PACE RWD SP Lawn Mower
1, Low Cost - Among the more affordable self-propelled lawn mowers on the market. A good choice for first-time buyers or homeowners with small lawn requirements.
2, Clean Cutting Performance (When Working) - Several reviewers praised the mower for cutting grass cleanly and performing effectively with denser areas. Mulch function is quite good for most individuals. Various height choices provide adjustment to fit cut length to needs.
3, Lighter Than Some Competitors - Less tiring to work (initially) with for some users due to the fairly light weight.
4, Feature Range - Offers self-propelling, mulching, bagging, and side discharging features. Various speed settings (although not necessarily as powerful as the user would wish to see downfalls).
5, Favorable First Use Experience (for Some) - Less difficult to start and cut effectively straight out of the box for many consumers. Assembly process is relatively easy for users who have experience with mechanical jobs.
Cons for the YARDMAX 22 inch 201cc Select 6 PACE RWD SP Lawn Mower
1, Repeated Mechanical Breakdowns - Self-actuating operation typically breaks down in months. Plastic pulleys and components which melt, warp, or fracture easily. Belts would often slip or wear out frequently, typically due to poor housing design.
2, Very Poor Quality of Build - Scores of complaints of broken axles, wheels, deck plates, and engine mount bolts. Drive belt and other critical components contained in breakable plastic. Whole build described as "cheap," "flimsy," and "throw-away."
3, Struggling to Start and Engine Issues - Numerous users struggle to start the mower regularly following some use. Issues with needing to use starter fluid or multiple attempts at starting (10+ pulls). Carburettor issues even when using non-ethanol gasoline.
4, Ergonomics and Comfort Problems - Handle not padded, so palms become sore or bruised. Self-propulsion control is awkward, no trigger system, just another bar. Heavy and tiring to push even though self-propelled.
5, Speed Controls are Unreliable - Speed control does not work as advertised. Mower will ride at one constant speed even if it is not so set. Will "wheelie" when self-propelled operation is activated.
6, Not Suitable for Uneven Lawns - Mower sticks or drags on uneven ground. Bottoms out too easily at low height positions.
7, Annoying Bagging and Debris Management - Bag difficult to install and remove due to lack of adequate free frame space. High suction pulls unnecessary debris into bag unnecessarily, creating noise and reducing blade life. Inadequate clippings management can blow debris out the front instead of bagging.
8, No Reverse Drive - Similar to some of the higher-end models, it lacks reverse. With the rear-wheel drive system, it is not easy to turn or back up.
9, Terrible Customer Support and Warranty Experience - Numerous complaints about slow or unhelpful customer service. Replacement parts hard to find or can't be found online. Company instructed to send unlabelled boxes full of hundreds of parts, no instructions.
10, Not Repair-Friendly - No publicly available parts list. Rarely available critical parts like belts or pulleys. Not friendly to DIY repair more often replace than repairs
11, Short Lifespan - Some of the reviews show failure after a season or less than 12 months. Complete breakdowns after only 2–4 uses were experienced by some reviewers.
To Buy or Not to Buy
The Yardmax self-propelled lawn mower may seem like a good deal at first glance, but user experience suggests otherwise. If you’re looking for a reliable, durable mower and are not prepared to tinker with repairs, this may not be the right choice. However, if you’re mechanically inclined, on a tight budget, and have a very simple, flat yard to maintain, it might still be worth considering with caution.
Final Verdict - Yardmax Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
★ ★ ★☆☆ (3/5 stars)
The self-propelled lawn mower from Yardmax offers a tantalizing bundle: self-propulsion, dual cutting, and a low initial cost. On paper, it's competitive with the better brands, and some users do report a silky first few uses.
First Season
But real world performance tells a different story. Most users experience breakdowns within a season, oftentimes due to low-grade materials and questionable design. The self-propulsion system is particularly a disaster zone more often than not breaking down, based on fragile plastic parts that are hard to replace. Beginning issues, rough operation, and ineffective customer support only complicate the matter.
All of that being stated, however, the Yardmax may still be attractive to some consumers…
- If you're a do-it-yourself kind of consumer, handy with tools, and prepared to solve issues on your own.
- If your lawn is small, even, and simple.
- If you're a price-conscious consumer and are prepared to consider this mower a temporary solution.
But for those seeking reliability, ease of use, and long-term value, it may be worth spending a bit more upfront for a better-built machine from a more trusted brand. Best For: Budget-conscious DIYers with basic mowing needs. Not Ideal For: Anyone expecting durability, hassle-free performance, or long-term reliability.
Tempting price, but too many compromises…
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