Lawn-Boy 10795 Insight Platinum

May 2009. The 21-inch Lawn-Boy 10795 Insight Platinum self-propelled gas lawn mower has high-end features like an efficient Honda OHV engine and variable speeds of up to 5 mph. The handle folds for storage, and the aluminum deck is rustproof (though prone to dents). Single-lever height adjustment adds convenience, and 8-inch wheels help on hilly lawns. Mulching isn't its strong suit, however. Despite the Honda OHV engine, the mower as a whole doesn't meet California's stricter emissions requirements -- presumably because of fuel system emissions. To get a self-propelled, CARB-compliant lawn mower that has a blade brake and better mulching power, consider the top-rated (but expensive) Honda HRX series. The HRX217K2HMA (*est. $900) has an electric brake. If you want to spend less but still want a self-propelled mower, consider the Toro Recycler 20333 (*est. $400), which has a blade brake but doesn't use an OHV engine.  

Consumer Reports magazine tests four Lawn-Boy self-propelled mowers in its comprehensive review in 2008, including a model close to the 10795. The 2009 report, however, covers only low-end Lawn-Boy models. Popular Mechanics magazine tests fewer models, but all six are high-end mowers. We found the most detailed review at Consumer Guide, part of HowStuffWorks.com, plus useful owner-written reviews at Hechinger.com, Amazon.com and in a forum at AbbysGuide.com.